"Hands-on, minds-on" science can light a fire for students who have not had these experiences in their science classes. 6th grade students are supposed to learn the components of the eye and how they work together. They also cover the concept of energy. For most, there are major misconceptions.
My students attend a suburban school.
Our classes are full and include all students ranging from special education to gifted in heterogeneous groupings. It is their first year in a middle school setting, with fully departmentalized classes. Most have had some science, but limited experiences with lab based instruction. Students learn best by doing, and providing lab experiences helps develop a depth of understanding not achieved by simply using the textbook.
My Project
With the resources selected, my students will be able to engage in meaningful learning experiences. They will actually see the components of the eye and finally understand that the pupil really is just an opening in the eye instead of a black ball. The gloves and scissors will enable the students to conduct this lab experience in a safe manner. The energy kits will enable my students to fully understand how alternative energy works. They will be able to experiment with solar and wind power to actually energize models that they construct, helping them to better understand the potential of these energy sources.
Donations to this project will enable my students to actually do science rather than read about science.
This will motivate them to ask questions and become fully engaged in their learning, ultimately helping them develop a deeper understanding of some difficult concepts. This will build the foundation that will enable them to become more successful as they conduct inquiry investigations and apply their learning to new situations.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Miller and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
