Our campus is a blended community of students who are Title I (low-income), GATE (gifted), ELL (second language), RSP (mild cognitive/behavioral abilities), SPED (more significant learning/behavioral abilities) and general education. However, since our school site doesn't have a high population of any group, we are not eligible for many state/federal funds that other schools qualify for. So, teachers often end up purchasing devices, supplies, and subscriptions on their own or rely on donations from parents who are able to financially help with any need or wish list.
The students in my class are extremely diverse and, no matter which category our educational system classifies them into, deserve to use current science tools.
Each year, my student population seems to have more kinesthetic learners. They need to move and do. The use of microscopes engages students in science and increases their wonder, understanding, and appreciation of the world around them.
My Project
Having new and better quality microscopes will allow students to develop a new perspective of microscopic items and an amazement of design details in objects close up. They will enhance their collaboration skills as they work in blended groups to observe, discuss, and sketch their specimen. Students will practice their observations skills as they examine objects. They will use their observations skills and develop their artistic ability as they create scientific sketches. Students will also identify and discuss patterns (one of the cross-cutting science concepts) they notice in their specimens. This type of hands-on activity has many benefits: improving the language skills of EL learners, increasing the self-confidence of Resource/Special Ed. students, challenging the advanced thinkers, and giving the artistic students an opportunity to shine. Three 5th grade classes (plus any inclusion students) will benefit from these tools each year.
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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. Vogt and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
