My students are a diverse group academically and culturally.
They also have diverse abilities in utilizing technology and applied skills.
There are students who can ace a multiple choice test but have little understanding of how to use a handheld GPS or a hedge trimmer, while others are wizards when it comes to using the technology or tools in the field. This class allows the students to use a large variety of skills and tools that would be required in a modern workplace setting or even in a trade.
My Project
So, over 10 years ago, we purchased 40 pairs of binoculars for students to utilize in an ecology project to observe and record data of birds on our campus. We have identified over 50 species of birds and submitted hundreds of pictures and thousands of bits of data regarding the birds my students have encountered using the Cornell University eBird program.
After 10 years and thousands of students, some of the binoculars have ended their useful lives, and it is time to replace them.
These new binoculars will ensure that all students have working equipment to ensure that correct information is collected for our observational activities in the field.
The students love the opportunity to go outside, observe nature, and start learning about the natural world. Many of my students have taken up birding as a hobby, and some have been volunteering with the National Park Service on ornithological research projects.
This year I had a class build, from scratch, their first vertical succulent gardens, and the process went smoothly until we got to attaching the backing and chicken wire. Another crown stapler would make this assembly line work smoothly and reduce the down time spent waiting their turn. All students are required to learn how to use and operate the power tools in the class. This is a nice bit of education to put on their belt.
The learn by doing philosophy is the foundation for my classroom and an essential tool for the students to have in their arsenal.
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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 Mr. Saute and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
