The creativity, humor, and enthusiasm of 5th graders makes our room a joy each day. 5th graders are beginning to know how they learn best and what they need in order to be successful and we build a community that embraces different styles, strengths, and needs. They question (everything) and care deeply.
We work together to form a bond based on the idea that we are all different, and we are all here for each other.
As they prepare for the big world of middle school, they are striving to decide where they fit and who they may want to be. We build a safe community where it is okay to question and explore! In our classroom it's okay if you need to use tools to help you understand and it is okay if you are past that point. We spend time discussing growth mindset; we understand we all have strengths and we support each other in areas where we may need to grow.
In 5th grade, our content is extremely challenging and it can take substantial struggle, risk, and support to meet standards! It is hard work, but the kids rise to the challenge.
My Project
Developmentally, 5th graders need opportunities to talk in order to process new learning. I have designed our room around this idea with desks in groups and unstructured open work spaces. I have purchased pillows, a large chair, small tables, and surf portable desks that kids can move around to meet their needs. We have one large table for group work, but with a large class size, we are short seating for around the table. My plan for the stools is to use them around this table (but also to allow students to use them at their desks or in other areas as needed).
5th graders are often growing at a rapid pace.
These growth spurts can cause a frequent ache in large muscle groups and an increased need to move around as they learn. This is also why it can be challenging for 5th graders to sit in one place for long periods of time. I have also invested in a wide array of fidget tools for students who need smaller muscle movements to allow them to do their best learning. In order to reach our high academic standards, I have worked to make sure we are able to have our physical needs met (snack as needed, fidgets, physical movement, etc.) so we can turn our focus to the lesson objectives we are working together to meet.
Additionally, as 5th graders are growing in size, many of the cheaper stools snap by the end of the year - especially as the kids want to try and wiggle on them. Having well built wobble stools available for all students will be an investment that will be used for growing, moving 5th graders for years to come!
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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. Nichol and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.