We live in a what? My young students live in a diverse environment with interesting ecosystems and various animal habitats, yet they look at me with befuddlement when I say words like "wetlands", "ecosystem", "habitat" and "environment". I need to show them and let them experience these words!
My students attend a Title I school and the vast majority of them are from low-income households.
When they come to my classroom, I want them to feel comfortable and excited about being at school. Some of them face struggles and hardships that no child should ever have to deal with, but at school, they can feel safe and accepted. Learning can be fun, and I want us to discover that excitement and participate in hands-on experiences together.
My Project
I want to instill a love of learning in my students by using multiple approaches! I can do that by appealing to their interests, and I don't know any kids who like to sit and listen to lecture! They need hands-on learning experiences to excel. They do their best when they are active participants in their learning experiences. We read lots of stories about animals and how they live and maneuver in their environments. To be able to actually see that happening on a daily basis and understanding why ecosystems operate like they do is a priceless gift of knowledge and experience.
By using this river kit and adding water plants and animals native to our area, we will see how plants and animals adapt and live in an environment that is similar to the one we live in. Our area is lush with wetlands, and my students need the opportunity to see these interactions firsthand. We will log our observations and discuss our findings which will enhance technical writing and speaking skills.
Oh, how greatly this will enhance my students' knowledge and lives on so many levels!
Not only will they be learning about the world around them, but they will be able to relate it to their own personal world. I chose this particular kit because it is such a comprehensive representation of the ecosystems around us. They will be excited to come in each day and see how the plants and animals are interacting and surviving.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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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 Ms. Holliday and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
