Would You Please Help Modernize Our Physics/Chemistry Labs?
My students need 1 LabQuest mini, 1 force sensor, 1 motion sensor, and 2 temperature probe sensors
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. V.'s classroom raised $552
This project is fully funded
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Students
The study of motion, acceleration, and force is covered in the most foundational labs for Physics students. Instead of traditional experiments using stopwatches and meter sticks, newer modern science labs aim to provide students with a digital/computerized experience to prepare them for college.
Our urban public high school is as diverse racially, culturally, and economically as our large metropolitan city.
Our student population is by majority Hispanic (70%), followed by Asian, White, Black, Pacific Islander, and various other groups. Almost all my students classify in our state's lowest economic category, which qualifies them for financial assistance such as reduced lunch and free tutoring programs.
For nearly 50% of my students, the primary language that their family speaks at home is not English. Many of our students were classified as ESL students (English as a Second Language), when they began high school, but have now been reclassified as English Proficient. Since we are not a private school, our science lab programs
Our science lab program survives from donations or grants-our state and local education funds are facing their worse cuts in over 20 years. Physics classes at our public high school have recently increased to average sizes of 44-47 students per class!
My Project
Scientists like Newton and Galileo had to conduct tests painstakingly for hours at a time- like rolling balls down different inclined planes or dropping them down from different heights, over and over, timing how long it takes for the object to travel different distances. Their work represents the birth of Modern Physics.
But, today, we can simplify and build on their methods and procedure by purchasing computer-linked motion detectors. This lab update would add a new technological dimension to the students Physics lab work. As an object is rolled towards or away from the detector, the device records the distance, position, and force of impact for every position up to 6 meters (6.5 yards) away. In high school Physics, sonar motion detectors are required by virtually all lab manuals- I have found 6 labs in our textbook manual that require motion detectors. Motion detectors will give students opportunities to interact with technology, preparing them for a modern college experience.
Thanks to Donorschoose, we have received five motion detectors in the past 4 years.
The systems work wonderfully, but can only accommodate 10-15 students at a time (classes have up to 45). So, we are hoping to expand.
We do take good care of storing the equipment so that it can be used year after year- and many items are applicable in Chemistry technology labs too. Our lab program relies on donations. Anything that you can do to help expand our lab technology program will be greatly appreciated
More than three‑quarters of 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 Mr. V. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
