"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." This quote by Nelson Mandela sums up our classroom. Knowledge is power, and becoming a skilled reader of nonfiction to be aware, and make sense, of the world around you is critical to gaining that knowledge.
I teach 4th grade in a small southern town where the biggest news usually comes after the Friday night football game.
Our school is a large upper elementary school, with over 1400 students in grades 4-6. We have a wonderful, positive atmosphere and fantastic school spirit. Our amazing students have tremendous potential and want to know more about the world around them. However, most of my students have never left this local area, and many never will.
My Project
Imagine the excitement that comes with getting a present every week! That's what Scholastic News is to my students. We were fortunate to have this resource this year, and I can't say enough about how it has transformed my students in such a positive way. There is always something for everyone in every issue. The oohs and aahs that come when I bring out the latest edition highlight the fact that my kids are truly enjoying learning about the world around them. My students have entered writing contests, written book reviews, and have been motivated to pursue their own interests in learning from having this resource. The high-interest topics are great introductions to spur high-level thinking and deep discussions. Every issues affords the opportunity for whole group lessons, partner work, and small group work. Students need to discuss and talk about what they are learning, and these magazines are an amazing resource to get them thinking and talking about what they are learning.
Donations to this project will help my students become more knowledgeable about the world around them and about their place within it.
The up-to-date, high-interest information is compelling and thought provoking -- which is what our kids need -- to think! Even my most reluctant readers LOVE getting their hands-on these magazines. Most of what we read as adults is nonfiction, and building on the skill to critically read and discuss current events now will be very empowering to my students.
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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. Vitale and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
