My students need 32 calculators to use for classroom work and testing. My students also need Pick-A-Problem and How Did You Solve It to improve their math abilities.
This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
Do you remember struggling to solve what you considered to be hard math problems? My students struggle to solve math problems based on state standards. On our state and local testing, there are sections where students are allowed to use calculators; however, we have no funds to purchase them.
My students are almost all from low income, high crime, and struggling households.
They attend a very small school that struggles to provide the necessary materials they need, based on a very tight budget. They yearn to have engaging and exciting lessons and activities. Their eyes light up when they get to experience new projects they have never experienced, let alone heard of, previously. Many of my students have special needs, and the ability to use calculators would make them feel more confidant when solving problems. They yearn to learn through new methods, with an opportunity to control the direction of their instruction. The element of surprise when pulling out a project card will motivate them to participate in a subject many of them loathe - math.
My Project
The Pick-A-Problem and How Did You Solve It cards would be used as warm ups to build confidence and the desire to participate in classroom discussion. In math, this is especially a struggle, because almost all of the students do not feel confidant in their abilities. The calculators will be used for sections on their state and local testing where it is permissible. They also will become familiar with how to use a calculator for everyday practice, such as for balancing a checkbook.
Please help my students develop a love and natural curiosity of math.
By having calculators accessible they will feel like they have a better chance of solving the problems. The daily practice cards will build excitement and an element of surprise. Help me show my students that math can be engaging and fun!
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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. Meyer and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.