"In Science we can inspire something...Every discovery, however small is a permanent gain." (Pierre Curie 1894) What could inspire the next generation of scientists, naturalists, zoologists and conservationists more than hands-on activities directly related to science?
My first grade classroom is made up of general education students as well as students with autism.
My students are best served with hands-on activities that engage their minds and appeal to all of their senses. More than 50% of the population receives free school lunch, and face the challenge of speaking another language at home. Many of our students lack basic scientific vocabulary and discovery skills due to lack of exposure to scientific thinking which creates a sincere lack of desire to explore the world around them on their own. Their neighborhoods are often trailers or homes built directly on top of one another, so the opportunity to interact with the living world if they do have an interest is therefore very limited.
My Project
Animals without backbones present a humane way to allow careful exploration of the living world. I would like to set up a Superworm habitat for students to watch the complete metamorphosis of the larva into beetle. In the middle of the experiment, when the beetle is in the Superworm phase I would like the students to explore the habits and choices of the worms using the choice chambers. They will follow the scientific process, making predictions and test various nesting materials to see what type of bedding the worms prefer. We will also test various foods to see if the worms have a preference. As the worms grow into beetles we can continue to observe and use the choice chambers to see if their preference of food or habitats changes as they change.
These bugs and choice chambers will touch the lives and inspire a new generation of scientists.
My students would be able to observe animal behavior, closely observe animal movement, how animals eat, and their life cycles with this grant.
Please help me to capitalize on the natural sense of wonder that elementary students possess. If we can capture their attention at such a young age, and hold this attention, we can grow the next generation of scientists.
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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. Cooke and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
