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
My middle school students are desperately seeking a reason to learn that does not conflict with the social dynamics which most of them find themselves in, IE. 'It's not cool to learn or be smart'. My classroom strives to provide 'real' reasons to be outstanding, especially in their eyes.
My students are an wonderful group of typical seventh graders striving to find their way in a mixed up world.
Many are combating social expectations from the street which would keep them behind the average Americans. Many often see society in general as against them and no way for greatness become part of their lives. Their dreams fill their lives with hope for something better, but their experiences often fill them with despair.
Ninety four percent of our students come from minority or mixed minority households where learning has not always resulted in the achievement of the American Dream. Even though education is not often seen as the way out of their situation, our parents are super supportive of their child's learning and push their children towards excellence.
Personal history, family history, and community are their sources of strength. By being “Smarter, Together” they will strive to be better than the history lived by their ancestors and an example to their own siblings for a better tomorrow.
My Project
Science Question: Why do different materials reflect light differently?
Goal 1: My students will use the materials to help master the state objectives in their study of light energy.
Goal 2: My students will learn how light influences their world in the realm of photography, helping to emit emotions otherwise hidden in standard pictures.
Goal 3: My students will learn to take photographs, which convey the message they wish to the viewer, emphasizing composition and light. This will include field trips to various locations both in the school to record highlights of their peers as well as outside the building to the local park. Materials will also be able to be checked out to make a record of home life focusing on a historical message.
Goal 4: My students will use the materials to focus on their personal history, family history, and community history to create a visual display representing themselves.
Goal 5: My students will display their final work during the annual Arts & Artist Fair in our building which the entire community is invited to attend.
My students need six digital cameras, memory cards, printer, toner, and photo paper.
My students, by participating in the school Arts and Artist Fair, as well as engaging parents, grandparents, siblings, and peers in their photographic compositions will see the value of self. From learning true self worth in both their eyes, and the eyes of the community, will come a stronger desire to make their dreams become a reality.
My students will also see others care about them. This will in turn direct many of my students to caring about others and broaden their focus on life.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Rodden and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.