Past projects 20
Active Learning: Transforming Thinking, Role Play, & Tackling Real Problems!
Funded Sep 24, 2018My class was incredibly engaged in our studies of the human body, thanks to your donations. I taught this same unit last year and it was successful, but it was profusely life-changing for students this year. This is because of their increased interest levels after completing several of the demonstrations, experiments, and lab activities that you provided for us. During the month of October, we studied the skeletal, muscular, circulatory, and nervous systems. The brain model amazed students and motivated them to take their thinking more seriously. We witnessed stronger determination and stamina in completing schoolwork as they hoped to build "brain power". Some "brain labs" were completed too, so students perceived crucial cause and effect relationships in our bodies. Students were excited to read the cardiology and blood-themed informational books as well. They challenged themselves to become more active at recess to keep their circulatory systems pumping quickly and to stimulate increased learning stamina by taking appropriate "brain breaks" before returning to class. The students checked themselves with the stethoscopes to notice relational differences in levels of exercise and heart muscle activity. They understood more about how to listen to their bodies and pay attention to its needs in order to stay alert and healthy. Concentration was dramatically boosted as students practiced better study skills. They took numerous notes, tried out new ideas, and drew diagrams
Our class was not the only one to benefit from the human body resources. Our school's designated science teacher for classroom rotations borrowed the materials to use in lessons about the brain. Hundreds of other students in different classrooms around the school were, or will soon be, able to use the items and complete additional "brain labs" also.
We've been studying force and motion quite often and experimenting over the past few weeks. This has been intriguing for the students as they love reading and exploring with our new supplies.
Likewise, we have had some introductory demonstrations in sound and light. We will begin our unit next week on this topic. So, we'll continue reading and experimenting with sound and light over the next few weeks. The books and prisms have had the students mesmerized. Several have asked me about pricing and where to find the resources because they want their own to use at home. You've definitely made an impact!
There aren't enough words to express our appreciation. Teachers and students have access to enhanced, meaningful lessons, activities, and educational enrichment because of your kindness and generous support.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Duncan
This classroom project was brought to life by Craig Newmark Philanthropies and 4 other donors.Synergizing: Force, Motion, & Energy at Work!
Funded Sep 24, 2018The resources you have contributed to our classroom have benefited us in more ways than we had imagined. Not only are students loving to read more, but they try out and apply new knowledge from texts regularly too. There has not been a single day since the materials arrived, that I haven't found a pile of notes on my desk from students declaring how much they love school. Some students have completely changed their attitudes about education. Our students really needed a boost so that learning would be more practical and engaging for them. Having labs or demonstrations often in our instruction and studies has helped students realize why learning is important to prioritize in our lives. These young children have a better understanding about what career readiness means now. They care much more about their schooling and about each other.
Actually, caring deeply about each other was the next benefit that surprised us through this project. Students work cooperatively as they read, discuss, and build. We have a strong classroom community and this stands out when they all orchestrate and present their final products in group assignments. These students are great problem solvers and helpers. They share their strengths, but also assist each other to improve weaknesses. As such, they are thinking harder, celebrating breakthroughs, and motivating one another. These sweet students are peer tutors and supporters. Plentiful smiles and compliments are the norm in every lesson.
We have used the K'Nex kits, books, and science materials very often. Students always look forward to using the resources, which are their favorites in the class. I have also been able to incorporate the materials into a reward system when students have studied hard all week. Sometimes if time allows, after they've worked diligently and cooperatively all week, we bring these things out for review at the end of our school day on Fridays. For example, after a week of studying hard about the ancient Romans, students were able to design Roman machines, such as catapults, and Roman structures, such as aqueducts, to move small beads, etc. with the aid of their K'Nex kits. Again, they are able to apply new knowledge and make it more meaningful. I love being able to give students these opportunities, but it wouldn't be possible without your help!
We are so grateful for your support and we appreciate your generosity. Thank you for enriching education for this class of 3rd graders and for many more classes in the future!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Duncan