Past projects 44
Science is Fun
Funded Oct 1, 2022People use technology, particularly cell phones, to text and search the Internet. However, it is concerning that using your cell phone too much can be hazardous to your health as it exposes your body to electromagnetic radiation. In this project, students used a handheld Electromagnetic Field Radiation detector to investigate how much their cell phone emits electromagnetic radiation while making a phone call or sending a text message. Cell phones transmit and receive information at microwave frequencies, which are all part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Students learned that their body absorbs some of the microwave frequency when using their cell phone to talk or text; some health issues might be associated with this.
Some students were surprised to learn that their cell phones could be the "death of them" of their excessive use. I am glad this project was an eye-opener and an awareness for students to monitor their time using electronics. Students were excited about using the meter that they began taking measurements of other devices, such as our classroom's Clevertouch and microwave, and saw the students engaged and walking around the class to pick up radio frequency signals for other electronic objects in the room. We are appreciative and thank you again for your support.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Thomas
Exploring Science And Medicine
Funded Sep 2, 2022Thank you again for your generous donations. We are using the new resources to learn about diabetes and how artificial pancreas technology has led to more brilliant "hybrid loop" systems that automatically adjust and administer insulin in response to changes in blood glucose levels. This type of system attempts to mimic the way the human pancreas works to regulate blood glucose. Students are exploring how these systems work by building a circuit that acts as a model of an artificial pancreas using two different liquids (tap water and distilled water instead of insulin and blood).
Students were excited to have new out of box materials. Before we began our project, I had the students practice building a simple circuit to see how the Arduino works. They were successful in their attempt. The students take pride in organizing their materials each time they use them.
I plan to extend students thinking using Arduino microcontrollers. In addition, there are other coding and science-based projects students will explore. I have viewed mini Arduino lessons students can explore on their own. Next up, students will use an Arduino to build a traffic light to celebrate Black History Month to honor Garrett Morgan.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Thomas
This classroom project was brought to life by An Anonymous Funder and 2 other donors.Computer Mice for CAD Projects
Funded Aug 9, 2022Technology is a valuable tool to help students learn. For example, students in my classes use CAD (Computer Aided Design) software to complete activities and projects. Students use CAD to develop, modify, and optimize the design process. In addition, the functions of CAD integrate with other subject areas, such as the Cartesian coordinate system on the CAD screen and graphing using the x-y axis in Algebra.
The computer mice were very helpful to students in completing their CAD models. These mice were user-friendly and allowed ease, so students did not have to rely on the touchpad. They could quickly orbit (pan/rotate), zoom, and navigate the CAD design program. Students were convinced using a computer mouse made their task more efficient.
Students are used to the touchpad on their laptops. However, students who were reluctant to use the mice to showed frustration when trying to carry out certain functions from the CAD software. For example, using the touchpad to construct a straight line and dimension became a frustrating experience. After convincing students that the mouse provides an efficient way to use the software, students were more inclined to use the mice for CAD projects and vector design software.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Thomas
This classroom project was brought to life by An Anonymous Funder and one other donor.Dress for Success
Funded Sep 20, 2022Thank you for helping build a closet filled with professional clothing for my students. Your funding purchased dress shirts and blouses for students. This project is ongoing, especially if students need items from the closet. Recently, ten of my students attended our state capital's high school leadership conference. I knew from a previous year there may be students who may still need to have all the required professional dress for the event. So I decided to start a closet for students who need to dress for success. This project gave my students confidence and made them feel a self of belonging. They understood the purpose of wearing professional attire for specific engagements. Unfortunately, many students have never put on a dress shirt and tie or dressed up beyond jeans and a shirt. The closet is accessible to all my students if they ever need items from the closet. Thank you for supporting our project.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Thomas
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community and one other donor.