Past projects 2
Chemistry Kits for STEM Education
Funded Nov 20, 2015My students were so excited when I announced that they were going to receive some really exciting experiments such as an oscillating reaction lab, blood typing using simulated blood, and several brand new lab equipment thanks to Chevron's generous donation to my project. I, personally, couldn't wait to incorporate these activities into my curriculum. The students all left positive feedback regarding how "awesome" the experiments were and how well it tied into the over-arching theme of a particular unit.
When I first thought about this project I was hesitant because I just knew that I would spend a substantial amount of time to create and modify lessons to incorporate the materials within the context of project-based learning. In the end it enhanced my professional development because the work provided a component of my S.M.A.R.T. goals in my yearly evaluation. It really has changed how I assess for student learning and my grading policies.
What's so great about these activities is that many are inquiry based which allows students to do further experiments and investigations. This is something I wanted students to eventually do on their own but making the leap from a procedure-based lab to having them come up with their own experiment and procedures is a difficult one for students who are just beginning their study into science.
Again, thank you Chevron, for your generous donation.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Daniel Quach
Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Innovative Approach to Fossil Fuels
Funded Oct 27, 2014Thank you again for your support! Your donation to my Hydrogen Fuel Cells project has made a significant impact not only to me but to my students and to our school community. My students were especially grateful to receive brand new safety goggles. This meant they no longer had to wear ones that don't fit and had so many scratches on them it was difficult to see through. Also, they've taken great care throughout the school year so that they can be used for my chemistry classes in the future.
Being able to complete this project has given me the opportunity to add relevance and meaning to what my students learn. By providing students with context they are more engaged and it gave them something to look forward to at the end of the school year as this was their last project. It has enhanced my teaching because I've learned so much about fuel cells and environmental issues we currently face in preparation for this project. It is one thing to teach about climate change and other environmental issues, but it is so much more impactful when students realize that there are alternatives and it's up to their generation to discover or create this technology or innovation.
Most of my students ride the bus to and from school everyday. Most of the newer bus fleet have hybrid engines therefore what they are learning in class relates to them personally because they're experiencing the use of alternative energy in their everyday lives. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing that light bulb turn on when students begin to make connections between what they are learning in the classroom to how it's implemented in real life.
As one of the few under-served high schools in the state of Washington with a STEM program, this project has added a very crucial component to our program: students now have access to equipment and technology that will help them become a vital member of tomorrow's workforce. It will impact our learning community because this will help "level the playing field" when they enter college and compete with their peers.
I am so proud of my students who were genuinely excited for this project and my students and I appreciate each and every one of you for your contribution to this project.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Daniel Quach
This classroom project was brought to life by Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and 19 other donors.