My students need 21 lab coats to complete inquiry investigations at the Zoo School.
$966 goal
This project expired on September 15, 2008.
This project expired on September 15, 2008.
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I am fortunate enough to teach at the brand new Asheboro High School Zoo School located on the premises of the 1500 acre- NC Zoo. This is a public school with a private feel. This opportunity affords students the privilege of using the zoo and its resources to enhance the 4 core areas of academics. This is a science-based program with 93 students enrolled. Students were selected based upon fit and NOT GPA. We heavily emphasize the use of project-based learning in all of our classes and integration of the zoo resources to bring learning to life. We have a diverse student population and serve grades 10 - 12.
I am the science department and teach biology, biotechnology, chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and anatomy & physiology.
The students at the zoo school genuinely enjoy scientific investigations and literally digging in with both feet. Funding for this small-learning community was provided almost entirely by the school system and the fiscal year funds have been depleted. The cost of the facilities and initially stocking the lab depleted those funds quickly.
So what am I asking for? Lab coats...not just for lab safety. Of course having lab coats increases safety and allows students the opportunity to work with chemicals that are potentially harmful but still experience the magic of chemistry.
The other reason is noteworthy based upon anecdotal observations in the classroom. When I enter the room with my lab coat my student's eyes light up. At least one student will request to borrow my coat and comment on how they wish they could wear one. I feel like students are typically engaged a great deal during hands-on investigations but sometimes lack the confidence to truly think like a scientists and consider all the possibilities. I want to test the hypothesis of giving a lab coat to every student and raising the level of engagement and excitement about the scientific inquiry going on in my classroom.
I need lab coats! I have lab supplies and willing students that are ready to take on the challenge but sometimes lack confidence. I believe that these coats could take their excitement, creativity, and ingenuity to the next level. Students comment about doing "real"science and feeling like a "real scientist" on a regular basis and I want to harness this excitement and provide the catalyst for their intellectual growth in science.
With your help, I can test my hypothesis of looking like a scientist lends itself to thinking like a scientist. I want my students to feel more confident in the classroom and "buy in" to the nature of science through inquiry and the lab coat phenomenon.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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