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
I am responsible for 32 freshman and 38 sophomores at my HS. I love working with these kids. They are ambitious, kind-hearted, excitable, outgoing, persistent, and curious about the world. Despite circumstances and situations beyond their control, my students are mature and thoughtful and represent the best of what the school has to offer. Our school is a Title I school in a Title I district, meaning that most students have not been supported as equitably as other districts in the state. My goal is to help students value their education and own their learning by being as enthusiastic and encouraging about their success as I can be.
My Project
The books I am requesting for my students will be part of a cross curricular teaching experience for the English 1 and 2 students who are also enrolled in biology and chemistry. The goal is to better strengthen the students understanding of the impact of scientific discovery on society. English 1 will read Emma and Charles by Deborah Heiligman to better understand the societal biases and consequences of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. This biography presents the tension between scientific and religious communities and delves into the discussion of the cost and consequences of discovery. This cycle will also bridge the academic expectations for biology and English 1. English 2 will read The Disappearing Spoon by Sam Kean to examine the impact of scientific discovery on political and historical events as well as mythological beliefs. The focus for the sophomores this cycle is to understand the context of scientific discoveries through alchemy, madness, and the trials and errors of those men (and a few women) who shaped what would become a periodic table. Through cross-curricular learning opportunities, students will more deeply examine the elements to better understand human trends, beliefs, and biases, as well as how those ideologies affected and will continue to affect society as a whole.
Nearly all 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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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 Mrs. Ponder and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
