Past projects 2
Room for Wiggle Room as We Work!
Funded Dec 20, 2016My students' eyes lit up when they saw the packages delivered and opened in our classroom. "Are those for us?!", they asked? With your donations, their options for flexible seating in class have expanded greatly. Students who are fidgety use the yoga/exercise balls to move, roll, and bounce as they work. They are able to stay on task longer than in a traditional chair, and some students have stated that they can think through ideas/problems better. They also get out some of their energy AND accomplish academic tasks which is a win for them and me.
The lap desks are used as floor desks and are so amazing in conjunction with the soft blue seats. I have a group of boys who look forward to getting their lap desks during work time, especially during Writing, and setting them all up with their Chromebook on one side, and their assignment or papers on the other side. The desks are durable, and the side that lifts is so functional for propping up books when they read. That group of boys is much calmer and focused during silent work time, so THANK YOU!
An added benefit to using classroom seating arrangement options such as these, is that I can use them for other activities that help my students learn how to focus and center their attention. On rainy days I have been able to teach the students how to correctly use the yoga ball for certain stretches and moves that help a person balance and concentrate. I apply the same technique when showing them how to correctly use the stability discs, and how concentration is key to maintaining your balance. I look forward to using them indoors on high heat days of which we have plenty in Southern California.
Thank you again for your thoughtful and generous donation!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Betten
Design and Engineering Practices in the Classroom!
Funded Sep 3, 2016Dear Donors and Donors Choose,
My students were elated and enthralled with the K'nex education building sets when they first arrived. The oohs and ahhs filled the room. I could tell some students were a bit nervous when I announced that the class would be working on design and engineering skills and standards. It is a task most have not attempted or had even heard of before.
The first day I opened the tubs of the K'nex, I left the outcome completely open to the students and their creativity. I told them my only goal was for them to figure out how the pieces connected to each other. Well, they surpassed my expectations and not only figured out how to connect them, but they were attempting to build shapes and structures. One student even made a 4-gear rotating mechanism that he beamed with pride about. When I asked the class if they had these types of building things at home, most responded with a uproarious, "Nooooo!" I had female students running up to me yelling, "Look at what we made!" It was amazing how on task and how focused the class was. They needed little to no guidance from me, which is a huge win as an educator. The students explored and learned on their own as well as from each other meeting my goal for collaboration. The class has progressed to make vehicles that roll and structures that can sustain weight.
For future lessons, the class will be given a challenge to design with guidelines and stipulations that must be met. For example, to build a "concussion proof" helmet that can withstand so much weight and pressure, or a bridge that must span a certain distance and withstand a certain weight. The K'nex company has numerous challenge activities that I am looking forward to using with my students. In addition, I plan on continuing to allow free design time as well.
Thank you so very much for your donation to my students. With these supplies, they are able to learn, create, design, and redesign in ways I just would not have been able to provide in the same way.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Betten