The grant aimed to strengthen the science program, increase student interest in science, and improve teacher collaboration at Monroe Middle School. It provided funding for 6th grade computer awareness classes where students used Palm pilots to collect and share data during field trips to local parks. Students tested soil, water, identified plant and animal discoveries, and discussed their findings. The funding allowed for active learning experiences that increased student understanding of technology and science.

1. Champions of Active Learning Grant 2002-2003 Funding Provided by J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation 6 th Grade Computer Awareness Mrs. Wright

2. Goals of the Grant To strengthen the Science program at Monroe Middle School To create an increased interest in Science among the students of Monroe To open the lines of communication between teachers to improve the quality of education To increase the use and understanding of technology as a learning tool

3. Using the Palms “In the Classroom” Students identified and labeled each part of the Palm before working with it The first activity was “beaming” information to each other

6. Collaboration amongst students was necessary for the activities

9. Using the Palms “In the Field” Students went on field trips to various metro parks during different seasons of the year

10. Using the Palms “In the Field” The Palms were used to collect and store information during the trip The Palms were also used to draw sketches of discoveries during the trip

13. The soil was tested for temperature above and below the surface and pH

15. The water was tested for temperature, turbidity, and pH

16. The spring trip offered students a chance to “get their feet wet” while learning about science and living things

19. Students carefully identified and classified their findings

24. Final thoughts and culminating ideas were shared during lunch discussions

26. Thank you to the J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation for funding these opportunities for active learning experiences for the students of Monroe Middle School