Rationale for Service Learning Project:

Context-

During my internship at Mountain View Elementary for block II, I put together a service learning project that would engage the students in their community.  They had to make a decision however between two projects I had ideas for doing.  They could choose to do a project related to the fresh fruit and vegetable grant or the St. Jude's Math-a-thon.  They chose the St. Jude's Math-a-thon.  I then created a letter for the parents that would be included with pamphlets explaining the purpose of the project and how it worked.

Impact-

The students decided as a class to do the service learning project on St. Jude's Math-a-thon.  This way they could help other children much like themselves, but with cancer.  They actually knew one particular student that was a patient there.  This helped them for setting a common goal.  They became eager and worked hard on this project.  They also learned how to become active citizens within their communities.  It impacted me as a future teacher in showing me just how important it is to engage students in their communities and teach them about service learning/community service.  Students might never get the opportunity to do this in other cases outside of your classroom.  By showing them how to get involved, they will be more likely to do so in the future.

Alignment-

I have met DPI standard 16, indicator 1 because the project was done by students outside the classroom.

I have met DPI standard 16, indicator 3 because I sent home a letter to the parents explaining the service learning project.

I have met DPI standard 16, indicator 4 because the service learning project that was chosen integrated math into the project.  It was useful in helping students prepare for their EOG's also.

I have met DPI standard 16, indicator 5 because I had to talk with administration about whether this project would be appropriate for the students in my internship class.  I also asked if the math book would serve as a useful resource for the EOG's.  I was given approval to do this fundraiser as a service learning project.

I have met DPI standard 16, indicator 7 because I encouraged all students to participate in the service learning project that would help others in their community, but it was completely voluntary.