Grades: 2nd- 5th Grade

Teacher Name: Theresa Chorba 

Description and purpose of grant: 

• I am requesting classroom environmental sensors that measure light and sound. These tools will allow students across multiple grade levels to collect and analyze real-world data, directly supporting mastery of the energy TEKS (2.8AB, 3.8A, 4.8A, and 5.8C). By making energy concepts visible and measurable, the sensors will help students build deeper understanding through hands-on investigation.

Grant Objectives

• Provide students with hands-on tools to collect real-world data and analyze patterns.

• Strengthen student understanding of energy-related TEKS through authentic investigations with light and sound sensors.

• Increase 5th grade Science STAAR scores by addressing gaps in energy standards.

• Improve MAP assessment performance in grades 2–5, particularly in classes where energy concepts were the lowest-performing area.

This correlates with campus and district goals by increasing Force, Motion, and Energy TEKS science scores in 2nd through 5th grade. They also promote inquiry-based learning, and preparing students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Implementation process:

• During the 3rd term, I will implement the sound meter project in STEAM class. Students in grades 2–5 (317 students total) will design and carry out an investigation to determine which grade level is the loudest at lunch. Using the sound meters, students will collect and analyze data, then develop and communicate evidence-based explanations for why some grade levels produce more decibels than others. 
• I will also implement the light meter project during STEAM class as a demonstration lesson in collecting, compiling, and analyzing data across multiple grade levels. For this investigation, I will borrow sunglasses from various teachers, representing a range of price points and finishes. I will use light meters to test how much light passes through each pair and determine whether cost impacts the level of eye protection from sun damage. Through this activity, students will not only practice evidence-based explanations but also deepen their understanding of key vocabulary—opaque, transparent, and translucent—which are essential concepts in mastering the light-related TEKS for STAAR.
• In the following years, these hands-on projects will strengthen skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and communication increasing both MAP and STAAR scores. The sensors are durable and reusable, allowing future students to engage in hands-on investigations each year. The lessons created through this grant will remain part of the STEAM curriculum, ensuring long-term impact across grade levels.

Items I plan to purchase with grant money:

Digital Illuminance Light Meter- Reads the lumens of light n a room or not blocked by certain materials $28.49 x 6= $170.94
Decibel Meter- Reads the decibels of sound in an are area shows what decibels are safe fro the ears.$119.99 X 6= $719.94

If the grant is not fully funded, the minimal amount I would need is $700 to cover most of the cost of the decibel meters