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Biographies for Kids, 101: Mae Jemison

In this one time course, we’ll read and discuss the book, “Mae Among the Stars” by Roda Ahmed and learn why Mae Jemison is so special. Afterward, we will work together to create miniature “Space Landers”.
Patricia DiResta
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(17)
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

We’ll learn fun facts about Mae Jemison, especially ones that relate to her childhood. While I read the story, I will ask the children different questions. Some questions will relate to what they already know while others will encourage them to make real life connections. Since Mae was an engineer, the kids will complete a fun STEM challenge. First, I will show them an example of a “Space Lander” (that I will design myself before the class). Then, they’ll draw/write a design or plan of their own “Space Lander” and consider how all of the materials will be used. Lastly, they will use their designs to create their “Space Lander” models. The challenging part of the project will be to make a design that holds 2 “aliens” (marshmallows) in place after it has “landed on the moon” (dropped onto the floor). If we have time, everyone will watch each other as they test their new “Space Lander”.

Other Details

Parental Guidance
Children will be using scissors so necessary precautions should be taken
Supply List
I will provide the book and an example of a “Space Lander”. 
Necessary supplies for the project:
1) Duct tape
2) Plastic or paper cup
3) A piece of cardboard or card-stock
4) 2 marshmallows 
5) construction paper, index cards, pipe cleaners or straws (students have the option of picking which of these items they would like to use...they are welcome to use one, two, three or all of them) 
6) scissors
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
We will read the book, “Mae Among the Stars” by Roda Ahmed - we will also take “picture walks” of some non-fiction books about Mae Jemison. Here are the books: 1) “Mae Jemison” by Luke Colins 2) “Mae Jemison, a Space Biography” by Della A. Yannuzzi
Joined April, 2020
4.9
17reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Greetings! 

I am so excited about joining the Outschool team! I have worked as a preschool teacher for the past seven years. I worked as an educator at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta for four years. I also worked for a number of after school programs and summer camps at different private schools and nature centers around Atlanta. I have a BA in Elementary Education from Queen’s University of Charlotte. My favorite subjects to teach are science and social studies. I love children’s literacy so I’ll definitely be reading a book in most of my classes. I will definitely plan and facilitate different activities that encourage children to use their imaginations and expand their “creative brains”.

I believe that any sort of play is an important part of a child’s learning. I love creating different play based centers for my preschool students to put around our classroom. Going outside and being around nature is  important as well. Kids can use their imaginations to create games and other activities while they are outdoors. I remember when I use to play in the creek near my childhood home with the other kids in my neighborhood. We loved to “play pretend”!

I also believe in using the “multiple intelligences theory” in my teaching because all children learn in different ways. I am not a huge fan of worksheets unless it’s absolutely necessary. I like using a variety of materials and resources whenever I teach. It’s important to learn about the children you work with and form relationships. 

Here are some fun facts about me:
1) I have a twin sister
2) I love outdoor activities, especially zipling 
3) I have traveled to 7 different countries overseas (Italy, England, Scotland, Ukraine, Poland, France and Ireland)
4) I’ve been a member of the Junior League of Atlanta for over 5 years
5) I love Clemson football 🏈 My grandfather attended Clemson University so I have always been a huge fan

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$15

per class
Meets once
55 min

Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-10
1-9 learners per class

This class is no longer offered
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