For an introduction to your project essay , please see Writing Your Essay.
Do you know what resources you need for your classroom, and why you need them — but just aren’t sure how to say it? If you’re feeling stuck, check out the below essay template. You are welcome to adjust and add on to this template as needed, but if you answer each and all of the below questions, you should be set up for success!
Who are your students and what are they like? Why are they special? What do they/you need for your classroom? What specific items are you requesting for this need? How will your students use these resources? Why are you requesting any other materials that haven’t been previously mentioned?
Let’s say you’re an elementary school teacher and need a variety of books, an assortment of snacks, a rug, and some basic supplies (paper towels, construction paper, and markers) for your classroom. Here’s an example essay using the above template:
My students are in third grade and are curious and playful. They’re always ready to explore something new and love hands-on materials in the classroom. This year, we need more books for our library corner, especially hardcover books that will last longer than paperbacks. I’m requesting several different picture books and chapter books for the variety of reading levels in my classroom. My students also need a new rug where they can comfortably sit to read these books during their free time and work on their reading skills throughout the year. I’m also requesting crackers, breakfast bars, and other snacks to keep them full so they can focus on learning. The paper towels will be used to clean up after the snacks, and we will use the construction paper and markers to make bookmarks as well.
Here’s an example of an essay for the above materials that would not get approved:
My students are in third grade and are curious and playful. This year, we need new books, and a lot of them, so I’ve asked for a few different kinds. The books are The Lemonade Wars, Skin Like Mine, the Magic Schoolbus series, and My Very Own Room. We also need snacks because everyone gets hungry and some other items just to have in our classroom for the year. These materials will be really helpful for my classroom and will make sure my students can do their best.
Why would this essay be drafted?
1) It doesn’t specifically explain how all the materials will benefit the students. How are the students going to be using the books? How will they be using the “other items”?
2) It also doesn’t mention the construction paper, markers, and the most expensive single item, the rug, and donors won’t know how those materials are being used or why they’re included in this project.
An effective essay will directly say what you are requesting and why. If your project was drafted after submission with a request for edits, check out How we screen classroom projects for additional help on editing and resubmitting!