NSTA STEM21

July 26-30, 2021

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FILTERS APPLIED:6 - 8, Hands-On Workshop, High School, STEM

 

Rooms and times subject to change.
41 results
Save up to 50 sessions in your agenda.

Hands-On Engineering and Phenomena-Based Learning with Science+

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Power Point File
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STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Discover how to engage students in science using three-dimensional learning with engineering projects and computational thinking. Free access to grades 3–5 lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore real-world phenomena to motivate students and guide learning; 2. Learn practical tips for reaching all three dimensions of the science standards; and 3. Understand how to guide students in conducting online research and analyzing authentic data.

SPEAKERS:
Brittany Pike (CYBER.ORG: Bossier City, LA), Laurie Salvail (CYBER.ORG: Bossier City, LA)

Dogs, DNA, and Doo-doo: Authentic Investigations into Data Interpretation

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Dogs, DNA and Doo-doo
Across the globe, dogs snoop on poop to save endangered species. By studying the stories in scat, students learn mapping, literacy and data interpretation skills. Takeaways: 1. The science of scat and the detection dog methodology offer engrossing strategies to engage students with STEM; 2. Scientific fields depend on scientists from diverse backgrounds with diverse skill sets; and 3. Strategies and visuals help students understand, collect, map, and interpret data responsibly.

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Across the globe, dogs snoop on poop to save endangered species. By studying the stories in scat, students learn mapping, literacy and data interpretation skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The science of scat and the detection dog methodology offer engrossing strategies to engage students with STEM; 2. Scientific fields depend on scientists from diverse backgrounds with diverse skill sets; and 3. Strategies and visuals help students understand, collect, map, and interpret data responsibly.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Montgomery (Science Author: Ardmore, TN)

In the Rethink Tank: Turning Trash into Treasure with the Sustainability Superheroes

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

In this session, we will illustrate how educators created integrated STEM activities through real-world sustainability design challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Sustainability issues engage students with real-world local and global problems; 2. Adapting a "Shark Tank-like" format into a "Rethink Tank" provides key questions and criteria to help students use entrepreneurial thinking to create innovative solutions to problems; and 3. Sustainability topics allow for not only STEM integration, but connections to English Language Arts, Social Studies, Career Education, and the Arts.

SPEAKERS:
Deborah Kozdras (University of South Florida: Tampa, FL), Christine Angel Danger (Hillsborough County Public Schools: Tampa, FL)

Effectively Using “Science Kits” to Achieve the NGSS

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Science Kits Presentation
This file contains a PDF copy of the presentation given at NSTA STEM 21 on Monday, July 26, 2021.

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Learn how to use your existing science kit materials to support your students with NGSS, based on experiences from the Elementary Science Olympiad program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. how to modify "instructional kits" available to them to allow for authentic student inquiry; 2. how to structure instruction to allow for cycles of failure and feedback; and 3. how hands-on science supports implementation of the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
John Loehr (Science Olympiad: Oakbrook Terrace, IL), Shari Haug (: Elmhurst, IL)

Little Big Minds: STEAM for Our Youngest Learners

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Little Big Minds Materials.pdf

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

STEAM-integrated activities are for all learners, including those in an early childhood setting. Participate in a series of play-based STEAM activities that promote three-dimensional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Early childhood students will engage in scientific investigation and inquiry through student-centered activities that promote curiosity, creativity, and innovation; 2. Kindergarten Readiness Math skills are developed through STEAM-integrated investigations highlighting number sense, measurement, and data; and 3. Activities will develop executive functioning skills through play and open exploration.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsey Herlehy (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL), Cassandra Armstrong (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL)

STEM Learning with Light and Shadow

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

Learn how to engage preK–2 students in light and shadow concepts as they engineer light sources, materials, and screens to produce a desired effect.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Identify meaningful contexts for exploring light and shadow phenomena that already exist in the young child's world; 2. Engage in strategies that enable young learners to explore how properties of materials interact with light, and then use their understanding of light and properties of materials to engineer effects on a screen to communicate with peers; and 3. Recognize multiple paths to conceptual understanding contingent on each child's unique backgrounds and experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Beth Dykstra VanMeeteren (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Integrated STEM Lessons Focusing on Children's Literature

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

Using quality children's literature and the 5E, ideas for integrated STEM lessons will be shared with corresponding hands-on activities. Handouts and resources provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Using quality children's literature can access students' thoughts and prior knowledge; 2. Children's literature used with engaging hands-on activities can help move students toward understanding of science concepts ; and 3. The 5E model of instruction can be used to instruct students in a three-dimensional way of thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Jim McDonald (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI)

Using Outdoor Spaces to Promote Science Equity During the Pandemic

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

An Out Teach instructional coach gives teachers the information, inspiration, and practical everyday tips they need to head outdoors to lead hands-on real-world cross-curricular experiences proven to build science skills and get students deeply engaged in science practice. Presenters will provide specific strategies for elementary teachers to engage students in science and engineering practices anchored in outdoor phenomena—whether students are remote or in-person.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. To put equitable outcomes at the center of all we do, students need opportunities to make decisions about their own learning and space to bring their own experiences and background to the classroom in ways that connect meaningfully to content. This highly sought after, student-centered approach can be kick-started through outdoor experiential learning in Science; 2. Many teachers struggle with 3-D science instruction, which requires that we not only teach students content but give them ample opportunities to think and work like scientists. The outdoor classroom is a powerful instructional tool for authentic scientific practice, developing a scientific mindset and a love of learning; and 3. Outdoor experiences are a great equalizer, improving student-directed learning, SEL, and 21st-century skills during remote, hybrid, and in-person instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Wendy Kelly (Out Teach: Dallas, TX), Allie Graybeal (Out Teach: Fort Worth, TX)

Explore the Solar System: NASA’s Scale of Discovery

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Recording
Scale of Discovery 2021 PowerPoint
Powerpoint with embedded info and notes
Scale of Discovery Combined Files.pdf
ALL files (what would have been in person handouts) from todays presentation in one document

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Let’s make a foldable solar system scroll. Come learn how to apply ratios to create a scale model of the planets based on your height.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. With a properly scaled solar system scroll, participants will identify inner and outer planets and readily SEE why they are named as such; 2. Understanding the concept of rations and fractions, part-to-whole, participants will leave being able to create a proportional solar system in their classroom, on a football field, or across their state; and 3. This activity can be used at any grade level.

SPEAKERS:
Barbie Buckner (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center: Greenbelt, MD)

Make Time for Science with Project-Based Learning

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Make Time for Science Handout

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

If we treat content areas as silos, we will never find time for science! Discover how to create authentic, cross-curricular learning experiences that increase engagement and thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Determine characteristics of authentic learning experiences; 2. Explore two projects, lesson by lesson, making connections to your science content; and 3. Discover a process for creating your own project-based learning units.

SPEAKERS:
Terra Tarango (Van Andel Education Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

Green Screen in STEM

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Green Screen in the Class Room Slide Presentation
This the slide presentation used in the Green Screen in STEM session. Most pictures will have links to the materials or more information.

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Need a simple and creative way to engage students? Create a green screen area in your classroom. This workshop will demonstrate a simple way to make creative videos with a green screen.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use a chroma key with different apps and programs; 2. Simple video editing techniques; and 3. Using different objects for green screen props.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Crane (Randolph Academy: No City, No State)

Grand Challenges and Children's Literature: Promoting Access Through Meaningful Connections

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

This interactive session will guide you through a process of identifying community “grand challenges” and using multicultural children’s literature to create empowering STEM learning experiences.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn to guide students through the process of identifying and defining relevant, investigable issues in their communities; 2. recognize the power of children's literature for promoting equitable access to STEM learning opportunities for diverse students; and 3. leave with a framework for empowering students to use STEM skills and knowledge to enact meaningful change in their community.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Donaldson (Wheaton College: Norton, MA)

NASA STEM Engagement—Just Passing Through: Soil and Water Exploration

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA July 2021 Just Passing Through.pptx

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Explore the NASA Elementary GLOBE storybook the “Scoop on Soils.” Engage students with a dynamic experiment on soil permeability.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. NASA Elementary GLOBE has free storybooks with three or more STEM activities each integrating the Core Standards with the Science standards. The materials are translated into five languages; 2. All students will relate to the climate issues of the availability of fresh water and soil needed to grow food; and 3. Exploring the environment with backyard soils engages students in real-world problem solving.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Kohler (NASA Glenn Research Center: Cleveland, OH)

Sensing Science Through Modeling Matter Free Apps for Kindergarteners

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

The Sensing Science project has developed and researched a curriculum to support learning about states of matter and its phase changes at the kindergarten level.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Free apps for use in your classroom; 2. Models that assist students in the understanding of why the three states of matter are different; and 3. Free interactive stories introducing phase changes to students.

SPEAKERS:
Carolyn Staudt (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA), Nathan Kimball (Curriculum Developer: Newton, MA), Jamie Broadhead (Videatives, Inc.: Amherst, MA)

Cricket Challenges: Engaging Readers in Exploring Their Natural World

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cricket Challenges Engaging Readers In Exploring Their Natural World.pptx
Cricket Challenges Handout.pdf
Nature Writing Prompts Handout.pdf
Nature-Themed Books Handout.pdf

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

This session presents interactive “Cricket Challenges” to engage students in nature-based activities designed to encourage curiosity and to make cross-curricular STEM connections to literature.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Innovative ways to engage readers to use fiction as a springboard to explore their natural world and make text-to-real-world connections; 2. Handouts including instructions for activities such as “An Outdoor Challenge for Every Season," ”Creating a Nature Wonder Hour,” “Nature Scavenger Hunts,” “Creating a Nature Journal from the Point of View of the Main Character in the Book You’re Studying,” and “Bloom Bingo”; and 3. Writing prompts educators can use to encourage students to analyze and explore their natural world.

SPEAKERS:
Jo Watson Hackl (Author: Asheville, NC)

STEAM Preschool Investigations: 3-D Hands-On Science Teaching Using Geological Materials

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Padlet for STEAM Preschool
The Padlet will allow you to access all lesson plans and print materials for this presentation.

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

Learn to teach observation investigations with young learners that integrate geology, art, and math. Participants will receive hands-on materials and lessons to use with students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to; 1. do three-dimensional investigations with young learners; 2. integrate teaching of art and math concepts with geology; and 3. teach young students to observe and collect geological data.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Schneider (Father Andrew White School: Leonardtown, MD)

Design Challenges for All: Fostering Engagement with Engineering

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Design Challenges for All- Tech Interactive- NSTA July 2021.pdf
Session Slides
solvethefall_athomeguide.pdf
Activity guide for designed for implementation in the classroom or at home
solvethefall_Lessonplan.pdf
Solve the Fall lesson plan

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Experience an engineering design challenge that engages all students in the design process,  building critical mindsets around collaboration, perseverance, and critical thinking. Take away facilitation resources for implementing NGSS-connected, real-world challenges in one session or over several months.

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this session, participants will come away with: 1. a clear understanding of the Engineering Design Process and strategies for integrating this process into their instruction; 2. confidence to engage all learners as they implement design challenges in their learning settings; and 3. knowledge of the connections between design challenges and NGSS K–12 engineering progression.

SPEAKERS:
Erica Barrueto (The Bowers Institute at The Tech: San Jose, CA), Amy Bucher (The Tech Interactive: San Jose, CA)

STEM 101: Getting Started as STEM Specialists in Your School in a Digital World

Monday, July 26 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM 101 Presentation Lists.docx

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Join us on your STEM journey and learn how to incorporate STEM and PBL into your K–5 curriculum. Receive ideas for program development, grants and funding, and inexpensive or free field trips. Teaching STEM digitally with coding and computer programming apps.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Incorporating STEM curriculum and PBL's into the K–5 curriculum requirements and incorporating Digital Coding and computer programs to use with virtual teaching; 2. Finding and scheduling in-house free and inexpensive field trips, guest speakers, and virtual experiences for all students at your school; and 3. Funding and grant writing information and sources to fund your STEM program.

SPEAKERS:
Johanna Disney (McKendree Elementary School: Lawrenceville, GA), Julie Wilkerson (McKendree Elementary School: Lawrenceville, GA)

NSTA Press Session: Explore-Before-Explain: A Practical and Fun Approach to Make the NGSS Come Alive!

Monday, July 26 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM NSTA__Explore Before Explain_July 2021.pdf

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Get ready for STEM and the NGSS by sequencing instruction to promote your students’ long-lasting understanding with a simple yet powerful approach: Explore-Before-Explain.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. participate in two explore-before-explain STEM activities; 2. identify the benefits of guiding students to construct explanations based on personal observations and data analysis; and 3. collaboratively brainstorm ways they can tweak one of their existing STEM activities following the explore-before-explain instructional strategy to meet the vision of the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Fayen (Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Dallas, TX), Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: O'Fallon, MO)

NSTA Press Session: Phenomena to Scenario: Intentionally Moving from Inquiry to STEM Application

Monday, July 26 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

This interactive session provides experiences that model how anchoring phenomena and engaging scenarios help students develop an understanding of three-dimensional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. understand the importance of anchoring phenomena tied to scenarios to drive student learning; 2. leave with example STEM units aligned to industries and careers that can be implemented in the classroom; and 3. share a model template for creating their own STEM units.

SPEAKERS:
Jo Anne Vasquez (NSTA President 96-97: , AZ), Michael Comer (Consultant: Paramus, NJ)

Topaz Japanese Internment Camp: Integrating Science, Social Studies, and ELA Through STEM to Examine Real-World Historical Situations

Monday, July 26 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA STEM 2021 Conference.pptx
Our Topaz Journal.docx
OWL Chart.docx
SocialStudiesTemplates.docx

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Historical issues create rich opportunities to utilize Science, Social Studies, and ELA disciplinary skills—through STEM—to increase student engagement and a deep understanding of complex problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Session attendees will learn both pedagogical concepts and history as they work to understand and solve perplexing problems that faced Japanese-Americans interned at Topaz. Using the Topaz Japanese internment camp as the backdrop, session participants will: 1. learn how to pair both fiction and informational texts (including primary source documents); 2. discover ways to integrate NGSS standards, Social Studies, ELA, and STEM through lessons and problem-solving activities; and 3. focus on the 5Es and 3-D learning.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Siebach (Retired Teacher: Cedar Hills, UT), Deborah Draper (Cedar Ridge Elementary School: Tulsa, OK)

Investigating the Urban Heat Island Effect as Citizen Scientists

Tuesday, July 27 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Explore strategies to get your students involved in designing and implementing an investigation of surface temperature and the urban heat island effect.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to: 1. analyze how urban heat islands develop both around and within cities, with certain neighborhoods heating up more than others on sunny days, through an exploration of the role of infrared radiation and albedo; 2. evaluate strategies through which students create and carry out investigations that contribute in a meaningful way to the scientific understanding of the urban heat island effect; and 3. apply an enhanced understanding of the urban heat island effect in their neighborhood in order to support students in the design and implementation of useful mitigation strategies that can have a long-term benefit to the health and resilience of their community.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Slack (I.S. 223 Montauk Intermediate School: Brooklyn, NY), Debra Amoroso (Myra S. Barnes Intermediate School 24: Staten Island, NY)

Dead Bodies and Danger: STEAMing into Critical Thinking

Tuesday, July 27 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Dead Bodies & Danger Website
Dead Bodies and Danger Presentation

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Roadkill is a phenomena to engage every student. Teachers integrate STEM and English, challenging students to design, build, and sell a wildlife crossing to City Council.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Innovative instructional sequences rooted in an everyday phenomena students care about; 2. Lessons that integrate science skills, critical reading, and meaningful design practices; and 3. Grade-appropriate resources (data, images, texts) for engaging students, regardless of culture or background, with authentic citizens science.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Montgomery (Science Author: Ardmore, TN), Lauren Avant (Richmond Hill Middle School: Richmond Hill, GA), Ann Vitello (Richmond Hill Middle School: Richmond Hill, GA)

Chemical Kitchen: Crafting Phenomenon-Focused Studies Based On Student Questions

Tuesday, July 27 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Explore how to build studies that put phenomena first and engage students in discovery through initial investigations designed to spark questions and curiosity. Discover how to be responsive to student interests as you decide "where to go from here."

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Transform your approach to planning by putting phenomena first; 2. Find out how to embed content and practices into hands-on learning activities that allow students to discover science ideas; and 3. Learn a simple process to identify "where to go from here" based on students' interests, questions, needs, and your curricular demands.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole VanTassel (iExploreScience LLC: Erie, PA)

Becoming a Secret Coder: Teaching Computational Thinking with Graphic Novels

Tuesday, July 27 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Learn how to use the Secret Coders graphic novel series by Yang and Holmes to integrate the elements of computational thinking (abstraction, algorithmic thinking, decomposition, generalization, and debugging). Weave in both computer science and ELA practices for an interdisciplinary adventure!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Graphic novels provide an unplugged way for students to learn about computational thinking; 2. Computational thinking can be integrated into language arts classes; and 3. Interdisciplinary lessons can enhance both language literacy and computational thinking literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Rachelle Haroldson (University of Wisconsin-River Falls: River Falls, WI)

Engaging Students in NGSS Through Storytelling and Filmmaking

Tuesday, July 27 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Lesson 6.13 a-what-is-a-story-spine.pptx
Lesson 6.17 a-filming-techniques-presentation.pptx
Lesson 6.23 a-digital-portfolio-template.pdf
Lesson 6.23 b-GNFF-rubric.pdf

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

In this session you'll practice using a storytelling model and creating your own short film so you can use similar techniques in your teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. develop experience using the story spine framework within a science classroom; 2. learn basic filmmaking techniques, including shot-blocking and the 180 rule; and 3. develop additional confidence and understanding of how they can use storytelling and filmmaking within their own science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Eugene Cordero (San Jose State University: San Jose, CA), Noah Canton (Hillcrest School: Oakland, CA)

From Typhoid Mary to COVID-19: Pursuing an Understanding of Disease Transmission and Tracking Through Integrative STEM

Tuesday, July 27 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
URL to Resources Contact Information

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Investigate ways to incorporate STEM topics into the hunt for disease. Case studies to MICROBITs help engage students in tracking the transmission of disease.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to: 1. integrate discipline-specific literacy case studies and technology as strategies for engaging students in problem solving around a current topic; 2. construct opportunities to engage in the SEPs around content as they determine who is patient zero; and 3. demonstrate how integrative STEM uses exploration and sensemaking to come together to help solve a world pandemic.

SPEAKERS:
G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS), Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Shippensburg, PA), Susan German (Hallsville Middle School: Hallsville, MO), Beverly DeVore-Wedding (Nebraska Indian Community College: Meeker, CO)

NASA STEM: Newton’s Third Law: Rocket Races

Tuesday, July 27 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA July 2021 Newton Cars.pptx

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Explore NASA STEM Engineering Design resources to engage students in building a rocket race car to demonstrate Newton’s Third Law.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. NASA astronauts on board the International Space Station provide STEMonstrations with activities in simple video format; 2. NASA’s free STEM educator guides provide detailed information to implement STEM in the classroom; and 3. Investigate Newton’s Third Law of Motion by designing and constructing rocket-powered racing cars.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Kohler (NASA Glenn Research Center: Cleveland, OH)

STEM Identity: NGSS-Focused Project-Based Learning in the Digital World

Tuesday, July 27 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

This workshop explores the connection between the NGSS, STEM identity, and project-based learning (PBL) through a series of culturally responsive activities for virtual learning environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. critically consider their own STEM identity and the STEM identities of their students to inform PBL in online and in-class learning environments; 2. respond to students’ needs and interests to plan PBL that develops their STEM identities; and 3. learn instructional strategies that engage students in PBL and the Scientific and Engineering Practices within the Next Generation Science Standards.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Lane (University of the District of Columbia: Washington, DC)

Formation in the Cartwheel Galaxy with Web-based NASA Data and STEM Image Analysis Tools

Wednesday, July 28 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Analyzing Star Formation and U/HLXs in the Cartwheel Galaxy
HANDOUT
Analyzing Star Formation and U/HLXs in the Cartwheel Galaxy
powerpoint
JS9 - Web based Data Analysis Tool
Js9 with preloaded files
National Science Olympiad js9 Page

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Use web-based image and analysis software to examine and compare the Cartwheel Galaxy in optical and X-ray bands, which can help determine the sources of the ultra- and hyperluminous X-rays (U/HLXs) in this galaxy.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Astrophysicists use light in all bands of the electromagnetic spectrum to determine the nature of an object; 2. Web-based software will be used (the same tools used by scientists); and 3. This software can be used by students to do their own investigations in astronomy with real data sets.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Perry (Lewiston High School: Lewiston, ME)

Data Analysis Made Easy: Connecting Math and Science Through Technology

Wednesday, July 28 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Data Analysis made Easy

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Increase student engagement in analysis and evaluation of real data. Engage students of different ability levels in mathematical models with measurements not previously accessible in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Combine graphing calculators with handheld sensors to maximize class time; 2. Use real data to develop mathematical models; and 3. Learn how to test your hypothesis by doing an experiment and analyze your results.

SPEAKERS:
Karlheinz Haas (Science/Math Instructor, Retired: Tequesta, FL)

Building Sensors to Collect Environmental Data

Wednesday, July 28 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: High School

Show Details

There is a need to introduce engineering to high school students but there are not a lot of resources available. Through this session, educators will learn how to engage their students in building instrumentation to observe their environment, including a weather station and water quality sensor following student-created design manuals.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Assembly manuals for weather station and water sensor; 2. Opportunities for students to build one of the models; and 3. Communicate with engineering professors and students and provide engineering students feedback on their manuals.

SPEAKERS:
Janet Struble (: Toledo, OH), Kevin Czajkowski (The University of Toledo: Toledo, OH), Caleb Farny (Boston University: Boston, MA), Glenn Lipscomb (The University of Toledo: Toledo, OH)

Dog-Mode Design Challenge

Wednesday, July 28 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Dog Mode Design Challenge - STEM21.pdf

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Keep your pets safe from being left in hot cars by using automatic sensors to design an alarm that could save their lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Solve a real-work problem with coding and engineering design, no prior experience needed; 2. Learn about inputs from sensors (temperature) and if-then-else decision logic to control an output (sound or color LED) based on the sensor readings; and 3. Gain exposure to possible STEM careers in automobile design features.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD), Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA)

Show Your STEM: Communicating Scientific Ideas and Understanding

Wednesday, July 28 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: High School

Show Details

This workshop introduces strategies and digital tools to help students develop high-quality STEM presentations and posters in online and in-class learning environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. embody the role of a student conducting a scientific/engineering investigation leading to a STEM presentation; 2. be able to create a digital STEM visual using presentation applications; and 3. learn instructional strategies that engage students in developing high-quality presentations and Scientific and Engineering Practices within the Next Generation Science Standards.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Lane (University of the District of Columbia: Washington, DC)

The "M" in STEM: Could It Mean Statistics?

Wednesday, July 28 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
The M in STEM Could It Mean Statistics
Presentation handout for STEM 21

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Have you been asking whether you should trust loud claims of advertising? How could false positives in medical testing affect you? Or do you simply want to know what a penny is made of?

TAKEAWAYS:
1/ Explore cross-disciplinary aspects by linking the science content to the mathematical models; 2. Understand the importance of simple sampling for product quality control; and 3.Explore the use of technology for simulations to evaluate statistical claims.

SPEAKERS:
Karlheinz Haas (Science/Math Instructor, Retired: Tequesta, FL)

A3Sat: To Observe the Earth and Visualize the Future

Wednesday, July 28 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: High School

Show Details

This session focuses on the role CubeSats are playing as a disruptive technology in our space program and how to introduce precollege students to these future opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Design a relatively inexpensive CubeSat; 2. Build a CubeSat data collection device; and 3. Learn how NASA is using CubeSats.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Jabot (SUNY Fredonia: Fredonia, NY), Kevin Czajkowski (The University of Toledo: Toledo, OH), John Moore (Executive Director: Laurel Springs, NJ), Maxwell Friedman (Burlington County Institute of Technology: Palmyra, NJ)

Rising to the Challenge: How Placed-Based STEM Learning Helps Provide Inclusion and Equity in Diverse Populations—Lessons for Community-Based Projects

Friday, July 30 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: STEM Ecosystems: Supporting Diverse, Equitable Practices and Partnerships

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This session will explore the ways educators can expand STEM affinity among diverse populations by using placed-based lessons through the cultural lens of lessons on weather and climate.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Theme one is that community-based learning has been shown to positively impact indigenous science and STEM learners. Central to this theme is the belief that to promote science and STEM affinity, pedagogies and curricula should leverage diversity, languages, culture, practices, and epistemologies. (Gutierrez, Baquedano‐López, & Tejeda, 1999); 2. Theme two is a predicate of community orientation. This presentation will posit that STEM fluency is dependent on cultural relevant initiatives and will show significant promise in closing achievement gaps and improving science academic performance (Brayboy & Castagno 2008); and 3. Theme three is that culturally relevant curricula and pedagogies help to embody and mobilize community leaders and STEM advocates with in-school and after-school programs.

SPEAKERS:
Corydon Strawser (Lake Nona Middle School: Orlando, FL)

Justice-Oriented Pedagogies in Support of Science and Engineering Practices in Informal STEM Programs

Friday, July 30 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Authority Tools - Talk Moves.pdf
Authority Tools - Youth Bids.pdf
YESTEM Insight 2021 - Authority Sharing.pdf

STRAND: STEM Ecosystems: Supporting Diverse, Equitable Practices and Partnerships

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We will share justice-oriented pedagogical strategies and tools empirically co-developed through a partnership project involving educators and youth for teaching science and engineering practices in STEM programs at informal settings.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. This session provides participants with strategies and tools for justice-oriented instructional approaches for teaching SEPs, with attention on informal science programs. These justice-oriented practices, developed by educators, youth, and researchers, focus on supporting youth in having equitable opportunities to develop expertise in SEPs, and empowering youth to agentically enact practices toward investigating issues and questions that matter to them personally and socially; 2. We will engage participants in two activities: a) exploring justice-oriented pedagogical practices and b) designing instructional plans for STEM learning using the pedagogical practices; and 3. We will share tools and resources empirically produced from collaborations in multiple informal STEM programs, including a) practice briefs, b) design approaches for implementing pedagogical practices, and c) teaching and learning cases. These pedagogical practices and tools will be useful to informal STEM educators and school teachers who seek to use justice-oriented STEM projects with their students.

SPEAKERS:
Micaela Balzer (Impression 5 Science Center: Lansing, MI), Sinead Brien (Michigan State University: East Lansing, MI)

Integrated STEM as an Equity Move

Friday, July 30 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: STEM Ecosystems: Supporting Diverse, Equitable Practices and Partnerships

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Come experience how one California district is leveraging an opportunity to bring equitable STEM experiences to all preK–12 students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How one district approaches integrated STEM; 2. What an integrated STEM unit feels like; and 3. -How one district enacts and supports integrated STEM systemwide.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Reynolds (Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC): Boston, MA), Vanessa Garcia (South West Park Elementary School: Tracy, CA), Debra Schneider (Tracy Unified School District: Tracy, CA)

STEMSS Family Engagement to Support Language Learners

Friday, July 30 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: STEM Ecosystems: Supporting Diverse, Equitable Practices and Partnerships

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Explore family engagement events that provide fun, hands-on experiences and an opportunity to teach parents strategies to support their children's academic vocabulary at home.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Engage in both virtual and in-person family engagement events that expand classroom learning that families with members of all ages can participate in; 2. Learn strategies to support linguistically diverse students in the STEMSS (STEM + Social Studies with an emphasis on real-world, cross-curricular learning) classroom; and 3. Develop a plan to integrate these strategies into your family engagement events to help parents learn how to support academic vocabulary at home and to bridge the home-school connections to increase opportunities for language learners.

SPEAKERS:
Margarita Jimenez-Silva (University of California, Davis: Davis, CA), Karen Guerrero (Arizona State University: Tempe, AZ)

Keeping STEM Alive: Integrating in ANY Setting

Friday, July 30 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Keeping STEM Alive in Any Setting

STRAND: STEM Ecosystems: Supporting Diverse, Equitable Practices and Partnerships

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The global pandemic forced many educators to pivot to virtual or hybrid learning. In this session, you will learn tips and tricks to keep quality STEM education alive in any setting.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will: 1. see an example of how an in-person, integrated STEM learning experience can be changed to work in a virtual or hybrid setting; 2. be provided with resources to promote inclusive and equitable practices that increase student collaboration and engagement in a virtual, hybrid or face-to-face setting; and 3. leave with an existing STEM unit that can be completed in their own classroom, whether it be virtual, in-person, or hybrid.

SPEAKERS:
Theresa Goltermann (Tabb Middle School: Yorktown, VA), Vonceil Anderson (Baltimore City Public Schools: Baltimore, MD), Laura Drager (Montgomery County Educational Service Center: Dayton, OH), Rebecca Stanley (DoD STEM/RTI International: Durham, NC)

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