Sponsoring Company: Amplify

What if coding were integrated into core science instruction instead of being an isolated after-school activity for a select few?

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to: 1. provide students with the opportunity to learn basic computer science concepts and practices in service of solving real-world problems; 2. increase access to positive experiences in computer science learning; and 3. infuse coding science curriculum with constant opportunities for collaboration and student discourse.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

Sponsoring Company: The Algae Foundation

Algae has the potential to be the solution to some of society’s biggest challenges. What can we use as renewable fuel? Algae. How will we feed the ever-growing population? Algae. What is that weird stuff I see when I swim in the lake? Algae.

The Algae Academy’s FREE STEM kit and curriculum includes teacher resources, all necessary lab supplies, and live algae that will have your students asking their own big questions as they realize the real potential of algae. Students cultivate algae, monitor its growth, analyze and interpret data, and make connections as to how algae production has a positive impact on the global environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn all things algae—from the basic living requirements to how algae will help solve pressing global issues; 2. walk through the entire Algae Academy curriculum to better understand the supplies provided, day-to-day activities, and teacher resources available to support teacher instruction; and 3. learn how to cultivate your own algae culture!

SPEAKERS:
Marissa Nalley (The Algae Foundation: Midland, TX), Jakob Nalley (The Algae Foundation Board Member: Midland, TX)

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning is a way for students to scientifically describe what they have observed and learned through an investigation, experience, or research. By making claims based on evidence, students are able to connect their science knowledge to the events and observations of the real world. Come learn how CER is an effective assessment tool.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will: 1. understand the meaning and application of claim, evidence, and reasoning; 2. experience a variety of hands-on examples and how to adapt among grade levels; 3. discuss rebuttal and when/where it would be appropriate to implement; and 4. gain examples and ideas that can be taken back to the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Leslie Spaeny (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Sponsoring Company: DoD STEM

CYBER.ORG works to ensure that every K–12 student gains foundational cybersecurity knowledge by empowering teachers with free resources and training.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. gain free access to CYBER.ORG’s library of K–12 curricula and resources as well as implementation strategies for the classroom; 2. see examples of lessons as well as plugged and unplugged activities at the elementary, middle, and high school levels; and 3. gain a better understanding of CYBER.ORG resources by talking directly with content developers.

SPEAKERS:
Kevin Nolten (CYBER.ORG: Bossier City, LA)

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Co.

Let’s explore together how what we see and read may not always be fully factual or scientifically accurate.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to help students: 1. identify erroneous internet information; 2. separate science phenomena into fact and fiction; and 3. explore some factors that influence the movement of the ocean waters.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Comer (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ)