NSTA STEM21

July 26-30, 2021

Grade Level


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Pathway/Course

 

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

Choosing the Right BIOZONE NGSS Series for Your High School

Prerecorded

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE International Ltd.

BIOZONE’s two NGSS series have been designed to fully embrace the spirit of the NGSS. We will compare their features, guiding you to select the series best suited to your program. We will show how BIOZONE’s flexible print and digital solutions support you to teach face-to-face, remotely, or through hybrid programs.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Comparing features of the standard and integrated NGSS series; 2. guiding participants to select the series best suited to their program; and 3. print and digital solutions to support teachers who are teaching remotely or face-to-face.

SPEAKERS:
Lissa Bainbridge-Smith (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO), James Leggett (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

Applications of Pivot Interactives in the Classroom

Prerecorded

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

Pivot Interactives does more than just labs; with bell ringers and assessment tools built into the platform, it is designed to be a one-stop shop for science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Makes demos interactive by providing short activities great for introducing new concepts; 2. enables authentic assessment by bringing experimental problems directly to students, regardless of their location; and 3. allows instructors to craft their own activities, down to the videos included in the assessments. It’s perfect for synchronous in-person sessions as well.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Friberg (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

Pivot Interactives for Physical Science (Physics and Chemistry)

Prerecorded

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

This 25-minute session provides an introduction to Pivot Interactives as a tool for teaching the physical sciences, including physics and chemistry.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. See a preview of student activities related to the physical sciences in a variety of forms, including interactive video, simulations, and sensors; 2. receive an initial view of the Pivot Interactives platform, including searching the libraries, setting up a class, and editing activities; and 3. consider some use cases in the classroom, including remote and in-person learning, lab supplements, and authentic assessments.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Friberg (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

Pivot Interactives for Life Science (Biology and Environmental Science)

Prerecorded

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

This 25-minute session provides an introduction to Pivot Interactives as a tool for teaching the life sciences, including biology and environmental science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. See a preview of student activities related to the life sciences in a variety of forms, including interactive video, simulations, and sensors; 2. receive an initial view of the Pivot Interactives platform, including searching the libraries, setting up a class, and editing activities; and 3. consider some use cases in the classroom, including remote and in-person learning, lab supplements, and authentic assessments.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Friberg (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

Investigating How the Ocean's Story Is Our Story

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Using inquiry-based activities, we will investigate how our lives are connected to the ocean and how we impact it through climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn how to introduce phenomena-based activities about climate science to students, including global warming, ocean acidification, coral bleaching, and plastic pollution; 2. Increase ocean awareness and inspire community involvement that leads to changes in the status quo; and 3. Suggest ideas for preparing students as future leaders to think globally about the ocean as it impacts food supplies, jobs, and populations on the move to escape sea level rise and crop failure.

SPEAKERS:
Patricia Newman (Children's Book Author & Speaker: Carmichael, CA)

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)

STEM Collaboration from the Ground Up: Hydroponics in the Classroom

Monday, July 26 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

The Dallas Arboretum and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD will share the process and results of their collaborative STEM hydroponics program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. explore the development process of the hydroponics collaborative; 2. view sample before-and-after lesson plans as a result of the curriculum redesign; and 3. learn about lessons learned and opportunities for growth, including adjustments due to distance learning.

SPEAKERS:
Dustin Miller (Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Dallas, TX), Christy McClain (Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD: Carrollton, TX)

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)

Think Like a Bird: Integrating Life Science and Engineering Design in the Elementary Classroom

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 - Think Like a Bird.pptx
Presentation slides with resource links

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Can you think like a bird? That is what these NGSS-focused activities ask of students in an engineering challenge to create shelter for local birds.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Fun, authentic, NGSS-focused activities that promote students' application of science concepts in the engineering design process; 2. Simple strategies to engage students in place-based outdoor learning experiences that are adaptable for in-person instruction, virtual learning, or at-home projects; and 3. Ideas for modifying your existing life science activities to fit the time of year.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Krall (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY), Sagan Goodpaster (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY)

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)

Science Club Summer Camp: Teachers and Students Learning Together

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

Learn about an innovative teacher PD model employing free youth summer camps to support elementary grade teachers’ authentic understanding of NGSS principles and pedagogy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. about a new practicum-based professional development model that pairs NGSS PD with informal (summer) youth learning; 2. approaches to measure the effectiveness of NGSS teacher professional development; and 3. how district-level PD needs can be addressed through university-district partnerships.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Kennedy (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Emily Mathews (NSTA: McLean, VA), Jessica Mahon (Burroughs II Elementary School: Chicago, IL)

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)

Brain-Based Mindfulness for Young Learners

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Brain-Based Mindfulness.pptx

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

What do young learners know about how the brain works? Brain-based research and mindfulness can have a profound impact on young learners. Foster a growth mindset in your young students. Join me as I share research and curriculum guides to plan a similar unit in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. What do young learners know about how the brain works?; 2. How can brain-based research help us understand and teach growth mindset?; and 3. Learning about the brain in lower school supports lifelong achievement and development.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

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)

Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching: Recognizing Quality Teaching in STEM

Monday, July 26 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Upper Elementary

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: PAEMST

Come learn about the highest recognition for STEM educators in the U.S. We will discuss eligibility criteria as well as the nomination, application, and review process for the awards. Awardees receive a certificate; a $10,000 award; a trip to Washington, DC, for a recognition event; and access to over 5,100 award-winning teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How you can win $10,000; 2. how you can apply for this prestigious award from the U.S. Government; and 3. the benefits of applying for this award.

SPEAKERS:
Robert Mayes (National Science Foundation: Alexandria, VA)

Follow That Tree

Monday, July 26 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Follow That Tree Handout
Resource guide and contact information to accompany the session.

STRAND: Lower Elementary / Early Childhood

Show Details

Come along as a kindergarten class explores the world of nature, experiences the seasons, and engages in STEM activities with Joe the Ginkgo Tree as its guide.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Promote inquiry-based learning through the lens of a schoolyard tree; 2. Learn how to design a yearlong, child-centered STEM project; and 3. Connect students with the natural world both inside the classroom and outdoors with hands-on STEM and art-based activities and experiments.

SPEAKERS:
Amie Petronis Plumley (Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal School: Memphis, TN)

Great Lakes Great Opportunities

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA STEM Conference 2021 - Links for Participants.docx
NSTA STEM Conference 2021 - Links for Participants.pdf

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Use the Great Lakes as a learning tool! Participate in virtual classroom-ready activities, discover PD opportunities, and learn how to collect authentic water quality data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. how to request and incorporate the use of the Hydrolab in their classroom to collect authentic water quality data either in the classroom or in the field; 2. how to utilize Nearpod to create engaging lessons that can be utilized virtually or in the classroom; and 3. about professional development opportunities aboard the R/V Lake Guardian and at Ohio State University's Stone Lab.

SPEAKERS:
Shari Insley (North Olmsted Middle School: North Olmsted, OH), Melissa Kowalski (Put-in-Bay Local School District: Put in Bay, OH)

Strategies to Integrate Project-Based Learning in Diverse K–12 Learning Environments

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

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

This past year has demonstrated the need for diverse tools, resources, and support to teach students in dynamic K–12 learning environments. This session will focus on strategies to integrate project-based learning in diverse learning environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn strategies to engage students in science and engineering concepts; 2. Obtain tools to foster a learning environment and classroom culture grounded in the habit of reflection and reasoning; and 3. Gain practical resources and tools to apply project-based learning in a diverse K–12 learning environment that you can begin implementing in your classroom this fall.

SPEAKERS:
Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Teaching Beyond the Water Cycle with the Water Footprint Calculator

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Beyond the Water Cycle NSTA Presentation.pdf
This is a PDF of our presentation about teaching about water use with water footprints, based on information from watercalculator.org.

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Humans use water, often in inequitable ways. Our online tools, which include a calculator and NGSS-focused lesson plans, help educators learn how to teach beyond the water cycle.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. understand how we use water and what a water footprint is; 2. understand how water is connected to the global systems that create our food, energy, and consumer goods; and 3. learn about our free virtual tools and content that help them teach students about their water use as a part of their overall environmental impact.

SPEAKERS:
Robin Madel (Grace Communications Foundation: New York, NY), Kai Olson-Sawyer (Grace Communications Foundation: New York, NY)

Algae Academy: Taking Algae from "Ick!" to "Awesome!"

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

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

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)

NASA's Moon to Mars: Using the Engineering Design Process to Build Satellites

Tuesday, July 27 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Best Activities for grades 3-5
Best Activities for grades K-2
Best Satellite build launch 5-8.pdf
Pages from the BEST Guides for grades 5-8 for Satellite build and Satellite launch activity.
NASA BEST Satellite NSTA 21.pptx
Powerpoint used during presentation

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Use each stage of the Engineering Design Process to complete a challenge of building and drop testing a satellite while making connections to NASA missions.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. We can use the engineering design process in our everyday life to solve problems and make improvements; 2. NASA engineers must ask a question, imagine a solution, plan a design, create that model, experiment and test that model, then take time to improve the original—all steps that are crucial to mission success from Moon to Mars and beyond!; and 3. While this activity will focus on teaching the engineering design process using the process skills of measuring, calculating, designing, and evaluating, the "boring part" of ask, imagine, plan will be focused on to emphasize deeper learning as a thought process prior to simply "building stuff."

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

Bringing the Real World into Urban Classrooms Through Global Science / Citizen Science

Tuesday, July 27 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: Middle Level

Show Details

Bring the world to your urban classroom with Global Science / Citizen Science. Experts will share their work and provide details on how to actively involve students in real-world science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Engage with educators who have led their school systems to meet various challenges; 2. Learn from successful programs; and 3. Discuss relevant issues related to urban science educators.

SPEAKERS:
Pat Shane (UNC-Chapel Hill Emerita: , NC), Mary Beth Berrien (Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School: Greenfield, MA), Michelle Ellis (Hunter Huss High School: Gastonia, NC), LeeAnne Jimenez (Wilson Teaching and Learning Academy: Tulsa, OK), Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Susan Meabh Kelly (University of Connecticut: Storrs Mansfield, CT), Brad Rhew (Guilford County Schools: No City, No State)

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)

St. Jude Virtual Science Journal Club: Engaging Students in the Scientific Process Through Reading Primary Literature

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
StJudeSciAmb_APBiologyJustification_2021.pdf
StJudeSciAmb_APBiologyUnitOutline_2021.pdf

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Learn about a virtual journal club that encourages interaction between students, teachers, and scientists through reading and interpreting research papers.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The St. Jude Virtual Journal Club integrates into the AP Biology curriculum and teaches NGSS Science and Engineering Practices and Nature of Science Practices; 2. Teaching primary literature can develop inquiry, critical thinking, and other 21st-century skills in students; and 3. High school students learn about the realities of scientific research and careers from practicing scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Shelby Montague (St. George's Independent School: Collierville, TN)

Introduction to Pivot Interactives: Leveraging Interactive Video, Simulations, and Sensors into Active Learning

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

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

People learn better when they are actively engaged rather than watching or listening. Learn how Pivot Interactives makes active learning for science easy and accessible.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, learners will experience the active learning capabilities of Pivot Interactives as we showcase; 1. the accessibility of quantitative and qualitative measurement skills in a digital environment; 2. the power of blended instruction, where students experience science in the classroom and build on it online; and 3. the ease and speed of automatic and personalized feedback, designed to help your learners where they are in every step of their learning journey.

SPEAKERS:
Matt Vonk (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Linda Detwiler (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Peter Bohacek (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

Algae Academy: Taking Algae from "Ick!" to "Awesome!"

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

STRAND: High School

Show Details

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 FREE 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)

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)

Incorporating STEM Using NSTA ExploraVision

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Exploravision Project_Presentation_Carrie_Jones_Stem_7_28_21.pptx

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Have you wanted to get involved with NSTA contests, but were unsure how to start? This project incorporates STEM in a virtual or traditional classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Use NSTA contests as a springboard to STEM-based practices; 2. Learn how grants can enrich STEM experiences; and 3. Discover tools to facilitate team-based learning.

SPEAKERS:
Carrie Jones (Dillard Drive Magnet Middle School)

Removing Restrictions: Using Models to Teach Restriction Enzymes

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Removing Restrictions: Using models to teach restriction enzymes

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

We have all hit the formidable “blank stare wall” when teaching concepts like PCR, Sanger Sequencing, and Restriction Enzymes. Explore how one modeling kit can reach all these topics…and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn about the benefits of hands-on modeling; 2. practice one application of PCR modeling; and 3. see how modeling with the Biotechnology kit already fits into their curriculum and can increase student mastery.

SPEAKERS:
Diane Sigalas (Livingston High School: Livingston, NJ)

Exploring Genetics with Popular Gaming

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Exploring Genetics with Popular Gaming Breeding Flowers in Animal Crossing New Horizons.pdf

STRAND: High School

Show Details

This session will explore the genetic basis behind hybrid flower production on the video game Animal Crossing New Horizons and how you can use this popular game to gain student interest in genetics.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Many traits are influenced by multiple genes; 2. The video game Animal Crossing New Horizons uses Mendelian genetics to determine the offspring of a flower; and 3. Student interest can be enhanced when you use popular video games as a frame of reference for activities, and their virtual experiences can be used in sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Moore (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Leslie Suters (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)

Increasing Experimental Design and Data Use in the AP® Sciences

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

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

We know the importance of labs in the AP courses. During this session, we will showcase how to use Pivot Interactives with your AP course.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, AP teachers will: 1. see how we use Pivot Interactives to make experiment design cost effective and time efficient; 2. see how students can design, capture, and analyze data in the Pivot Interactives platform; and 3. leave with options for active learning options for each of the units in each of the AP science courses.

SPEAKERS:
John Burk (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Eric Friberg (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Peter Bohacek (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Matt Vonk (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Linda Detwiler (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

BIOZONE Showcases Their NEW Titles: AP Environmental Science and AP Biology

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


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BIOZONE Showcases Their NEW Titles AP Environmental Science and AP Biology

STRAND: High School

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE International Ltd.

BIOZONE has published two new exciting titles for the latest CEDs. Listen to the publisher explain their features and get a one-year FREE e-book licence.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover how the new titles have been structured to follow the latest CEDs; 2. Inquiry, case studies, and data analysis are used to develop enduring understanding of key concepts; and 3. Personal Progress Checks prepare students for the AP exam.

SPEAKERS:
Richard Allan (BIOZONE International Ltd.: Hamilton, New Zealand)

The Good, the Bad, the Ugly of Writing and Publishing of Cases Studies

Thursday, July 29 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

STRAND: Postsecondary

Show Details

To assist our students in understanding theoretical concepts in order to apply them, we have delved into the process of using and writing case studies. This presentation will focus on the successes and failures to write and publish a case study.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Identify a relevant topic that is accessible to your intended audience; 2. Present the problem while being specific and conscious of time; and 3. Research where to publish.

SPEAKERS:
Nalini Broadbelt (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA), Michelle Young (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA), Nevila Jana (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA)

Space Physiology: We Have Been Created to Exist Optimally in Our Environment

Thursday, July 29 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Additional Space Videos Part 1.docx
Additional Student Space Activities.docx
AnsKey Space Phys Worksheets.docx
Instructor's Answer Keys for both worksheets.
More Space Physiology Videos Part 2.docx
Space Phys Instructions.pdf
Teacher's Instructions for Space Physiology
Space Phys Worksheet #1 .docx
The docx worksheet that goes with the first video.
Space Phys Worksheet #1 .pdf
The pdf file to accompany the first video.
Twin Space Study Results.docx
These are the findings of the Twin Space Study.
Twin Space Study Worksheet#2 .docx
The docx worksheet to accompany the second video.
Twin Space Study Worksheet#2 .pdf
The pdf worksheet to go with the second video.

STRAND: Postsecondary

Show Details

When astronauts are in space, several detrimental physiological changes occur to their bodies. What countermeasures are needed and will they be enough?

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Microgravity causes many changes in the astronaut's body; 2. Countermeasures are utilized while in orbit; and 3. Long-term missions need to overcome the detrimental effects.

SPEAKERS:
Cahleen Shrier (Azusa Pacific University: Azusa, CA)

So You Want to Teach? Examining the Upsides, Downsides, and Enticements of Careers in STEM Education

Thursday, July 29 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Postsecondary

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Through research conducted by the Growing Future STEM Teachers in Maine grant, this presentation explores the upsides, downsides, and enticements of secondary STEM teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. explore perceptions of careers in STEM secondary education; 2. understand factors that influence interest in STEM fields; and 3. identify evidence-based practices for preparation and retention of high-quality secondary STEM teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Patricia Waters (Saint Joseph's College of Maine: Standish, ME)

Development and Implementation of an Interprofessional Case Learning Project (ICLP)

Thursday, July 29 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Postsecondary

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Interprofessional collaboration is essential for students' success in their selected program and postgraduate life. These types of experiences have been shown to improve students’ interprofessional competences—communication skills, teamwork abilities, ethical practices, and understanding other team members’ roles and responsibilities—as well as their theoretical knowledge and increase student achievement within their discipline. We developed and tested a unique pedagogical idea—interprofessional case learning project (ICLP)—that encompassed a multidisciplinary approach involving chemistry, biology, and public health. The goal was to provide students and faculty with the opportunity to experience interprofessional collaborative practices that would encourage questioning, discredit misconception, connect concepts and make inferences, generate new ideas, and encourage shared decision making.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Promote multidisciplinary approach involving chemistry, biology, and public health; 2. Foster team building and collaboration; and 3. Change misconceptions about a discipline.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Young (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA), Nalini Broadbelt (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA)

Featured Presentation: Using the Zoo as a Living Laboratory

Thursday, July 29 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

STRAND: Postsecondary

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Participants will be introduced to the ways you can use your local zoo as a living laboratory to teach STEM content to majors and nonmajors alike. During this interactive session, participants will explore the various ways science is used at the zoo and practice collecting behavioral data.

SPEAKERS:
Grace Fuller (Detroit Zoological Society: Royal Oak, MI)

Successful Mentoring of Student Research

Thursday, July 29 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

STRAND: Postsecondary

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Research is relevant as it plays a key role in transitioning from concepts in basic science into practical application. Basic science research drives progress in clinical and pharmaceutically industries. It is therefore essential that our health care students gain exposure in this arena and expand the analytical, collaborative, and technical skills that will enable them to succeed in their future careers. To assist the students, projects are devised around the students' interest in an area of the selected faculty specialty. The projects culminates with the students presenting their findings at a research symposium.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Establish a method that will get the student interested in driving the project; 2. Be clear about the time frame and commitment to project; and 3. Assist in making the research manageable.

SPEAKERS:
Nalini Broadbelt (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA), Michelle Young (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Boston, MA)

To Be It, You MUST See It:: Providing STEM Role Models for Underserved and Underrepresented Students

Friday, July 30 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

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

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Join the education staff from Detroit’s historic Belle Isle Aquarium to discover exciting ways to identify, recruit, and host diverse career role models to inspire your students, whether you’re teaching face-to-face, virtual, or in hybrid mode.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Greater understanding of how STEM role models can have a significant positive impact on young learners; 2. Practical steps for teachers to design STEM career connections from their own communities that richly connect to students' lives; and 3. Access to novel STEM career role model resources—videos, books, blogs, etc.—created specifically for underrepresented and underserved populations.

SPEAKERS:
June Teisan (InnovatED 313), Amy Emmert (Belle Isle Conservancy: Detroit, MI)

Increasing Access to Phenomena, Experimental Design, and Data with Pivot Interactives

Friday, July 30 • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

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

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Sponsoring Company: Pivot Interactives

Come see how Pivot Interactives can fill accessibility voids in our classrooms. Cost, time, scale, and safety limits are removed while still maximizing student engagement with the science practices through engaging content.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. explore the large Pivot Interactives library and identify activities that can fill lab gaps in classroom caused by cost, time, scale or, safety; 2. discuss the implementation of the tools within Pivot Interactives to scaffold, differentiate, and personalize content around common phenomena; and 3. dDiscuss pedagogical uses of Pivot Interactives in a changing educational landscape that allows to easy with in person, hybrid, or distance classes, as well as individual or collaborative work.

SPEAKERS:
Matt Vonk (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Eric Friberg (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Linda Detwiler (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN), Peter Bohacek (Pivot Interactives: Minneapolis, MN)

Shell Science Awards and Competitions: Fueling Success with Students; Win Up to $10K for You and Up to $15K for Your Classroom

Friday, July 30 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Instructional_Method_and_Teaching_Philosophy_questions.pdf
Shell Science Teaching Awards w-regional combined presentation2021.pdf

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

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Do you impact your school and community with STEM? If you teach K–12, then come learn how to apply to win one of eight Shell-supported awards, and a teacher competition.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Share your passion and practice by applying for one of eight awards, and a teacher competition; 2. Learn from past Shell awardees, finalists, and judging panel members’ important tips to apply for this award; and 3. Learn how to win a trip to the 2022 NSTA Houston National Conference, March 31–April 3, 2022.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Ruud (Cleveland State University: Cleveland, OH), Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

The Intersection of Literature and Science

Friday, July 30 • 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teach Literature and Science Together Website
This website includes novels and prompts for both middle and high school grades.
The Intersection of Literature and Science Audience Copy (1).pdf
Here is the slide deck that was used during the presentation.

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

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Students will see science concepts through the perspectives of characters in novels. Participants will leave with lists of book titles and ready-to-use reflective prompts.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. A list of literature that is categorized by grade level and science topics covered; 2. Examples of how to use literature in the science classroom to promote student engagement and meaning-making; and 3. Ways to connect social justice topics to a science curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Prince (St. John's Prep: Danvers, MA)

St. Jude Science Ambassadors: Training Scientists for Successful K–12 STEM Outreach

Friday, July 30 • 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

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

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Session participants will learn how scientists were trained to lead a virtual presentation of a research paper to AP Biology students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Training scientists improves their science communication skills and their experiences with K–12 outreach; 2. Successful training sessions were brief, focused, and offered virtually, which fit easily within scientists’ schedules; and 3. High school classes that otherwise would not be able to host a scientist visit were able to participate because the program was completely virtual.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Ayers (St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: Memphis, TN), Katherine Wade-Jaimes (The University of Memphis: Memphis, TN), Shelby Montague (St. George's Independent School: Collierville, TN)

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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