2021 Los Angeles Area Conference

December 9-11, 2021

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FILTERS APPLIED:Developing More Inclusive Classrooms, Life Science

 

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

Designing a COVID Currculum: Lessons in Science (and Science Denial) from a Pandemic

Thursday, December 9 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 513



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Covid-Curriculum-LA.pdf
Suggestions for a Covid-Based curriculum.
NSTA-LA-Covid-part-1.pptx
Part 1 of my Powerpoint slide file.
NSTA-LA-Covid-part-2.pptx
Part 2 of my Powerpoint slide file.

STRAND: Innovating the Future of Education: Technology and Science Education

Show Details

We will explore a COVID-19–based curriculum that provides a direct and compelling way to focus student attention on the most basic processes in biology.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Participants will examine specific curriculum plans using the COVID-19 virus to illustrate basic principles of cell biology, including biological membrane structure, mRNA function, transcription, translation, replication, and immune response; 2. The emergence of COVID-19 variants will be explored as a case study in natural selection, evolution, and phylogenetic analysis; and 3. The public reaction to pandemic pubic health countermeasures and vaccination will be examined as a case study in scientific literacy and science denial. Participants will discuss ways to use their classrooms to promote student understand of the science behind these public health measures.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller (Brown University: Providence, RI)

How to Give Children More Opportunities to Use Science and Literacy to Make Sense of the World Around Them

Thursday, December 9 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 403B


Show Details

This session introduces a way to create learning experiences that will give students opportunities to talk, read, and write in the service of sensemaking as they use the DCIs, CCs, and SEPs to explain natural phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to ensure students have access to science by designing investigations that promote and support the use of literacy skills; 2. How literacy can be used in the service of sensemaking; and 3. How to embed formative assessment of science practices and literacy skills into an investigation in a meaningful and informative way.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Hutner (The University of Alabama: Del Valle, TX)

Inspiring Literacy and Science Interest with Data

Thursday, December 9 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 402A



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session Resource Document Form
Form to access Resource Document and slide deck from the session.

Show Details

We use data to do science; data literacy is its own set of skills. Young learners benefit when we integrate data, literacy, and science together.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Identify how data literacy is a critical aspect of literacy and science literacy in the 21st century; 2. Explore strategies and resources to use to authentically integrate data into K–5 science instruction; and 3. Develop a plan for next steps to elevate data as an aspect of meaningful connections between literacy and science.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hunter-Thomson (Dataspire Education & Evaluation, LLC)

Taste Buds in Your Gut? Exploring Taste, Cell Communication, and Glucose Homeostasis

Thursday, December 9 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Lesson Resources
Google folder with lesson resources and PPT from session

Show Details

Experiment with the “sugar-blocking” tea Gymnema sylvestre and model cellular communication pathways in the tongue and the gut before evaluating possible mechanisms of action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn: 1. how to model the physiology of sweet taste perception; 2. how the systems that detect sugar can be disrupted; and 3. how to evaluate three proposed mechanisms of action.

SPEAKERS:
Joan Griswold (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Connecting NGSS to Student Interests and the Science That Surrounds Us in Real Life

Thursday, December 9 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408A


Show Details

Learn how to create engaging lessons, connecting to student interests and to the science and natural phenomena that surround us. Pick up strategies to engage K–6 students in explorations, helping them recognize and understand real-world science while creating a lifelong love of science. Handouts!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. innovative strategies to help children identify, explore, and understand a variety of interesting, real-life science that surrounds them in their everyday world; 2. how to design lessons that emphasize exploration, and give students the opportunity to test variables and analyze their effects; and 3. effective questioning strategies to engage students and increase the depth of student thinking, also helping to make student thinking visible; and to help teachers use effective questioning strategies to help students clarify and articulate their understanding of essential science phenomena and concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell (self: Shawnee Mission, KS)

Does Black English Stand Between Black Students and Success in Science?

Thursday, December 9 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 404


Show Details

Discussion centers on tools to properly analyze Black students’ scientific work to determine if the misconceptions and misunderstandings are a learning issue or language issue. This workshop focuses on the use of language to reduce the ethnic achievement gap in science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Analyzing students’ work from a linguistic lens; 2. Recognizing biases when it comes to student language; and 3. Pushing Black students academically forward without making them feel torn between two language worlds.

SPEAKERS:
Jonte' Lee (Whittier Elementary: Kansas City, KS)

Teaching Beyond Insulin: Exploring Environmental Contributions to Type 2

Thursday, December 9 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 513



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
GSEO Environmental Survey

Show Details

You’ve used blood glucose regulation to teach homeostasis. Extend those lessons with classroom-ready strategies that address how policy and place contribute to type 2 diabetes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will; 1. become familiar with a research-based storyline that disassociates genetics from health outcomes; 2. l Learn that type 2 diabetes is a complex condition that is heavily influenced by environmental factors such as access to resources, personal choice, product marketing, public policy, socioeconomic status, and stress; and 3. learn that environmental factors can both increase and decrease a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes.

SPEAKERS:
Joan Griswold (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Specialty Crops in the Classroom: Educating Youth Through Mobile Classroom Growing Systems

Thursday, December 9 • 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 504


Show Details

Join us as we explore how specialty crops can be a useful tool in the classroom by improving both instruction and student nutrition.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn: 1. about resources for teaching about botany, plant science, and soil science made available through the specialty crops block grant; 2. how to incorporate NGSS into Free Fruit and Vegetable education program requirements; and 3. how to incorporate NGSS into nutrition science across the curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Spencer Cody (Edmunds Central School District: Roscoe, SD)

NASA's Space Food and Nutrition

Thursday, December 9 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 403B



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NASA Space Food & Nutrition Files
use this link to my NSTA collection of resources for the NASA Space Food & Nutrition Files that includes the powerpoint from my 2021 session

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

Show Details

Explore caloric and nutritional values of NASA's space food. Discover a menu of inquiry activities/resources to integrate into the classroom to satisfy your STEM appetite.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore NASA STEM activities that investigate space food and nutrition for astronauts living on the Space Station; 2. Construct sample space food menus to develop a better understanding of nutrition for human space exploration; and 3. Make connections between math, science, nutrition, and exercise while exploring the impact of living in space and in our gravity-filled environment here on Earth.

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

Evolution—How Strong Is the Evidence?

Thursday, December 9 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 504



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
PBS-Evolution-at-20.pdf
Article on 20th anniversary of the PBS Evolution Series.
Slide file for Evolution Workshop - LA NSTA
Slides used in this workshop

STRAND: Innovating the Future of Education: Technology and Science Education

Show Details

Despite its central role in the Biology curriculum, evolution remains a topic of contention. We will examine evolutionary science today and the evidence behind it.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Participants will see examples of how the evolutionary narrative can be incorporated into topics as diverse as ecology, physiology, taxonomy, and cell biology; 2. The evidence usually marshaled in support of evolution is often confined to passive descriptions of the fossil record and well-worn examples of natural selection. We will examine ways that students can use the availability of genomic data to pinpoint the marks of evolutionary change in DNA sequences and patterns of gene organization; and 3. Finally, we will explore and discuss approaches to overcoming student and community resistance to the teaching of evolution by emphasizing the core biological events behind the process and the central role they play in the living world.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller (Brown University: Providence, RI)

STEM Teaching Tools: Resources for Justice-Centered Science Instruction

Thursday, December 9 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 514


STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

Choose which of these free resources for equitable science instruction are most relevant to your work. Then read, discuss, and plan!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Science learning is culturally rooted, and strong instruction should take an asset-based approach to young peoples’ ways of thinking and knowing; 2. Developing more inclusive classrooms is a constant process. There are always steps educators can take to support equity, no matter where they are in their journey; and 3. These resources offer tangible next steps educators can take toward equity in their classroom, from identifying meaningful anchor phenomena (stemteachingtools.org/brief/42) to teaching biology in more gender-inclusive ways (stemteachingtools.org/brief/76) to fostering more student talk (stemteachingtools.org/brief/35).

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (University of Washington), Abby Rhinehart (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Bridging the Gap: Using Teacher Leaders to Support Informal Educators

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 504


STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

Want to create high-quality, NGSS-focused field trip experiences? Come learn how we brought together classroom teachers and informal educators to accomplish this goal with amazing outcomes!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. learn the steps we took to create a collaborative environment for teacher leaders to support informal educators in learning more about NGSS and the EP&Cs; 2. learn the value of bringing the expertise of informal educators and the knowledge of formal educators together in order to create high-quality, NGSS-focused field trip experiences; and 3. be given access to the agendas, handouts, and templates we used in our training/planning sessions.

SPEAKERS:
Lesley Gates (Fresno County Office of Education: Fresno, CA)

Supporting SEL and Meeting NGSS Standards Through Citizen Science and Schoolyard Investigations

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 507


STRAND: Supporting the Social and Emotional Needs of Students Post-COVID-19

Show Details

Support SEL while meeting science standards through student investigations and citizen science. Motivate students with schoolyard projects and real data with our free inquiry curriculum!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will; 1. explore free resources to scaffold citizen science–inspired inquiry projects; 2. discover how outdoor learning and inquiry projects can support social and emotional learning; and 3. discuss the challenges and opportunities related to authentic scientific inquiry and how classroom teachers have successfully implemented these practices.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Fee (The Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Ithaca, NY)

NSTA Press Session: Ignite Your Professional Teaching Practice with NSTA’s Trilogy of Three-Dimensional Resources

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 503


Show Details

Join us as we explore how NSTA’s three-dimensional resources can be utilized to enhance your teaching. Walk away with effective strategies for science teaching and learning and hear from educators as they provide tips for using these resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Hear from classroom teachers about how they are using NSTA Press publications; and 2. Leave with top-notch teaching tips and innovative lesson plan ideas that promote imaginative learning and student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Wendy Binder (Program Director, STEM Professional Learning: Arlington, VA)

NSELA-Sponsored Session: How as Science Leaders Are We Supporting an Asset View of Science Learners?

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 514


Show Details

Participants will learn about how some districts around the country are using an asset approach to post-COVID learning and will collaboratively share ideas with others.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Some districts around the country are focusing on an acceleration rather than a remediation post-COVID approach to learning; 2. An asset approach to learning and learners supports social and emotional well-being; and 3. The NSELA Learning Center provides resources for continued learning about asset versus deficit approaches to learning.

SPEAKERS:
Larry Plank (University of South Florida: Tampa, FL)

Crash Science—When Physics Meets Biology

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408A


Show Details

Use innovative video-assisted STEM activities, demonstrations, award-winning videos, and behind-the-crash-tests tours to teach the science of car crashes. Free lesson plans included. Visit  Classroom.IIHS.org  for more information.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participant will learn: 1. how to access inquiry-based activities and video-supported experiences integrating STEM concepts with vehicle crashworthiness and crash avoidance technologies; 2. how scientists and engineers use technology (crash dummies, crash tests, crash avoidance testing) at a vehicle research center to measure and evaluate vehicle safety systems; and 3. how to incorporate technology-enhanced STEM design challenges (Project Pedestrian Sensors and Egg-Carrying Paper Car Crash) into their curriculum to promote student awareness and understanding of how engineering and technology are used to build safer vehicles.

SPEAKERS:
Griff Jones (University of Florida)

Phenomenon-Based, Literacy-Rich Learning Using Digitized Museum Objects

Thursday, December 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B


STRAND: Literacy/Science Connections in the Classroom

Show Details

Engage with Research Quest, free, online, NGSS-focused, phenomenon-based investigations using authentic museum objects and research to build students' literacy, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will: 1. experience an exemplar set of free resources that successfully integrate NGSS and ELA standards to provide students with meaningful, self-directed learning; 2. recognize that providing students with opportunities to research phenomenon-based problems professional scientists devote their careers to using the collections and data they build new knowledge from can empower students to better understand the enterprise of science, the natural world, and the natural history of our world—while building their literacy and critical-thinking skills; and 3. understand that creating opportunities to make critical thinking visible is an essential scaffold necessary to support student efficacy with problem finding and problem solving.

SPEAKERS:
Madlyn Larson (Natural History Museum of Utah: Salt Lake City, UT)

Supporting Three-Dimensional Learning Through Model-Based Inquiry Units and Resources

Thursday, December 9 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 514



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
MBI presentation
This is a PDF of the presentation from this session.
MBI website
The website includes the template, examples, useful phenomena, and support pages.

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

Show Details

We will introduce a collection of units and resources to help teachers engage students in three-dimensional learning through model-based inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to utilize modeling across entire units of instruction; 2. Ways to anchor student learning in authentic phenomena; and 3. How to use public records to keep track of student ideas.

SPEAKERS:
Ron Gray (Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ)

Using Phenomena to Promote Sensemaking and Deepen Coherence

Thursday, December 9 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 507



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Print-out of scenarios
Science Teacher Article on phenomenon examples
Session PPT

Show Details

Dissect the differences between flashy engagers and phenomena to identify essential components of effective phenomenon-based teaching. Critically consider phenomena with personal relevance for your students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Build a deeper understanding of the differences between “hooks” and phenomena, 2. Consider and identify the benefits of using contextual, locally inspired phenomena to support all students, and 3. Identify potential local phenomena for their own classrooms to support more inclusive learning

SPEAKERS:
Martha Inouye (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Ana Houseal (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY)

Build a Probe to Stimulate Muscle Movement

Thursday, December 9 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 503



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Build a Probe to Stimulate Muscle Movement - LA Conference Paper.docx
Paper related to "Build a probe to stimulate muscle movement.
Build a Probe to Stimulate Muscle Movement.pdf
PowerPoint related to "Build a Probe to Stimulate Muscle Movement" as a PDF
Template for Constructing Muscle Stimulator.pdf
Template to parts list layout for "Build a Probe to Stimulate Muscle Movement"

Show Details

This workshop provides participants with materials to construct a probe that can safely stimulate muscle movements in the arms and hands to build understanding of the nervous system’s interactions with the muscular skeletal systems.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How the nerves utilize electrochemical energy to create muscle movements; 2. How muscles when stimulated can move limbs; and 3. How to repurpose and utilize a TENS unit to demonstrate interactions of the neural and muscular skeletal systems.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Malone (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs, CO)

Partnering with NSTA to Reach Your Professional Learning Goals

Thursday, December 9 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408A


Show Details

Explore how to take advantage of NSTA’s vast resources and pathways, including both asynchronous and synchronous options, to create personalized professional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover the value of being a School or District NSTA Partner; 2. Explore how to maximize online professional learning for all teachers; and 3. Discover how to utilize NSTA's online learning resources to support in-person professional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Wendy Binder (Program Director, STEM Professional Learning: Arlington, VA)

NMLSTA-Sponsored Session: The Great Water Design Challenge

Friday, December 10 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Algal Blooms and Algae Resources.docx
Flooding and Severe Weather Resources.docx
General Topics and Resources.docx
IMSA Developed Research Questions.docx
IMSA Team Schedule.docx
Individual School Schedule Letter.docx
Marine Debris Resources.docx
Plant and Animal Invasive Species Resources.docx
Problem Statement List.docx
School Team SME Sessions.docx
Student Generated Questions for SME.docx
The Great Water Design Challenge LA.pdf
Vector Borne Diseases Resources.docx

Show Details

Problem solving? Creativity? Collaboration? Design Challenge? Join in a mini design challenge and develop your own challenge tailored for your class before you leave.

TAKEAWAYS:
Design sprints: 1. support innovation by solving a problem in a quick and creative manner; 2. engage students in 21st-century skills; and 3. incorporate many of the Next Generation Science Standards Science and Engineering Practices.

SPEAKERS:
Liz Martinez (Curriculum/Professional Development/Assessment: Escondido, CA)

Discover NSTA’s New Professional Learning Units to Earn Continuing Education Credit

Friday, December 10 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502A


Show Details

Explore NSTA’s NEWProfessional Learning Units. Discover these bite-sized asynchronous professional learning experiences that support student sensemaking to earn credit to submit to your school or district.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover how NSTA can provide asynchronous and bite-sized continuing education credit options (2 hours per PLU); 2. Explore how each PLU contains reflections or tasks connected to the classroom that are submitted to NSTA for review or feedback; and 3. Explore how we can support professional learning for individuals or schools/districts including the flexible options available for Professional Learning Unit topics, and how these fit into our Professional Learning pathways.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Allan (University of Central Oklahoma: Edmond, OK), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Tools for Justice-Centered Climate Change Teaching and Learning

Friday, December 10 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 401


STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

Our students are already impacted by climate change. How can we teach about it in ways that help them all thrive on a damaged planet?

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Justice-centered climate science instruction is possible and needed throughout the grade span, and intersects with a variety of other ecological topics; 2. Our young people are already aware of and experiencing the effects of climate change, and educators are in a unique position to help them better understand and process this new reality; and 3. There are many resources already available to support educators in this work, even if it may sound daunting at first.

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (University of Washington), Abby Rhinehart (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Using Three-Dimensional Prompts to Drive Student Sensemaking

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 507



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
3D Prompts_Guide_NSTA LA2021.pdf
Guide to writing 3D prompts
Guide to writing 3D prompts
Session PPT

STRAND: Sharing Authentic Assessment Strategies

Show Details

Learning science means engaging in DCIs, SEPs, and CCCs. Come explore how to generate authentic prompts that integrate all three dimensions to drive student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Practice creating 3-D prompts that explicitly promote the three dimensions and drive more integrated student learning and assessment; 2. Learn how to adapt your own questions and prompts to better target specific dimensions; and 3. Consider how framing of activities, through questions and prompts, can support specific DCIs, SEPs, and CCCs.

SPEAKERS:
Ana Houseal (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Martha Inouye (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Jessica Stephens (Rock Springs Junior High School: Rock Springs, WY)

Lights-Camera-CRASH: Exploring Crash Science with Griff Jones and the IIHS’s Vehicle Research Center

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 511


STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

Use award-winning videos, paper car crashes, egg drop cushions, and behind-the-crash-tests tours to teach motion and energy concepts. All resources are free at classroom.iihs.org.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how: 1. to access inquiry-based activities and video-supported experiences integrating STEM concepts with vehicle crashworthiness and crash avoidance technologies; 2. scientists and engineers use technology (crash dummies, crash tests, crash avoidance testing) at a vehicle research center to measure and evaluate vehicle safety systems; and 3. to incorporate culminating STEM design challenges (Project Pedestrian Sensors and Egg-Carrying Paper Car Crash) into their curriculum to promote student awareness and understanding of how engineering and technology are used to build safer vehicles. Examples of student assessments (formative and summative) are provided.

SPEAKERS:
Griff Jones (University of Florida)

Fueling Success with Students—Win Up to $10K for You and Up to $15K for Your Classroom

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 513



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Instructional Method and Teaching Philosophy questions
Shell Programs flyer
Shell Programs presentation
Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge

Show Details

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

Polishing Students’ Argumentation Skills: Using Discussion Diamonds to Support Discourse and Evidence-Based Writing

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 506



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Discussion Diamond Handouts.docx
Discussion Diamonds Presentation.pptx
Slip or Trip.pdf

Show Details

Experience how the discussion diamond protocol can help support students’ argumentation skills and Claim-Evidence-Reasoning writing through peer discourse.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Student discourse can be used to support the development of students’ argumentation skills; 2. The discussion diamond protocol provides students with a structure to build scientific arguments based on evidence and reasoning in collaboration with their peers; and 3. The discussion diamond protocol is a versatile tool that can be adapted for students at different skill levels and in various subjects.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Ciccarello (Beverly Hills High School: Beverly Hills, CA)

Zombie Apocalypse!

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 510


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Attendees will explore disease modeling through the use of ZOMBIES!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. This session will explore disease-spread modeling using fictional zombies; 2. Attendees will also see how using Hollywood themes combined with actual STEM careers can be a fun way to engage students in learning science and STEM; and 3. Attendees will find out about free science and STEM lessons from Texas Instruments.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Lukens (Retired Science Teacher: Sioux Falls, SD), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD)

Transforming Science Classrooms by Redefining Learning Spaces with Stile

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 406B


STRAND: Innovating the Future of Education: Technology and Science Education

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Redefine your science classroom with Stile technology. Experience how Stile empowers teachers to facilitate student-centered learning environments, all grounded in relevant, real-world science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Technology in science classrooms should redefine how we teach, not substitute it; 2. Current classrooms require multiple entry points for students to learn; and 3. Teachers can redefine how they plan for, facilitate, and analyze student thinking connected to the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Shawna Jensen (Stile Education: Portland, OR), Julianna Jimenez (Stile Education: Los Angeles, CA)

DNA Forensics Solves the Murder Mystery of Dr. Ward

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Using the MiniOne System, develop an understanding of forensic science and gel electrophoresis while investigating the mystery of who killed Dr. Ward.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn how you can use electrophoresis to teach real-world forensic science to students in grades 9–12; 2. See how the MiniOne System has significantly reduced prep work for teachers by allowing students to get hands on with every step of the lab process; and 3. Understand how electrophoresis can be engaging and lead students toward careers in STEM fields.

SPEAKERS:
Callen Hyland (Embi Tec: San Diego, CA)

Dynamic DNA: More Than Just As, Ts, Gs, and Cs

Friday, December 10 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 410


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Join us as we use a variety of physical models of DNA student-centered activities to explore the structure and function of this amazing biomolecule.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. practice their understanding of the structure of DNA while transferring their knowledge across different models of DNA; 2. consider how a model-based approach to investigating DNA deepens student understanding and inquiry; and 3. investigate the differences between RNA and DNA while examining models.

SPEAKERS:
Keri Shingleton (Holland Hall: Tulsa, OK)

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Highlighting Stories of Successful (Formal and Informal Science) Partnerships from National Science Leaders

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 401


Show Details

Participants will learn about the successful and varied informal and formal science partnerships developed by members of the NSELA leadership community.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Successful partnerships between formal and informal science institutions increase student and community engagement in STEM education; 2. Success stories include STEM ecosystems; and 3. The NSELA Learning Center provides resources and support for ongoing learning about formal and informal science partnerships.

SPEAKERS:
Larry Plank (University of South Florida: Tampa, FL)

People, Natural Resources, and the Environment—It's Elementary!

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 512



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Resources for People, Natural Resources, and the Environment_Sutorus.pdf
This PDF includes links to all of the lesson plans, digital resources, and more that I mentioned in the workshop. It also includes dozen more lesson plans and classroom goodies (recommended children's books, student readings, project learning ideas) along the same themes.

Show Details

Discover hands-on activities that introduce students to gathering, representing, and interpreting data on water and energy use, population ecology, and sustainability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn ways to incorporate real-world data sets into elementary hands-on activities around the NGSS topic of Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; 2. learn ways to incorporate real-world data sets into elementary hands-on activities around the NGSS topic of Earth’s Systems; and 3. be able to identify how the presented hands-on activities meet the NGSS Disciplinary Core Ideas, Crosscutting Concepts, and Science & Engineering Practices; and how the activities can be used to reach all kinds of learners in the elementary classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Sutorus (City of Colton: Colton, CA)

What Do I Do with This? Making Sense of Your Assessment Data

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session Resource Document Form
Form to access the Resource Document and slide deck from the session.

Show Details

We are awash in assessment data, but often it’s overwhelming to make sense of it. Join us to learn tips and strategies for wrangling data.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore new ways to organize data collection and raw data to aid in exploring the data for stories after it is collected; 2. Acquire skills in tying questions, data types, and data visualizations to enhance your ability to make sense of the assessment data; and 3. Identify next steps to better utilize and leverage your assessment data to help you measure students’ success and know what steps to consider next.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hunter-Thomson (Dataspire Education & Evaluation, LLC)

You Had Me at Toys :)

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 402A



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xPHOl2VH61-ASz_S6EJQvcC7lp43nAIf/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=11282

Show Details

Middle schoolers haven’t grown up yet so trot out the toys and the science parodies…the best way to their brains!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Reading is great but singing about a concept will cement vocabulary better than anything else; 2. Kids needs to be engaged with the material and nothing does that like PLAYING with something and raising their own questions; and 3. Science classes that are fun as well as challenging will be the ones that educate.

SPEAKERS:
Jen Taylor (Lakeview Academy: Saratoga Springs, UT)

Build Local Connection and Global Perspective with eBird Citizen Science

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 513


Show Details

Connect to nature, explore biodiversity data, and build science practices with eBird citizen science. Bring your own device and use free apps to discover birds and beyond, wherever you are.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be able to: 1. use the Merlin bird ID app to identify birds and create a list of the most 10 common birds in their area, and to use the eBird citizen science app to submit a checklist of birds; 2. define citizen science and describe how it can help students develop data literacy, deepen understanding of biodiversity, uncover real-world patterns and trends, and support conservation efforts; and 3. name and access at least three freely available resources (such as apps, online interactives, videos, lesson plans, data visualizations, and projects) that are suitable to use in their classroom to diverse learners in citizen science.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Fee (The Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Ithaca, NY)

Getting Students to Read in Science

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502B


STRAND: Literacy/Science Connections in the Classroom

Show Details

Reading should not be limited to English courses. Leave with strategies on how to motivate students to explore science through scientific novels. Review three years of qualitative data on how novels increased  literacy, scientific fluency, scientific connectivity, and college preparation in a marine biology course.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teahers will: 1. learn how to use articles to make their content more applicable to the lives of the students; 2. receive strategies on how to get students to read more scientific articles; and 3. receive resources on selecting grade-appropriate scientific articles.

SPEAKERS:
Jonte' Lee (Whittier Elementary: Kansas City, KS)

Local Phenomenon-Based Projects

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 406B


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Sponsoring Company: AEOP

Come learn about using community-based phenomena as the basis for long-term STEM projects.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to intergrade local phenomena into STEM projects; 2. Using eCYBERMISSION in your middle school science classroom; and 3. How to better engage middle school students with local problems.

SPEAKERS:
Sue Whitsett (Retired: Arlington, VA)

Proteins: The Star of the Show

Friday, December 10 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 410


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Participants will interact with hands-on modeling activities to investigate how proteins fold and easy ways to connect back to the central dogma. DNA might be the king, but proteins are the star of the show!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn about the benefits of hands-on modeling; 2. practice using the model to illustrate protein folding; and 3. see how modeling with the Amino Acid Starter kit already fits into their curriculum and can increase student mastery.

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

Smashing Classrooms Walls Through Virtual Events

Friday, December 10 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502A


STRAND: Innovating the Future of Education: Technology and Science Education

Show Details

Take your students beyond your classroom walls through virtual speakers and field trips with those on the front lines of science, exploration, and conservation.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover the benefits of bringing exciting scientists, explorers, and conservationists live into your classroom through virtual guest speakers and field trips; 2. Explore how easy it is to do with exciting resources like Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants, Explorer Classroom, Google, and more; and 3. What to do before, during, and afterwards so your students get the most from these experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Joe Grabowski (Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants: Elora, ON)

NSTA Press Session: Argument-Driven Inquiry as a Way to Bring Three-Dimensional Instruction to Your Classroom

Friday, December 10 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502B


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Argument-Driven Inquiry is an instructional model that gives students an opportunity to learn how to use DCIs, CCs, and SEPs to explain natural phenomena and creates a learning environment where students are able to talk, read, and write in the service of sensemaking.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use this instructional model, or way of teaching, to give students an opportunity to learn how to use the DCIs, CCs, and SEPs to make sense of natural phenomena; 2. How to give students an opportunity to use their own ideas and ways of communicating to talk, read, and write in the service of sensemaking; and 3. How to give students more opportunities to decide what counts as valid and acceptable and develop new criteria for what counts evidence in science.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Hutner (The University of Alabama: Del Valle, TX)

Using Maggots, Flies, and Flesh to Solve a Mystery!

Friday, December 10 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 510


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Attendees will explore a virtual decomposing corpse along with other clues to solve a mystery.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Data-assisted problem solving; 2. The science behind decomposition and variables that affect it; and 3. Storytelling is a powerful way to engage students into learning science concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Lukens (Retired Science Teacher: Sioux Falls, SD), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD)

Ditch the Dish and Kick the Ice Bucket with Classroom-Friendly Bacterial Transformation!

Friday, December 10 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Reduce your prep and integrate technology to take the mess and stress out of transformation with the Let it Glow™ Bacterial Transformation MiniLab.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to: 1. reduce the mess and stress of bacterial transformation; 2. use a PCR System to perform transformation; and 3. use The Winston, The MiniOne PCR System, and gloTrays to replace ice buckets, heat baths, and petri dishes.

SPEAKERS:
Callen Hyland (Embi Tec: San Diego, CA)

“Going with the Flow” from Genes to Proteins!

Friday, December 10 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 410


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Model the cellular processes of transcription and translation using manipulatives that support the NGSS three dimensions, most notably the science and engineering practice of developing and using models.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. work together to practice modeling transcription and translation, while learning how this approach deepens student inquiry and understanding; 2. investigate how a mutation in DNA can result in a change in the protein produced. In addition, attendees will explore how to make connections between the Amino Acid Starter Kit and the Flow of Genetics Kit to illustrate the impact a mutation may have on the structure of a protein; and 3. consider how this modeling approach to DNA function works well with phenomenon-driven lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Eberhard (St. Clair High School: Saint Clair, MI)

NMLSTA-Sponsored Session: Oil Spills and Dust Bowls

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 501



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Dust Bowl Event Cards.docx
Dust Bowls and Oil Spills Activity.docx
Oil Spills and Dust Bowls Images.docx
Oil Spills and Dust Bowls.pdf

Show Details

The Dust Bowl and oil spills and disasters. What do they have in common? Engage in hands-on activities that investigate the interaction of Earth’s four spheres.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Scientists from various disciplines work together to solve problems; 2. Earth’s atmosphere, biosphere, geosphere, and hydrosphere are constantly interacting with one another; and 3. Human interaction with Earth’s systems may be detrimental with long-term effects.

SPEAKERS:
Liz Martinez (Curriculum/Professional Development/Assessment: Escondido, CA)

Plastic Waste and Mental Health: How Young People Build on Informal Learning to Make Change in Their School and Communities

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
OPEN MIND Studio - Icebreakers
OPEN MIND Studio - Sticky Note Activity, Final Projects

STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

We’ll unpack examples of young people learning across different settings, showing how formal and informal educators can collaborate to support science engagement and community involvement.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Young people bring their learning across settings, making connections between the practices and activities they do in informal and formal spaces; 2. When educators partner and coordinate experiences across settings, they can better support young peoples’ learning pathways, identity development, and promote community involvement; and 3. This session will offer examples of how young people have brought their learning and made connections across settings, which will highlight opportunities for educators to design better partnerships in the future to support young people in the future.

SPEAKERS:
Abby Rhinehart (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Engaging Students in Local Science with Hands-On Activities

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 506


Show Details

First steps in engaging students in life that surrounds them by using hands-on activities and community support.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to make action steps to incorporate a local topic with hands-on labs into an NGSS-focused curriculum (examples used will be Beekeeping, Fish anatomy and physiology, and astronomy); 2. How to build relationships with informal educators and bring them into the classroom; and 3. How to incorporate local topics and and deepen ties with informal educators into school culture through the creation of extracurricular clubs and student-led learning activities.

SPEAKERS:
Nels Lund (Chelan High School: Chelan, WA)

Every Park in a Classroom: OutSCIder Classroom

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
OutSCIder Classroom Presentation NSTA

Show Details

Discover how to connect your classroom to America’s best idea, our National Parks System. Participants will get access to engaging NGSS-focused science videos and instructional resources to connect classrooms to our public lands.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Integrate lesson plans with instructional materials that connect students to our national parks; 2. Develop a sense of environmental stewardship and conservation with students; and 3. Make concepts and current environmental impacts on the parks relevant to your students.

SPEAKERS:
Chris Anderson (Hamilton County ESC: Cincinnati, OH)

BIOZONE Showcases Latest Titles: Print and Digital

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 406B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE International Ltd.

Hear about our superb new resources to support AP Biology, AP Environmental science, plus NGSS programs for biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space sciences.

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:
Scott Schultz (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

Beyond Labz: Realistic Virtual Labs That Bridge the Gap Between Real Labs and Scientific Inquiry

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 407


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Beyond Labz

Built on a platform developed over 20 years, Beyond Labz creates an open-ended environment providing students the opportunity to experiment, practice, fail, discover, and learn.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Beyond Labz simplifies and reduces the cost and expertise needed to provide crucial laboratory experiences and practice for secondary and higher ed students; 2. Attendees will learn how the labs are used for pre- and post-lab experiences, credit recovery and lab make-up, student engagement in class, and meeting NGSS standards; and 3. Basic onboarding and startup instructions will be provided for drop-in solutions, and instructions for using some of the more sophisticated features will also be described.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Woodfield (Brigham Young University: Provo, UT)

Taking Macromolecules to Micro!

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Learn about a simple way to test for DNA, carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, without large volumes of reagents, cleaning test tubes, or boiling reagents.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn how you can teach about macromolecules without large volumes of reagents, cleaning test tubes, or boiling reagent; 2. See how the Winston Fluorescence Reader has made it easy to test for the presence of DNA and other macromolecules; and 3. Learn how to perform starch, glucose, and protein assays on an assay plate instead of in a test tube.

SPEAKERS:
Callen Hyland (Embi Tec: San Diego, CA)

Using Modeling to Teach Biotechnology

Friday, December 10 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 410


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Discover how modeling engages students when teaching PCR, Sanger Sequencing, and Restriction Enzymes. Through these lessons, students experience the process, not just memorize results.

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)

Increasing Engagement in the High School Science Classroom Using Sensemaking

Friday, December 10 • 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 506


Show Details

The NSTA High School Committee will share strategies used in their classrooms to help students wonder about science, ask questions, be engaged, and develop ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learning and sharing engagement strategies for the high school classroom; 2. Learning about sensemaking at the high school level; and 3. Using NSTA's Daily Do's in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Brenda Walsh (Eden Prairie High School: Eden Prairie, MN)

Science—It's LIT!

Saturday, December 11 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 506



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Lab RERUN
*Not my original document. Use for wrap up and clarifying lab/hands-on activities
SPACE Writing.pdf
*Not my original document. Prompts for writing in the science classroom. Use for daily activities, lab activities, etc.

Show Details

Discover best practices for incorporating ELA and technology—they're easy to implement in your classroom! Grab your device and let's talk all things science…it's LIT fam!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Examples of activities and assignments will be shared that can be incorporated in a variety of classroom science activities; 2. Attendees will create a foldable that can be used for a variety of topics and see how it was used in the classroom; and 3. Attendees will participate in a digital activity that can be manipulated to fit their content.

SPEAKERS:
Andrea Starks (Houston Middle School: Germantown, TN)

Are These Materials Designed for NGSS? EdReports Expansion to High School Reviews

Saturday, December 11 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 512



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EdReports NSTA Fall 2021 Regional HS CA.pdf

Show Details

EdReports is expanding into high school instructional materials reviews. Learn about the High School Learning and Listening Tour, provide feedback on our current thinking, and hear about opportunities to become a reviewer.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Build an understanding of the challenges educators face in finding quality materials and how EdReports aims to address those challenges; 2. Learn about the expansion into High School science and develop an understanding of the findings from our High School Learning and Listening tour, characteristics of alignment to the NGSS and usability, and discuss smart adoption processes; and 3. Hear about opportunities to engage as an EdReports reviewer in upcoming reviews, which includes NGSS training, an extended learning community, and a paid stipend.

SPEAKERS:
Lacey Wieser (EdReports.org: Phoenix, AZ)

Blood Glucose Balance: Using an Online Game for Diabetes Education

Saturday, December 11 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Blood Sugar Balance game

Show Details

As an extension of our Type 2 Diabetes curriculum, we developed an online game to learn about blood glucose metabolism and the impact of disease.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use the web-based game Blood Glucose Balance to engage learners in the complex phenomenon of glucose metabolism and diabetes; 2. Blood glucose levels are regulated to stay within a healthy range. Type 2 diabetes is the result of chronic high blood glucose levels over time, as mechanisms for regulation fails; and 3. Type 2 diabetes is a complex condition that is heavily influenced by environmental factors such as access to resources, personal choice, product marketing, public policy, socio-economic status, and stress.

SPEAKERS:
Joan Griswold (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)