2021 Los Angeles Area Conference

December 9-11, 2021

All sessions added to My Agenda prior to this notice have been exported to the mobile app and will be visible in your account when the app launches. Any sessions added now, will also have to be added in the app.
Grade Level
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FILTERS APPLIED:9 - 12, Developing20More20Inclusive20Classrooms, STEM

 

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

NITARP: High School Teachers and Students Working with Astronomers on Current Research

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 504



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NITARP NSTA F2021.pdf
Presentation about the NITARP program run by Caltech's IPAC and NASA to connect teachers with researchers in the field of astronomy.

Show Details

NITARP (NASA/IPAC Teacher Archive Research Program) gets teachers involved in authentic astronomical research. Small groups of mostly high school educators work with professional astronomers for an original research project.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. A clear understanding of the application process to apply for a NITARP opportunity; 2. An idea of the research experience of a participant involved in this astronomy experience; and 3. An awareness of the vast astronomy resources (images and astronomy programs) available for free to educators and their students.

SPEAKERS:
John Taylor (Marvin Ridge High School: No City, No State)

Chemistry of Copper: A Two-Part Inquiry

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 405


Show Details

Learn about the chemical properties of copper using appropriate technology in this hands-on activity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will; 1. learn to research and design an inquiry experiment; 2. use technology to gather and analyze data from the inquiry; and 3. visualize what occurs on the submicroscopic level by employing particulate drawings.

SPEAKERS:
Gregory Dodd (Retired Chemistry Teacher: Pennsboro, WV)

NARST-Sponsored Session: Features of Engineering for K–12 Education

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 401


Show Details

The present study identified important features of engineering by eliciting experts’ opinions. The features of engineering could help teachers develop disciplinary knowledge for engineering.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The important features of engineering for K–12 engineering education; 2. Learn about engineering design activities; and 3. Learn about what professional engineers think is important about learning engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Ezgi Yesilyurt (Weber State University: Ogden, UT), Hasan Deniz (University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Las Vegas, NV), Erdogan Kaya (George Mason University: Fairfax, VA)

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)

Funding for Science Education Through the American Rescue Plan

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 401



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
10_2021 Erika_americanRescuePlan_ FINAL.ppt

Show Details

To address the impacts of the pandemic on K–12 education, Congress has made emergency funds available through the American Rescue Plan Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) Fund. In this session for educators and science leaders at the district and school levels, we will discuss how these federal funds can be leveraged to support science education, students, and
teachers, and review the products and services NSTA has available to address learning loss.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Information on federal funding for pandemic relief for K–12 education; 2. How this federal funding can be used for science education; and 3. NSTA products and services that address learning loss.

SPEAKERS:
Erika Shugart (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

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: No City, No State)

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)

Synthetic Biology: The Intersection of Biology, Engineering, and Computer Science

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation
Synthetic biology resources
List of resources for synthetic biology with links to curricula, books, videos, journal articles

Show Details

Participants will combine engineering and biology as they work through a free activity from a no-cost introductory curriculum on the emerging field of Synthetic Biology.

TAKEAWAYS:
Looking for free resources and innovative ways to introduce engineering into K–12 classrooms? American Society for Engineering Education’s (ASEE) pre-college division will share them!

SPEAKERS:
Leonardo Morsut (University of Southern California: Los Angeles, CA), Wendy Wooten (Reseda Charter High School: Reseda, CA)

Pole of Inaccessibility: Bringing Ocean Science to North America’s Great Interior

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 401


Show Details

Join us as we explore how NOAA Teacher at Sea can bring stimulating ocean science content to the classroom through a wide range of technology and media applications.

TAKEAWAYS:
NOAA Teacher at Sea provides numerous cutting-edge strategies to make ocean science accessible to students such as Google Cardboard and various VR applications to utilizing NOAA Teacher at Sea’s rich ocean science resources.

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

Enliven Learning with Experimentation

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 153A/B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Software & Technology

Excite your students with hands-on science, whether you’re in the classroom or teaching remotely through collaborative data collection and real-time analysis. Seeing data collected right before their eyes using the Vernier Graphical Analysis™ Pro app gives students the ability to connect abstract concepts to real-world applications. Learn how to use our app to energize your classroom through data sharing, interactive sample experiments with synced data, custom videos, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Educators can create experiments and share the data with students in real time; 2. Seeing data collected right before their eyes gives students the ability to connect abstract concepts to real-world applications; and 3. Graphical Analysis Pro helps students experience three-dimensional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Tallarovic (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Elaine Nam (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

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)

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning: Scientific Explanations to Increase Student Voice

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409A


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) is a way for students to explain observed phenomena in a scientific way. This structured approach allows students to use observations and data from an investigation. Students use critical reasoning to connect the claim, evidence, and reasoning together. CER is an acclaimed and highly successful instructional strategy that is changing how students understand concepts and write explanations for phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Understand the benefits of using the CER Framework; 2. Construct and critique a scientific explanation; and 3. Develop appropriate scaffolds for scientific explanation skills.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Shield (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX), Dr. Kenneth Heydrick (: Houston, TX)

A STEM Ice Core Investigation That Integrates the Three Dimensions of NGSS

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502A



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Additional resources for the Ice Core Records investigation
Ice Core Records NGSS.pdf

Show Details

Come discover a multidisciplinary, open-ended investigation that incorporates absolute and relative dating, anomalies, historical context, volcanoes, solar proton events, energy cycles, Earth systems, terrestrial events, and supernovas.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Students will have a better understanding of the process of constructing knowledge; 2. Students will have to analyze and defend their results; and 3. Sometimes there is no answer key, only possible solutions from constructing and analyzing data from several sources that cross traditional disciplines.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

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)

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)

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)

Let's Get Back to Hands-On Learning and Use 5E Science Lessons to Emphasize Effective Instructional Sequences

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409A


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Research has shown that the actual doing of science or engineering will pique students’ curiosity, capture their interest, and motivate their continued study. Combining this information with simple shifts in instructional sequencing can help students construct scientific meaning. Are you ready to open your eyes to a whole new world of scientific inquiry!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore the research-based 5E instructional model with adaptations for acceleration and intervention; 2. Learn several techniques to embed hands-on learning experiences in various classroom environments; and 3. Learn how to make simple shifts in your instructional plan and sequence to foster better student understanding of concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Kenneth Heydrick (: Houston, TX), Stephanie Shield (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Local Phenomenon-Based Projects

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 406B


Show Details

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)

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)

Who Is Baby Whale’s Father? DNA Fingerprinting Solves the Mystery!

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Develop an understanding of gel electrophoresis and environmental science principles while helping a whale calf identify which whale is her father.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn how the MiniOne Electrophoresis System has made teaching DNA separation labs more teacher and student friendly; 2. See how you can affordably teach genetics labs that allow students to take ownership of every step from prep to analysis; and 3. Learn how hands-on labs can inspire students with real-world inquiry-based science.

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

The Challenge Is On!

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 153A/B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Co.

Explore the ways open inquiry and engineering and design challenges can be used within a chemistry program to deepen conceptual understanding for your diverse students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The session will support teachers in the implementation of all three dimensions of the CA NGSS; 2. Educators will see how to use phenomena to drive instruction, and offer suggestions for celebrating and meeting the needs of the diverse learners in their classroom; and 3. Educators will work together to complete an engineering challenge from Savvas’ Experience Chemistry program.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Horner (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ)

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)

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 (Independent Contractor: Ellicott City, MD)

Effective Intervention Strategies: Let’s Hook Students into Learning

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409A


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Let’s explore several intervention strategies to help struggling students in STEM, and let's move beyond differentiation and scaffolding. Come learn other proven intervention techniques to help students. Learn how to modify our traditional outreach to connect with students so that they gain greater understanding.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore several intervention strategies to help struggling students in STEM; 2. Compare differentiation and scaffolding strategies, and learn successful adaptations of each strategy; and 3. Explore effective intervention strategies that are built into the STEMscopes curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Kenneth Heydrick (: Houston, TX), Stephanie Shield (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

NARST-Sponsored Session: Science in Disguise: Merging Art and Science in Field-Based Experiences

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 513



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NARST-Sponsored Session Science in Disguise Merging Art and Science in Field-B
Power Point file with links for the Merging Art and Science session

Show Details

We will discuss a model for merging art and science instruction to attract and engage diverse students, develop science communication skills, and increase environmental stewardship.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Strategies for, and benefits of, implementing interdisciplinary science research into a middle or high school science course; 2. Developing environmental stewardship in students; and 3. How to develop reflection skills, communication skills, and science research skills in students.

SPEAKERS:
Susannah Sandrin (Arizona State University West Campus: Phoenix, AZ)

Modeling Stellar Evolution Using NASA Images, Data, and STEM Analysis Tools

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 507



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cosmic Connections Webquest 2.pdf
Cosmic Connections Webquest 1.pdf
https://chandra.si.edu/edu/
Modeling Stellar Evolution.pdf

Show Details

Model stellar evolution processes using NASA images, plotting H-R diagram transitions, and determining the chemistry and physics of supernovas using NASA STEM image analysis tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Knowledge of the process of how stars form and change over time ending in catastrophic events, providing conditions for the formation of planets; 2. Students will understand that all knowledge of celestial events is determined by analyzing the light from these events and providing possibilities—not definitive answers, as the data can be interpreted differently; and 3. Image analysis software tools allow scientists to gain detailed information of stellar physical and chemical processes and constantly refine our evolving models of stellar evolution.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

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)

Using Interactive and Digital Student Notebooks

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 409A


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Come learn several strategies to help students organize their learning. Transform the old composition notebooks into a useful and engaging tool that incorporates technology and multimedia. Interactive student notebooks use various modalities, left/right-side format, and offer students an electronic portfolio of learning. Join us!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn several strategies to help students organize their learning; 2. Learn how to adapt old student notebooks into digital interactive portfolios with Slides, Jamboard, Flipgrid, Padlet, and Screencasify; and 3. Learn how to structure notebooks for left-side "Output" and right-side "Input."

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Kenneth Heydrick (: Houston, TX), Stephanie Shield (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Broadening Participation in STEM Through Implementation of a Computer Science Curriculum in Rural and Underserved School Districts

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

Los Angeles Convention Center - 512


Show Details

This presentation gives an overview of a professional development program for inservice teachers designed to provide content knowledge and pedagogical strategies for engaging high school students from traditionally underrepresented groups in computer science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Professional development for inservice teachers; Culturally relevant teaching strategies in the STEM classroom; and 3. Broadening participation in STEM for traditionally underrepresented populations.

SPEAKERS:
Melody Russell (Auburn University: Auburn University, AL), Mohammed Qazi (Tuskegee University: Tuskegee Institute, AL), David Shannon (Auburn University: Auburn University, AL), Jared Russell (Auburn University: Auburn University, AL), Jeff Gray (The University of Alabama: Tuscaloosa, AL), Misty Thomas (Auburn University: Auburn University, AL)

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)

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)

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)

CRISPR Cas9: A Powerful New Tool for Editing the Human Genome

Saturday, December 11 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 410


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Modeling CRISPR technology engages students in understanding the foundational concepts of molecular biology and biotechnology through two-dimensional and three-dimensional representations of the CRISPR/Cas9 protein.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Receive professional development in the endogenous CRISPR/Cas9 system and how it can be incorporated into their current biology curriculum; 2. Use models to investigate how the mechanism of the CRISPR/Cas9 system is used to edit genomes; and 3. Discuss the ethical issues related to using gene editing technology.

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

Leading Conversations Around Identity, Race, Belonging, and Bias in STEM Spaces

Saturday, December 11 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505


Show Details

Join the UCLA Science Project as we explore structures and formats for science leaders looking to engage teachers around social justice in STEM classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Co-construct a learning experience centered around inclusion and belonging within school site meetings; 2. Recognize how our identities and lived experiences impact our approaches to science education and leadership; and 3. Establish space and culture that sustains conversations around equity issues.

SPEAKERS:
Leticia Perez (WestEd: Alameda, CA), Zachary Cue (UCLA STEM+C3 and Science Project)

Making Student Thinking Visible: Developing and Using Models in Instruction and Assessment

Saturday, December 11 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 511



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Modeling NSTA LA 2021.pdf

Show Details

We will explore how students can use modeling and linked practices to engage with phenomena. Participants will take home a goody bag and lesson plans.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. We will demonstrate how students can use modeling, argumentative writing, and data analysis to explain different scientific phenomena throughout Earth and space sciences, life science, and physical sciences; 2. Participants will have the opportunity to build and revise three different kinds of models during the session as learners, and then reflect on how to use the same strategies with their students; and 3. Everyone will engage with different modeling scaffolds that increase inclusion and link the practice of modeling to others such as arguing from evidence, analyzing and interpreting data, and obtaining, evaluating and communicating information.

SPEAKERS:
James Clark (Director: Pleasanton, CA), Samantha Johnson (Arroyo High School: San Lorenzo, CA)

Using Environmental Solutions as a Lens for Teaching Science and Engineering

Saturday, December 11 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 406B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Green Ninja

The workshop will introduce and provide examples for a project-based framework that integrates climate science topics and themes with all the science disciplines, including engineering and computer science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. get the opportunity to reflect on the framework and model presented and share their own experience with other participants; 2. get the opportunity to develop a storyline and sequence of lessons that blend together multiple science NGSS standards using a project-based approach; and 3. get to review and discuss the work of other colleagues during the session.

SPEAKERS:
Eugene Cordero (Green Ninja: Mountain View, CA)

You 👏🏻  Better 👏🏻  Work 👏🏻—From Modeling to SuperModeling

Saturday, December 11 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 153A/B


Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Co.

From concrete to abstract—encourage students to revise working models to become “supermodels.” Join us for a hands-on activity and leave with tools for your grade level.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Gaining a better understanding of various types of models; 2. Using models to create an inclusive environment; and 3. Improving models as a means to authentically assess.

SPEAKERS:
Julia Cook (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ), Ruperto Gloria (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ)

Mission: INCLUDE EVERYONE!

Saturday, December 11 • 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 512


Show Details

It is time to adjust STEM lessons to students of any background and ability. Instead of asking students to adapt to their teacher, it is time for teachers to use their lesson as a way to adapt to their students. Walk away with tips on how to adapt your classroom to your students and their needs, including how to vary lessons on the spot.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Help creating more inclusive and diverse classrooms; 2. Tips on how to engage all students while meeting individual needs; and 3. Controlling the transitional times within your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Cody Stoll (Academy for Urban Scholars High School: Youngstown, OH)

Crash Science Inquiry: Investigating Distracted Driving Dangers

Saturday, December 11 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502B


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Complete a distracted driving simulation and discover free award-winning videos, STEM activities, and real-world applications exploring science, engineering, and vehicle crashworthiness. Free lesson plans included.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. complete a distracted driving simulation; 2. explore how scientific and engineering principles can be modeled in classrooms using crash test–related videos and activities; and 3. apply this crash science and vehicle safety knowledge and engage in safer behaviors when riding in or driving a vehicle.

SPEAKERS:
Griff Jones (University of Florida: No City, No State)

Creating and Maintaining an Equitable Science Classroom

Saturday, December 11 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B


STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

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STEM classrooms should establish a welcoming environment in which all individuals can use their cultural knowledge and practices to make sense of the world.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. A shared understanding of equity and social justice in science classrooms and STEM communities; 2. Approaches to identify and honor student-lived experiences and cultures; and 3. Challenge conventional notions of what counts as science.

SPEAKERS:
Jon Kovach (UCLA Science Project: Los Angeles, CA)

A Chemical Inquiry: Let’s Master Equilibrium!

Saturday, December 11 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 512


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Join this workshop and participate in a hands-on activity to help students overcome common chemical equilibrium misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. take part in a hands-on inquiry activity with a chemical equilibrium having a large K value; 2. learn ways to overcome student misconceptions about equilibrium; and 3. llearn to use appropriate technology to facilitate data collection and analysis for an inquiry lab.

SPEAKERS:
Gregory Dodd (Retired Chemistry Teacher: Pennsboro, WV)

Infusing Your STEM Curriculum with Real-World Connections

Saturday, December 11 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 505



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Infusing Your STEM Curriculum with Real World Connections

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

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Discover how students may use their mobile devices to document “science in action,” anytime, anywhere, in this unique intersection between socratic questioning and place-based learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
How students may use their mobile devices: 1. to demonstrate their knowledge of scientific concepts in a real-world context; 2. connect this real-world context to crosscutting concepts; and 3. explore how this learning model may be used to support service learning in the science curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Walters (Marymount School of New York: New York, NY)

Mathematics and Computational Thinking Using Authentic Data and Practices

Saturday, December 11 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 502B



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA LA 2021 Mathematical and Computational Thinking.pdf

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Start highlighting the practice of mathematics and computational thinking! We’ll utilize resources that allow students to engage in traditional and less traditional ways.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Participants will engage as learners in different levels of mathematical representations, all of which emphasize how to make the practice more inclusive of all students; 2. Everyone will leave being able to demonstrate at least three different ways to mathematically represent authentic data; and 3. Participants will look critically at how to scaffold different graphical texts for student analysis.

SPEAKERS:
James Clark (Director: Pleasanton, CA), Samantha Johnson (Arroyo High School: San Lorenzo, CA)

Analysis of Supernova Remnants Using X-Ray Spectroscopy with Web-Based NASA Data and STEM Image Analysis Tools

Saturday, December 11 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 503



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://chandra.si.edu/js9/index.html
Js9 Access Portal with Guides, Tutorials and Investigations
SNR Energy Spectra Handout.pdf
Worksheet for X-Ray Spectroscopy
Student Handout fjor X-Ray Spectroscopy
XRay Spectroscopy of SNR js9 PPT.pdf

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Identify elements in the spectra of supernova remnants to determine the properties of collapsed and exploded stars using web-based NASA X-ray data and image analysis tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Js9 web-based software can be used to analyze NASA data sets to determine the type of supernova; 2. Js9 provides students with real opportunities to do astronomical research; and 3. Energy spectra from NASA data are used to determine the elements in a supernova remnant.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

Students as Project Managers—From Concept to Conference

Saturday, December 11 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 504



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Students as Project Managers

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

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Discover how students build 21st-century skills by serving as project managers and conference planners for student-led virtual STEM conferences.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore unique learning and leadership opportunities for students in STEM; 2. Review and discuss unique student-designed and student-led projects, including the STEMxYouth Summit and the Youth Climate Conference; and 3. Hear from the student coordinators as they share their experiences as project managers.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Walters (Marymount School of New York: New York, NY)

Historical Accounting of Oppression in STEM Spaces

Saturday, December 11 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Los Angeles Convention Center - 408B


STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

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Empowering students to make science-based decisions requires acknowledgment and dialogue around the injustices marginalized communities have endured within scientific fields.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Develop empathy through the exploration of historical events that have accumulated generational mistrust of STEM communities; 2. Create opportunities to acknowledge and validate personal experience even when it might contradict our personal experience or larger data sets; and 3. Explore the impact of the objectivity myth perpetuated within STEM educational spaces.

SPEAKERS:
Justin Betzelberger (UCLA Science Project: Los Angeles, CA), Zachary Cue (UCLA STEM+C3 and Science Project)

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