2021 Portland Area Conference

October 28-30, 2021

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52 results
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Making Chemistry and Physics Fun for All Students

Thursday, October 28 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E146



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Making Chemistry and Physics Fun for Everyone
Making Chemistry and Physics Fun for Everyone pdf (portrait orientation)

Show Details

Learn about and experience teacher-created and phenomena-driven hands-on Chemistry and Physics courses designed for ALL students. Walk away with scope and sequences for both!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. A process for creating NGSS-focused lessons and instructional units; 2. A guide and example for creating phenomena-based models; and 3. How to access complete scope and sequences for the Chemistry and Physics courses we have developed.

SPEAKERS:
Zachary Sawhill (Oak Harbor High School: Oak Harbor, WA), Mackenzie Neal (Oak Harbor High School: Oak Harbor, WA), Malia Turner (Oak Harbor High School: Oak Harbor, WA), Jonathan Frostad (Washington Science Teachers Association: No City, No State), Michael Crebbin (Oak Harbor High School: Oak Harbor, WA), Gary Thayer (Oak Harbor High School: Oak Harbor, WA)

Partnering with NSTA to Reach Your Professional Learning Goals

Thursday, October 28 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A105


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), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

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

Thursday, October 28 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E144


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:
Linda Cook (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX)

Ungrading as a Meaningful Path to Science Learning

Thursday, October 28 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E141



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Ungrading Tool Kit Google Drive Folder

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

Show Details

Learn how ungrading works in a science classroom as feedback and reflection replace points to increase student autonomy and connection to learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Connect deep 3-D learning with the tenets of ungrading to see how they work together; 2. Explore concrete ways of tracking student progress and feedback while devaluing points and centering learning; and 3. Leave with access to resources that support ungrading in STEM classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Johanna Brown (Washington State OSPI)

Meeting the Washington STEM Certification Renewal Requirements Through Professional Growth Plans (PGP)

Thursday, October 28 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A105



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cultural competency standards self assessment
Meeting WA State STEM cert renewal requirement with PGPs slidedeck
PGP template for certification renewal
SEL PGP self-assessment
Teacher PGP needs assessment .docx

Show Details

Learn how Washington teachers can use PGPs to meet Washington State‘s STEM professional learning requirement for certificate renewal. PGPs are no-cost, job-embedded, self-directed professional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn about Washington State STEM certificate renewal requirements for CTE teachers and all teachers with STEM-related endorsements; 2. explore professional growth plans (PGPs), a form of competency-based, self-directed learning, and how these plans can be used to meet the STEM certificate renewal requirement in Washington State; and 3. have the opportunity to begin completion of a PGP by identifying one goal for their professional growth related to STEM integration, and developing a list of professional growth activities they can complete throughout the school year to support them in meeting this goal.

SPEAKERS:
Leiani Sherwin (Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board: Olympia, WA), Prajakta Deshmukh (Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board: Olympia, WA)

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

Thursday, October 28 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E144


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 (Educational and Technology Consultant: Prairie Village, KS)

Science Learning at Your Window

Thursday, October 28 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E145


Show Details

Come get a window bird feeder and discover how to attract birds and student interest! Take home activities and ideas to teach science through birds.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will; 1. discover how to encourage student curiosity and learning through feeder birds and free Cornell Lab resources; 2. learn where and when to hang feeders in order to attract a variety of birds; and 3. explore apps and resources to help identify birds and participate in our citizen science projects.

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

Funding for Science Education Through the American Rescue Plan

Thursday, October 28 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A105


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 the American Rescue Plan federal funding for pandemic relief; 2. How American Rescue Plan funds can be used to support science education; and 3. NSTA products and services that address learning loss.

SPEAKERS:
Erika Shugart (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Engaging the Public: Informal Education Resources and Lessons Learned from ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning

Thursday, October 28 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E144



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Participant resources and worksheet
Slide deck

Show Details

In this presentation, ShakeAlert® educators will share approaches and resources for educating the public about socially relevant science, including earthquake early warning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. understand the basic science of ShakeAlert, the Earthquake Early Warning system for the U.S. West Coast; 2. rReflect on reciprocal science learning, where educators and the public each learn from each other; and 3. take home three short, interactive earthquake demonstrations suitable for formal or informal environments.

SPEAKERS:
Jenny Crayne (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): Portland, OR)

Equity in Science Teaching and Learning: Our State’s Shared Process

Thursday, October 28 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A107-109



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Equity in Science Teaching and Learning Our States Shared Process
Presentation slide deck with links to resources

Show Details

How can we elevate equity and justice in our work in science education, personally and in community? Learn about Oregon’s efforts in this critical process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn about the Oregon Equity in Science Teaching and Learning Symposium; 2. experience (briefly) several components of the symposium; and 3. contribute to our collective understanding of this critical work.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Mayo (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR), Jamie Rumage (Oregon Dept. of Education: Salem, OR), Noelle Gorbett (Oregon Dept. of Education: Salem, OR)

Intentionally Addressing Equity in a High School Science Sequence

Thursday, October 28 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - C123



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation: Intentionally Addressing Equity in a High School Science Sequence

STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

We will share strategies developed over the past five years to address racial equity issues in our high school science sequence and instructional practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Strategies to leverage student voice to inform educator professional learning and decision-making; 2. Equity questions to evaluate current status of high science sequence and materials; and 3. Recommendations for teacher and administrator professional learning and resources focused on support for all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Holveck (Portland Metro STEM Partnership: No City, No State), Andrea Leech (TOSA: Portland, OR), Kristin Moon (MS Math & Science Program Administrator: Portland, OR)

How to Reframe Eco-anxiety as a Way to Connect and Move Forward in Science Learning About Climate Change

Thursday, October 28 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E141



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Eco-Anxiety Resource Doc.pdf

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

Show Details

Attending to eco-anxiety means collectively reimagining new ways to live in harmony with Earth and one another, which requires the expertise of BIPOC communities. Centering communities impacted by climate change is key to helping students imagine and build healthy futures.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Teachers will engage in critical reflection about romantic, capitalistic, and fatalistic approaches to climate change instruction that can often induce eco-anxiety; 2. Tools and methods for eco-anxiety that are grounded in decolonization and the expertise of BIPOC communities will be provided; and 3. Participants will learn exciting and innovative ways to engage students in thinking and discussing climate change that promote socio-ecological thriving and productive hope.

SPEAKERS:
Anastasia Sanchez (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Christina Guevara (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kaleb Germinaro (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

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

Thursday, October 28 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E147/148


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:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Kim Stilwell (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

PERFECT FOOD Integrated Science Unit

Thursday, October 28 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E141



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Perfect Food Feast Slide Presentation
Summary of presentation, lesson plans, template to get you started, other resources.
Perfect Food Feast Slide Presentation
Presentation summary, a few lessons, a template for your own project, resources
Photosynthesis - Respiration Cool Activity
An engaging and educational human model activity.

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

Show Details

PERFECT FOOD will instruct teachers how to bundle their diverse science standards and present them in an authentic, empowering, and engaging unit.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will: 1. be shown how the complex food system gives their individual students the power to positively impact the world; 2. participate in unit activities and actively brainstorm how they can integrate their required standards into an authentic Perfect Food unit; and 3. take home templates and activities to initiate the process of developing their own Perfect Food unit.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Jamsa (Silverton Middle School: Silverton, OR)

The Flipped Lab: An Affordable and Inclusive Approach for Expanding Student Engagement and Persistence

Thursday, October 28 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A105



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
FlippedLabs_NSTA_Ravel_Robinette_Scannell_Sneider_2021Oct28_Final.pdf

Show Details

We share inclusive approaches to science and engineering “flipped labs” that enabled hundreds of high school students to connect STEM with home and families.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Design guidelines for affordable and accessible STEM design activities that can expand from classroom to home and allow students to engage in inquiry and engineering exploration; 2. Example case studies, from high schools with diverse demographics, of integrated science and engineering “flipped lab” design projects that bridged the classroom to home; and 3. Suggestions for improving flipped labs into full 3-D learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Mihir Ravel (Visiting Scholar: Portland, OR), Stephen Scannell (Gresham High School: Gresham, OR), Dan Robinette (Clackamas High School: Clackamas, OR), Cary Sneider (Portland State University: Portland, OR)

Using Argument to Formatively Assess Student Understanding of Scientific Phenomena and Theory

Thursday, October 28 • 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E144



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Authentic Assessment Presentation NSTA.pptx

STRAND: Sharing Authentic Assessment Strategies

Show Details

Formative assessment through scientific discourse and argumentation regarding evidence for scientific phenomena or theory gives authentic insight into student understanding of difficult science concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. understand the importance of formative assessment in the learning process; 2. value argumentation as a form of formative assessment; and 3. identify that scientific discourse with peers is a valuable learning tool within a classroom that gives insight into student thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Mansell (Washington Fields Intermediate School: Washington, UT), Jessica Jones (Washington Fields Intermediate School: Washington, UT)

Every Park in a Classroom: OutSCIder Classroom

Thursday, October 28 • 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E144



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
OCS1_NSTA
Presentation that includes a YouTube clip and a link to a website we will be exploring.

STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

Discover how to connect your classroom to America’s best idea, our National Parks System. Participants will get access to engaging science videos that are NGSS-focused 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)

Teachers as Curriculum Writers: Design for NGSS with Our Articulated Writing Process

Friday, October 29 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slideshow
PDF version of presentation slides
Slideshow (Google slides)
Presentation slides in Google slides format

STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

Writing your own NGSS units? Learn about our articulated writing process that achieves NGSS and English Language Proficiency standards. Applicable to all levels!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn: 1. how we unpack PEs and approach writing a unit; 2. how to consider NGSS from a language perspective; and 3. why the investment in time upfront leads to a more effective writing experience and a more coherent experience for students and teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Mayo (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR), Jennifer Scherzinger (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR), Geoff Stonecipher (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR)

Smashing Classroom Walls Through Virtual Events

Friday, October 29 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E147/148


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 frontlines 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)

Integrating Elementary Science and ELA—It's the Perfect Match!

Friday, October 29 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A105



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides and All Session Links

STRAND: Literacy/Science Connections in the Classroom

Show Details

Maximize instructional minutes through integration strategies that deeply engage students in science, engineering, and ELA learning.  I'll share links to free resources for all your NGSS standards.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. how to use science phenomena and driving questions to engage students deeply with English Language Arts strategies and standards (reading, writing, speaking, and listening); 2. where and how English Language Arts fit and function in the arc of science learning; and 3. about free resources that can help them integrate science and ELA in their elementary classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberley Astle (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA)

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

Friday, October 29 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E144


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:
Linda Cook (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX)

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

Friday, October 29 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E147/148



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Modeling Stellar Evolution Using NASA Tools.pdf
NASA"s Universe of Learning Program STEM Literacy Program
NASA's Chandra X-Ray Observatory

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 provide 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)

Evolution—How Strong Is the Evidence?

Friday, October 29 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E144



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Evolution Powerpoint Slides
Evolution-at-20.pdf

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 [HS-LS1-2] ; 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 [HS-LS3-2, HS-LS3-5]; 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 [HS-LS4-6].

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

Creating Pinhole Cameras: An Interdisciplinary STEAM Unit Melding Old and New Technology

Friday, October 29 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - D133/134



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation 2021.pdf
Pinhole Cameras Unit Plan

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

Show Details

Students engaged in this project-based learning unit master a variety of STEAM skills and content by creating pinhole cameras and coding a virtual reality environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Participants will learn how to create an interdisciplinary STEAM unit using the design-engineering process to employ differentiation in both process and product. 2. Participants will learn how to incorporate a virtual reality product into a project-based learning unit. 3. Participants will learn how to incorporate a wide variety of topics and skills into a project-based learning unit that spans multiple disciplines and incorporates both old technology (pinhole cameras) and new technology (virtual reality) while meeting the performance standards laid out by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Olivera (Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School: New York, NY)

Climate Science Storylines for a High School Chemistry Class

Friday, October 29 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A105



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
HighSchool_Climate&Chemistry_Part1.pptx
HighSchool_Climate&Chemistry_Part2.pptx
HighSchool_Climate&Chemistry_Part3.pptx
Wysession presentation Teaching about Climate Science in High School Chemistry

Show Details

Dr. Michael Wysession, NGSS co-author and geophysics professor, explores creative storylines for integrating up-to-date research-driven climate science into high school chemistry courses.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Climate-related storylines provide powerful frameworks for students to learn fundamental chemistry core ideas and reinforce understandings of crosscutting concepts and science & engineering practices; 2. The wealth of Earth-orbiting NASA satellite data now available in real time provides us with an unprecedented understanding of the science of climate change and also provides many opportunities for student experiential learning; and 3. The latest advances in climate modeling can allow students to both see the impact that humans are currently having on Earth systems and to build a sense of hope in how future changes in human practices can reverse current impact trends.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Wysession (Washington University in St. Louis: Saint Louis, MO)

NSTA Press Session: Engaging ALL Students in STEM: Engineering as an Agent for Social Justice

Friday, October 29 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - D139/140



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_EngagingALLStudentsInSTEM_SocialJustice_Ravel_Sneider_20211029.pdf

Show Details

How can we empower ALL students to create a better world? Learn actionable and evidence-based methods for assessment and design of engineering and science activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Key findings from two decades of engineering education research; 2. Using formative assessment probes to uncover students’ ideas about technology and engineering prior to instruction; and 3. Evidence-based methods for developing effective and inclusive engineering and science design activities.

SPEAKERS:
Cary Sneider (Portland State University: Portland, OR), Mihir Ravel (Visiting Scholar: Portland, OR)

Assessing in 3-D: K–5 Common Science/ELP Assessments

Friday, October 29 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E144



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
K-5 Common NGSS/ESL Assessments
OER Commons
Oregon Open Learning Hub
Presentation

STRAND: Sharing Authentic Assessment Strategies

Show Details

The Portland K–5 Common Assessments assess student learning in a relevant and compelling 3-D  task, centered in local phenomena. The assessments and rubrics provide access for emerging bilinguals.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. There are key features of three-dimensional assessment design that include both a local phenomenon or problem and access for English learners; 2. Evidence statements serve as tools for rubric design to inform assessment goals and enable feedback about student learning; and 3. Strategies for using the Common Assessments provide opportunities for teacher self-reflection and collaboration.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Holveck (Portland Metro STEM Partnership: No City, No State), Noelle Gorbett (Oregon Dept. of Education: Salem, OR)

Build a Better Zoo: Engineering Design Challenge

Friday, October 29 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E147/148


Show Details

Students learn about behavioural adaptations of animals and work in teams to form evidence-based claims about improvements to the enclosures at our local zoo. Note:  We suggest participants bring either a smartphone or internet-enabled computer/tablet, although it is not required.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Encourage students to continue working on forming their own evidence-based arguments; 2. Empower students to become involved in community activism and use their voices to advocate for others; and 3. Integrate engineering, career exploration, collaboration, and effective communication into life science.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Woodward (Holy Trinity Catholic School: Beaverton, OR)

Building Argumentation Skills in Evolution

Friday, October 29 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Free Evolution Unit
Evolution: DNA and the Unity of Life is an eight-week, comprehensive curriculum unit that sharply illuminates the underlying role of genetics in evolution by maintaining a conceptual connection to DNA and heredity throughout.

Show Details

Join me as I share an example of how to incrementally build skill in argumentation from evidence as part of a freely available curriculum unit on Evolution. For more information on Teach.Genetics, please visit https://teach.genetics.utah.edu/content/evolution/.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn about a successful, classroom-tested approach to building skill in argumentation through a series of lessons interwoven in a high school evolution unit; 2. Consider ways to apply an incremental approach to argumentation in any unit; and 3. Learn where to access free multimedia and paper-based genetics, evolution, and argumentation materials.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Malone (The University of Utah: Salt Lake City, UT)

Facilitating Emancipatory and Justice-Centered Environmental and Climate Learning with Elementary Students

Friday, October 29 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E144


Show Details

We’ll explore key stances, strategies, and resources for supporting elementary students to learn about and take collective action in response to authentic socio-ecological challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Young learners are capable of consequential and justice-centered learning about social, political, environmental, and climate issues. Concerns about “developmental appropriateness” can perpetuate dominant forms of science and invisibilize marginalized students’ lived experiences; 2. Science learning should support students in understanding and engaging with local and global challenges through centering the world views, perspectives, and leadership of BIPOC communities; and 3. The use of project-based approaches can allow young learners to develop their voice and leadership capacity as they solve problems that are real and urgent in their communities.

SPEAKERS:
Rae Han (EarthGen: No City, No State), Pranjali Upadhyay (Educational Service District 112: Vancouver, WA)

Authentic Assessment of Science and Engineering Practices in Virtual School—It Can Be Done

Friday, October 29 • 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E146



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Google Slides: Authentic Assessment in Virtual School
Click here to view Google Slides with clickable links from this session.

STRAND: Sharing Authentic Assessment Strategies

Show Details

In this session, a teacher new to project-based learning, cognitive skills assessment, and virtual school shares her learning from SY20–21!

TAKEAWAYS:
We CAN: 1. create authentic engineering design experiences using online tools!; 2. assess student learning based on the application of cognitive skills AND content knowledge!; and 3. support the development of Science and Engineering Practices in virtual school!

SPEAKERS:
Ayla Wilk (Summit Atlas High School: Seattle, WA)

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

Friday, October 29 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A105


Show Details

Explore NSTA’s new Professional 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:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Elizabeth Allan (University of Central Oklahoma: Edmond, OK)

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

Friday, October 29 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E146



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

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:
Sam Shaw (EdReports.org)

Beyond Mitosis: Utilizing Cancer Case Studies to Explore Cell Growth and Health Inequities

Friday, October 29 • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - D133/134



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Frontiers Intro NSTA Portland 2021 Slides

Show Details

Discover cancer-based lesson plans and teaching resources that engage students and support opportunities for student voice and discourse.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Cancer disrupts the controls on mitosis and differentiation that normally produce and maintain complex organisms; 2. Cancer affects all population groups in the U.S. but certain groups may bear a disproportionate burden of cancer compared with other groups; and 3. Technology can be used to develop cures and treatments for different cancers.

SPEAKERS:
Hannah Crowder (Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton: Atherton, CA), Regina Wu (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center: Seattle, WA), Maggie Lewis (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center: Seattle, WA)

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

Friday, October 29 • 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NITARP NSTA F2021.pdf

STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

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)

Pathways to Engagement

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - D136



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Anchor routines NSTA.pdf
Goals_and_Moves.pdf
Handout-Classroom-Norms-from-OSE-OpenSciEd-2.pdf
Pathways to Engagement Resources.docx

STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

Learn practical strategies to build a more inclusive class culture in this NGSS-aligned session. Find out how to leverage student experience to promote learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Three-dimensional and phenomena-based teaching routines build classroom equity and inclusion; 2. Developing clear norms together is key to helping students find their voice; and 3. Productive student talk requires planning, but student and teacher tools are available.

SPEAKERS:
Steven Babcock (Louisiana State University Laboratory School: Baton Rouge, LA)

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

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E141



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Covid-Handout.pdf
Covid-slides-1.pptx
Covid-slides-2.pptx

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 [HS-LS1-1, HS-LS-3-1 2); 2. The emergence of COVID-19 variants will be explored as a case study in natural selection, evolution, and phylogenetic analysis [HS-LS3-2, HS-LS4-3, HS-LS4-4]; 3. The public reaction to pandemic pubic health countermeasures and vaccination will be examined as a case study in scientific literacy and science denial [HS-LS2-8]; and 4. 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)

Are These Materials Designed for NGSS? Understanding the EdReports Review Process (Grades K–8)

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E146



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EdReports K-8 Review Process and Reports

Show Details

Learn about the EdReports’ educator-led review process in science and how you can utilize our resources both in an instructional materials adoption and to grow your own understanding of high-quality instructional materials.

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 EdReports' science review tools for grades K–5 and 6–8, 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:
Sam Shaw (EdReports.org)

The Graduate Extension Scholars: Connecting Formal, Informal, and Emerging Educators to Engage Students

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
GES Presentation Slides
Click here to view the slides from today's session
Journal of Extension: Graduate Extension Scholars
Click here to view a copy of our program evaluation published in the Journal of Extension
Sample Curriculum
Click here to view a sample curriculum module developed by a Graduate Extension Scholars participant and distributed to Virginia Agriculture Teachers and 4-H Extension agents.
Sample Syllaubus: Extension Scholars Seminar
Click here to view a sample syllabus from the program seminar scholars participated in to develop their pedagogical knowledge and skills

STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

The Graduate Extension Scholars program brings together graduate students, 4-H agents, and secondary CTE teachers to translate cutting-edge agriscience research into an engaging K–12 curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. how the Graduate Extension Scholars model works to support diverse stakeholders; 2. key findings from the evaluation of the pilot program, including outcomes for both students and educators; and 3. recommendations for implementing programs involving collaboration between community- and school-based educators.

SPEAKERS:
Ayla Wilk (Summit Atlas High School: Seattle, WA)

The Community Science and Engineering Walk: Seeing Science and Engineering All Around Us

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - E144


STRAND: Successful Collaborations Between Informal and Formal Educators

Show Details

Bakeries! Parks! Supermarkets! Science and engineering practices are everywhere. Come learn about a fun community walk activity that connects classrooms and communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn: 1. about the importance of exploring science and engineering practices outside the classroom; 2. how to develop students' observation and data collection skills using the Community Walk; and 3. how investigating the scientific and engineering resources of the community, and engaging families and communities in science learning, inform students' and teachers' visions for teaching and learning science .

SPEAKERS:
José Rios (University of Washington Tacoma: Tacoma, WA)

Patterns Physics: Kick-Starting Students' Inquiry Skills so Experiments Drive Their Learning

Saturday, October 30 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - C123



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Patterns Physics Website
Main Open Source website, but need to email [email protected] for restricted website access.

Show Details

This session is for teachers new to and experienced with Patterns Physics, a 3-D, student centered curriculum that meaningfully integrates across the STEM disciplines. Participants will engage with several phenomena across multiple storylines and walk away an overview of a yearlong curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Model guide step aside; 2. Exposure practice mastery; and 3. When students talk, students learn.

SPEAKERS:
Connie Robbins (Crane Union High School: Crane, OR), Bradford Hill (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR), Matt McCollum (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR)

Creating  Problem-Based Learning Opportunities Through Partnerships

Saturday, October 30 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Oregon Convention Center - D137/138



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Creating problem-based learning opportunities Powerpoint
Powerpoint presentation for creating problem based learning through partnerships.

Show Details

Learn and understand  how an industry partner and a team of educators collaborated to create activities in helping students design a microgravity space toilet.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to develop a successful problem-based Learning unit incorporating NGSS, Common Core, and CTE; 2. How to infuse 21st-Century soft skills and connections to career pathways into a problem-based learning unit; and 3. Tips on forming strong partnership collaborations.

SPEAKERS:
Barbara Bromley (Hazelwood Elementary School: Lynnwood, WA), Zayd Sarwat (Hazelwood Elementary School: Lynnwood, WA), Alexandra Willwerth (Hazelwood Elementary School: Lynnwood, WA), Makena Nymeyer (Hazelwood Elementary School: Lynnwood, WA), Sylvie Giral Kacmarcik (Civil Air Patrol, Washington Wing: Bothell, WA)

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

Saturday, October 30 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104


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)

Networking with ESDs, STEM Hubs and Higher Ed, and Other Community Organizations

Saturday, October 30 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Oregon Convention Center - C123


Show Details

How can we collaborate to advocate for science education in Oregon? Come meet representatives from various ESDs, STEM Hubs, RENs, higher education, and others. Learn how they can provide resources for you and build your network to help provide support for you as a teacher. For teachers and administrators of all grade levels!

TAKEAWAYS:
Resource availability, networking, collaboration

SPEAKERS:
Connie Robbins (Crane Union High School: Crane, OR)

Collaboratively Creating and Teaching a Project-Based Climate Change Climate Justice Course

Saturday, October 30 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - A103/104



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation for Collaboratively Creating & Teaching a CC/CJ Course

STRAND: Developing More Inclusive Classrooms

Show Details

Learn about a collaboratively designed project-based climate change climate justice high school elective course that was designed by students and teachers from four high schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Design principles, including centering student voice and leadership through course co-construction, are used to develop the project-based course that could be used in your own school or district; 2. Equity lens that guided the course development and put social and racial justice in the center of a science course; and 3. Example lessons and projects will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Holveck (Portland Metro STEM Partnership: No City, No State), Megan Whisnand (Franklin High School: Portland, OR)

Science Classroom Tasks That Support Girls' STEM Identities

Saturday, October 30 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E146



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Padlet for today's session
Session Slides

Show Details

Learn about the role of classroom instructional strategies and types of tasks in creating a more gender-equitable science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn about Science Capital and how teachers can work to build student Science Capital; 2. Examine the six SciGirls Strategies to support a gender-equitable science classroom; and 3. Examine a classroom assessment task as a learning moment and opportunity for enacting SciGirls Strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Tom Hathorn (University of Washington Tacoma: Tacoma, WA)

Building Community Through Writing Science Curricula

Saturday, October 30 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - D133/134



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 01 Question Starters.pdf
NSTA Driving Question Board Guide.pdf
NSTA Portland Oct 2021.pdf

STRAND: Integrating Multiple Learning Experiences and Connecting to Move Forward

Show Details

Learn about the shift to NGSS in our large urban district, including collaboration between Science and ESL departments in writing K–5 curricula that meet both Science and English Language Proficiency expectations.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Glimpse into our collaborative writing process; 2. Experience several high-leverage instructional strategies in our K–5 NGSS and ELP units; and 3. Ideas for how to collaborate across departments, including how this work has developed during and post-COVID-19.

SPEAKERS:
Geoff Stonecipher (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR), Kate Yocum (Portland Public Schools: Portland, OR)

Transform Your Literacy Block Through the Engineering and Design Process

Saturday, October 30 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E145



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Transform Literacy Through the Engineering Design Process
Updated Presentation (Transform Your Literacy Block Through EDP)

STRAND: Literacy/Science Connections in the Classroom

Show Details

Through STEM notebooks and the Engineering and Design Process, transform your literacy block to become more engaging and inquiry based.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The steps of the engineering and design process and what each step means and how it looks in the classroom; 2. STEM notebooks and how to use them effectively; and 3. Using STEM notebooks and the EDP during your literacy block and demonstrating how the EDP is cross-curricular.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Spearman (McKissick Academy of Science & Technology: Easley, SC), McKenzie Martin (McKissick Academy of Science & Technology: Easley, SC)

Oregon Science Standards and Assessment Updates

Saturday, October 30 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - C123


Show Details

Come hear Science Assessment Specialists Noelle Gorbett and Jamie Rumage on science assessment updates.

TAKEAWAYS:
Science Assessment Updates

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Rumage (Oregon Dept. of Education: Salem, OR), Noelle Gorbett (Oregon Dept. of Education: Salem, OR), Connie Robbins (Crane Union High School: Crane, OR)

OSTA General Membership Meeting and  Oregon Regional Raffle Results

Saturday, October 30 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Oregon Convention Center - C123


Show Details

Come meet the OSTA board members and learn more about the organization! Did you buy a raffle ticket? Come find out if you are a winner of one of the regional baskets (there are seven opportunities)!

TAKEAWAYS:
Networking with those in your region, membership information, drawing results

SPEAKERS:
Connie Robbins (Crane Union High School: Crane, OR)

Strategies in Teaching Cellular Respiration

Saturday, October 30 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - D136



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cellular Respiration Worksheet and Key
Cellular Respiration Worksheet and Key

Show Details

Engage students in a hands-on cellular respiration activity using handouts and pop-beads that help explain the concept.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn the stages of cellular respiration; 2. Discover how to follow glucose through the oxidation steps and track the carbons that are converted to CO2; and 3. Calculate the energy production (ATP) through substrate-level phosphorylation and oxidative phosphorylation.

SPEAKERS:
Deborah Cardenas (Collin College, Wylie Campus: Wylie, TX)

Creating Social Activists Through Culturally Relevant Science Lessons

Saturday, October 30 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Oregon Convention Center - E145



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
But_Thats_Just_Good_Teaching_The_Case_for_Cultura.pdf
Culturally Relevant and Culturally Responsive 2 Theories for Science Teaching.pdf
Culturally relevant assessments.pptx
Nat_Geo_Learning_Framework_Attitudes_Chart.pdf

STRAND: Sharing Authentic Assessment Strategies

Show Details

Participants will learn how to create a culturally relevant science lesson using an Earth science unit on conflict minerals in electronic devices as an example.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn how to identify concepts that readily lend themselves to connecting and engaging students in culturally relevant content; 2. brainstorm science content that can lead to social activism; and 3. learn how to connect the NGSS crosscutting concepts and science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Lesley Urasky (Saratoga Middle/High School: Saratoga, WY)

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