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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 (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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)