NSTA Engage: Spring21 - Sessions

Save a Nickel and Learn to Trickle!

Learn how to create a project-based camp or classroom lesson that enable students to apply concepts, such as photosynthesis and the water cycle, to design a smart irrigation system. Inspired by real-world events, students are motivated to apply problem-solving skills and learn some basic programming to come up with innovative solutions to using water more efficiently.

Takeaways: 1. Developing models to better understand a process; 2. Constructing explanations and designing solutions; and 3. Introducing students to coding to solve a science problem with an engineering solution.

Speakers

Jessica Kohout (Howard County Conservancy: Woodstock, MD)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Virtual Amazon Fulfillment Center Tour

Give your students real-world computer science and career exposure through Amazon Future Engineer's new live, virtual, and interactive Fulfilment Center Tours! From our online store to doorstep, students will discover how computer science, state-of-the-art engineering, and incredible people deliver customer orders at Amazon.

Takeaways: Attendees will learn: how Amazon uses computer science, engineering, and amazing people to deliver customer orders around the globe; 2. how algorithms, sensors, cloud computing, machine learning, databases, and more all help make Amazon possible; and 3. what it's like to be an engineer at Amazon.

Speakers

Trinidad Cisneros (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Tony Wallin (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Hilah Barbot (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA)

Virtual Field Labs: Student-Generated Data Explorations of Investigable Questions Led by Climate Scientists

Based on three-dimensional learning and field-tested in high school classes, Virtual Field Labs can be used synchronously, asynchronously, or in hybrid classrooms.

Takeaways: 1. Hands-on virtual tool for teaching climate change concepts; 2. Student-generated data activities led by climate change scientists; and 3. Generate, graph, and analyze data on the way to making claims supported by evidence related to the investigation.

Speakers

Louise Huffman (U.S. Ice Drilling Program: Hanover, NH), William Grosser (Curriculum Designer: Auburn, CA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Discipline-Specific Language Demands with CER and KLEWS

Explore how to use argumentation and explanations supported with the CER framework and the KLEWS chart to engage in the science and engineering practices in the science classroom—both virtually and in person. These ideas will support students to actively participate in inquiry-based, phenomenon-centered activities.

Takeaways: 1. Students need a scaffolding of supports to fully participate and grow in their ability to use the SEPs; 2. Teachers can use many different supports, in different ways for varied learners, to help all students be successful in science. ALL students can be successful!; and 3. These supports can be tailored to all topics in science.

Speakers

Kelly Moore (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Designing for Phenomena in Food Production

Discover lesson plans and teaching resources to better integrate science and engineering practices in our food system.

Takeaways: 1. Engage in the practice of phenomena-based learning through the phenomena of photoperiodism; 2. Improve critical thinking while investigating food production systems; and 3. Integrate STEM concepts through design thinking.

Speakers

Andrea Gardner (Utah State University: Logan, UT), Tessa Matuszak (National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization: Palm Coast, FL)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Biodiversity and the Environment

In this session you will learn how to use a simulation of an aquatic ecosystem to help students see the relationships between biotic and abiotic factors such as dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature. The simulation makes it possible to model environments that would otherwise be very difficult to monitor and experiment with. Plus, the fish animations are really cool!

Takeaways: 1. Using simulations with students can help them better visualize the mechanisms behind phenomena; 2. Simulations are a great complement to hands-on learning and work best when hands on isn't possible/practical; and 3. Effects of changes to certain variables in aquatic ecosystems can have negative effects on the organisms that live there.

Speakers

Jessica Kohout (Howard County Conservancy: Woodstock, MD)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

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

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

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

Speakers

Robert Mayes (National Science Foundation: Alexandria, VA)

Science Storytelling: Student Activism Through Film

Help students create compelling stories about climate change and environmental justice. Classroom-ready resources will help students communicate scientific information with narrative structure across various media.

Takeaways: 1. In an analytical discipline like science, there is still a case to be made for storytelling; 2. The And-But-Therefore narrative structure technique to summarize scientific information or craft original science communication; and 3. Science storytelling can enhance student projects by improving conceptual understanding and allowing choice and voice to engage students as activists for environmental justice.

Speakers

Susan Tate (Whitehall Middle School: Whitehall, MI), Cristina Veresan (The Nueva School: Hillsborough, CA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

The Post-COVID Dissection Lab

Discover how you can make your dissection lab dynamic and innovative after COVID-19! Learn about new life science resources, including mixed reality (AR/VR) education technology; and explorative, hands-on teaching tools that will amaze and engage your students. Participants will be entered to WIN FREE PRIZES like dissection resources.

Takeaways: 1. Life science resources; 2. Education technology; and 3. Hybrid classrooms.

Speakers

Nicole Green (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA)

Teaching with Protozoa, NGSS, and Research Articles

Since History and English classes teach students how to read and analyze primary sources, why can't Science classes do the same? In this workshop, you will learn how to teach NGSS using research articles and how to seamlessly tie it all into a lesson, with the help of some pond protozoa.

Takeaways: Learn how to: 1. teach NGSS using research articles; and 2. seamlessly tie it all into a lesson, with the help of some pond protozoa.

Speakers

Evelyn Wong (Science with Evie: New York, NY)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Day in the Life of a Robotics Engineer at Amazon

Interested in exposing your students to the careers of the future? Join three Amazon Robotics Engineers as they discuss what it's like to build a future in technology. Then, sign up for our Class Chat Program to bring a virtual speaker to your classroom this spring!

Takeaways: Attendees will learn: 1. what a robotics engineer does day to day at Amazon; 2. an idea of the potential career path required to become a robotics engineer; and 3. how to sign up to bring a speaker to their class.

Speakers

Erica Aduh (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Joe Lee (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Mikell Taylor (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Hilah Barbot (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA)

Space Science for Online Learning

Experience Simulation Curriculum’s award-winning Starry Night astronomy simulator. Accurate and stunning visualizations allow students to make precise observations of sky motions, moon phases, planets, the universe, and much more. NGSS-focused lessons engage students with interactive simulations joined to exercises, animations, and images including current astronomical phenomena. Designed for online learning and compatible with iPads, Android tablets, PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks. Free trial access provided!

Takeaways: 1. Online science simulations are effective tools to compliment your instruction; 2. Become familiar with Starry Night as a resource for teaching Space Science; and 3. Learn how to integrate simulations into your course.

Speakers

Martin Gabber (Retired Educator: Toronto, ON)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Engaging with Grants

Join us as we explore how you can identify and leverage new and existing resources to bring funding and awesome projects to your students. In this not-your-typical grant-writing workshop, we will delve into the relationship between engagement and grants and consider best practices for engaging students, colleagues, partners, and the community. You'll leave this workshop with the information you need to prepare a grant proposal that will wow funders! Takeaways include materials with ideas and activities to sharpen engagement and grant writing toward increasing student outcomes and impacts.

Takeaways: How to: 1. get information for grant applications; 2. engage partners; and 3. find grants.

Speakers

Rusti Berent (Ward's Science: West Henrietta, NY), Karol Stephens (Ward's Science: Fayetteville, GA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Fueling Success for Students—Win Cash and Prizes Up to $15K

Come start your winning application for one of three Shell-sponsored programs. We'll walk through the application step by step and you'll be able to begin your application or nomination form live.

Takeaways: Learn: 1. tips to complete a successful application; 2. who's eligible to apply; and 3. how to nominate a deserving teacher.

Speakers

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

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Using HHMI BioInteractive’s The Biology of Skin Color to Practice Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning Skills

Use the short film The Biology of Skin Color to practice argumentation skills of developing claims with supporting evidence and reasoning techniques. This content can easily connect to learning in units of genetics, evolution, or cellular structure from middle school through AP/IB courses. Scaffolds and online learning suggestions included.

Takeaways: 1. Biological traits are not inherently good or bad. Some traits can provide an advantage to an organism in certain environments but be a disadvantage in other environments; 2. Different human populations living many generations in a particular part of the world may have different variations in certain traits. In spite of these differences, all humans are very closely related and share most traits; and 3. A claim is a statement that answers a question using clear and supporting evidence connected by reasoning.

Speakers

Chris Hedeen (Oregon City High School: Oregon City, OR), Kathryn Fisher Hedeen (Oregon City High School: Oregon City, OR)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Combating Ableism in the Biology Classroom by Teaching Disability as a Natural Form of Human Variation to Promote an Inclusive Classroom and School Environment

Unsure how to address disability in biology? Learn models of disability, identify ableism, and learn how to accept disability as a natural form of variation.

Takeaways: Attendees will: 1. be able to identify and remedy common examples of ableism, while learning about the beliefs and practices of the ability-inclusive mindset to promote an inclusive classroom and school environment; 2. be provided a set of slides that teach how disability is a natural form of human variation, the other above concepts in the context of a biology lesson on the natural sources of variation (meiosis, mutation, sexual reproduction); and 3. learn about the positives and negatives of the social, medical, inspirational, and social justice models of disability.

Speakers

John Gensic (Penn High School: Mishawaka, IN), Katy Fattaleh (The Nora Project: Highland Park, IL), Lainey Bristow (Penn High School: Mishawaka, IN)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Designing for Phenomena in Food Production

Discover lesson plans and teaching resources to better integrate science and engineering practices in our food system.

Takeaways: 1. Engage in the practice of phenomena-based learning through the phenomena of photoperiodism; 2. Improve critical thinking while investigating food production systems; and 3. Integrate STEM concepts through design thinking.

Speakers

Tessa Matuszak (National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization: Palm Coast, FL), Andrea Gardner (Utah State University: Logan, UT)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Spreading and Retaining Black Girl Magic in STEM Classrooms and Beyond

Learn strategies to be more culturally responsive from an equity framework to not only retain but spread Black girl magic in STEM in school settings!

Takeaways: 1. The school-based and classroom-based factors that are contributing to Black girls starting off with the highest interest in STEM but resulting in the lowest retention of STEM; 2. The seven elements of the ICUCARE equity framework in the classroom; and 3. Three to five strategies (to then develop and apply) for providing learning experiences in the school setting that empower our Black girls to remain in STEM.

Speakers

Princess Francois (Math, Engineering, and Science Academy: Brooklyn, NY)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

STEM Scoop: High School Competition Edition

An informal discussion with former eCYBERMISSION Team Advisors about how to find success with student competitions.

Takeaways: How to: 1. engage students in STEM competitions; 2. take part in STEM competitions with limited time; and 3. help students find success in STEM competitions.

Speakers

Matthew Hartman (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Lora Gibbons (Mountain Heights Academy: West Jordan, UT), Mary Clarke (St. Paul Catholic High School: Bristol, CT), Michael Lake (Half Hollow Hills High School East: Dix Hills, NY)

Science Storytelling: Student Activism Through Film

Help students create compelling stories about climate change and environmental justice. Classroom-ready resources will help students communicate scientific information with narrative structure across various media.

Takeaways: 1. In an analytical discipline like science, there is still a case to be made for storytelling; 2. The And-But-Therefore narrative structure technique to summarize scientific information or craft original science communication; and 3. Science storytelling can enhance student projects by improving conceptual understanding and allowing choice and voice to engage students as activists for environmental justice.

Speakers

Susan Tate (Whitehall Middle School: Whitehall, MI), Cristina Veresan (The Nueva School: Hillsborough, CA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Empower Environmental Changemakers with Soil Quest’s Action Project to Sequester Carbon and Reduce Climate Change

Using Project Hero’s online Soil Quest and Q-U-E-S-T framework, guide learners to design projects that sequester carbon, restore soil’s health, and slow climate change.

Takeaways: Participants will: 1. work with the online PBL Soil Quest platform (https://herofortheplanet.org/healthysoils) as a model for empowering students to use the understanding of science concepts to design and carry out a solution to a local soil problem; 2. understand how to teach the connection between soil-carbon-climate change concepts through Quest activities and investigations (aligned to the NGSS), and lay the foundation for designing and carrying out this project; and 3. gather ideas for how the soil project, and lessons for supporting concepts, could fit into current NGSS-focused curricula (i.e., concepts around healthy soil ecosystems, carbon cycle and sequestration, climate change, and design of conventional and regenerative farming and gardening practices), and connect to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Speakers

Laura Arndt (Global GreenSTEM: Franktown, CO)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Lab Safety Protocols with Flinn Scientific, the Leader in Safety!

Please join Flinn for a quick refresher on common safety concerns and issues that arise in the classroom and remote settings. This is a must-attend session for new teachers and experienced teachers alike who want to deliver the most comprehensive and safe program possible! Come for an overview of best practices in the lab with Flinn!

Takeaways: 1. Refresher on science safety best practices; 2. Safety awareness culture; and 3. Practical :what to do in case of emergency" trainings.

Speakers

James Palcik (Flinn Scientific Canada, Inc.: Hamilton, ON)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

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

Using 3DMD’s new CRISPR Kit©, explore the Cas9 endonuclease’s unique ability to recognize a statistically unique site in the 3.2 billion base-pair human genome, before moving to an accurate 3D-printed Cas9 model to explore enhancements of the system that become an even more powerful genome editing tool.

Takeaways: 1. What is CRISPR?; 2. Explore the CRISPR Cas9 endonuclease and its role in genome editing; and 3. Learn how scientists have enhanced Cas9 to make it even more powerful in genome editing.

Speakers

Tim Herman (MSOE Center for BioMolecular Modeling: Milwaukee, WI)

Engaging Your Students in Today’s Digital World

As educators, you know what student engagement looks like in the classroom. Students are focused on their work in front of them, they are collaborating with their peers, they are asking good questions, and creativity is flowing. But now that things have moved online, what does engagement look like? In this session we will explore the wealth of tools within the Mastering® technology from Pearson that you can use in your digital or hybrid classroom now to boost engagement.

Takeaways: 1. Student engagement in a digital/hybrid classroom; 2. How to utilize resources within the Mastering® technology from Pearson to boost student engagement; and 3. Learn about resources within Mastering to support digital teaching.

Speakers

Brian Vaccaro (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ), Debra Gipson (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ), Matthew Barber (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ), Monica Wadler (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ)

Whet Your Appetite for Learning with the Water Kit!

Whether breaking bonds, dissolving NaCl, or exploring states of matter, your students will be captivated by 3D Molecular Designs’ magnetic Water Kit©. The versatile kit will engage students in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, Earth science, or physical science and its usefulness spans from middle and high school to college.

Takeaways: 1. Teach bonds and bond strength with models; 2. Teach solutions and states of matter with models; and 3. Teach polarity with models.

Speakers

Jim Lane (Mahtomedi High School: Saint Paul, MN)

Rock Their Worlds: Teaching Earth Science Using Online Simulations

Simulation Curriculum is a pioneer in developing online simulation-based curriculum to help enhance students’ understanding of Earth science topics as diverse as climate change, plate tectonics, volcanism, Earth materials, and geological processes on Earth’s surface. NGSS-focused lessons engage students with interactive simulations and thought-provoking exercises. Designed for online learning and compatible with iPads, Android tablets, PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks. Free trial access provided!

Takeaways: 1. Online science simulations are effective tools to compliment your instruction; 2. Become familiar with Layered Earth as a resource for teaching Earth science; 3. Learn how to integrate Earth science and literacy.

Speakers

Martin Gabber (Retired Educator: Toronto, ON)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Proteins—Now That Everything Has Changed

Using engaging and powerful kits, model how proteins are simply long linear sequences of amino acids that spontaneously fold into complex 3-D shapes, following basic principles of chemistry. Then explore how a stylized enzyme model can help students understand basic concepts while an accurate model leads to increased levels of complexity.

Takeaways: 1. Teach protein folding with models; 2. Explore enzymes using models; and 3. Learn how AI is assisting in determining the shape of complex proteins.

Speakers

Tim Herman (MSOE Center for BioMolecular Modeling: Milwaukee, WI)

Virtual Amazon Fulfillment Center Tour

Give your students real-world computer science and career exposure through Amazon Future Engineer's new live, virtual, and interactive Fulfilment Center Tours! From our online store to doorstep, students will discover how computer science, state-of-the-art engineering, and incredible people deliver customer orders at Amazon.

Takeaways: Attendees will learn: 1. how Amazon uses computer science, engineering, and amazing people to deliver customer orders around the globe; 2. how algorithms, sensors, cloud computing, machine learning, databases, and more all help make Amazon possible; and 3. what it's like to be an engineer at Amazon.

Speakers

Tony Wallin (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Hilah Barbot (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Trinidad Cisneros (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA)

Enlivening the High School Earth Science NGSS: Using Geoheritage and Place-Based Education to Highlight and Integrate Dimensions of Earth Science Relevance

The fascinating phenomena of Earth and space science take on heightened relevance in learners’ lives when presented through the frameworks of geoheritage and place-based education.

Takeaways: 1. There are practical approaches for accentuating the excitement of Earth and space sciences as they are shown to intersect with human life, history, and culture; 2. The connection of geoscience with human history and culture—what is increasingly known as geoheritage—has great potential in education as a reference framework that encourages learning as well as promoting conservation of significant natural features; and 3. The dimensions of the NGSS, the big ideas of geoheritage, and the design principles of place-based education are mutually supportive—which together lead to strategies for meaningful learning in Earth and space science.

Speakers

Missy Holzer (Great Minds: Washington, DC), Aida Awad (Education Consultant/ Adjunct: Buckeye, AZ), Eric Pyle (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA), Dawna Cerney (Youngstown State University: Youngstown, OH), Rebecca Dodge (Midwestern State University: Wichita Falls, TX), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Dianna Gielstra (Prescott College Online Graduate Degree Program: Prescott, AZ)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Exploring the Wonderful World of Cell Membranes—Proteins, Lipids, and Ions, Oh My!

In this hands-on interactive workshop, participants will learn how to utilize physical phospholipid and transport protein models to explore the structure of the cell membrane, the role of transport proteins in moving ions and small molecules across membranes, and how defects in transport proteins can cause diseases such as cystic fibrosis.

Takeaways: 1. Teach membrane transport with models; 2. Teach the role of transport proteins with models; and 3. Teach how defects in transport can cause diseases.

Speakers

Chris Chou (Longmont High School: Longmont, CO)

Day in the Life of a Software Development Engineer at Amazon

Interested in exposing your students to the careers of the future? Join four Software Development Engineers as they discuss what it's like to code at Amazon. Then, sign up for our Class Chat Program to bring a virtual speaker to your classroom this spring!

Takeaways: Attendees will learn: 1. what a normal day looks like as a software developer at Amazon; 2. potential career paths that can lead to becoming a software developer; and 3. how to register to bring a virtual guest speaker to your class to talk about careers in technology!

Speakers

Hilah Barbot (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Maria Rocco (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Luu Tran (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Natalie White (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA), Michael Shao (Amazon Corporate Affairs: Seattle, WA)

Modeling How Cells Talk: Making Sense of Synapses and Signals

Spark questions with the Synapse Construction Kit© and provide hands-on activities to achieve Concept Explanation and Visual Representation goals in a topic that students find intrinsically interesting. How does the neurotransmitter not only get back in the presynaptic cell, but back in the vesicle? What energy is involved in the transport of these molecules?

Takeaways: 1. Evaluating models; 2. Teaching cell communication through modeling; and 3. Teaching difficult concepts using hands on modeling.

Speakers

Karen Avery (Pennsylvania College of Technology: Williamsport, PA), Daniel Williams (Shelter Island Union Free School District: Shelter Island, NY)

Sharing Microscopy Techniques and Images in Person or Remotely

How do we get students engaged and inspired in hands-on labs and experiments while learning remotely without access to classroom equipment and supplies? Microscopy can be especially difficult for students who can't touch or adjust the microscope the same way as if they were sitting right in front of it.

Takeaways: 1. An affordable solution for sharing microscopy techniques and images in person or remotely; 2. Entire class benefits from seeing the image as it should appear; and 3. Included software enables instructors and students to view, capture, share, save, annotate, and manipulate images.

Speakers

Joyce Dorsey (Ward's Science: West Henrietta, NY), Chris Nutting (Ward's Science: West Henrietta, NY)

Inspiring Student Questions with a TWIST in DNA Modeling

Inspire curiosity, questions, and discussion with 3DMD’s hands-on DNA modeling kits. Students will discover the dynamics of DNA—twisting, untwisting, separating for replication and transcription, and coming back together. Upon examining the intricacies of DNA anatomy, students can analyze the crosscutting relationship of structure and function.

Takeaways: 1. Eliciting questions through modeling; 2. Crosscutting relationship between structure and function of DNA; and 3. Teaching the dynamics of DNA for replication and transcription.

Speakers

Daniel Williams (Shelter Island Union Free School District: Shelter Island, NY), Karen Avery (Pennsylvania College of Technology: Williamsport, PA)

Outrun an Outbreak? Tracking Viral Variants Using HHMI Biointeractive Resources

Don a “biohazard” suit and join us to track an infectious disease outbreak. In this session we will introduce you to HHMI BioInteractive’s Ebola: Disease Detectives activities that highlight how nucleotide sequences can be used to track the evolution and spread of disease variants (a model for tracking SARS COv2 variants).

Takeaways: 1. Patterns in nucleotide sequences represent shared derived and shared conserved characteristics that can establish relatedness and groupings; 2. The differences in nucleotide sequences also allow scientists to establish an order of “appearance” for variants; and 3. This is a model for the processes being used to track our current SARS CoV2 outbreak. Genetic change in virus strains can result in phenotypic changes that affect pathogenicity.

Speakers

Katherine Ward (Aragon High School: San Mateo, CA), Mark Eberhard (St. Clair High School: Saint Clair, MI)

Argument-Driven Inquiry in High School

Argument-Driven Inquiry is an instructional model that gives high school students a chance to learn how to use DCIs, CCs, and SEPs to explain natural phenomena and provides them with a meaningful context to talk, read, and write in the service of sensemaking.

Takeaways: 1. How to use this instructional model, or way of teaching, to give students an opportunity to learn how to use the core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and practices of science to make sense of natural phenomena; 2. How to give students an opportunity to talk, read, and write in the service of sensemaking; and 3. Ways to support students in both remote and in-person contexts.

Speakers

Victor Sampson (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX)

From Food Safety to Biotechnology—Using the FDA Curriculum in Your Classroom

Join us in exploring FDA's free curriculum designed for middle level and high school students. The Science and Our Food Supply series provides hands-on lessons in food safety, nutrition, and agricultural biotechnology…and provides a bridge for students to experience science in the real world.

Takeaways: Teachers will: 1. explore the variety of lessons found in the FDA curriculum; 2. understand how this curriculum can be integrated into a variety of science classes; and 3. be exposed to how this curriculum can be adapted to both hands-on and distance learning.

Speakers

Elena Stowell (Kentwood High School: Kent, WA), Laurie Hayes (Retired Educator: Clovis, CA)

Virtual Field Labs: Student-Generated Data Explorations of Investigable Questions Led by Climate Scientists

Based on three-dimensional learning and field-tested in high school classes, Virtual Field Labs can be used synchronously, asynchronously, or in hybrid classrooms.

Takeaways: 1. Hands-on virtual tool for teaching climate change concepts; 2. Student-generated data activities led by climate change scientists; and 3. Generate, graph, and analyze data on the way to making claims supported by evidence related to the investigation.

Speakers

Louise Huffman (U.S. Ice Drilling Program: Hanover, NH), William Grosser (Curriculum Designer: Auburn, CA)

Beyond Polar Bears: Disproportionate Impact of Climate Change on Low-Income and Marginalized Communities’ Health

Critical examination of public social and scientific data resources will provoke awareness of the legacy of bias, as well as identify mitigation and reparation activities.

Takeaways: 1. Due to legacy of bias, as reflected in the redlining of urban communities in the early 20th century, extreme heat events associated with climate change have a disproportionate impact on low-income and marginalized urban communities; 2. This legacy can be integrated into NGSS ESS activities thanks to publicly available digital social and scientific data; and 3. Science knowledge coupled with a value for justice can orient and inform students and teachers to make decisions and identify mitigation (e.g. changing surface material and/or color) and reparation activities (orienting efforts toward low-income and marginalized communities). A virtual national network of NSTA members can advance this work.

Speakers

Susan Meabh Kelly (University of Connecticut: Storrs Mansfield, CT), Michelle Ellis (Hunter Huss High School: Gastonia, NC)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

NARST-Sponsored Session: Affirming Science Experiences in a STEM-Focused Urban High School

“When the learning experience is fun and sometimes a challenge, that intrigues me.” Participants will engage with materials/activities that advance a scientifically and culturally responsive perspective that is affirming for racial, ethnic, and linguistically diverse high-achieving students.

Takeaways: Participants will learn about: 1. science classroom cultures that are affirming and inclusive; and 2. hands-on STEM experiences that promote strong science identities.

Speakers

Jennifer Tripp (University at Buffalo, SUNY: Buffalo, NY), Noemi Waight (University at Buffalo, SUNY: Buffalo, NY)

Climate Change Phenomena and Carbon Hoofprints

Explore how to engage students in the science of climate change using the question., “How will we produce food in a changing climate?”

Takeaways: 1. Resources for students to understand that food is grown in climate-specific areas of the world; 2. Critical thinking regarding the environmental footprint of food production; and 3. Context for the carbon cycle.

Speakers

Andrea Gardner (Utah State University: Logan, UT)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Day Session: Preservice Teacher Welcome

Come meet the NSTA Presidents and discover how NSTA can help you on your path to becoming a teacher of science at all levels.

Takeaways: 1. Meet the NSTA Presidents; 2. Learn about how NSTA can help preservice teachers; and 3. Discover NSTA resources available to you as a preservice teacher.

Speakers

Elizabeth Allan (University of Central Oklahoma: Edmond, OK), Eric Pyle (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA), Dennis Schatz (Institute for Learning Innovation: Beaverton, OR), Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Donna Governor (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA)

Preservice Day Session: It’s Debatable…for Preservice Teachers! Using Socioscientific Issues to Develop Scientific Literacy, K–12

During this session, participants will explore the use of controversial societal issues related to science to develop their students’ scientific literacy.

Takeaways: 1. Learn more about socioscientific issues; 2. Understand how socioscientific issues relate to scientific literacy; and 3. Learn how to address socioscientific issues in the classroom.

Speakers

Sami Kahn (Princeton University: Princeton, NJ)

Preservice Day Session: Teaching Science in a Virtual Learning Environment

Join us as we discuss strategies to provide ALL students opportunities for engaging in science and engineering practices individually from home and sensemaking collaboratively with their peers.

Takeaways: 1. Learn more about inequities that virtual learning has illuminated; 2. Strategize ways to make virtual learning more equitable; and 3. Learn more about NSTA resources to support that.

Speakers

Brianna Reilly (Great Minds: Washington, DC), Jessica Holman (Boone County High School: Florence, KY), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Day Session: Elevating the Discourse Between Science and Religion

How do you address students’ questions on science and religion? Join me for a conversation on different ways to address science and religion in a science classroom.

Takeaways: Learn more about how teachers can: 1. address students’ questions about science and religion ; 2. better understand the relationship between science and religion; and 3. clarify the role of science teachers in helping students navigate the differences.

Speakers

Ian Binns (The University of North Carolina at Charlotte: Charlotte, NC)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Day Session: ELL Inclusion in Science Teaching

Learn about implementation of culturally relevant resources in secondary science and practices to teach ELLs in elementary and middle grades science.

Takeaways: Learn how to: 1. use bilingualism (English/Spanish) in science; 2. use and create culturally relevant resources; and 3. promote socioscientific reasoning in science .

Speakers

Max Vazquez Dominguez (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA), Lorraine Ramirez Villarin (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA)

Preservice Day Session: Using Place-Based Education to Teach Beyond the Test

Learn how to incorporate place-based learning within your instruction to allow ALL students to apply their factual knowledge in practical, meaningful ways within a relevant context.

Takeaways: 1. Construct a deeper understanding of the content presented in state curriculum standards; 2. View experiential learning events as a critical aspect of science education in their classrooms; and 3. Discover how investigations of local natural phenomena can serve as the foundation on which investigations of more distant or abstract phenomena can be constructed.

Speakers

Robbie Higdon (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA)

Preservice Day Session: Supporting Equity and Justice Through 3-D Science Instruction: The Road Travelled and the One Ahead

Explore how instruction can equitably support science learning that is consequential to students and their communities while promoting a more just society and flourishing world.

Takeaways: 1. Learn more about what equitable science teaching is; and 2. Learn how to use the STEM Teaching Tools resources to support equitable science instruction.

Speakers

Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Day Session: Navigating Your Student Teaching

Join our panel of  these recent student teachers to find out how to successfully navigate your student teaching, Ask questions and interact with these graduating seniors.

Takeaways: 1. Hear from recent student teachers about the challenges they faced; 2. Ask questions about what to expect while student teaching; and 3. Get advice on how to handle the unexpected.

Speakers

Caleb Holtzclaw (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA), Richard Jones (University of Hawaii-West Oahu: Kaploei, HI), Naamah Shissler (Shippensburg University: Shippensburg, PA), Makae Bythewood (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA)

Preservice Day Session: Developing Leadership Through NSTA Student Chapters

Discover how an NSTA student chapter on your campus can support your professional growth and development! We’ll share tips for growing or starting your student chapter!

Takeaways: 1/ Learrn how to organize and start an NSTA student chapter for preservice teachers at your college or university; 2. Discover the wide range of activities that a chapter can organize for professional growth and development; and 3. Find out how NSTA is rebuilding our student chapter program at the National level.

Speakers

Donna Governor (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA), Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Robbie Higdon (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Day Session: Next Generation Science Assessment

Next Generation Science Assessment (NGSA) consists of tasks designed to meet the Next Generation of Science Standards and for teachers to use formatively in their science classrooms. Come learn how to access and use equitable assessment tasks to engage all students in 3-D learning!

Takeaways: 1. Learn about how to assess 3-D learning; 2. Understand how formative assessment aligns with the NGSS; and 3. Learn more about resources to support equitable assessment through NGSA.

Speakers

Joseph Krajcik (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University: East Lansing, MI)

Preservice Day Session: Safety in the Classroom

In this session, learn more about safety protocols specific for science and
critical to teaching science during a pandemic from NSTA’s Safety Advisor!

Takeaways: 1. Learn about NSTA supports for safety; 2. Explore safety issues for science teaching; and 3. Learn more about pandemic-related safety issues.

Speakers

Kenneth Roy (Glastonbury Public Schools: Glastonbury, CT)

Preservice Day Session: Preservice Teacher Wrap-Up

Don’t miss this final, short session to give feedback about the conference and  how NSTA can help you. We have some final information and door prizes as well!

Takeaways: 1. Provide feedback for today’s sessions; 2. Let us know how NSTA can help you grow as a preservice teacher; and 3. Win a $25 gift card for NSTA Press.

Speakers

Donna Governor (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA), Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

ASTC-Sponsored Session: The Art of Facilitating Observation: Strategies to Deepen Scientific Literacy

A 21st-century museum will share strategies developed through school partnerships that strengthen student language and listening skills while meeting Next Generation Science Standards.

Takeaways: Attendees will: 1. be introduced to strategies to practice student-led, evidence-based discussions about scientific concepts; 2. see the application of this open inquiry technique for in-person or digital learning; and 3. experience the process in action.

Speakers

Kerri Ziemann (The Wild Center: Tupper Lake, NY), Michael Trumbower (The Wild Center: Tupper Lake, NY)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Preservice Session: Preparing to Tackle Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Science Education

Ideas of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the science classroom are challenges for new teachers. Strategies, tools, and resources will be given to support preservice educators.

Takeaways: 1. How to teach for equity, diversity, and inclusion; 2. What you may not know and weren’t taught in your preparation program; and 3. Resources to help address these issues.

Speakers

Alicia Conerly (Monticello Elementary School: Monticello, MS)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Effective Questioning Strategies to Engage Students in STEM

Collaborate and share tools that can be used either in person or in a distance-learning environment. Discover how you can use these tools in the science classroom, especially with STEM projects and competitions.

Takeaways: 1. Collaborate and share tools that can be used either in person or in a distance-learning environment; 2. Discover how you can use these tools in the science classroom, especially with STEM projects and competitions; and 3. Engage with educators that are interested in improving science literacy with K-12 students via interactive engagement strategies for students.

Speakers

Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

A Differentiated Approach to Supporting Adult Learners

Join us to learn more about our journey to support teachers' social and emotional well-being by designing differentiated learning experiences as we implemented three-dimensional science.

Takeaways: 1. Methods to design effective differentiated learning for science educators; 2. Ways to support adult learners via differentiation; and 3. Ways to strengthen the implementation of 3-D science teaching, learning, and assessment across districts.

Speakers

Tonya Woolfolk (Houston County Schools: Perry, GA), Denise Richardson (Rockdale County Public Schools: Conyers, GA)

Fueling Success with Students—Win Up to $10K!

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

Takeaways: 1. Learn how to apply for a Shell-sponsored award; 2. begin your application or nomination of a Shell-sponsored program and receive a prize; and 3. collaborate with past winners and judges to learn how to strengthen your application.

Speakers

Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Richard Embrick (Crockett Middle School: Richmond, TX)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

Summer STEM Institute Goes Virtual: Creating an Engaging STEM Learning Program

We will share the strategies and activities that made our first virtual STEM institute an engaging and educational experience for diverse upper elementary and middle level youth.

Takeaways: Participants will: 1. identify best practices for engaging youth in informal STEM experiences, including an end-of-summer celebration; 2. learn how we delivered programming in STEM with multiple grade-level bands; and 3. gain a list of valuable resources we used to teach scientific concepts, including how we created and distributed kits.

Speakers

Demetrice Smith-Mutegi (Old Dominion University: Norfolk, VA)

Data, Graphs, Tables, Oh My! Strategies to Integrate Data Literacy and Pedagogy into Existing Science Curricula

Leverage how people learn to integrate key data skills with your science content through tips and strategies to engage with real-world data, science, and literacy.

Takeaways: Participants will gain: 1. a framework for thinking about how people learn with data and what the steps are along the progression from being a novice to expert user of data in STEM; 2. strategies and resources to use in our existing science teaching to better set students up for success in the future as they build their mastery of data skills to become more data and science literate, without adding more stress on a crowded curriculum; and 3. a suite of tips and tricks to integrate into your current science curriculum that enhance how students work with data to learn the content, ask questions and explore the data, analyze and interpret the data, and critically evaluate evidence and claims.

Speakers

Kristin Hunter-Thomson (Dataspire Education & Evaluation, Rutgers University: Princeton, NJ)

Presenter Materials for this Session:
(Materials are only accessible to NSTA Members)

ASTC-Sponsored Session: Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM

Do you care about inspiring girls to pursue STEM careers? Then join us to learn about the IF/THEN Collection designed to help ensure equitable gender representation in STEM! The IF/THEN Collection is the world’s largest FREE library of images, videos, and other content portraying women in STEM.

Takeaways: Participants will: 1. learn about the background and purpose of the IF/THEN Collection; 2. learn how to use the IF/THEN Collection to support STEM learning programs; and 3. get hands-on experience utilizing assets from the IF/THEN Collection.

Speakers

Jessica Hay (National Girls Collaborative Project: Seattle, WA)

Urban Science Educator Discussion and Panel

Educators share challenges and strategies to enhance STEM learning in the urban environment. A variety of real-world issues and their successful solutions will be shared.

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

Speakers

Michelle Ellis (Hunter Huss High School: Gastonia, NC), Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Pat Shane (Professor & NSTA President 2009-2010: Chapel Hill, NC), Brad Rhew (Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools: Winston Salem, NC), Rabiah Harris (Jefferson Middle School Academy: Washington, DC), Mary Beth Berrien (Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School: Greenfield, MA), Charles Hayes (Highland Oaks Elementary School: Memphis, TN)