Growing up in a single parent home on the south side of Chicago, IL, Justin J. Shaifer had little awareness of the potential of a STEM career. His worldview drastically transformed after experiences at Hampton University. Justin graduated with a bachelor's degree in marine and environmental science with the highest departmental GPA, and was also president of Hampton University's student body while receiving scholarships from NASA and NOAA that covered 100% of his tuition and room and board. Now 24 years old, Justin travels the country empowering young students to "embrace their inner nerd" despite their surroundings, and developing culturally responsive STEM curricula for New York City institutions.

Justin is executive director of Fascinate, Inc., an organization created to excite underrepresented students about STEM. He is known for his work on the Magic Cool Bus Project. Past partners of his organization include Microsoft, MIT Media Lab, and the Children’s Aid Society. Justin is studying these programs’ effects as a PhD student at Columbia University.

SPEAKERS:
Justin Shaifer (Fascinate, Inc.: New York, NY)

Hear about the new administration’s priorities and plans for supporting science and STEM educators and learn more about education and funding priorities in Congress. Bring your questions, and join us in this discussion about what’s going on in Washington, D.C.

SPEAKERS:
Jodi Peterson (: Sterling, VA)

Speed-sharing chat topics will include:

• Science experiments gone awry 
• Funniest teacher jokes
• Funniest administrator jokes
• “Worst day ever” experiences that you can now laugh at
• Funniest teacher sayings 
• Funniest things you’ve heard students say
• Weirdest experiment results
• Best science experiments
• If you could rename teachers, what would it be?
• If you could rename science, what would it be?
• Things you wish you would have known before becoming a science teacher
• Weird things you’ve done in class
• Weird things students have done in class
• Most hilarious things you’ve seen or heard at school
• Funniest tweets about teaching, teachers, or students you’ve ever seen.

Join in, have fun, and let loose! This event will be one you’ll never forget!

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

Please note that these chats are available to the first 500 participants.

This event is not being recorded.

Literacy has used “text to” connections to help students make authentic connections. Integrating picture books helps expand text to investigation connections in the science classroom.

This session is targeted for novice/intermediate attendees.

Materials needed:

• Children's book (related to science) of your choice
• shallow plastic tub with water (similar to plastic shoeboxes)
• variety of different objects that can be placed in water—some that sink and some that float
• tin foil
• common objects for weight to be used in tin foil boat such as pennies, marbles, similar sized legos, etc.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. explore how to expand a common literacy strategy of “text to” connections when using picture books in the elementary science classroom; 2. engage in investigations that model the use of “text to” connections that help students connect their own authentic experiences and help students understand and make sense; and 3. consider criteria for the selection of books, identification of phenomena, and how the selection of investigations can be a powerful experience for students.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Newburg, PA)

STEM in early childhood is challenging…and more so in a hybrid environment. Come play and explore a progressive series of STEM experiences.

To best enjoy this session, have the following items ready:

• an eye dropper
• water in two small cups
• wax paper or sheet protector
• some dark flower petals
• a little vinegar and baking soda solution
• a regular water bottle
• a teaspoon of dirt

TAKEAWAYS:
1. STEM habits of mind are the goal in early childhood; 2. A great STEM curriculum is progressive and fun; and 3. STEM experiences can be shared using hybrid technologies.

SPEAKERS:
Juliana Texley (Lesley University: Boca Raton, FL), Ruth Ruud (Cleveland State University: Venice, FL)

Learn to access hundreds of free hands-on engineering design activities that exemplify the interconnected three-dimensional elements of K–5 science learning.

For this beginner-level hands-on activity, each participant will need: 

• 4–6 Lifesaver® mints
• 4–6 plastic straws (with diameters smaller than the Lifesaver® mint’s hole diameter)
• 2–4 popsicle sticks
• 1–2 index cards (or thin cardboard or poster board scraps)
• tape (duct or masking)
• scissors
• paper
• pencil
• ramp (made from sturdy poster board or rigid cardboard)
• meter stick
• 10–30 pennies

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. engage in a hands-on NGSS engineering design–aligned activity for elementary students from the FREE TeachEngineering digital library; 2. experience the integration of design and design thinking through 3-D learning while exploring a fun way to ignite student creativity; and 3. experience the interconnectivity of 3-D learning while strengthening their own ability to implement 3-D teaching and learning practices in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Dua Chaker (Teach Engineering: No City, No State), Michael Soltys (TeachEngineering: Boulder, CO), Jennifer Kracha (Teach Engineering)

Attendees will participate in a hands-on experience as they construct an understanding of the best practices for presenting hands-on activities remotely.

This session is targeted for novice attendees.

Materials needed:

• scissors
• several paperclips
• sheet of scrap paper

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover tips, techniques, and strategies for the successful facilitation of online activities; 2. Discover new activities appropriate for online delivery, including virtual field trips; and 3. Participate in an online activity to experience (as a student) what works and what doesn't.

SPEAKERS:
Michael DiSpezio (Master Educator, Presenter, and Author: North Falmouth, MA)

Do you have a burning desire to discuss a topic or a special challenge with colleagues in an informal and participant-driven environment?

Then don’t miss this opportunity to submit your ideas and suggestions for topics that may be identified for Thursday’s Unconference Sessions. At that time, participants will be invited to join a topic that is of particular interest to them.

Your voice matters!

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes

Literacy strategies, such as analyzing, discussing, and summarizing, can be utilized while reading science-based articles, authentic science research, journals, and textbooks. The use of these strategies provides a cross-curricular bridge that not only increases understanding but also increases a student's ability to think critically. Our professionally trained STEM coaches know what it takes to effectively integrate literacy and writing into the science content. Using a constructivist approach, participants will experience hands-on learning that will give them a greater understanding of literacy in science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. work in a collaborative group to understand the importance of a constructivist approach; 2. understand how constructivist strategies provide a cross-curricular bridge that not only increases understanding but also increases a student's ability to think critically; and 3. work on an interactive activity to know what it takes to integrate literacy into the science content.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Mathis (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX), Jessica Morse (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Join Global Educator and Into Science author Michael DiSpezio for an engaging and motivating session on the tenets of an equitable approach to phenomena-based learning. Profiling an assortment of investigation phenomena, you'll discover how these process interactions are presented using everyday and inexpensive materials. Driven by experiences common to a diverse student population, the approach levels the often more exclusive playing field of traditional experimentation. Plus, it's fun! So, whether you are teaching face-to-face, hybrid, or remotely, this informative and practical session offers ideas for immediate implementation and success.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Tenets of an equitable approach to phenomena-based learning; 2. Discover how the process interactions are presented using everyday and inexpensive materials; and 3. Approaches that level the often more exclusive playing field of traditional experimentation.

SPEAKERS:
Michael DiSpezio (Master Educator, Presenter, and Author: North Falmouth, MA)

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes

With the increased focus on accountability for science, we can offer a play- and literacy-based program for young learners. This hands-on science program supports child development and socio-development in a meaningful way. There is always time for science!

TAKEAWAYS:
Science: 1. provides real-life applications for math and language arts; 2. develops problem-solving and critical-thinking skills; and 3. fosters curiosity and creativity.

SPEAKERS:
Mindy Stroup (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX), Amber Gunner (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Co.

Our ever-changing world brings new discoveries and concerns regarding environmental preservation and sustainability. Join Savvas Science Specialist and former teacher Monica Wadler and discover ways to use models to promote lively discussions, stimulate ideas, and engage students into designing solutions for filtering our Earths fresh water into drinkable water.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Using models in STEM; 2. Open inquiry; and 3. Engineering and design solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Monica Wadler (Savvas Learning Co.: Greencastle, IN)

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes

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

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will explore how to: 1. encourage student curiosity and engagement in authentic science and engineering practices; 2. engage students in deeper skills of inquiry; and 3. empower students to lead discussions about scientific phenomena, based on logical protocol for using evidence to make a claim.

SPEAKERS:
Maeve Green (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX), Susan Arnette (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Perdido, AL)

Sponsoring Company: NSTA Press

Argument-Driven Inquiry is an instructional model that gives students in grades 3–5 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)

Sponsoring Company: NASA James Webb Space Telescope Prog.

Launching in October 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope will be a large infrared telescope, serving thousands of astronomers worldwide. It will study every phase in the history of our universe. Join this workshop to see how to connect your class to this incredible telescope.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) will be more powerful than its predecessors and will be able to see further into space to discover distant planets in far-off galaxies; and 2. It will even give us the tools to search for indications of an atmosphere that could sustain life.

SPEAKERS:
Peter Sooy (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center: Greenbelt, MD)

The Elementary Extravaganza has been a very popular mainstay of the NSTA national conferences for eight years. This year it includes a rapid-fire series of presentations that provide preK–6 teachers with opportunities to impact their science teaching and learning. Each session will focus on specific topics that relate to the needs of preschool and elementary teachers.

After an energy-filled series of six presentations, a question and answer session will be held with presenters to provide time to discuss ideas. Six presenters in each room will provide ideas using a modified Pecha Kucha strategy.

The presenters are leaders in elementary science education and award-winning teachers. This session's presenters are members of the NAEYC Early Childhood Science Interest Forum. Three additional Elementary Extravaganza sessions will be scheduled throughout Elementary Week.

The presentations included in this session are:

Sea Turtle Exploration
Presenter: Anne Lowry

Spring into Science: Capillary Action Flowers
Presenter: Janna Doherty

Animal Architects
Presenter: Julie Travaglini

Make Way Raceway: Ramps and Balls
Presenter: Juelie Perry

Moderator: Julie Travaglini

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

SPEAKERS:
Juelie Perry (Inspire to Impact Consulting: Vero Beach, FL), Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV), Janna Doherty (STEMSpark LLC: Cambridge, MA), Julie Travaglini (Allegheny Land Trust: Canonsburg, PA)

Challenge and assess 21st-century learners through coding! We’ll explore code-based assessment or extension options related to a variety of NGSS Practices and Core Ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Challenging students to think critically and creatively through science-based coding projects builds competency in 21st-century skills while providing an innovative assessment opportunity; 2. Science practices and core ideas can be assessed through projects requiring varying levels of coding proficiency; and 3. Allowing students to creatively express their understanding of ideas can promote equity in access to computer science, enhance motivation and achievement, and provide another avenue for students to recognize their strengths.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Townsend (Oak Grove Primary School: Prairieville, LA)

The authors of the Picture-Perfect STEM series will share how  picture books can make STEM come alive for your students!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Strategies for integrating STEM and literacy in K–5; 2. Suggested picture books that integrate STEM and literacy; and 3. A STEM lesson you can use right away.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Morgan (Picture-Perfect Science: West Chester, OH), Karen Ansberry (Picture-Perfect Science: Lebanon, OH)

Experience the interdisciplinary approach of the FoodPrints Curriculum with a Science and ELA focus to teach nine major garden and food education themes.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Engage in three different lessons (Edible Plant Parts, Seed Dispersal, and the Garden Ecosystem) for grades 1–3 that can be used in the classroom, and adapted for virtual instruction using literacy-based approaches aligned to Common Core ELA and hands-on science investigations aligned to NGSS; 2. Learn methods for teaching vocabulary in the garden, using visual literacy as a tool for teaching science content, addressing speaking and listening standards, using creative approaches to early writing, and using read alouds to support instruction; and 3. Explore the FoodPrints Curriculum’s interdisciplinary approach to teaching elementary science lessons with garden and food education themes and gain free access to our lessons and resources for preK–5.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Bandler (FRESHFARM FoodPrints: Washington, DC), Jennifer Ramsey (FRESHFARM FoodPrints: Annapolis, MD)

Join us to experience an elementary NSTA lesson plan containing the assets that contemporary research shows are needed to support ALL students, particularly those from underserved communities and those traditionally marginalized in science classrooms. Reflect on the teacher guidance provided that empowers students, targets current standards, and creates a classroom community of learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Gain strategies designed to shift instruction to create engagement and scientific literacy for ALL students that leverage the assets students bring to the table; 2. Explore a high-quality NSTA lesson plan; and 3. Understand what sensemaking is and how to create opportunities for sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Jersey City, NJ), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Clarksville, TN)

Investigate using inquiry-based learning and the SEPs to deepen students’ understanding of both science concepts and literacy strategies remotely or in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. l eave with a toolkit of hands-on, inquiry science investigations inspired and enhanced by literature; 2. l earn about distance-learning tools that support integrating the Science and Engineering Practices with literacy strategies to engage students in real-world science; and 3. identify strategies and resources for using books, productive talk, and science writing to integrate science, literacy, and discussion in ways that foster critical thinking, academic language, and meaning making.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Ryack-Bell (Wade Institute for Science Education: Dartmouth, MA), Kathy Renfrew (Wade Institute for Science Education: Milford, MA)

Learn how students in grades 3–5 can explore issues of racial equity while investigating the COVID-19 pandemic, supported by family engagement and social-emotional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn that: 1. students’ own questions about COVID-19 and its disproportionate impact motivate them to authentically engage in NGSS Science and Engineering Practices and other connected multidisciplinary standards; 2. students can be supported in their exploration of the COVID-19 pandemic and inequities it has amplified by inviting families to be partners and incorporating social-emotional learning; and 3. students use the science they learn to explore ways their own decisions can help them care for themselves, their families, and their communities.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Bang (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Evanston, IL), Sara Ivory (The Ogden International School of Chicago, East Campus: Chicago, IL), Gail Housman (Northwestern University: Brookfield, IL), Tyler Scaletta (Alcott Elementary School: Chicago, IL), Dan Voss (Northwestern University: Minneapolis, MN), Carrie Tzou (University of Washington Bothell: Seattle, WA), Katy Fattaleh (The Nora Project: La Grange Highlands, IL), Ashley Stanley (Dewey Elementary School: Evanston, IL)

The Elementary Extravaganza has been a very popular mainstay of the NSTA national conferences for eight years. This year it includes a rapid-fire series of presentations that provide preK–6 teachers with opportunities to impact their science teaching and learning. Each session will focus on specific topics that relate to the needs of preschool and elementary teachers.

After an energy-filled series of six presentations, a question and answer session will be held with presenters to provide time to discuss ideas. Six presenters in each room will provide ideas using a modified Pecha Kucha strategy.

The presenters are leaders in elementary science education and award-winning teachers. This session's presenters are members of the NSTA Committee on Preschool–Elementary Science Teaching. Three additional Elementary Extravaganza sessions will be scheduled throughout Elementary Week.

The presentations included in this session are:

Science Discoveries in PreK Town Planning
Presenter: Anne Lowry

Making Sense of the Moon and its Phases with Models
Presenter: Judith Boyle

Stop-Motion Science
Presenter: Ashley Townsend

Green Architects: The Wall Is Alive
Presenter: Annette Venegas

Teaching the Engineering Design Process in a Virtual Classroom
Presenter: Jennifer Williams

Creating Science Authors: Making Books About the Moon
Presenter: Wendi Laurence

Moderator: Judith Boyle

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV), Judith Boyle (Retired Educator: Whitehall, MT), Ashley Townsend (Oak Grove Primary School: Prairieville, LA), Annette Venegas (retired: Gig Harbor, WA), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: Belle Chasse, LA), Wendi Laurence (Education Specialist: Park City, UT)

STEAM activities are for early childhood students, too! Connect STEAM and literature with three-dimensional learning in a series of culturally relevant, play-based activities exploring simple machines.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Literature and visual texts provide opportunities for students to experience STEAM in a context that is familiar and meaningful to them; 2. STEAM-integrated activities, such as those presented in this unit of study, promote 3-D learning through scientific inquiry and investigation, mathematical exploration, and initial development of executive functioning skills; and 3. There is a need to engage in literature-connected, STEAM-integrated activities in the early childhood years. In formal and informal educational environments, young children are curious, inquisitive, and eager to explore STEAM concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsey Herlehy (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL), Cassandra Armstrong (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL)

Join us to experience an elementary NSTA lesson plan containing the assets that contemporary research shows are needed to support ALL students, particularly those from underserved communities and those traditionally marginalized in science classrooms. Reflect on the teacher guidance provided that empowers students, targets current standards, and creates a classroom community of learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Gain strategies designed to shift instruction to create engagement and scientific literacy for ALL students that leverage the assets students bring to the table; 2. Explore a high-quality NSTA lesson plan; and 3. Understand what sensemaking is and how to create opportunities for sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Clarksville, TN), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Jersey City, NJ)

Learn more about FREE curriculum modules from the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention that promote the engagement of all students in science and engineering! Modules were co-developed by Western Washington University and the Bellingham School District.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn more: 1. about the world-class collection of electrical engineering artifacts, such as Edison's first light bulb and early prototype electrical devices, available to educators (including virtual collections) at the SPARK Museum; 2. about FREE curriculum modules aligned to the NGSS that engage students in the engineering design process while learning about energy; and 3. ways that engineering can be made relevant to students from diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities.

SPEAKERS:
Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Bridget Dahlman-Oeth (Western Washington University: Kirkland, WA), Abby Russell (SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention: Bellingham, WA)

Early positive experiences in STEM are critical for future academic success and the development of STEM-related habits of mind. In this session, participants will make connections between current research and resources for science and math implementation. Educators will also explore resources for increasing STEM discourse and engaging families in math exploration at home.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. STEM activites for young learners; 2. Resources for STEM discourse; and 3. Family engagement strategies for math explorations.

SPEAKERS:
Lauren Thompson Allen (D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education: Clinton, MD)

Virtual word walls support academic language acquisition. Three strategies will be presented for use in remote or in hybrid classrooms to strategically target vocabulary.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use virtual interactive word walls to support academic language acquisition during remote or hybrid instruction; 2. Learn how to use virtual interactive word walls to highlight connections between science concepts and inquiry-based science activities while connecting scientific concepts and academic vocabulary; and 3. Experience three strategies that may be used, with virtual interactive word walls, to strategically target vocabulary during remote or in hybrid instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Jackson (Texas State University: Round Rock, TX)

Join the author of Notable Notebooks and Exemplary Evidence to discuss effective notebooking practices. Get a preview of her upcoming book about elementary science notebooks!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Science notebooks are an essential component of 3-D student-centered classrooms; 2. While there are a variety of notebook models in use, a flexible, hybrid approach is best to meet the needs of elementary students; and 3. Notebooks can be a rich source of formative and summative assessment data.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Fries-Gaither (Columbus School for Girls: Hilliard, OH)

Discover how "Tub People" can be used to deepen young learners’ understanding of subtraction under 10 and how quick prototypes help solve engineering problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Great mathematics and engaging engineering challenges can be found in children's literature; 2. Learners of all ages benefit from identifying patterns and discovering multiple ways to represent their understanding; and 3. Whether it be in solving mathematical expressions or finding engineering solutions, young learners benefit from using manipulatives as they work.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Burton (Trinity School: Atlanta, GA), Becky Holden (Trinity School: Atlanta, GA)

Experiments do not belong just in the science classroom anymore! Learn about STEAM-focused NASA resources that can serve as a companion to literary novels.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. walk away with list of STEAM novels; 2. be given NASA resources that can accompany literary novels; and 3. walk away with a material list for activities discussed during session that can be used in person or virtually.

SPEAKERS:
Celena Miller (Texas Space Grant Consortium: Austin, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Legends of Learning

With the amount of time for science instruction constantly under scrutiny, developing experiences beyond traditional classroom hours is critical. Learn how educators can leverage game-based learning to introduce, review, and deepen student content understanding. Through student-driven learning, Legends of Learning helps educators ensure that not a moment of time is lost.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. New ways to engage students through game-based instruction; 2. How student-driven learning resources can maximize instructional time; and 3. Strategies for using game-based learning to introduce, reinforce, and enrich student content experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Joselyn Whetzel (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD), Aryah Fradkin (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD), Sean Reidy (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD)

Sponsoring Company: Nat'l Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke

Discover exciting brain educational resources from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke! Join this interactive workshop to learn about engaging, interactive online videos; activities; lesson plans; and games for children and teens that are sure to engender excitement about the brain. Share your insights with federal staff.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has an array of resources for children in grades K–12, including stroke awareness lesson plans, introductory information about the brain, and brain-related classroom activities and videos; and 2. Attendees will learn how to access and use these resources to promote excitement and curiosity about the brain and brain science with students.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha White (NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Bethesda, MD), Nina Lichtenberg (NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Bethesda, MD), Diana Andriola (NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Bethesda, MD)

Sponsoring Company: Ward's Science

Explore the life cycle of a butterfly using our Ward’s Science live butterfly larvae! During this virtual workshop, educators will go through all the steps required to “build” a butterfly and observe its life cycle in a classroom. Motivate and meet the needs of all learners with daily observations and growth recordings as well as art projects building models and creative writing suggestions for language arts. We’ll see why butterflies are beneficial to our environment and an exciting living learning tool for the classroom. Door prizes to multiple winners!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to handle LIVE larvae for your life cycle of a butterfly unit; 2. Care and feeding of larvae and newly emerged butterflies; and 3. Create life cycle models incorporating Art and Language arts.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Ahern (Ward's Science: Austin, TX), Peter Tucker (Ward's Science: West Henrietta, NY)

Sponsoring Company: NSTA Press

The author of the Next Time You See series will share a mentor text study where students can write their own Next Time You See book about a natural object of their choice.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Educator Guide for Mentor Text Study; 2. Series of YouTube videos guiding the study; and 3. Ideas for balancing screen time with green time.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Morgan (Picture-Perfect Science: West Chester, OH)

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Curriculum

A three-dimensional, phenomena-based science program can help address many of today’s challenges. Using examples from Building Blocks of Science® 3D, we’ll identify opportunities to support learning recovery, engage all learners, and promote social and emotional learning. Participants are invited to share ideas that worked and struggles they still face.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Participants will identify opportunities to support learning recovery; 2. We will engage all learners; and 3. We will promote social and emotional learning through three-dimensional science.

SPEAKERS:
Cory Ort (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Sponsoring Company: Brain Chase

Dive into interactive, educational Escape Rooms, and learn how you can design your own programs using dozens of electives and different Escape Room themes. Plus, there will be a fun sneak-peek of our fun Escape Room experience with NSTA that is scheduled on May 6.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Using escape rooms and treasure hunts makes learning feel like an adventure for students; 2. Adventures incentivize learning, progress, and engages 21st-century skills; and 3. Hands-on projects to engage students add to a more robust experience that straddles virtual and physical worlds.

SPEAKERS:
Gracie Helms (Brain Chase: Austin, TX)

Sponsoring Company: The Walking Classroom

The Walking Classroom is a research-proven program of audio podcasts that students listen to while they walk. Our STEM program includes 60 science podcasts, including a science career series and supplemental resources. Elementary students learn better, retain information longer, and want to learn more about topics after listening and walking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. learn about the research-proven benefits of listening to podcasts while walking as experienced by students; 2. find out more about the podcast content provided by The Walking Classroom, which includes Earth science, physical science, life science, and a careers in science series; and 3. get an overview of the additional resources provided that supplement each podcast and include video clips, downloadable worksheets, suggested hands-on activities, virtual field trips, and more!

SPEAKERS:
Debra Ives (The Walking Classroom: Chapel Hill, NC)

Sponsoring Company: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Join Reading and ELD Specialist and HMH Into Science author Marjorie Frank for a workshop that uses a variety of interactive activities to provide a rationale for integrating ELA experiences into science instruction, and processes and procedures for doing so. A simple and straightforward hands-on activity will be used as a launch point for a lesson plan.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. A variety of interactive activities; 2. A rationale for integrating ELA experiences into science instruction and processes and procedures for doing so; and 3. A simple and straightforward hands-on activity will be used as a launch point for a lesson plan.

SPEAKERS:
Marjorie Frank (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt: Boston, MA)

Don’t miss your opportunity to hear from U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel A. Cardona as he shares a special message and answers questions from science teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Miguel Cardona (U.S. Secretary of Education: Washington, DC)

Welcome to Thursday’s Unconference Experience! So what IS an unconference and why would I want to participate?

Do you have a burning desire to discuss a topic or a special challenge with colleagues in an informal and participant-driven environment? Then join this opportunity to discuss one of the following topic ideas and suggestions that have been identified by you and your colleagues. During this time, participants will be invited to join a topic that is of particular interest and relevance to them.

• Creative ways to support the social and emotional needs of students during COVID-19
• Strategies to develop more inclusive classrooms (minimize biases and inequalities including technological challenges)
• Addressing learning losses without compromising standards
• Best practices in hybrid teaching experiences
• Examples of successful collaborations between informal and formal educators
• Sharing authentic assessment strategies

Teachers will explore how to break down this controversial topic, teach it across disciplines, make it culturally relevant, and motivate students to develop climate change solutions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Elementary teachers will: 1. walk away with peer- and science-reviewed lessons they can immediately put to use in their teaching; 2. walk away with a variety of strategies and resources that will help integrate climate science into their classrooms; and 3. learn how to break down the complex and controversial subject of climate change.

SPEAKERS:
Tiffany Boyd (Classrooms for Climate Action: Louisville, CO), Alicia Christensen (Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences: Boulder, CO), Rae Han (EarthGen: Seattle, WA)

Discover free age-appropriate "Cooped Up Kids" activities that connect kids to the outdoors and exciting science content whether in school, remote, or blended.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover free hands-on lessons that are tied to the NGSS and Common Core Standards and discuss how to implement them whether learners are at home or in school; 2. Describe the socio-emotional benefits of place-based outdoor experiences for diverse K–8 students; and 3. Learn how to access a variety of free educational interactives, online multimedia resources, and citizen science projects scaffolded by lessons that are perfect for K–8 settings.

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

Learn how Culturally Responsive Teaching strategies engage elementary students in inquiry and modeling while fostering student agency and developing 21st-century skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn Culturally Responsive Teaching strategies that increase student participation and engage them in learning around the NGSS; 2. learn how collaboration to model phenomena can support English Learners by providing equitable opportunities in science education while helping students develop their voice and fostering student agency while fostering 21st-century skills; and 3. be invited to reflect on how to develop student agency whether teaching in-person or in distant learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Trochez MacLean (Gates Street Elementary School: Los Angeles, CA)

Learn about Argument-Driven Inquiry and how to use this instructional model to provide rigorous and equitable learning experiences for children.

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 as they learn to use the core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and practices of science to make sense of natural phenomena.

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

In this virtual workshop, participants will learn how to use purposefully designed, engaging questions to elicit and address students’ commonly held ideas about core concepts and practices in engineering and technology. Participants will learn: 1) how formative assessment probes reveal students' ideas about engineering and technology, including common misconceptions and stereotypes about engineers; 2) how to embed the engineering and technology probes into instruction; 3) how the engineering and technology probes support disciplinary core ideas and practices; and 4) how the probes can be integrated into activities at home in this time of distance learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn: 1) how formative assessment probes reveal students' ideas about engineering and technology, including common misconceptions and stereotypes about engineers; 2) how to embed the engineering and technology probes into instruction; 3) how the engineering and technology probes support disciplinary core ideas and practices; and 4) how the probes can be integrated into activities at home in this time of distance learning.

SPEAKERS:
Mihir Ravel (Visiting Scholar: Portland, OR), Cary Sneider (Portland State University: Portland, OR), Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: Fort Myers, FL)

Kidlit opens the world to students through information, illustrations, and interesting topics. This panel will feature award-winning children’s authors whose stories create portals to exploring science.

Moderator: J. Carrie Launius

Presider: Christine Anne Royce

Panelists:

• Laurie Wallmark, Author
• Melissa Stewart, Children's Book Author
• Jessica Fries-Gaither, NSTA Press Author, and Columbus School for Girls
• Tracy Nelson Maurer, Author
• Patricia Valdez, Scientist and Author

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Stewart (Children's Book Author: Acton, MA), Tracy Nelson Maurer (Author: Forest Lake, MN), Patricia Valdez (Author: Kensington, MD), Jessica Fries-Gaither (Columbus School for Girls: Hilliard, OH), Laurie Wallmark (Beaming Books: Ringoes, NJ), Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Newburg, PA), J Carrie Launius (SEI: St. Louis, MO)

Bestselling author Max Brooks believes in the power of educating through entertainment, whether it’s learning survival skills through zombie fiction or better understanding our own history through graphic novels. What better way to reach students than through mediums they have fun using, such as video games? Join Max as he explains why he thinks the massively popular game Minecraft has the potential to be the greatest teaching tool since Gutenberg’s printing press.

SPEAKERS:
Max Brooks (Author: Venice, CA)

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

STEM is not just about integrating science, technology, engineering, and math. Dr. Carol O’Donnell discusses how schools can support STEM students and teachers of diverse backgrounds through curricula, professional development, and leadership development that take an integrated approach to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in K–12 STEM. Participants will learn about several free Smithsonian resources to integrate inclusive design into K–12 STEM curricula, apply PD strategies for teaching English learners and girls in STEM, and diversify the STEM teaching workforce.

SPEAKERS:
Carol ODonnell (Smithsonian Institution: Washington, DC)

Sponsoring Company: PAEMST

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)

Sponsoring Company: NSTA Press

Learn how to use explore-before-explain learning to flip the traditional teaching script and promote long-lasting understanding in physical, life, and Earth and space science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Why sequence matters—a concise review of cognitive science and science education research explains why the order in which you structure your lessons is so critical; 2. How you do it—ready-to-teach lessons that use an explore-before-explain sequence; and 3. Connections to modern standards—Next Generation Science Standards and makes interdisciplinary connections to the Common Core State Standards.

SPEAKERS:
Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: Saint Charles, MO)

Sponsoring Company: Amplify

Students learn best when they are empowered to draw on and make connections to their own experiences, prior knowledge, and cultural and social backgrounds. In this interactive session, participants will explore how an asset-based approach can inform strategic adaptations to core science instructional materials to promote equity, relevance, and deep learning for all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn how to empower students to draw on and make connections to their own experiences, prior knowledge, and cultural and social backgrounds; learn how an asset-based approach can inform strategic adaptations to core science instructional materials; and 3. gain strategies on how to promote equity, relevance, and deep learning for all students.

SPEAKERS:
Leslie Stenger (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Santa Rosa, CA), Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

Sponsoring Company: NSTA Press

The authors of the Picture-Perfect STEM series will share lessons that integrate STEM and literacy through the use of engaging STEM-related picture books.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Picture-Perfect lesson you can use in your classroom right away; 2. Picture book recommendations for integrating STEM and literacy; and 3. Padlet of Picture-Perfect STEM resources.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Morgan (Picture-Perfect Science: West Chester, OH), Karen Ansberry (Picture-Perfect Science: Lebanon, OH)

Sponsoring Company: TCI

Essential to good scientific practice and mitigating learning loss is the ability to communicate an argument effectively. You’ll be mining chocolate chip cookies to see the cause and effect between human activity and Earth Systems. We’ll demonstrate how to integrate language skills while guiding students in developing their science knowledge.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Mitigate learning loss by integrating literacy skills in science investigations; 2. Learn to integrate literacy skills into elementary science classrooms; and 3. Leave with practical real-world tips that can be immediately incorporated into the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn Smith (TCI: Murray, KY), Kelsey Moore (TCI: Mountain View, CA)

Sponsoring Company: Brain Chase

Dive into interactive, educational Escape Rooms, and learn how you can design your own programs using dozens of electives and different Escape Room themes. Plus, there will be a fun sneak-peek of our fun Escape Room experience with NSTA that is scheduled on May 6.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Using escape rooms and treasure hunts makes learning feel like an adventure for students; 2. Adventures incentivize learning, progress, and engages 21st-century skills; and 3. Hands-on projects to engage students add to a more robust experience that straddles virtual and physical worlds.

SPEAKERS:
Gracie Helms (Brain Chase: Austin, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Amplify

What have we learned during the past year about what we most value about teaching and learning? Where does science fit in a responsive relaunch? Join leaders from UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science as we reflect on these questions and begin to explore how to capitalize on a phenomenon-based approach to create a culture that values student voice and fosters curiosity and engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

The Elementary Extravaganza has been a very popular mainstay of the NSTA national conferences for eight years. This year it includes a rapid-fire series of presentations that provide preK–6 teachers with opportunities to impact their science teaching and learning. Each session will focus on specific topics that relate to the needs of preschool and elementary teachers.

After an energy-filled series of six presentations, a question and answer session will be held with presenters to provide time to discuss ideas. Six presenters in each room will provide ideas using a modified Pecha Kucha strategy.

The presenters are leaders in elementary science education and award-winning teachers. This session's presenters are Science & Children authors and reviewers. Three additional Elementary Extravaganza sessions will be scheduled throughout Elementary Week.

The presentations included in this session are:

STEAM Across Elementary Grade Levels: Engineering Design, Bridges Across the World, and the Art Element of Line
Presenter: Kathleen Tate

Drawing Like a Scientist
Presenter: Christine Preston

Schoolyard Investigations: Outdoor Science with Primary Learners
Presenter: Laura Schneider

Creative Connections: Expanding Access to STEM and Literacy at the Elementary Level
Presenter: Sara Nelson and Rachel Shannon

STREAMing Engineering
Presenters: Lauren Burrow and Chrissy Cross

Shape, Bake, and Grow: Taking to the Outdoors in Urban Settings Encourages Plant Knowledge and Healthy Lifestyles
Presenter: Shelly Counsell, Mary Palmer, and Felicia Peat

Moderator: Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

SPEAKERS:
Kathleen Tate (American Public University System: Lakeway, TX), Christine Preston (The University of Sydney: Hornsby, Australia), Laura Schneider (Father Andrew White School: Hollywood, MD), Sara Nelson (Iowa State University: Ames, IA), Lauren Burrow (Stephen F. Austin State University: Nacogdoches, TX), Chrissy Cross (Stephen F. Austin State University: Nacogdoches, TX), Shelly Counsell (Self Employed Consultant: Buffalo, NY), Mary Palmer (Southwest Tennessee Community College, Macon Cove Campus: Memphis, TN), Felicia Peat (WKNO: Cordova, TN), Rachel Shannon (Iowa 4-H Youth Development: Ames, IA)

Discover research-based approaches on how to build a strong makerspace community that taps into foundational scientific literacy skills. Participate in a makerspace project-based literacy challenge.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Improve culturally responsive teaching in an informal makerspace environment through the development of makerspace pop-up activities and training approaches following a makerspace project-based literacy process; 2. Increase scientific literacy achievement through informal literacy hands-on makerspace pop-up activities focused on STEM real-world activities; and 3. Describe opportunities and hands-on mobile approaches to build capacity of existing informal makerspace learning of remote communities, diverse learners, and STEM professionals serving underrepresented minority populations.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Miller (Sul Ross State University: Alpine, TX), Thomas Tomas (Little Singer Community School: Flagstaff, AZ)

Five STEM authors provide hand-on activities and ideas for using picture books to support both literacy and science in the classroom and via distance learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. An understanding of how to incorporate STEM activities into your literacy routines; 2. Full lesson plans for classroom and at-home activities that can be used with each of our books; and 3. A list of STEM book titles to support literacy and science learning in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Larson (Author: Lancaster, CA), Vicky Fang (Product Designer & Author-Illustrator: Los Altos, CA), Jen Malia (Norfolk State University: Norfolk, VA), Colleen Paeff (Author: Los Angeles, CA), Lindsay Metcalf (Author: Concordia, KS)

Inclusive approaches to teaching and learning include probing questions that all students can relate to, that provide multiple entry points for engagement, and that create a desire to want to figure it out. Learn how to use the Uncovering Student Ideas probes and strategies to support a classroom where all students' ideas matter!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn about a resource for formative assessment; 2. Explore key points from research on learning that support using formative assessment probes; and 3. Gain new strategies for eliciting all students' ideas and building a classroom culture where everyone's ideas matter.

SPEAKERS:
Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: Fort Myers, FL)

The Elementary Extravaganza has been a very popular mainstay of the NSTA national conferences for eight years. This year it includes a rapid-fire series of presentations that provide preK–6 teachers with opportunities to impact their science teaching and learning. Each session will focus on specific topics that relate to the needs of preschool and elementary teachers.

After an energy-filled series of six presentations, a question and answer session will be held with presenters to provide time to discuss ideas. Six presenters in each room will provide ideas using a modified Pecha Kucha strategy.

The presenters are leaders in elementary science education and award-winning teachers. This session's presenters are Society of Elementary Presidential Awardees. Three additional Elementary Extravaganza sessions will be scheduled throughout Elementary Week.

The presentations included in this session are:

The Power of a Punch Card
Presenter: Crystal Brown

Old Enough to Save the Planet and Pretty Tricky
Presenter: Delene Hoffner

Darwin’s Rival: Alfred Russel Wallace and the Search for Evolution
Presenter: Christine Anne Royce

Busy Bird Nest Builders
Presenter: Nancy Smith

A Special Place Early Childhood STEM
Presenter: Juliana Texley

Explore the World with Technology, Movement, and Citizen Science
Presenter: Natalie Harr Ylizarde

Moderator: Conni Crittenden

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal Brown (Hunter Elementary School: Dexter, MI), DeLene Hoffner (Retired & eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO), Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Newburg, PA), Nancy Smith (Heatherstone Elementary School: Olathe, KS), Juliana Texley (Lesley University: Boca Raton, FL), Natalie Harr Ylizarde (University of Maryland: Oakton, VA), Conni Crittenden (Msta: East Lansing, MI)

Join NASA Aeronautics and author Kirsten Larson for hands-on STEAM learning, and find exciting ways to stimulate creativity and design thinking in younger students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Effective STEM learning strategies for younger students focused on storytelling, real-life applications, and engaging hands-on learning; 2. The use of authentic and engaging children's literature that will provide a context for STEM topics, engage students, and support reading, writing, and critical-thinking skills; and 3. Introduction to NASA’s STEM resources that provide high-quality learning resources, instructional support, and opportunities to join in on new missions and events.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Larson (Author: Lancaster, CA), April Lanotte (NASA Headquarters: Monument, CO), Lisa Wininger (LMI: Portage, MI)

“Growing from Home: A Literacy STEM Adventure” encourages inquiry-based exploration through an accessible bilingual activity series that links STEM exploration with culturally relevant literature and physical engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be: 1. sent 10 engaging bilingual STEM activities that include culturally and thematically relevant reading suggestions and healthy, accessible recipes; 2. given access to the interactive, bilingual, captioned video demonstrations for the 10 activities in the series; and 3. provided “activity action cards” that relate to each of the STEM activities and help integrate STEM and literacy skill development with physical movement.

SPEAKERS:
Mariah Romaninsky (The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University: Philadelphia, PA), Meghan Nealon (GrowingGreat: Manhattan Beach, CA)

Engage in this interactive session to find out how the idea of anchoring to a phenomena to begin a STEM unit lays out a plan for helping students to see how science impacts their community.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Understand why the scenario helps students connect the phenomena to their own community/ global issues; 2. Show how to move from the unit phenomena introduction to the crafting the storyline for the student learning; and 3. Teachers will have a chance to practice developing their own scenario based on a given phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Jo Anne Vasquez (NSTA President 96-97: , AZ), Michael Comer (Consultant: Worcester, MA)

Alejandro understands that students arrive each day with an abundance of cultural wealth. He will share how establishing authentic relationships with his students and strategically integrating culturally relevant instruction has increased student motivation, morale, and engagement in his class. He will also provide insight to some of the challenges that our students from underrepresented populations face, and how providing his students access to a variety of people, programs, resources, and experiential learning opportunities has been critical to his students’ success.

SPEAKERS:
Alejandro Diasgranados (Aiton Elementary School: Washington, DC)

Virtual bar hopping in our sweatpants with amazing science educators across New England? Yes, please! Come join us for an informal and fun hour catching up with fellow science educators across New England. If you’d like to join in with a special New England–inspired drink while we meet, see the recipes below:

Host: Susan Meabh Kelly (District I)

Bartender: Anica Miller Rushing (District II)

The Cape Codder

• Alcohol free: Cranberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes
• Cocktail: Cranberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes, and vodka

The Blue and Stormy

• Alcohol free: Blueberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes
• Cocktail: Blueberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes, and vodka

SPEAKERS:
Susan Meabh Kelly (University of Connecticut: Bridgewater, CT), Anica Miller-Rushing (University of Maine: Mount Desert, ME)

Hosts/Bartenders: 

• Jacob Hayward (District VII)
• Shannon Hudson (District X)
• Jodi Bahr (District XI)
• Brian Klaft (District XII)
• Terry White (District XIII)

Please join NSTA Districts VII, IX, X, XI, XII, and XIII for a virtual cocktail. Create an original cocktail by using leftover ingredients you have lying around. Attendees will then share their original recipes and conference experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Terry White (Fort Bend ISD: Houston, TX), Jacob Hayward (Eureka Springs High School: Fayetteville, AR), Shannon Hudson (Crawfordsville Middle School: Crawfordsville, IN), Brian Klaft (Granger Middle School: Aurora, IL), Jodi Bahr (Harvard Public Schools: Hastings, NE)

Virtual bar hopping in our sweatpants with amazing science educators across New England? Yes, please! Come join us for an informal and fun hour catching up with fellow science educators across New England. If you’d like to join in with a special New England–inspired drink while we meet, see the recipes below:

Host: Susan Meabh Kelly (District I)

Bartender: Anica Miller Rushing (District II)

The Cape Codder

• Alcohol free: Cranberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes
• Cocktail: Cranberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes, and vodka

The Blue and Stormy

• Alcohol free: Blueberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes
• Cocktail: Blueberry juice, slice of lime, ice cubes, and vodka

SPEAKERS:
Susan Meabh Kelly (University of Connecticut: Bridgewater, CT), Anica Miller-Rushing (University of Maine: Mount Desert, ME)

Hosts/Bartenders: 

• Jacob Hayward (District VII)
• Shannon Hudson (District X)
• Jodi Bahr (District XI)
• Brian Klaft (District XII)
• Terry White (District XIII)

Please join NSTA Districts VII, IX, X, XI, XII, and XIII for a virtual cocktail. Create an original cocktail by using leftover ingredients you have lying around. Attendees will then share their original recipes and conference experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Jacob Hayward (Eureka Springs High School: Fayetteville, AR), Shannon Hudson (Crawfordsville Middle School: Crawfordsville, IN), Jodi Bahr (Harvard Public Schools: Hastings, NE), Brian Klaft (Granger Middle School: Aurora, IL), Terry White (Fort Bend ISD: Houston, TX)

In this session participants will get an overview of how environmental and climate justice have been introduced to classrooms through partnerships, expos, and educational programming. Participants will also get an overview of key terms, focus areas, and resources for learning more about environmental and climate justice through a local lens.

SPEAKERS:
Taylor Morton (WE ACT for Environmental Justice: New York, NY)

Hear about the new administration’s priorities and plans for supporting science and STEM educators and learn more about education and funding priorities in Congress. Bring your questions, and join us in this discussion about what’s going on in Washington, D.C.

SPEAKERS:
Jodi Peterson (: Sterling, VA)

Speed-sharing chat topics will include:

• Science experiments gone awry 
• Funniest teacher jokes
• Funniest administrator jokes
• “Worst day ever” experiences that you can now laugh at
• Funniest teacher sayings 
• Funniest things you’ve heard students say
• Weirdest experiment results
• Best science experiments
• If you could rename teachers, what would it be?
• If you could rename science, what would it be?
• Things you wish you would have known before becoming a science teacher
• Weird things you’ve done in class
• Weird things students have done in class
• Most hilarious things you’ve seen or heard at school
• Funniest tweets about teaching, teachers, or students you’ve ever seen.

Join in, have fun, and let loose! This event will be one you’ll never forget!

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

Please note that these chats are available to the first 500 participants.

This event is not being recorded.

Experience a contact tracing activity and explore how a storyline unit supports SEL during the pandemic while emphasizing health equity. Print http://bit.ly/MSContactTracing ahead of time.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. learn how discussions of a pandemic can be attentive to students’ social-emotional needs; 2. consider how COVID-19-focused learning can and should provoke students' thinking about how their actions affect others and can help end pandemics; and 3. experience a contact-tracing activity that supports students’ thinking about issues of trust in public health.

SPEAKERS:
Dan Voss (Northwestern University: Minneapolis, MN), Dawn Novak (Northwestern University: Grayslake, IL)

My NASA Data shares scientifically interesting stories and other resources that can be implemented for Earth Day.

Click here for a list of materials needed and activity instructions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. gain access to data stories that can be used on Earth Day; 2. learn of interactive models that incorporate NASA Earth data; and 3. walk away with access to NASA resources for their Earth science classrooms that can be linked directly to their learning management systems.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: Newport News, VA), Elizabeth Joyner (NASA Langley Research Center: Suffolk, VA)

Attendees will participate in a hands-on experience as they construct an understanding of the best practices for presenting hands-on activities remotely.

This session is targeted for novice attendees.

Materials needed:

• scissors
• several paperclips
• sheet of scrap paper

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover tips, techniques, and strategies for the successful facilitation of online activities; 2. Discover new activities appropriate for online delivery, including virtual field trips; and 3. Participate in an online activity to experience (as a student) what works and what doesn't.

SPEAKERS:
Michael DiSpezio (Master Educator, Presenter, and Author: North Falmouth, MA)

Do you have a burning desire to discuss a topic or a special challenge with colleagues in an informal and participant-driven environment?

Then don’t miss this opportunity to submit your ideas and suggestions for topics that may be identified for Thursday’s Unconference Sessions. At that time, participants will be invited to join a topic that is of particular interest to them.

Your voice matters!

Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP

Learn how to build on the core concepts of WISE interventions to integrate social-emotional learning competencies into science teaching and learning with the new BrainPOP Science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to: 1. reduce ambiguity for students to build self-efficacy and confidence in science; 2. provide immediate and precise feedback for students through formative assessments incorporated throughout the lesson; and 3. incorporate reflection questions at the end of each science lesson, and pause points throughout the lesson to promote meaning-making.

SPEAKERS:
Maneeza Dawood (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

Sponsoring Company: PASCO Scientific

How can you infuse computational problem solving into your science lessons? In this session, we will work through the process to incorporate data collected from active physical science explorations into coding challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Reinforcing forces and motion concepts through computational problem solving; 2. Authentic application of mathematical practices; and 3. Utilizing data in programming applications.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Brennan (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Sponsoring Company: University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

In this workshop, participants will discuss how sustainability can be an integrative thread throughout STEM topics, such as climate change and environmental science. Participants will identify strategies for integrating sustainability into their existing curricula and will define sustainability in terms of systems thinking and future orientation. This workshop will be led by faculty and staff from the University of Wisconsin-Steven Point’s Ed.D. in Educational Sustainability Program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. discuss how sustainability can be an integrative thread throughout STEM topics; 2. be able to identify strategies for integrating sustainability into their existing curricula; and 3. be able to define sustainability in terms of systems thinking and future orientation (e.g., beyond reduce, reuse, recycle).

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Potter-Nelson (University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point: Stevens Point, WI), Erin Redman (University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point: Stevens Point, WI), Rachael Rost (University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point: Stevens Point, WI)

Sponsoring Company: Simulation Curriculum Corp.

Simulation Curriculum is a pioneer in developing online simulation-based curricula 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; and 3. Learn how to integrate Earth science and literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Martin Gabber (Retired Educator: Toronto, ON)

Sponsoring Company: Estes Industries

Learn how model rocketry altitude tracking is a great way to get students comfortable with collecting, graphing, and analyzing data. Win a Mini AltiTrak set for your classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Tips to incorporate graphing into a lesson; 2. Information on data analysis activities for students; and 3. How to use the Estes Mini AltiTrak as a technology tool for data collection.

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: Oak Creek, WI), Nicole Bayeur (Estes Industries: Pueblo, CO)

Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific, Inc.

This workshop will demonstrate an authentic engineering practice so compelling that science and engineering students create an average of 62 virtual design iterations of balsa wood bridges, gliders, mousetrap cars, wind turbines, drones, and many others before (optionally) building a physical model of their optimized design.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Time and money (nearly) prohibits science and engineering classrooms from presenting an authentic engineering practice; 2. WhiteBox Learning provides an authentic experience by utilizing powerful web-based tools with roots in industry that leverage gamification for motivation; and 3. It is possible to leverage familiar projects like balsa wood bridges, balsa wood gliders, mousetrap cars, and others to teach engineering in an authentic way. This is great news because the familiarity of these projects makes it easier for teachers to take on engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Tom Robertson (WhiteBox Learning: Louisville, KY)

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

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 (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD)

Sponsoring Company: Estes Industries

Give your students the opportunity to nurture their inquisitive nature with our Does Mass Matter? lesson plan. Learn more about how Estes is working with cool educational companies and industry professionals to provide you with hands-on, real-world learning experiences for your classroom. All participants will be entered to win our Green Eggs™ Starter Kit!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Improve inquiry-based learning techniques; 2. Foster students' inquisitive nature with the PocketLab; and 3. Incorporate all four elements of STEM with the Does Mass Matter? lesson plan.

SPEAKERS:
David Bakker (PocketLab: San Jose, CA), Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: Oak Creek, WI), Nicole Bayeur (Estes Industries: Pueblo, CO)

Sponsoring Company: TCI

Designed to be engaging no matter where learning takes place, TCI’s Engineering Challenges get students thinking and acting like real-world engineers, but most importantly, excited about science. Discover the power of the TCI approach and get practical real-world tips for your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore TCI’s unique approach to engineering; 2. Learn to engage students anytime and anywhere with engineering challenges; and 3. Leave with practical real-world tips that can be immediately incorporated into the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Thomas (TCI: Mountain View, CA), Deanna Morrow (TCI: Rancho Cordova, CA)

Sponsoring Company: LaMotte Co.

Water is the single most valuable resource essential for life on Earth, yet is subject to increasing scarcity, pollutants, and overuse. The Tapwater Tour curriculum makes the real-world connection between the phenomena explored in the lesson and actual hands-on laboratory activities that students experience while revealing the quality of their own tap water. Group discussions, activities, and analysis of class data provide opportunities for teamwork, collaboration, and reflection.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Simple hands-on methods that students can easily and safely perform in the classroom, or as teacher demonstrations for distance learning, will be presented; 2. Examples of phenomena to engage students in water quality testing will be given; and 3. Ideas for adapting lessons to suit student audience/grade levels/abilities will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Margaret Hill (LaMotte Co.: Chestertown, MD)

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes

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

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will explore how to: 1. encourage student curiosity and engagement in authentic science and engineering practices; 2. engage students in deeper skills of inquiry; and 3. empower students to lead discussions about scientific phenomena, based on logical protocol for using evidence to make a claim.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Wheat (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Long Beach, MS), Michele Cozza (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Plainfield, IL)

Sponsoring Company: Amazon Future Engineer

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)

Sponsoring Company: NOAA Office of Education

Modern society is awash with data that tell complex stories in the language of mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Most humans are intensely visual and find it difficult to find meaning in just numbers. NOAA's answer—SOS Explorer (SOSx), now available as a FREE APP on your tablet or smartphone!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Interpreting data through visualizations; 2. Using mobile device apps in teaching; and 3. Resources available from NOAA.

SPEAKERS:
Beth Russell (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD), Hilary Peddicord (NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory: Lyons, CO), Stephen Zepecki (NOAA Office of Education: Washington, DC)

Join us for a variety of short, modified Pecha Kucha–style presentations, after which the presenters will be available for questions and further discussion.

The presentations included in this session are:

EarthKAM: Have Your Students Take Photos from ISS
Presenter: David Curry

The Post-COVID Dissection Lab
Presenters: Nicole Green and Bailee Henderson

Teaching Physics on the Cheap
Presenter: Shannon Hudson

Shape of Life: Virtually Teaching The Greatest Story Ever Told—Evolution of the Animal Kingdom on Planet Earth
Presenter: Denise Ryan

NMLSTA Award Opportunities
Presenter: Alison Betz Seymour

Parent/Family Involvement in Science: Why It's Important and How to Make It Work
Presenter: Jessica VanValkenburg

Teaching the Engineering Design Process Through Urban Gardening
Presenters: Elizabeth Weissman and Rebecca Somogyi

Moderator: Mary Lou Lipscomb

Note: This session involves Breakout Rooms. In order to participate, you must have the latest version of Zoom downloaded to your computer. Before accessing our Zoom platform, please visit Zoom.us/download, click on Download, and then click on Execute file to initialize.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Discover a variety lessons, units, professional development opportunities, and resources for hybrid or virtual instruction; 2. Learn ways to engage middle level students in exciting inquiry learning; and 3. Become aware of ways to involve parents and/or community in science.

SPEAKERS:
Denise Ryan (Shape of Life: Capitola, CA), David Curry (Newtown Middle School: Pipersville, PA), Nicole Green (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA), Bailee Henderson (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA), Shannon Hudson (Crawfordsville Middle School: Crawfordsville, IN), Alison Seymour (Winchester College: Scottsdale, AZ), Jessica VanValkenburgh (Columbus State University: Hamilton, GA), Elizabeth Weissman (The Ramaz School: Fresh Meadows, NY)

Sponsoring Company: NSTA Press

Learn about Argument-Driven Inquiry and how it can help students engage in real-world science while using literacy-based materials in the service of sensemaking.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, participants will: 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 in science; and 3. ways to support students as they engage in real-world science while using literacy-based materials in the service of sensemaking.

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

Explore global climate change data and human impacts using the Bremerhaven Klimahaus as a model to engage students in asking questions and taking local action.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Climate change impacts vary by location and disproportionately affect disadvantaged populations; 2. Individual actions have impacts on multiple scales from local to global; and 3. Empathetic, scientifically literate youth working in partnership with community members can be agents of change.

SPEAKERS:
Loris Chen (none: Fair Lawn, NJ)

Using COVID data and multimedia sources, teachers can elevate students’ understandings of science as a human endeavor, and explore diverse contributions and other nature of science themes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. acquire multiple classroom resources for COVID data, updates, and multimedia; 2. examine connections among pandemic examples and grade level nature of science (NOS) themes in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS); and 3. explore opportunities to enhance science lessons with key NGSS NOS themes such as science as a human endeavor, diverse contributions and cultures, using a variety of methods, and knowledge open to revision in light of new evidence.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Bergman (Wichita State University: Newton, KS)

Explore using the SEPs to make remote STE instruction inquiry based. Participate in a remote hands-on investigation. Receive a toolkit of resources, strategies, and instructional tools.

Materials needed:

• Markers or crayons
• Large sheet of heavy weight paper (11x17 or 8.5 x14)
• 4–6 ice cubes all about the same size
• 4 paper cups big enough to hold 2 ice cubes
• Cooler or access to freezer to keep ice frozen
• Aluminum tray
• Black or white tray (take-out container will work)

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Leave with a toolkit of distance-learning practices and investigations to enhance students’ use of the SEPs; 2. Learn about distance-learning tools that support the engagement of all students in STE; and 3. Develop new ideas for performance-based assessments using distance-learning strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Rosemary Rak (Wade Institute for Science Education: Fall River, MA), Angela Damery (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA), Sandra Ryack-Bell (Wade Institute for Science Education: Dartmouth, MA), Margaret Brumsted (Education Specialist: Riverside, RI)

Participants explore strategies and resources for engaging students during face-to-face and virtual instruction. Equity, differentiation, and nonlinguistic representations of instruction and learning will be targeted.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. learn research-based strategies that increase student engagement so that all students are involved in the learning process; 2. learn new ways to increase the confidence of learners who may be reluctant to engage in classroom activities and discussions; and 3. obtain numerous activities, templates, games, resources, etc. they can use with their students. These can be used “as is” or modified to include other content based on the needs of the attendees.

SPEAKERS:
Iris Mudd (Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools: Winston Salem, NC)

Want your students to read and write science more effectively? Join the author of the Once Upon A Science Book series for lessons from her newest book integrating literacy and physical science content.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. There are three main impediments to students becoming confident science readers: they do not expect what they are reading to make sense, they lack the background knowledge assumed in the text, and they have found shortcuts around doing classroom reading; 2. Using a literacy learning cycle (exploration, reading, writing) makes reading science easier; and 3. Participants will also try out a literacy learning cycle that they can use with their classes (so they will learn a new lesson plan).

SPEAKERS:
Jodi Wheeler-Toppen (Author/ Staff Development: Atlanta, GA), Karen Kraus (Retired Teacher: Goodyear, AZ), Matthew Hackett (Delta Woods Middle School: Blue Springs, MO)

Join us as we outline and present classroom applications of a four-part framework for equitable science instruction incorporating issues of identity, diversity, justice, and action.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use the four-part framework (identity, diversity, justice, action) to incorporate issues of social justice into classroom practices or science curricula; 2. How the four domains of social justice meet the call for equitable instruction outlined by the NGSS appendix “All Standards, All Students”; and 3. How to empower students to explore scientific issues and their personal identities within the scientific community.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Redick (Ohio Department of Education and Workforce: Powell, OH), Laura Blue (The Ohio State University: Hilliard, OH)

WeatherBlur, an online citizen science platform, links schools in the Gulf of Maine with schools in the Gulf of Mexico to explore local environmental issues.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Empowering students to tackle difficult environmental challenges seen in their communities and get their voices heard; 2. Promoting idea exchanges and collaboration between different communities and cultures from around the country; and 3. Enhancing environmental and data literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Clark Uchenna (Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance: Augusta, ME), Megan McCall (Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies: Mobile, AL)

Teachers will learn to integrate bias recognition as part of the normal science curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Recognizing bias requires practice; 2. Recognizing bias requires critical thinking; and 3. Recognizing bias can be integrated as part of the normal learning process.

SPEAKERS:
Bailey O'Reilly (Academie Da Vinci Charter School for the Arts and Technology: Dunedin, FL)

Learn how to be an explore-before-explain teacher who structures lessons so student evidenced-based claims are the foundation for learning and promote long-lasting physical science understanding.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Why sequence matters—a concise review of cognitive science and science education research explains why the order in which you structure your lessons is so critical; and 2. How you do it—ready-to-teach lessons that use an explore-before-explain sequence to provide an experience that meets the Next Generation Science Standards and makes interdisciplinary connections to the Common Core State Standards.

SPEAKERS:
Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: Saint Charles, MO)

In this presentation, participants will be introduced to the Chemical Reactions unit and how three-dimensional assessment is embedded throughout the unit to support student sensemaking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand: 1. the anchoring phenomena for the unit; 2. the storyline for the unit and how it supports coherence from the student perspective; and 3. the embedded assessments and features of the instructional model that supports all students in successful sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Evanston, IL), Dawn Novak (Northwestern University: Grayslake, IL)

Connect the human impact of trash pollution to engineering design. Get your students thinking critically and creatively as they collaborate in real-world problem solving.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Connecting the human impact of single-use plastics and their effect on aquatic ecosystems; 2. Exposing students to basic coding and engineering design in an NGSS-focused content classroom; and 3. Developing a project that enhances STEM skills in students such as collaboration, curiosity, and creative problem-solving.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD), Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Scott, LA)

Explore global hunger issues via case studies of sustainable farming practices to understand how the inequity of resources leads to inspired innovation based on sustainable science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Hunger exists everywhere and impacts everyone; 2. Solutions must be culturally and regionally appropriate; and 3. Long-term food sustainability is achievable with science.

SPEAKERS:
Sue Meggers (Interstate 35 Community School District: Truro, IA)

Explore a set of in-person and distance learning instructional strategies to support multilingual students' sensemaking through science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. To support equitable science instruction, all students must have their voice heard and be provided opportunities for rich sensemaking through science and engineering practices; 2. Multilingual students are a diverse group of students with a wealth of knowledge that need to be leveraged in the science classroom; and 3. In real-time, teachers can utilize a set of instructional routines for distance and in-person learning to support their multilingual students' sensemaking through science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Samuel Lee (Boston College: Brighton, MA), Karina Mendez Perez (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX), Sage Andersen (The University of Texas at Austin: Buda, TX), María González-Howard (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX)

Learn about Argument-Driven Inquiry and how it can help students learn how to use DCIs, CCs, and SEPs to explain natural phenomena.

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 as they learn to use the core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and practices of science to make sense of natural phenomena.

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

Engage in this interactive session to find out how the idea of anchoring to a phenomena to begin a STEM unit lays out a plan for helping students to see how science impacts their community.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Understand why the scenario helps students connect the phenomena to their own community/ global issues; 2. Show how to move from the unit phenomena introduction to the crafting the storyline for the student learning; and 3. Teachers will have a chance to practice developing their own scenario based on a given phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Comer (Consultant: Worcester, MA), Jo Anne Vasquez (NSTA President 96-97: , AZ)

My NASA Data will model interactive resources for students learning in-person and via virtual environments that feature short activities, lessons, and access to NASA data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. walk away with access to NASA resources for their Earth science classrooms that can be linked directly to their learning management systems; 2. learn of interactive strategies for using these resources with students in a variety of learning environments; and 3. learn of an Earth science data visualization tool that enables students/educators to access and visualize NASA data for a particular region or time period.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Joyner (NASA Langley Research Center: Suffolk, VA), Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: Newport News, VA)

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: Rotonda West, FL), William Grosser (Curriculum Designer: Auburn, CA)

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 (BrainPOP: Pittsburgh, PA), Sarah Rahman (Cabrillo Middle School: Santa Clara, CA), Debra Las (John Adams Middle School: Rochester, MN), Andi Suter (Serrano Intermediate School: Lake Forest, CA), Vonda Fruhwirth (Kings Junior High School: Kings Mills, OH)

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:
Aida Awad (Education Consultant/ Adjunct: Ormond Beach, FL), Margaret Holzer (none: Somerset, NJ), Rebecca Dodge (Midwestern State University: Wichita Falls, TX), Eric Pyle (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA), Dawna Cerney (Youngstown State University: Youngstown, OH), Dianna Gielstra (Prescott College Online Graduate Degree Program: Austin, TX), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Salisbury, MD)

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)

Inclusive approaches to teaching and learning include probing questions that all students can relate to, that provide multiple entry points for engagement, and that create a desire to want to figure it out. Learn how to use the Uncovering Student Ideas probes and strategies to support a classroom where all students' ideas matter!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn about an NSTA Press resource for formative assessment; 2. Explore key points from research on learning that support using formative assessment probes; and 3. Gain new strategies for eliciting all students' ideas and building a classroom culture where everyone's ideas matter.

SPEAKERS:
Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: Fort Myers, FL)

Virtual word walls support academic language acquisition. Three strategies will be presented for use in remote or in hybrid classrooms to strategically target vocabulary.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to use virtual interactive word walls to support academic language acquisition during remote or hybrid instruction; 2. Learn how to use virtual interactive word walls to highlight connections between science concepts and inquiry-based science activities while connecting scientific concepts and academic vocabulary; and 3. Experience three strategies that may be used, with virtual interactive word walls, to strategically target vocabulary during remote or in hybrid instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Jackson (Texas State University: Round Rock, TX)

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: Enterprise, UT), Tessa Matuszak (National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization: Palm Coast, FL)

Come learn about Data Puzzles, a free resource co-designed by climate scientists and instructional specialists from the University of Colorado Boulder that are aimed at bringing authentic data into classrooms in the context of current and relevant scientific research.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Introduction to inquiry-based instruction in the context of Ambitious Science Teaching practices; 2. Strategies for facilitating Data Puzzle resources and other inquiry-based activities in your MS/HS classroom; and 3. Skills to design your own data-driven learning activities.

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Griffith (University of Colorado Boulder: Montpelier, VT)

Sponsoring Company: American Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History teaching cases are curriculum materials designed to facilitate student exploration of sets of data they did not collect themselves. Participants will use videos, essays, and analysis tools to investigate how blue whales, the largest animal to ever live, survive by eating some of the smallest.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about: 1. how blue whales have evolved into the largest animal to have lived on Earth; 2. the AMNH teaching case model designed to contextualize large sets of data for students; and 3. opportunities to explore AMNH teaching cases with other teachers.

SPEAKERS:
David Randle (American Museum of Natural History: New York, NY)

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes

In this workshop, we will utilize a simple yet effective talk process that can encourage students to more fully own their thinking and effectively communicate their ideas to peers. Join us in this interactive session to learn various talk strategies that support the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices, Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI), and best-practice instruction for all learners!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Setting the stage for student-centered talk success; 2. Shared experiences around the power of talk; and 3. Resources to support the implementation of science talk.

SPEAKERS:
Pam O'Brien (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX), Kristan Buckman (STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning: Houston, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Discovery Education

The 16 units in Discovery Education’s brand-new Science Techbook for middle school are driven by engaging anchor phenomena that prompt students to ask driving questions. Students engage in storylines using the science and engineering practices to collect evidence that answers their questions, learning both core ideas and crosscutting concepts along the way.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Curriculum units should begin with an anchor phenomena that stimulates student questions; 2. A unit should be designed to allow students to collect evidence from investigative phenomena that they can use to answer their questions; and 3. Students should make sense of phenomena by engaging in practices that lead them to develop disciplinary core ideas and crosscutting concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Hailey Adams Mangum (Discovery Education: Plainfield, IL), Ted Willard (Discovery Education: Derwood, MD)

Sponsoring Company: Legends of Learning

It is no surprise that the more engaged a student is with their learning, the more knowledge they retain. One significant takeaway from this past year is that many students thrived in an asynchronous learning environment. Learn how to support educators within any instructional model through game-based learning, increasing student engagement and content retention.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How asynchronous learning can help engage students through content experiences; 2. How to support educators within any instructional model through game-based learning; and 3. Understanding of how game-based learning can increase engagement while teaching content.

SPEAKERS:
Joselyn Whetzel (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD), Aryah Fradkin (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD), Sean Reidy (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD)

Sponsoring Company: NASA Astromaterials Program

Join this session and gain experience developing and applying criteria used to identify landforms on Earth as well as landforms and processes that may have shaped surfaces of other worlds. Model comparative planetology processes and help students gain skills thinking scientifically using evidence to support interpretations.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. The mission of Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science Division, or ARES, is to: 1. combine scientific and engineering expertise in order to advance human space exploration; 2. integrate terrestrial and planetary research; and 3. promote successful space missions by mitigating risk.

SPEAKERS:
Paige Valderrama Graff (NASA Johnson Space Center: Friendswood, TX)

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

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 (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD)

Sponsoring Company: Ward's Science

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; engage partners; and 3. find grants.

SPEAKERS:
Karol Stephens (Ward's Science: Fayetteville, GA), Rusti Berent (Ward's Science: Rochester, NY)

Sponsoring Company: PAEMST

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)

Sponsoring Company: Estes Industries

Ready to take STEM learning to new heights? Join Estes and receive a FREE model rocket to build with us. We will cover model rocketry basics and how you can implement this exciting, low-cost STEM tool in your classroom!

Register here to receive your FREE rocket for this workshop.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn: 1. the basics of model rocketry; 2. how to use rocketry in the classroom; and 3. the benefits of hands-on, real-world science.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Bayeur (Estes Industries: Pueblo, CO)

Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP

Learn about three-dimensional formative assessment design and insights for student learning with the new BrainPOP Science.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. In this session, we will share how BrainPOP Science uses 3-D formative assessments strategically embedded in lessons to gather actionable data on student progress; and 2. Additionally, session participants will work through classroom scenarios to identify the best implementations of BrainPOP Science, focusing on the checks-for-understanding (formative assessments) and the resulting dashboards and reports.

SPEAKERS:
Laurel Ozersky (BrainPOP: Durham, NC)

Sponsoring Company: Brain Chase

Dive into interactive, educational Escape Rooms, and learn how you can design your own programs using dozens of electives and different Escape Room themes. Plus, there will be a fun sneak-peek of our fun Escape Room experience with NSTA that is scheduled on May 6.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Using escape rooms and treasure hunts makes learning feel like an adventure for students; 2. Adventures incentivize learning, progress, and engages 21st-century skills; and 3. Hands-on projects to engage students add to a more robust experience that straddles virtual and physical worlds.

SPEAKERS:
Gracie Helms (Brain Chase: Austin, TX)

Welcome to Thursday’s Unconference Experience! So what IS an unconference and why would I want to participate?

Do you have a burning desire to discuss a topic or a special challenge with colleagues in an informal and participant-driven environment? Then join this opportunity to discuss one of the topic ideas and suggestions that have been identified by you and your colleagues. The most popular topics will be brought forth for today’s discussion. During this time, participants will be invited to join a topic that is of particular interest and relevance to them.

The objectives of this session are threefold: to assist teachers in identifying students who need additional social and emotional support; to highlight the dynamic between SEL and learning/achievement as bi-directional, since SEL instruction and skill building have been shown to improve achievement, but achievement or lack of it also impacts children’s sense of well-being; and to highlight psychologically validated strategies designed to prevent distress as well as enhance performance in the science classroom. Teachers will learn about approaches they can use to help students manage performance fears and encourage strategic risk-taking that fosters creativity.

SPEAKERS:
Rena Subotnik (American Psychological Association: Washington, DC), Joanne Broder (Media Psychologist: Moorestown, NJ), Amanda Dettmer (Yale School of Medicine: New Haven, CT), Kimberly A. S. Howard (Boston University: Boston, MA)