NSTA Engage: Spring21

May 12-8, 2021

All sessions added to My Agenda prior to this notice have been exported to the mobile app and will be visible in your account when the app launches. Any sessions added now, will also have to be added in the app.
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Rooms and times subject to change.
129 results
Save up to 50 sessions in your agenda.

Elementary Extravaganza Presented by Members of the NAEYC Early Childhood Science Interest Forum

Wednesday, April 14 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
A Sampling of Sea Turtle Books NSTA.docx

Show Details

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: Bryn Mawr, PA), Julie Travaglini (Allegheny Land Trust: Sewickley, PA)

Up to Code: Challenging and Engaging Learners Through Coding

Wednesday, April 14 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

STRAND: Reimagining Assessment

Show Details

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)

NSTA Press Session: Integrating STEM and Literacy with Picture-Perfect STEM Lessons

Wednesday, April 14 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: West Chester, OH)

Integrating Science and Literacy with FoodPrints Curriculum

Wednesday, April 14 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: Washington, DC)

Elementary NSTA Lessons Plans: Science Instruction for ALL, Part 1

Wednesday, April 14 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Resource Collection: Elementary Lesson Plans: Science Instruction for all

Show Details

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: Arlington, VA), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Integrating Inquiry and Literacy in the Elementary Science Classroom

Wednesday, April 14 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2021 SPDI Brochure (web version).pdf
Digital Toolkit. .pdf

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: Quincy, MA), Kathy Renfrew (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA)

Centering Racial Equity Issues in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How Can We Make Decisions to Care for Ourselves, Our Families, and Our Communities?

Wednesday, April 14 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
COVID-19 Health Equity Presentation Slides
COVID-19 Health Equity Unit Grades 3-5 Storyline
COVID-19 Vaccines Unit Resource

Show Details

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: Colorado Springs, CO), Sara Ivory (The Ogden International School of Chicago, East Campus: Chicago, IL), Gail Housman (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Tyler Scaletta (Alcott Elementary School: Chicago, IL), Dan Voss (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Carrie Tzou (University of Washington Bothell: Bothell, WA), Katy Fattaleh (The Nora Project: Highland Park, IL), Ashley Stanley (Dewey Elementary School: Evanston, IL)

Elementary Extravaganza Presented by the NSTA Committee on Preschool–Elementary Science Teaching

Wednesday, April 14 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
A Sampling of Sea Turtle Books NSTA.docx
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YYH10EC_-Cd-O0OL0FgsRjEzaMNNbSVZ/view?usp=sharing

Show Details

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 (Divide School District #4: Divide, MT), Ashley Townsend (Oak Grove Primary School: Prairieville, LA), Annette Venegas (Kent School District: Gig Harbor, WA), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA), Wendi Laurence (Education Specialist: Park City, UT)

Little Big Minds: STEAM for Our Youngest Learners

Wednesday, April 14 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Little Big Minds Presentation Materials
This document contains a link where all presentation materials may be downloaded.

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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)

Elementary NSTA Lessons Plans: Science Instruction for ALL, Part 2

Wednesday, April 14 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Collection resources: Elementary Lesson plans: Science Instruction for all

Show Details

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: Arlington, VA), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Spark Discovery and Invention

Wednesday, April 14 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Evolution of the Electric Lamp
This Google Slide deck can be modified for use with your students.
Google Form to Request Access to the DRAFT eBook
We are delighted to provide you with a PRE-RELEASE copy of the materials developed in our partnership.
Session Jamboard
This jamboard will be used in our session. A link is included for the convenience of sessino participants so they can access it later.
SPARK Website
This link will take you to the SPARK museum's main website.

STRAND: Supporting Equity in the Science Classroom

Show Details

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: Bellingham, WA), Abby Russell (SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention: Bellingham, WA)

CSSS-Sponsored Session: STEM Talks for Early Learners

Wednesday, April 14 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM for Early Learners Session Resources
All of the links, activites, and research mentioned in the presentation can be found in this wakelet.

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: Washington, DC)

Student-Centered Science Notebooks in Your Classroom

Wednesday, April 14 • 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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 (Albert Einstein Fellow: Washington, DC)

Engineering and Subtraction with Tub People

Wednesday, April 14 • 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Resources for Engineering & Subtraction with Tub People

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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)

Integrating STEAM Through Literacy Using NASA Resources

Wednesday, April 14 • 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM

Show Details

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)

NESTA and CLEAN 1: Strategies for Integrating Climate Science into the Elementary Classroom

Thursday, April 15 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

STRAND: Climate Justice and Climate Science

Show Details

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: No City, No State)

Cooped Up Kids? Students Explore STEM Indoors and Out

Thursday, April 15 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

STRAND: Social Emotional Learning and the Science Classroom

Show Details

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)

Increasing Equity in Science Through Collaboration and Conversation

Thursday, April 15 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

STRAND: Supporting Equity in the Science Classroom

Show Details

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)

NSTA Press Session: Argument-Driven Inquiry in Grades 3-5: Helping Children Use Science, Literacy, and Math to Figure Out the World Around Them

Thursday, April 15 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

Show Details

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)

NSTA Press: Using Daily Life Probes to Uncover Students' Ideas in Engineering & Technology

Thursday, April 15 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
All Formative Assessment Probe SC Articles List
SC Article on FA Probes and Brainstorming
SC Article on FA Probes and the Engineering Design Process
USI Web Site and Blog
Web site where you can learn more about the USI series, a blog, additional resources, and professional learning opportunities

Show Details

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: No City, No State)

Elementary Extravaganza Presented by Science & Children Authors and Reviewers

Saturday, April 17 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Engage Spring 21 Presentation Dr Kathleen Tate 031121.pptx
Tate Supplemental Sheet for STEAM across Elementary Grade Levels_ Engineering Design- Bridges across

Show Details

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: Charles Town, WV), Christine Preston (The University of Sydney: Sydney, 0), Laura Schneider (Father Andrew White School: Leonardtown, 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), 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)

Designing Culturally Responsive Makerspace Pop-Up Activities

Saturday, April 17 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CRTMakerspace_April17.pdf
Designing Culturally Responsive Makerspace Pop-Up Activities.pdf

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: Winslow, AZ)

Integrating Hands-On STEM and Literacy Through Picture Books

Saturday, April 17 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Integrating Hands-On STEM Book List

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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)

NSTA Press Session: All Students' Ideas Matter

Saturday, April 17 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Apple in the Dark Probe with Teacher Notes
Is It Living K-2 Probe and Teacher Notes
List of Formative Assessment Probe Columns in Science and Children
Science and Chidden Article- Using Claim Cards
Uncovering Student Ideas Web Site

STRAND: Supporting Equity in the Science Classroom

Show Details

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: No City, No State)

Elementary Extravaganza Presented by Society of Elementary Presidential Awardees

Saturday, April 17 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Explore the World PowerPoint Slides
Explore the World Supplemental Resources
Nature Detectives
Nurturing Local to Global Thinking
Read and Walk to Antarctica

Show Details

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: Brownstown Twp, MI), DeLene Hoffner (eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO), Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Shippensburg, PA), Nancy Smith (Heatherstone Elementary School: Olathe, KS), Juliana Texley (Lesley University: Cambridge, MA), Natalie Harr Ylizarde (University of Maryland: College Park, MD), Conni Crittenden (Self - Employed: Costa Mesa, CA)

Taking Flight with NASA Aeronautics and Literature

Saturday, April 17 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Aeronautics Book List
Do you need a starting point for some great books that you can use to integrate literacy and hands-on STEM activities? Start here!
Aeronautics for Pre-K flyer
The Aeronautics for Pre-K activity guide provides off-the-shelf books paired with aeronautics activity to engage youth in multiple ways. This flyer contains the link to the guide and a description of the activities within the guide.
Foam Glider Instructions
This simple glider designed by the AMA is made from a disposable foam plate, a penny, and piece of tape. Students can easily modify this glider to perform tricks and is a great way to teach fundamentals of gliding!
Make a Mars paper helicopter
Make Your Own X-59 Airplane
This fun paper airplane template and instructions allow you to create NASA's X-59 in paper form.
Mars Helicopter Lesson Plan
NASA Aeronautics for Pre-K
This NASA activity guide ties in off-the-shelf books with aeronautics activities to engage students in multiple ways.
Presentation
Capture the attention of students with fun stories and hands-on STEM activities that engage them on every level!
Wood Wire Wings Lesson Guide

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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: Washington, DC), Lisa Wininger (West Shore Educational Service District: Ludington, MI)

NMLSTA-Sponsored Session: Meet Me in the Middle Virtual Share-a-Thon, Session 1

Wednesday, April 21 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EarthKAM User Guide
Everything you need to know so that you can have your students remotely control a camera on the International Space Station.
Link to additional EarthKAM Resources
Useful documents to use when getting started with NASA's EarthKAM

Show Details

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: Newtown, PA), Nicole Green (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA), Bailee Henderson (Animalearn: , United States), Shannon Hudson (Crawfordsville Middle School: Crawfordsville, IN), Alison Seymour (Science Teacher: Winchester, 0), Jessica VanValkenburgh (Columbus State University: Columbus, GA), Elizabeth Weissman (The Ramaz School: New York, NY)

NMLSTA-Sponsored Session: Inspired by Germany—Understanding Global Climate Change to Take Local Action

Wednesday, April 21 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2021 Climate Passport.pdf
https://sites.google.com/view/exploring-global-climates/home
Website link update.

STRAND: Climate Justice and Climate Science

Show Details

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 (Science Education Consultant: Fair Lawn, NJ)

Examining Nature of Science and Standards in a Post-COVID World

Wednesday, April 21 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Additional resource for teaching Nature of Science with superhero movies
Bergman, D.J. (2019). The “Marvel”-ous nature of science: Using superhero movies to teach methods and values in science. The Science Teacher, 86(9), 20-25.
NGSS Appendix H - Nature of Science (NOS)
Includes the "NOS Matrix" from NGSS
PowerPoint Slideshow - NOS, NGSS, COVID
Slideshow featured with links to articles, websites, NGSS, and additional resources for examining Nature of Science (NOS) themes and standards in context of COVID-19 news and resources.

STRAND: Community and Global Impacts on Classroom Learning

Show Details

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: Wichita, KS)

NSTA Press Session: Once Upon a Physical Science Book: Real Science, Real Literacy Instruction

Wednesday, April 21 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Identify This Lab.pdf
Student lab sheet for the activities we demonstrated during our sessions.
Is it Poison .pdf
This is a simpler reading if "Was it a drug bust?" is too complex for your readers. Although, I suggest trying the harder reading if working in groups--the topic often interests students enough to work at the reading.
Session Power Point Presentation
These are the slides, with links to additional literacy resources.
Was it a drug bust.pdf
Student reading to accompany lab described in our session.

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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)

Science for Social Justice: A Four-Part Framework for Equitable Instruction

Wednesday, April 21 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teaching through a lens of social justice.
The following online resources were used in the construction of a four-part lesson to develop student understanding of identity, diversity, justice and action.

STRAND: Supporting Equity in the Science Classroom

Show Details

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: No City, No State), Laura Blue (The Ohio State University: Columbus, OH)

WeatherBlur: Blurring the Lines Between Science, Environmental Literacy, and Civic Action Through Citizen Science

Wednesday, April 21 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

STRAND: Community and Global Impacts on Classroom Learning

Show Details

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: No City, No State)

Lab Bias, Science Bias, People Bias

Wednesday, April 21 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

STRAND: Social Emotional Learning and the Science Classroom

Show Details

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)

NSTA Press Session: Instructional Sequence Matters: Structuring Grades 6–8 Lessons with the NGSS in Mind

Wednesday, April 21 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTAEngage_6-8_2021.pdf

Show Details

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: O'Fallon, MO)

How Can We Make Something New That Was Not There Before? Explore How to Support Student Sensemaking Through Three-Dimensional Assessment

Wednesday, April 21 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
7.1-Chemical-Reactions-Storyline.pdf
NSTA - OpenSciEd Bath Bombs - Sensemaking through 3D assessments.pdf
Student Arguments_ Bath Bombs (NSTA Engage21).pdf

STRAND: Reimagining Assessment

Show Details

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: Colorado Springs, CO), Dawn Novak (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL)

Using Case Studies to Inform and Explore Solutions to Global Hunger Issues

Wednesday, April 21 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

STRAND: Community and Global Impacts on Classroom Learning

Show Details

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)