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.
46 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
Are You Me Investigation_Teacher 2019 Update.pdf
Inquiry Investigation
Beaver Engineer Revised SRB 4 8 2019Final.pdf
Book List.docx
Build_Bird_Nest_Wade Inst._Grade2.pdf
Designing an Adventure Park Ride activity_Print10 (double-sided + stapled).pdf
Digital Toolkit. .pdf
Inventing the Next Magnificent Toy activity_Print10 (double-sided and stapled).pdf
Picture Book list (2).docx
Sun Shelter investigation with literarcy connections.pdf
Sun Shelter_Temperature_Student_PRINT 20.pdf
Up Up and Away (balloon activity)_Print10.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
Family Tool 9.1

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: Kent, WA), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA), Wendi Laurence (Create-osity: 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)

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 (Columbus School for Girls: Columbus, OH)

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)

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, Australia), Laura Schneider (St. Mary's College of Maryland: Saint Mary's City, 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: No City, No State), 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)

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.)
Darwin's Rival resources
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 (Parsons Elementary School: Rockwood, 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 (Retired Multiage Teacher: East Lansing, MI)

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)

Designing Culturally Responsive Makerspace Pop-Up Activities

Saturday, April 24 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


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

Preservice Day Session: Preservice Teacher Welcome

Wednesday, May 5 • 3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: Science and Literacy: Complimentary Disciplines Inciting Critical Science Citizenry

Wednesday, May 5 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Books Read Aloud Online
From the Tip of the Beak
Investigating Heredity.pdf
Science Literacy Complimentary Disciplines Inciting Critical Science Citize
Science Literacy Complimentary Disciplines Inciting Critical Science Citizens

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

Explore the placement of science literacy within the nature of scientific knowledge and the Next Generation Science Standards. Gain insights on implementing science literacy strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Exemplars with steps for implementing three or more literacy strategies; 2. Overview of how Science Literacy connects with the Nature of Scientific Knowledge; and 3. Overview of the position of Science Literacy within the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Anne Royce (Shippensburg University: Shippensburg, PA), Omah Williams-Duncan (University of Houston-Clear Lake: Houston, TX)

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

Wednesday, May 5 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Sami Kahn (Princeton University: Princeton, NJ)

Preservice Day Session: Teaching Science in a Virtual Learning Environment

Wednesday, May 5 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teaching Science in a Virtual Learning Environment Collection of Resources
Teaching Science in a Virtual Learning Environment Collection of Resources

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: Elevating the Discourse Between Science and Religion

Wednesday, May 5 • 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Google slides presentation

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: ELL Inclusion in Science Teaching

Wednesday, May 5 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, May 5 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

STRAND: Community and Global Impacts on Classroom Learning

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Robbie Higdon (James Madison University: Harrisonburg, VA)

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

Wednesday, May 5 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides for the session today…
STEM-Teaching-Tool-71-Science-Education-Equity-Projects.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tools-Half-Pager-2018.pdf
STTBookmark_set_March2018.pdf

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Preservice Day Session: Making Science Fairs More Equitable Online

Wednesday, May 5 • 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Science Fair Project Mentor Videos
View presentations made by our science fair mentors!
Science Fair Website
This is the website we created for the science fair.

STRAND: Continuing Effective Distance Learning Strategies Post-COVID

Show Details

Come hear how preservice teachers organized and hosted a virtual science fair that aligns with the NGSS science practices—and learn how to do this yourself!

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how: 1. to hold a science fair virtually; 2. to align the traditional science fair project with the NGSS science and engineering practices; and 3. preservice teachers can learn from this real-world practicum experience.

SPEAKERS:
Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Isabel Martian (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Emily Moran (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Shannon Sandburg (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Ruby Pappas (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Emily Barr (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Andrew Bumgarner (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Kady McCartney (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA)

Preservice Day Session: Navigating Your Student Teaching

Wednesday, May 5 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: Developing Leadership Through NSTA Student Chapters

Wednesday, May 5 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
A New Chapter: How NSTA Student Chpaters Can Support Preservice Teachers
KSU NSTA Chapter Succeeds by Embracing Change
NSTA Student Chapters Main Page
Working with NSTA Chapters on Community-Focused Science Events

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: NSTA Daily Do Lesson Plans

Wednesday, May 5 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Daily Do Lesson Plans 5.5.21

STRAND: Continuing Effective Distance Learning Strategies Post-COVID

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. Explore a high-quality NSTA lesson plan; 2. Familiarize participants with NSTA Daily Do lesson plans for all grade bands and families; and 3. Inform participants of the new Daily Do Playlists.

SPEAKERS:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Preservice Day Session: Next Generation Science Assessment

Wednesday, May 5 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

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

Preservice Day Session: Safety in the Classroom

Wednesday, May 5 • 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Roy (Glastonbury Public Schools: Glastonbury, CT)

Preservice Day Session: Preservice Teacher Wrap-Up

Wednesday, May 5 • 7:00 PM - 7:15 PM

Show Details

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

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

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

Using Online Tools to Engage Students in Asking Questions About Phenomena

Thursday, May 6 • 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Online Tools to Engage Students in Asking Questions About Phenomena
Google Slides Presentation

STRAND: Continuing Effective Distance Learning Strategies Post-COVID

Show Details

Learn to use free Google tools to support your students in analyzing phenomena and asking good scientific questions that drive learning in the classroom or remotely.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Students' observations of and questions about phenomena should drive their learning; 2. You can use free online tools from Google to engage students in analyzing and developing questions about phenomena whether you are teaching face-to-face or remotely; and 3. We can use these same tools to scaffold students' ability to revise and improve their questions to be more productive.

SPEAKERS:
Jeremy Peacock (Jackson County School System: Jefferson, GA)

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

Thursday, May 6 • 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Create a Nature Journal - Activity Sheet
Owl - Know, Want to know, Learned Chart - Pre Lesson Activity
The Art of Facilitating Observation_ Strategies to Deepen Scientific Literacy - NSTA 2021.pptx
Wolf and Coyote Skull - Compare Contrast
Wolf and Coyote Skull - Compare Contrast - Detailed

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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

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

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

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

Saturday, May 8 • 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Preparing to Tackle Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Science Education.pptx

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Conerly (Marion County Schools: Columbia, MS)

Do You Need a New Science Lab? Come Learn How to Apply to Win for Your School!

Saturday, May 8 • 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Instructional Method and Teaching Philosophy questions
Shell Award winner - Gary Koppelman
Shell Award winner - Jose Rivas
Shell Award winner - Kristen Poindexter
Shell Lab testimonial - Geismar winners
Shell Lab testimonial - Kermit High School
Shell Lab testimonial - Tyler Dufrene
Shell Programs flyer
Shell testimonial - Kermit High School
Shell winner testimonial - Mark Parker
Shell winner testimonial - Tyler Dufrene
Shell winners - Geismar

Show Details

Are you located in the U.S. near a Shell asset? Attend this session for the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge to learn how to apply for this amazing opportunity. Pick up tips for completing a winning application and begin your journey in applying to win an updated science classroom. This program will award 33 prize packages valued up to $15,000 for high school and $10,000 for elementary and middle school!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn how you can apply to win the Shell Science Lab Challenge; 2. Learn the tips to completing a winning application; and 3. Have an opportunity to actually begin to complete the application and have your questions answered.

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

Come Join the Tour of NSTA’s New Professional Learning Products and Services!

Saturday, May 8 • 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM

Show Details

The NSTA Professional Learning team has been inspired by educators across the globe who have been providing distance and hybrid learning. Come learn about the NSTA Daily Dos, DailyDo playlists, Transforming Science Learning and Teacher Tip Tuesday webinar
series, and other new NSTA products and services!

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Explore new NSTA products and services designed to shift instruction to create engagement and scientific/STEM literacy for ALL students that leverage the assets students bring to the table; and 2. Hear from teachers the ways NSTA products and services have helped them create a classroom culture that supports student sensemaking based in the science and engineering practices that grow life and workforce skills.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Michelle Phillips (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Effective Questioning Strategies to Engage Students in STEM

Saturday, May 8 • 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM

STRAND: Integrating Science and Literacy

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

A Differentiated Approach to Supporting Adult Learners

Saturday, May 8 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM

STRAND: Social Emotional Learning and the Science Classroom

Show Details

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

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

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

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

Saturday, May 8 • 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Instructional Method and Teaching Philosophy questions
Shell Award winner - Gary Koppelman
Shell Award winner - Jose Rivas
Shell Award winner - Kristen Poindexter
Shell Programs flyer

STRAND: Community and Global Impacts on Classroom Learning

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Richard Embrick (Wright Junior High: No City, No State)

NSTA-WIDA Session: Creating Equitable Science Instruction for Multilingual Learners

Saturday, May 8 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
MSM Design Principles
presentation slides

STRAND: Supporting Equity in the Science Classroom

Show Details

This session will utilize the design principles for engaging multilingual learners in 3-D science to create engaging and equitable learning experiences for ALL students, but especially MLLs.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Examine a set of principles co-developed by NSTA and WIDA and discuss how these "show up" in classroom; 2. Explore ways to help a linguistically diverse group of students engage together in sensemaking discourse; 3. Explore the role of modeling as a sensemaking support in linguistically diverse classrooms; 4. Learn about WIDA’s four Language Practices to authentically engage ALL students in using language for sensemaking; and 5. Learn how the Teacher Discourse Moves and Student Discourse Moves facilitate the exploration and transformation of science understanding.

SPEAKERS:
David Crowther (University of Nevada, Reno: Reno, NV), Rita MacDonald (Wisconsin Center for Education Research: Madison, WI)

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

Saturday, May 8 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

STRAND: Continuing Effective Distance Learning Strategies Post-COVID

Show Details

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

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

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

Urban Science Educator Discussion and Panel

Saturday, May 8 • 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM

Show Details

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

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

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Ellis (Hunter Huss High School: Gastonia, NC), Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Pat Shane (UNC-Chapel Hill Emerita: No City, No State), Brad Rhew (Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools: Winston Salem, NC), Rabiah Harris (Jefferson Middle School Academy: Washington, DC), Mary Beth Berrien (Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School: Greenfield, MA), Charles Hayes (Highland Oaks Elementary School: Memphis, TN)

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