Come for a quick peek at the fascinating history of science education and reforms as it relates to defining scientific literacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Scientific literacy may mean many things to different people and groups but, in general, a scientifically literate person is one who uses science in everyday decisions and understands the interrelationships between science, technology, and society; 2. Historical events such as Sputnik and the Vietnam war have influenced the focus of science education over time, shifting the emphasis back and forth between more rigorous and more relevant; and 3. A human-centered approach to science teaching and learning is more equitable because it emphasizes student voice and choice, creativity, and self-value.

SPEAKERS:
Becky McDowell (Independent Contractor: Springfield, PA)

Creative writing assignments can better reach students with differing learning styles. The incorporation of creative writing exercises into introductory chemistry courses and their effects on student performance will be described.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Creative writing is an effective way to cement understanding of chemistry concepts; 2. Engaging in creative writing leads to better exam performance; and 3. Creative writing exercises increase critical-thinking skills.

SPEAKERS:
Donald Carpenetti (Craven Community College: New Bern, NC)

Explore modern dilemmas in genetics and biotechnology in a new way! Learn to incorporate bioethics into your curriculum using mock senate hearings and debates.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Learn about an interdisciplinary approach to teaching bioethics with an interactive curriculum that challenges students to confront their personal biases while formulating and defending a data-based argument; 2. Learn how to frame an argument using the four bioethical principles and apply this technique to three modern issues in bioethics; and 3. Receive three case studies and mock senate hearing debate guidelines for use in your life science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Ader (Mount Saint Joseph High School: Baltimore, MD), Rebecca Obniski (Mount Saint Joseph High School: Baltimore, MD)

Engage students in the three dimensions of the NGSS by using phenomena. We will help you reimagine the “how” and “why” of everyday occurrences.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. learn how to tap into students' natural curiosity using the NGSS; 2. use phenomena to engage in inquiry-led discussions; and 3. learn how to find and use the NGSS phenomena for standard-aligned lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Wendt (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Perihan Fidan (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)