2024 Denver National Conference

March 20-23, 2024

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1436 results
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SC-1: How To Create Three-Dimensional Assessment Tasks

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

Add to Cart 70 tickets available

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Learn a design process for creating three-dimensional assessment tasks that support student learning. We will introduce participants to each phase of the process: unpacking dimensions, developing integrated dimension maps, articulating learning performances, identifying phenomena, and designing tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn the steps of a systematic process for designing three-dimensional tasks that align with NGSS performance expectations, take into consideration students’ diverse backgrounds, and can be used in classrooms to provide information to teachers and students to improve learning.

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

Assessment Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Short Course

PLI-2: OpenSciEd Middle School: Teachers, Coaches, and Administrators Revealing Students' Brilliance

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203

Add to Cart 41 tickets available


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Introduction to OpenSciEd for Instructional Leaders (Observation & Assessment)
Introduction to OpenSciEd for Instructional Leaders (Observation & Assessment)
Show Details

Come join us to see how OpenSciEd’s materials can help you reveal your students’ brilliance. This professional learning institute will simultaneously prepare you to teach the first unit in the OpenSciEd middle school program and provide the support you need to advance your practice so that learning is both driven by student questions and leads to the foundational science learning they need to be successful. To do this, this session will put teachers in the student’s seat so they can feel what it's like to be a student whose thoughts and questions are valued in the drive to figure out puzzling phenomena. We actually do science together with the facilitator acting as the "teacher" and then dig in to see the coherence across the program and the details in the first units of OpenSciEd’s program.

In the morning, coaches, admin, and teachers will be together. In the afternoon, teachers will keep digging into the materials and instructional coaches or administrators will have the option to move to a breakout room to learn more about the tools and resources that are available to support teachers in impactful implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
How OpenSciEd's free and publicly available instructional materials and professional learning can make a district's vision for science education a reality.

SPEAKERS:
Thomas Clayton (K-5 STEAM Specialist: Berkeley Heights, NJ), Heather Galbreath (Lombard Middle School: Galesburg, IL), Renee Affolter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA), Alicia Wedderburn (Science Instructional Coach: , MA)

Professional Learning Institute

PLI-1: OpenSciEd High School Biology Unit B.1 Curriculum Launch Workshop Series

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201

Select Options 95 tickets available


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Collection: OpenSciEd High School Biology Launch Unit B.1
Show Details

Immerse yourself in OpenSciEd's innovative learning and gain a deep understanding of the High School Biology Unit B.1 Ecosystem Interactions & Dynamics. Experience learning in the unit from students’ perspective through lesson immersions and gain a tool-kit of resources and strategies to confidently facilitate the unit in your classroom. Make the B.1 Ecosystem Interactions & Dynamics unit come alive in your high school classroom! Hybrid workshop series beginning at the NSTA National Conference Denver 24 and continuing through April 2024

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Rademaker (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Holly Hereau (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Professional Learning Institute

PLI-3: Introducing OpenSciEd High School: Helping Students See Science and Engineering in Meaningful Phenomena and Problems

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

Add to Cart 73 tickets available


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16Kah3fdyOBiNHqeFGbNAWyF-aUzfgfgS?usp=sharing
Folder containing PDF versions of all handouts or activities done during the PLI.
NSTA Denver 2024 PLI Slides.pdf
PDF version of slides used during the PLI with participants.
Show Details

Join us to learn how OpenSciEd materials can help you build high school science learning experiences anchored in compelling phenomena and meaningful community and global problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will gain a bird's-eye view of the structure of units for all three courses of OpenSciEd– biology, chemistry, and physics– and discuss the routines and resources that promote equitable science learning in high school. This PLI will dive into unit 1 of the OpenSciEd High School chemistry course.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Novak (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Nicole Vick (Northwestern University)

Professional Learning Institute

PLI-4: What makes a high-quality, equitable three-dimensional science assessment and how can you create and use them? 

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

Add to Cart 57 tickets available


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session Materials
Session slide deck and handouts.
Show Details

Join us to figure out how to adapt NGSS assessments to be meaningful and coherent for your learners, useful for communicating progress, and manageable for you to provide actionable feedback. We will analyze what task features ensure eliciting evidence related to 3D sensemaking in grade-appropriate ways and consider how to adapt/design tasks to be accessible, relevant, and meaningful to all learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will work together to adapt classroom tasks and plan for their implementation using the most up-to-date tools and resources from across multiple NGSS assessment leaders and projects. You will leave with a task that has been collaboratively adapted during our session that you can share with your colleagues and try with your learners, along with tools and strategies you can use to change your assessment practices in your classroom, school and/or district.

SPEAKERS:
Kelley Aitken (Winchester Public Schools: Winchester, VA), Sara Cooper (Contextus), Abraham Lo (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Dawn Novak (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL)

Professional Learning Institute

PLI-5: Transforming Science Teaching and Learning: Building Capacity for Curriculum Adaptation

Wednesday, March 20 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

Add to Cart 70 tickets available

Show Details

Successful implementation of open-source instructional materials for the NGSS requires adaptation for local needs. This Professional Learning Institute will engage participants in using tools to adapt an open-source middle school unit for local standards and phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Jean Flanagan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Elaine Klein (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Audrey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Candice Guy-Gaytán (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Lindsey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Janna Mahfoud (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Cynthia Gay (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Grades 6 - 8 Professional Learning Institute

Opening Reception

Wednesday, March 20 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom Foyer

Show Details

Join us at the Coloroado Convention Center for an opening reception to mark the start of NSTA Denver24! We’ll keep it casual—enjoy beverages and small bites while networking with old and new friends. The event is complimentary and open to all registered conference attendees.

Networking Opportunity

Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover! Creating Safe Spaces & Psychological Safety for ALL!

Wednesday, March 20 • 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Belco Theater

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Don't judge a book by its cover; the same applies to relationships. Superficial judgments may miss meaningful connections. Explore implicit biases, adjust thought patterns, and eliminate discrimination for a more enriching journey.

SPEAKERS:
Adolph Brown

Keynote Address

Sunrise Yoga

Thursday, March 21 • 6:40 AM - 7:40 AM

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center - Crestone B (3rd Floor)

Show Details

Calling all yoga enthusiasts! Regardless of whether you’re a newbie or veteran, join yoga teacher, Azra Chughtai, RYT, for a warm-up with breathwork; hatha yoga (gentle stretching exercises to wake up the body); and, of course, meditation for relaxation and de-stressing. Beginner friendly!

TAKEAWAYS:
Recharge: Energizing and Stress Relief

SPEAKERS:
Azra Chughtai (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Early Morning Exercise and Activities

NSTA First Timers Orientation Session

Thursday, March 21 • 7:15 AM - 7:45 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201

Show Details

Welcome to NSTA’s national conference!! Where should you begin? Join us for an exploration of the conference app and NSTA’s social media. You will learn how to maneuver and conquer the conference and leave feeling energized.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to get the most out of your conference experience in addition to becoming an engaged learner.

Presentation

Confidence and Competence with SEPs

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10ZW-eqMaTzWM4ysnGuvP_Fxg-b4H6NMq?usp=drive_link
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The goal of this session is for participants to be able to feel confident and competent with incorporating multiple SEPs into everyday sensemaking lessons in their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will experience a hands-on lesson that walks them through the basic steps of how to lead a sensemaking lesson that incorporates multiple SEPs.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Schumann (Katy High School: No City, No State), Elizabeth Morris (Katy ISD: Katy, TX)

Sensemaking General Science Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

No Time to Read?

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTADenver2024.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

With literacy making it's way to the forefront of all core curriculum, do you ever feel like you don't have enough time to add a reading assignment to your lesson plans? Don't stress! I will present strategies that I have incorporated into my plans that have had positive results.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will take away literacy strategies that can be incorporated immediately into your lesson plans that will encourage students to read aloud, pick out important words and phrases, and put their ideas on paper. Also allows teachers to assess reading abilities and comprehension.

SPEAKERS:
Stacey Barnett (Hammond Creek Middle School: Dalton, GA)

Earth & Space Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Restorative Practices in STEM: Building Trust and Accountability

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Diversity in STEM is crucial; however, we need to do more than just talk about it. In order to really create inclusive spaces, we must address the dark side of science which has led many groups to shy away from pursuing these fields. This harm can be repaired through restorative practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will understand the history of science in the United States. By acknowledging the systemic obstacles and barriers that certain underrepresented groups faced, we can implement restorative strategies to create inclusive science classrooms, such as: circles, conferences, and restorative questions.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Josue Falaise (GOMO Educational Services: No City, No State)

STEM Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Fostering Growth Mindsets in Education

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Fostering growth mindset
Please get i touch if you need extra information! [email protected]
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this engaging session, we embark on a transformative journey, equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to instill a growth mindset in themselves and their students, enriching the educational experience, and nurturing future generations of resilient, adaptable, and lifelong learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will self-assess and evaluate students' mindsets, while discussing resources to foster resilience, embracing challenges, and nurturing a lifelong love for learning in any classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Luciana Girgulsky (Northlands: No City, No State)

Leadership Equity Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Strategies to Ignite Curiosity and Foster Engagement

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Strategies to Ignite Curiosity and Foster Engagement
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Unlock the power of student sensemaking in science. Learn strategies to ignite curiosity, foster discussion, and use writing to create an inclusive classroom. Elevate science teaching to ensure you have a student-centered classroom using strategies that develop science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
For middle school students, communication through talking and writing is natural. When they are making sense of science through talking and writing, they are making their thinking visible. This session highlights strategies and routines that will transform science lessons into student-centered learning.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Rhoades (Collaborative Science Teaching and Learning Group Consulting: Midlothian, VA)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Spectroscopy Puzzles

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation Denver 2024 final.pptx
Click on Title on Title Slide and should have viewing rights to my entire Advanced Chemistry folder.
NSTA Presentation Denver 2024 final.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Implentation of spectroscopic evidence in an elective high school chemistry course to identify various unknown organic structures.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be provided with resources and assessments to identify an unknown organic compound given its % composition. The spectroscopic methods used are Infrared Spectrometry, Mass Spectrometry, and proton NMR Spectroscopy.

SPEAKERS:
Jeromy Bentley (Naperville Central High School: Naperville, IL)

Chemistry Assessment STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Spreadsheets to Learn Science Inquisitively and via Differentiation

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
(Save Offline in Chrome) Use Spreadsheets to Learn Inquisitively/Differentiation
This document is vital for maximum interaction in this session. Please open this document and make available for offline use in Chrome before attending the conference in order to lessen the need for wifi while in the convention center.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A showcase of creating dynamic spreadsheets that provide instantaneous, differentiated feedback to students as they learn or practice new content independently or in small groups. This method amplifies confidence for students of all abilities and frees teachers to assist those most in need.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will make use of existing, free, and relatively ubiquitous digital spreadsheets in making presentations for new content. The use of this tool makes practicing content and skills helpful, engaging, and memorable. Educators will create their own spreadsheets for a lesson in their content.

SPEAKERS:
Sean Regan (Chemistry Teacher: Framingham, MA)

Technology Chemistry General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Free middle school lesson plan investigating ocean acidification from the American Chemical Society’s online resource middleschoolchemistry.com

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Explore how excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere makes water more acidic through hands-on activities from the free 5E lesson plans in middleschoolchemistry.com.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will conduct simple, safe, and inexpensive hands-on experiments showing that carbon dioxide gas makes water more acidic, and see how these activities and concepts can be taught to students in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
James Kessler (American Chemical Society: Washington, DC)

Chemistry Climate Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Moonflower Magic: Inclusive Argumentation in the Elementary Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Engaging students in science practices, like arguing from evidence, supports a vision of inclusive instructional strategies. Come explore how students in a fourth grade classroom argue from evidence to figure out which organism was pollinating the moonflower, which only blooms at night.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with an example of how to structure argumentation in the 4th grade classroom through observing student data organization and student discourse.

SPEAKERS:
Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State), Miranda Orellana (Elementary Teacher: Lincoln, NE)

Sensemaking Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Note-Booking for Meaning: Making Meaning in Notebooks

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024, Meaningful Notebooks.pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

This session will introduce teachers to a variety of note-booking techniques that will increase student engagement and excitement for learning. Students will take pride in their notebooks and therefore increase the level of effort they put into their work.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will provide teachers and administrators with various strategies to differentiate learning for English Language Learners, Special Education Students, and General Education Students, and accurately assess student learning through note-booking by tracking student thinking/understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Ziminski (EMK Academy for Health Careers: Boston, MA)

General Science Assessment Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

The Play is the Assessment

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://padlet.com/gesherclass/scienceplay
Padlet of resources for The Play's the Assessment
plays the assessment sorting pixdocx.pdf
Sorting Pix from The Play's the Assessment
Slides Plays the Assessment.pdf
Slide Deck from The Play's the Assessment
The Play's the Assessment Worksheet Pockets of Time.pdf
Pockets of Time Idea Sheet
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session looks at the research behind play-based learning and ways of and criteria for assessing science play in the P-2 group. Participant will actively assess several play scenarios.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with experience assessing some science play scenarios, assessment guidelines, and research citations supporting play-based learning to use and share in their own contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV)

Assessment General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Science Talks, Scaffolding Action, and Argumentation: Three Frameworks for Helping Students Speak and Listen Like Scientists and Engineers

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

To meet the spirit and vision of NGSS, teachers need pedagogies and practices for facilitating scientific discourses at various stages of STEM lessons. This session introduces three discourse frameworks to help students engage in the practices of listening and speaking like scientists and engineers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn pedagogy and practice for scientific discourses. Participants learn how to facilitate 1.) science talks — how to generate curiosity, wonder, and theorize; 2.) scaffolding action, how to engage and expand scientific investigation and engineering design; and 3.) foster scientific argumentation.

SPEAKERS:
Adam Devitt (Associate professor science education: Turlock, CA)

Literacy Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Hosting a Successful Science Fair

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Conference Presentation (1).pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Hosting a STEM Science Fair promotes engagement with the scientific method and CER. It allows students to investigate areas of science that interest them. Learn the logistics of hosting a STEM science fair at your school and the benefits it can bring to your building.

TAKEAWAYS:
Hosting a Science Fair allows students to be active scientists as they study, experiment, and share their knowledge of an in-depth topic of their interest.

SPEAKERS:
Stacie Hopple (8th grade science teacher: New Lexington, OH)

STEM Engineering Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Development of NGSS Alternate Standards for Students with Severe Cognitive Disabilities

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Individual Essential Element Descriptions_2LSGroup1.pdf
NSTA Presentation Handouts.pdf
NSTA Presentation Slide Deck_03.2024.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Students with exceptionalities experience barriers to mastering the breadth and depth of the NGSS. This session explains the process used to reduce the depth, breadth, and complexity of the NGSS into K-12 alternate standards for students with severe cognitive disabilities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how the developmental process of the NGSS PEs was mirrored, yet altered, to develop alternate standards that incorporated the three dimensions described in the Framework and the NGSS at a reduced depth, breadth, and complexity.

SPEAKERS:
Joyce Depenbusch (Atlas DLM), Christy Glore (ATLAS at University of Kansas: No City, No State)

General Science Assessment Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Leveraging Teacher-Led PLCs and Inquiry Cycles to Improve Practice

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
TLPLC Slides.pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

This session presents a unique approach to teacher-led professional learning communities, leveraging data-driven inquiry cycles to identify, test, and refine solutions to common problems of practice around science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore the creation and facilitation of teacher-led professional learning communities, which leverage Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) learning cycles to address problems of practice within their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Seabloom (Chicago Public Schools)

General Science Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Everything You Wanted to Know About Climate Change But Were Afraid To Ask

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session is for you teachers who want to deepen your understanding of climate change, and gather strategies for teaching it at an age-appropriate level. We will also discuss how to answer a student who declares, “My dad says he doesn’t believe in climate change!” Been there. Let’s talk.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers learn basic climate science and practice conceptual modeling to clarify and communicate their understanding, so they will feel confident teaching climate. Examples of differentiated instruction for ELL, struggling students, and GT students, are also given to reach all children.

SPEAKERS:
Kottie Christie-Blick (University of San Diego: San Diego, CA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Bat Houses to Reduce Malaria Infections

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bat House 2024.pptx
The PowerPoint for Bat House Creations
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Undergraduate researchers built a bat house on the Amazon River Basin. The project goals were: 1.) provide natural remediation, 2.) create a marketable commodity (guano), and 3.) reduce overhead costs. The venture has proven beneficial and has far-reaching global effects on the most at-risk humans.

TAKEAWAYS:
Several benefits for the Maijuna can be replicated in other communities. International historical bat projects will be shared. Future ventures with tropical bat houses and other natural resources will be shared. The main takeaway is the use of the natural environment to battle current human struggles.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Bechtel (Wartburg College: Waverly, IA)

STEM Advocacy Environmental Science Presentation

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in Nature with Project Learning Tree

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This interactive session will dive into nature-based learning experiences that help youth develop and maintain positive relationships, become lifelong learners, and contribute to a more caring and just world.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will model a way to advance educational equity using learning environments that feature trusting and collaborative relationships paired with meaningful instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Maurine Banzhaf (Colorado PLT advisory council: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

OpenSciEd 101 for School and Districts Leaders – What You Need to Know

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://tinyurl.com/OSE101-NSTA-3-21-2024
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Like many states, Connecticut has adopted OpenSciEd for the middle level model science curriculum. The approach to teaching and learning through OpenSciEd presents a challenge for school and district leaders– that is, what does it look like? The instructional model & feedback will be the focus.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders and supervisors will learn what to expect in an OpenSciEd classroom and take away tools and resources to support their understanding, and support teacher implementation through formative feedback to enhance teacher growth and collective efficacy.

SPEAKERS:
Matthew Wlodarczyk (Capitol Region Education Council: Hartford, CT)

Leadership General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

How to Use Instructional Vision Setting to Impact Adoption of High Quality K-12 Instructional Materials

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
How to Use Instructional Vision Setting NSTA.pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

School leaders play an important role in the adoption of high quality instructional materials and can serve as catalysts for smart adoption processes. Participants will learn how to develop and use local priorities and instructional vision to drive the instructional materials adoption process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to develop local priorities and establish an instructional vision, engage with EdReports reviews of instructional materials to make informed decisions based on local context, and leave with materials to support replicating this process with their local educators.

SPEAKERS:
John-Carlos Marino (Science Lead), Shannon Wachowski (EdReports.org: Fort Collins, CO)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Presentation

Enhancing the NGSS with 3D Printing, Drones, Robots, and Coding!

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1mSfLF_8l9dpyJYYTRTJNJNwFONx3fpcwHGTqyKakWj0/edit#slide=id.g22a3d5dd5f1_0_36
Please reach out if there are any questions...we'd be more than happy to connect and partner with you!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Making enhancements to our Science programming requires an integration of STEM concepts. In this session we share our technological journey and how we have infused 3D printing, drones, robots, coding, and Arduinos seamlessly into 6th-8th grade Science classes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees learn how STEM can be infused seamlessly into current NGSS programming, new STEM options available, how they are being used to increase problem solving and critical thinking skills, and how to use the instructional planning framework to integrate STEM technology into any middle-level class.

SPEAKERS:
Anna Kopacz , Howard Frishman (Woodlawn Middle School: Long Grove, IL), Nicole McRee (KCSD#96)

STEM Robotics Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Early Engineering Encounters

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Participants will use the engineering design process to imagine and build challenges that link with popular rhymes. Lively learning activities will integrate NGSS, math, literacy, and SEL, supporting research that science and engineering should be included for early elementary students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Engineering activities can be effectively utilized with early primary students, supporting their growth not only in science, but also in math, ELA, and SEL. Participants will experience engineering exercises that can be readily integrated into their classroom practice.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Nolan-Beasley (Elementary STEM Teacher, Consultant and Science Teacher Trainer: Walla Walla, WA)

Engineering Literacy STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

CAST: Embedding Literacy Supports in 3D Units for Equitable Sensemaking and Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Experience how embedding literacy supports for reading, writing, and academic discourse in 3D teaching and learning promotes sensemaking and science understanding for ALL learners! Learn how the BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model embeds literacy supports throughout cycles of inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
The research-based BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model succeeds the 5Es and embeds literacy supports for reading, writing, and academic discourse in conjunction with science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts to promote students in figuring out key science ideas.

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Gay (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Sensemaking General Science Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Building Student Leadership in the Science Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Building Student Leadership in the Science Classroom 2024.pdf
Student Leadership in Elementary Classrooms
Student leadership in small group science inquiry
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

How do we prepare teachers to build a community of student learners and leaders? Science education is ideal for building student leaders as they investigate phenomena through questions and observations.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will explore and model best practices to promote inclusive student leadership in science.

SPEAKERS:
Sephali Thakkar (National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA): No City, No State), Beverly DeVore-Wedding (Nebraska Indian Community College: Meeker, CO)

Leadership Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Amazing Exploding Cattails, Heated Mittens, and Turkey by 5 o’clock: Students’ Misconceptions in Science

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Amazing Exploding Cattails, Heated Mittens, Turkey by 5 Student Misconceptions
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Are your students’ explanations of science sometimes jaw-dropping, leaving you scratching your head as to where that “knowledge” came from? While we can’t eliminate kids’ misconceptions, we can work with those ideas to help them understand the correct science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn how to work with misconceptions that students hold in order to incorporate those into useful assessments. Use students’ sensemaking to discover ways to get at those ideas, and share your students’ misconceptions, hear others as well, and build research-based assessments.

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Crockett (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA)

Assessment Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

STEMMING Around with Gravity and Air Pressure: Dropping Copters vs. Huff & Puff Vehicles

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver 2024 NSTA Presentation_Carolyn.Mohr.pptx
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Increase knowledge aligning SEPs with science DCIs. Will students Plan/Conduct investigations using Inquiry lessons, or will they define simple design problems practicing STEM protocols? Design/build Paper Helicopters and Huff & Puff Vehicles practicing both ways of doing science. FACTs included.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will take away two classroom models (Paper Helicopters & Huff/Puff Vehicles) and experience firsthand how to engage students in collaborative, inclusive groups to solve problems and build community. Try to constrain yourselves as you set up your criteria for success! FACTs modeled, too!

SPEAKERS:
Tina Harris (Bedford North Lawrence High School: Bedford, IN), Carolyn Mohr (University Center of Lake County: Grayslake, IL)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

District-Level Implementation of a High-Quality NGSS Curriculum in a Non-NGSS State: How it Started… How it’s Going

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17VcfLBniO_r61wdcdJ5HjwtmF6IHWdX7L871mH-TcNI/edit?usp=sharing
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Science coordinators from two public school districts in South Carolina will share how they are implementing a high-quality, open-education NGSS curriculum to support equitable three-dimensional science instruction for all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will share our implementation strategies, including how we recruited teachers as early adopters. Learn how we support teachers and students, partner with administrators and the community, manage materials, address challenges, and celebrate successes.

SPEAKERS:
Richard Phillips (Sumter School District: Sumter, SC), Holly Sullivan (Richland School District Two: Columbia, SC)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NSTA’s Digital Resources and Online Community: Maximize Your Member Benefits!

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA-Natl-Conf-DEN24-Digital_Resources_Membership.pdf
Slides for NSTA Session at Denver 24 titled: NSTA’s Digital Resources and Online Community: Maximize Your Member Benefits!
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Explore the NSTA Website with us! NSTA provides high-quality digital resources and opportunities—all within a professional community—that supports professional learning and classroom instruction. NSTA staff will be available to answer questions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will become knowledgeable about the plethora of digital resources available on NSTA’s website, about the live events and professional learning community that can help them enhance their knowledge and improve their teaching practices.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Phillips (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Rise to the Challenge: STEM Design Challenges for Your Students

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Extreme Zoo Makeover Curriculum Packet
NSTA 2024 Rise to the Challenge Powerpoint Final.pptx
Session Power Point
Rise 1 - Hurricane Heroes Curriculum Packet DIGITAL VERSION (2).pdf
Curriculum Guide for Hurricane Heros
Survivor Island Curriculum Packet
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Get ready to Rise to the Challenge in this Workshop series based on our Massachusetts STEM Week Challenges. From extreme weather to deserted islands, and zoo makeovers, there’s a challenge for everyone! You’ll experience hands-on, inquiry and phenomena-based investigations. Receive the curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will explore STEM Design Challenges funded by the MA DHE and run during MA STEM Week. They will explore using a design challenge in their classroom that addresses the Science and Engineering Standards and the engineering design process, and will experience using phenomena-based units.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Stronach (Lloyd Center for the Environment: Dartmouth, MA), Kathryn Atkins (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA), Sandra Ryack-Bell (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using Microprocessor Tools to Sense and Interact with the Environment

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Microprocessor Tools to Sense and Interact with the Environment.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Physical computing allows students to design and create interactive objects that emphasize computational thinking skills. Participants will engage in activities designed for middle school students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Microcontrollers are small computers that come with several integrated sensors. Their functionality makes them useful for both investigations and engineering projects. Some of the basic functionality of different microcontrollers will be learned through hands-on experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Susan German (Hallsville Middle School: Hallsville, MO), G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

STEM Computer Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

AUTHOR: Instructional Sequence Matters: Explore-Before-Explain, Grades 6-8

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover how simple adjustments in activity order can supercharge your students' knowledge construction and seamlessly integrate the NGSS into your teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, Instructional Sequence Matters will empower you with both the rationale and tangible, real-world examples to revamp your hands-on teaching methods.

SPEAKERS:
Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: O'Fallon, MO)

Sensemaking Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Making Explainers in the STEM Classroom: Getting Students to Show What They Know

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Combining visual and text elements, Science Explainers help deepen student understanding by creating artifacts that give them creative freedom to walk through the solution to a problem, exercise, or example in a way they understand.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn the best practices for making effective Explainers (physical and video) in their classroom. A variety of topics will be made available, allowing attendees to practice the method themselves and take them back to their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Matt Brady (Atkins High School: Winston-Salem, NC)

Sensemaking Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

A Promising Professional Learning Model for Bringing NGSS-Aligned Instruction to Scale Across a District

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Hear how a K-8 district just north of Chicago with 18 schools is transforming science teaching and learning through cultivating Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), leveraging teacher leaders, and centering student voice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teacher leaders & students are crucial to scaling reform efforts. Participants will walk away with a detailed model for cultivating science PLCs and example strategies for elevating student voice.

SPEAKERS:
Kristie Rachell (Haven Middle School: Evanston, IL), Meghan Thomas (Educator: Evanston, IL), Megan McDermott (Nichols Middle School: No City, No State), Elida Patino (Kindergarten Dual Language Teacher), Alissa Berg (Evanston Skokie School District 65)

Leadership General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

The Joy in the Making of a Middle School Genius Hour

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

In this presentation we’ll discuss how to bring makerspaces, STEAM, and genius hour to life in the classroom. An experienced STEAM educator will share her joyful journey creating and implementing a middle school STEAM class rooted in research on making, equity, and the genius hour practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to bring joy into teaching and learning through making, STEAM, and genius hour. Attendees will walk away with tools, tips, and tricks to support their own vision of joy in teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Olivia Bello (75 Morton: New York, NY)

STEM Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NSELA-Sponsored Session: SLIC: Science Literacy Integration Collaboration, an Integration Model

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

A team of Science Consultants and Early Literacy Coaches in Michigan has utilized recommendations in the power of the Brilliance and Strengths Report, combined with data on elementary-level science education, to devise an approach to support literacy practices within science instructional time.

TAKEAWAYS:
The attendees will learn what the SLIC Model consists of, as well as how to find out more to gain supports to implement themselves. There are Facilitator Guides, Train-the-Trainer Professional Learning opportunities, and sessions built out to take with them. This is an OER resource.

SPEAKERS:
Wendi Vogel (Kent Intermediate School District: Grand Rapids, MI)

Literacy Advocacy Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Unpacking a Science for Social Justice Toolbox

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session provides an overview of teaching science for social justice and how elementary teachers can design explorations that use science to critique injustices. Participants will engage in an elementary hands-on, social justice science lesson and discuss ways to do the same in their contexts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of teaching science for social justice, along with practical classroom strategies informed by the Learning for Justice (2022) standards and Davis’ (2022) Four Approaches to Equity Framework, to design their own elementary science lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Alesia Moldavan (Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Science Education), Bailey Nafziger (Georgia Southern University)

Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Student Scientists: Bringing Research into the Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
How & Why Do Scientists Communicate.pptx
Intro to Jelly-Side Down Lab.pptx
Jelly-Side Down - Class Results Table (so students can compare their results with other groups).doc
Jelly-Side Down - Data Analysis.docx
Jelly-Side Down - Intro to Presentations.docx
Jelly-Side Down - Presentation Grade Sheet.doc
Jelly-Side Down - Presentation Outline.doc
Jelly-Side Down - Writing Tips for Procedures.doc
March 2023 NSTA Conference - Presentation.pptx
NGSS Appendix F - Science and Engineering Practices.pdf
NGSS Appendix H - The Nature of Science.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore student-driven phenomena to teach and scaffold the NGSS Science Practices! This session is a mix of presentation, hands-on inquiry, and discussion. Utilizing a teacher’s experience in research and scientific publication, we’ll explore common areas of dissonance in emerging scientists.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to make authentic research accessible to diverse learners with a simple jelly, bread, and kitchen utensil investigation. Scaffolding progressions will cover scientific writing, data analysis, peer feedback, and scientific communication to bridge the gap between classroom and research.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Lane (C R Anderson Middle School: Helena, MT)

General Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Wait, that’s a job I can do someday? Connecting Engineering Research to the Elementary Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Engage in activities that show how to connect your current science lessons to cutting edge engineering research and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM. Receive access to K-5 NGSS aligned resources that immerse students in scenario based tasks using data from current STEM research.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to enhance student engagement, and promote STEM college and career pathways by connecting classroom learning to current engineering research at URI and UCONN. Leave with access to video and instructional resources aligned to NGSS and connected to the research.

SPEAKERS:
John Koziatek (University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Christopher Cochran (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Valerie Maier-Speredelozzi (University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Zachary Orefice (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: Narragansett, RI)

General Science Engineering STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Explore Teaching and Assessing Students’ Science Learning of a Middle School Three-Dimensional Science Instructional Framework: Forces and Energy

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA Students' Science Learning of a Middle School 3-D Science Unit_Forces and Energy.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Middle School NGSS-aligned curriculum, instruction, and assessment resources created by the SIPS Project provide a scalable and coherent approach to improve three-dimensional science learning for all students, including unpacking the science content, instruction, and assessing student progress.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators’ ability to use three-dimensional instruction and assessment resources to provide inclusive, equitable instruction, promote sensemaking, assess learning, and make instructional decisions will be enhanced. Benefits of a coherent system to improve student outcomes will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Rhonda True (Nebraska Department of Education: Lincoln, NE), Mary Nyaema (University of Illinois Chicago: Chicago, IL), Bill Herrera (edCount, LLC: No City, No State), Charlene Turner (Senior Associate: Laramie, WY)

Physical Science Assessment Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About Best Teaching Practices

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
TEAM Teaching Tips Handout (Ancient Cultures PD).pdf
What Ancient Cultures can Teach Us about Best Teaching Practices - (NSTA 3.21.24).pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session will highlight and discuss key takeaways from the bestselling book Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy Helpful Little Humans that have practical applications for educators in their own classrooms, including the acronym TEAM.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about some of the underpinning childrearing philosophies commonly found in cultures around the world that help lead to kind, confident, and contented kids, and leave with a toolbox of “best practices” that can be applied directly in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Wu (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL)

Preservice Science Education Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Sensemaking and the Crosscutting Concepts Conference Course Kick-Off

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

Show Details

Members of NSTA's Professional Learning Committee want to meet you! Join us as we kick-off the Sensemaking and Crosscutting Concepts Conference Course. This session gives an overview of how CCCs are used to enrich SEPs and DCIs, enhance student sensemaking, and guide future instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session is a call to action for realizing the power of CCCs. Attendees will have an opportunity to connect with NSTA's PL Committee, collaborate with fellow science leaders, and leave with an invitation to continue the conference course to further understandings of sensemaking and CCCs.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association), Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Sharon Cates (Phenomenon Science Education: Amherst, MA), Kimberley Astle (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Presentation

Are My Teachers Really Incorporating 3D Learning or Just Hands-On Activities?

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slide Deck
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Participants will be presented with the characteristics of NGSS-based learning. The presenter will frame this through the review of a hands-on/demonstration activity vs. a Three-Dimensional approach to instruction. This session is meant for school administrators who do not have a science background.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be introduced to the process of converting a hands-on/demonstration activity to a true NGSS-based lesson.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Hilton (Central Indiana Educational Service Center: Indianapolis, IN)

STEM General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Customization for Relevance to Support Students' Equitable Sensemaking: Strategies and Tensions

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will engage audience in experiencing strategies a group of middle-school science teachers used to customize OpenSciEd curriculum to better support students' equitable sensemaking by enhancing the curriculum's relevance. We will also share the challenges and lessons learned.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through this session, we hope that the attendees will walk away with a set of strategies they could use to enhance curriculum's relevance to students in future instruction, as well as the items they want to pay attention to during customization.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Buell (Postdoctoral researcher: No City, No State), Brian Reiser (Learning Sciences, SESP, Northwestern University), Claire Hiller (Chute Middle School: Evanston, IL), Stephanie Baldwin (Haven Middle School: Evanston, IL), Kafi Chase (Chute Middle School), Yang Zhang (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL)

Sensemaking Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Students To Directly Experience Scientific Exploration

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Empower students to investigate the natural world as career scientists do. In this workshop, we will explore accessible field and lab activities from the Chicago Botanic Garden Plant Biology and Conservation graduate program including instructional strategies, lesson plans, and low-cost activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
All students deserve access to high-quality and authentic science experiences. Incorporating real-world scientific training into the classroom provides students with opportunities to be successful in science and contribute to expanding scientific knowledge.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Turner-Rosa (Curriculum and Program Developer / Graduate Student)

Biology Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Education: Harnessing the Power of AI for 21st Century Classrooms

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore transformative AI tools for education, including Questionwell, Curipod, and Twee. Learn to seamlessly integrate them into lessons, enhance student engagement, and elevate learning with AI-generated questions and personalized feedback.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain hands-on experience with AI tools for education, understanding their potential to enhance student engagement, streamline assessment, and promote innovative teaching strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Selene Verhofstad (Dobie High School: Houston, TX), Faryal Shaukat (Dobie High School: Houston, TX)

Technology Assessment STEM Presentation

Engaging Students in Science Through a Virtual Platform

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 710


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Engaging Students in Science through a Virtual Platform
This is the PowerPoint presentation that we are using during our session.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We are conducting a workshop on how to engage science learners in a virtual platform. We will have an interactive workshop with examples of how to teach Life Science and Physical Science concepts from your home through science phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use various teaching tools and strategies in a virtual setting to foster the passion for science in all students. Use science phenomena to activate student’s critical thinking skills in a fun and interactive way.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Huffaker (Teacher: , GA), Rebecca Miller (Science Department Chair/ 8th Grade Science Teacher: , GA), Latoya Moore (Georgia Connections Academy: No City, No State)

Physical Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Play with your Data: Making Climate Data Tangible Through Art

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iw_5XcsxDFBDemUbUVXuFHdLBIphMml7?usp=sharing
Link to shared Google Drive folder of all resources from the workshop at NSTA Denver 2024.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

What do climate data feel like? How can they engage our senses? Explore climate data using simple methods to create powerful and tactile data stories. Inspired by #ShowYourStripes and the Tempestry Project, participants learn ways to make environmental data accessible and fun for students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Workshop participants will create and keep a sample data project using tactile materials and receive step-by-step plans for how to replicate this with any data set in their classrooms. The plans can be easily adapted to any unit that uses data in natural science, math, or social science classes.

SPEAKERS:
Alexandra Rose (CU Science Discovery: Boulder, CO), Ian Schwartz (Boulder Valley School District: Boulder, CO), Tim Ogino (CU Science Discovery: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Mathematics Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Integrating Physical Activity into the Science Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
MvmtIntegHandout_NSTA24
MvmtIntegSlides_NSTA24
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Classroom physical activity has been linked to improved academic performance, attention, concentration, and on-task behavior for students. This interactive session will provide strategies and activities for integrating physical activity into the science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the association between movement integration and learning, as presenters share current research and examples of movement activities designed to increase understanding, engagement, and performance.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Lindt (Professor: Wichita Falls, TX), Stacia Miller (Professor- Kinesiology: Wichita Falls, TX)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

EC: The Explorations of Infants and Toddlers are Real Science

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Young Children and Science Ellen A Cogan
2 page information to accompany presentation 2024 NSTA conference
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Educators in Infant/Toddler classrooms can feel pressure to "teach science" in their groups. Yet, infants and toddlers, allowed to freely explore, engage in science learning daily. The framework's dimensions are part of their world, but adults seldom recognize this.

TAKEAWAYS:
The everyday "play" of infants and toddlers include their attempts to investigate their world, to find out patterns and predictability of objects in their lives. Adults who work with the youngest children rarely understand the scientific concepts that are being investigated and learned.

SPEAKERS:
Ellen Cogan (Hilltop Early Childhood Services: No City, No State)

Physical Science Informal Education STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Creating a Classroom Culture that Supports Equitable Science Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Creating a Classroom Culture...Equitable...Collection of Resources
Denver24: Creating a Classroom Culture that Supports Equitable Science Learning Collection of Resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science is a social endeavor! Gain strategies to transform your classroom into a community of learners in which students and teachers actively try to make sense of the natural and built worlds.

TAKEAWAYS:
Classroom norms help ensure equitable science learning

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Equity Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Climate Justice Overview: Priority Areas and Educational Approaches

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1UV9DQ7aO5kH250DlWTkgaUumgBcSojff
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Science education has a key role to play in supporting a just transition to the climate crisis. Participants will learn about 20 priority areas associated with climate and environmental justice—and explore educational approaches, resources, and groups related to these areas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Working towards climate justice involves a multifaceted set of issues and priorities. Teachers will identify which priority areas relate to their goals and context and learn about related resources. A climate justice framework will help teachers learn about different dimensions of climate justice.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Nancy Price (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Climate Science Environmental Science Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Ignite Systems Thinking with BioInteractive's Model Builder

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

We'll explore using BioInteractive's free Model Builder tool to assist students in understanding system models. Choose from a library of models or create your own.

SPEAKERS:
Steven Rogg (Notre Dame College Prep: Niles, IL), Joseph Evans (Kent County High School: Worton, MD)

Life Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Supporting Literacy in the Science Classroom – Reading to Learn!

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Learn fun strategies for using informational texts to support your young learners’ sensemaking. Investigate supports with these texts that help students gather more information, use new vocabulary, and experience new ways of talking about their ideas about the world of science around them.

SPEAKERS:
Jen Gutierrez (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Exhibitor Workshop

Bringing Back the Macromolecule Lab Without Crazy Prep

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Teach macromolecules without the crazy prep! In this micro-scaled lab activity, students test for starch, glucose, protein, lipids and DNA, without the need for large volumes of reagents, cleaning test tubes, or boiling reagents. Then students apply their knowledge and test various unknown samples.

SPEAKERS:
Whitney Hagins (Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

A District's Perspective: How Leveraging Phenomena Drives Student Learning Forward

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Great Minds

See how Colorado schools are using phenomena to drive K–2 science instruction. We'll dive into a PhD Science® module to discover how phenomenon-driven instruction anchors student learning. Participants will hear from a piloting Colorado district and leave with access to the free K–2 OER materials.

SPEAKERS:
Madeline Cronk (Great Minds: Washington, DC), Rebecca Rolater (pK-12 Science Performance Improvement Partner: Aurora, CO)

Sensemaking Physical Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Chromosomes in Action: New Ways to Model Mitosis and Meiosis

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Explore how physical models foster an understanding of the importance of mitosis and meiosis to the growth and development of living things.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Hutson (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engaging Hands-On Activities for Intro and Advanced Bio Classes

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Engage with Hands-On Biology! Flinn Scientific presents a variety of easy to perform and exciting intro and Advanced Biology demonstrations. Come see Flinn’s new demonstrations and some of your old favorites—all guaranteed to make your science classroom come alive. Handouts provided for all.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Cambron, M.S. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Biology Chemistry Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Harness BIOZONE's powerful and innovative interactive worktexts to streamline and deliver engaging science lessons in your high school classroom.

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE Corporation

Step-through BIOZONE's activities and learn how to utilize our unique pedagogical approach to engage students and streamline lessons. See how to integrate BIOZONE'S rich collection of digital assets into your lessons. Attendees receive a FREE print title & 90 day digital access to a title.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Stilwell (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

General Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

An Innovative Approach to Integrated STEM

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC)

This session explores a unique approach to integrated STEM. The approach places curricular units that focus on engineering and computer science directly into the core curriculum for every student, PreK-12.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Reynolds (Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC): Boston, MA)

STEM Computer Science Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 1: Engage Your Students with Scientific Modeling and Virtual Reality

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 505

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Dive into three NOAA modules (Observations vs. Models, Predators and Prey, and Ocean Food Webs) that explore scientific modeling as applied to Earth systems using a VR environment. Using these modules students will employ the NGSS practice of developing and using models in hands-on activities.

SPEAKERS:
Randy Russell (Dragonfly Games: Boulder, CO), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

Biology Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Materials for Supporting Model Building

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: PEER Physics

How can pedagogical tools and materials support students with building and revising mechanistic models? We’ll explore strategies for building models using shared evidence and consensus. Co-presented by PEER Physics and Arbor Scientific.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Quinty (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Physics Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Microbe Hunters: A gel electrophoresis lab to bring space science into the biology classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Use gel electrophoresis to help astronauts identify bacteria growing aboard the International Space Station. This case study is based on the research of the NASA microbiology team. Also, learn about Genes in Space, a free experimental design competition that launches student experiments to the ISS.

SPEAKERS:
Marc Bliss (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Earth & Space Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Simplify Photosynthesis with Sensors!

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Learn how to lead simple hands-on experiments with sensors. Help students collect and analyze carbon exchange data from plant leaves in real-time! Dispel student doubts in their understanding of photosynthesis and respiration.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Fueling the Science Mind: Engaging Methods to Motivate Young Thinkers

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Amplify Science

Through reflecting on our own personal ‘why’ for teaching science, we’ll consider how to spark a love of science for the next generation of solution seekers. Using exemplar activities and teacher moves, explore ways to celebrate student thinking, be responsive, and promote deep scientific thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Cross (Albert Einstein Academy Middle School: San Diego, CA)

General Science Equity Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Integrating the Arts into the Science Classroom (Grades K-5)

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Arts integration is a holistic approach that enables students to access the curriculum while developing scientific skills needed for the twenty-first century. Learn how poetry, music, storytelling, drama, visual art, and creative movement can be meaningfully embedded within the science curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Walters (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

OpenSciEd HS & MS Enhancements from Carolina

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Come experience the Carolina Certified Version of OpenSciEd for Middle School and High School. See how the new Carolina Certified Edition enhances these high-quality instructional materials and makes OpenSciEd even better! Leave with classroom resources.

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

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Journey Through the Heart

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Take a tour through the mammalian heart and trace the path of a blood cell on its journey to oxygenation. Participants take blood pressure readings. Then dissect a preserved sheep heart to model blood flow and connect BP to heart anatomy. Don’t skip a beat - it’s going to be hands-on fun!

SPEAKERS:
Patti Kopkau (Retired Educator: National City, MI)

Biology Sensemaking Technical and Vocational Education Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

The Fluorescence Files: Solving Fictional Crimes with Spectroscopy

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Decode concealed clues and unveil invisible evidence using spectroscopy! This demonstration will cover how students can use the Go Direct® SpectroVis® Plus Spectrophotometer and Vernier Spectral Analysis® app to capture and identify the spectra for invisible ink in a note left at a crime scene.

SPEAKERS:
Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Hands-On Physics Learning with Vernier Photogates

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Studying complex physics phenomena with photogates can be exciting for your students! Join us to explore strategies for engaging your students in learning about velocity vs. time graphs, acceleration, and kinematic equations. Build confidence in these tools and bring hands-on learning to your class!

SPEAKERS:
Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Physics STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engineering in the Science Classroom: Bridging Science Content and Engineering Practices

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP Science

Discover the synergy of engineering and science in your classroom! Merge hands-on learning and digital tech to bridge content and practice. Ignite creativity, foster problem-solving, and bring real-world experiences to your students through the power of brainstorming.

SPEAKERS:
Hannah Bonville (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

Engineering Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Forensic Escape Room: Design Your Own Biotech Adventure

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Explore the world of forensic science with these fun and exciting escape room activities! Try forensic blood detection and agarose gel electrophoresis experiments, decipher clues, and solve puzzles. Learn to design your own escape room to have students unravel the evidence and free the innocent.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Traveling the Water Cycle and Human Impacts on Earth's Water

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Students model global water movement as driven by the Sun and gravity. They consider how a plant's systems interact over various time and spacial scales. Crosscutting concepts of scale, proportion, and quantity are used to discuss the study of water movement and human impact on water.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Parker (Dublin Coffman High School: Dublin, OH)

Earth & Space Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Level Up Your Classroom with Gamification

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: TCI

Learn to promote interest and engagement while helping students achieve specific learning objectives with games. Join us as you learn simple and valuable ways to gamify your lessons. We will be sharing a few creative game ideas for building relationships and reviewing and learning content.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Kumar (TCI: Mountain View, CA)

Technology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Critical Earth Issues: How Your Kids are Going to Save the Planet

Thursday, March 21 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

Earth faces pressing challenges: rising temperatures, extreme weather, resource strain, and pollution. Unfairly, students must tackle these, but solutions exist. Teachers play a vital role in providing students with academic tools, fostering confidence and hope for them to shape a sustainable future

SPEAKERS:
Michael Wysession (Washington University in St. Louis: Saint Louis, MO)

General Science Climate Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Stoked on Science  

Thursday, March 21 • 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Belco Theater

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From exploding glitter bombs to backyard squirrel obstacle courses to engineering the world's smallest Nerf gun, if there's one thing Mark Rober knows how to do, it's getting kids stoked on science. Join us as Mark shares his incredible journey from NASA engineer to captivating millions with his science-fueled experiments and hilarious inventions on YouTube. Get ready for your mind to be blown when Mark unveils his most ambitious project yet - right here on the NSTA main stage.

 

SPEAKERS:
Mark Rober (CrunchLabs LLC: Sunnyvale, CA)

Keynote Address

Building Capacity for the Design and Adaptation of High-Quality Instructional Materials

Thursday, March 21 • 10:45 AM - 12:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Many schools need high-quality units to meet their state standards or localize phenomena. BSCS Science Learning has extensive experience with designing, adapting, and localizing. In this session, apply a BSCS design tool, and learn about a suite of tools to use for large-scale design or adaptation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Experience with a tool to unpack target standards by clarifying key ideas, listing prerequisites and challenges, and considering what students should “figure out” and not just “learn about.” Consider and share how to apply tools and processes for designing and adapting HQIM in your local context.

SPEAKERS:
Jean Flanagan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Elaine Klein (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Hands-On Workshop

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall

STRAND: No Strand

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Please join us for the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the exhibit hall, featuring companies with services, support, and resources for science educators.

STEM Exhibits

Recharge Yourself! From Striving to Thriving: How to Manage Your Stress

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

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In today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress is common, but your mind and body can pay a high price. Learn to recognize overwhelming stress—and what you can do about it. Most importantly, learn how to use the power of your senses to relieve stress on the spot and stay calm, productive, and focused.

TAKEAWAYS:
Tips on how to manage stress.

SPEAKERS:
Azra Chughtai (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Equity Leadership Hands-On Workshop

INSPIRE-ing Inquiry: Supporting Inquiry-Based Activities through Scaffolding for Student Executive Functioning Skills and Self-Regulated Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
5E_ScientificPractices_SRL.pdf
Adapted 5E lesson plan template to map scientific practices, SRL, and executive funcitioning skills.
Additional EF Resources.pdf
As follow-up to today's session, there are additional resources for executive functioning information.
EF Inventory.pdf
Adapted inventory to self-assess executive functioning skills
INSPIRE Educator Recruitment.pdf
If you're located in the NYC metro area and interested in participating in our program, please follow the QR code to apply!
INSPIRE slides
Slide deck from the workshop
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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The INSPIRE program is a professional learning opportunity aimed at increasing diversity within the geosciences. This is accomplished through inclusive pedagogies: specifically scaffolding support for student executive functioning skills and self-regulated learning cycle in inquiry activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about student executive functioning skills, the self-regulated learning cycle, and ways to incorporate their support into their planning and teaching praxis. Participants are asked to bring an example of an inquiry activity (lab, or otherwise) to work with during the session.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Anne Mollica (Teacher/ Science Pedagogy Specialist)

Equity Climate Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Supporting Equity and Justice Through Science Instruction: The Road Traveled and the One Ahead

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MRpiqyg56J-DKE2N_-Rb6dYK1IIuHvDV
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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All students have the right to develop a deep understanding of how the world works in ways that support their personal goals and the interests of their community. Come explore how instruction can more equitably support science learning that is consequential to your students and their communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will develop an understanding of an equity project framework for science education for supporting professional learning and implementation projects. They will learn how open education resources (http://stemteachingtools.org/) can help them develop equitable approaches to science teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Michal Robinson (K-12 Science, AP/IB Program Manager: Montgomery, AL)

Equity Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Heating Up: Connecting Climate Change and Coral Bleaching with BioInteractive

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Use Biointeractive resources to help students explain the relationship between climate change and coral bleaching by analyzing real world data on heat-stress mortality trends.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn Norton (Educator: Holcombe, WI), Chi Klein (Saint Stephen's Episcopal School: Bradenton, FL)

Life Science Biology Climate Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Take the Mess and Stress Out of Bacterial Transformation

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Simplified prep and innovative technology makes your bacterial transformation work for you, not the other way around. Transform cells in a few simple steps, and use a new innovative media plate that comes pre-poured. See how this lab will let you spend your time teaching and doing, not prepping.

SPEAKERS:
Whitney Hagins (Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Astronomy & Space Science for Today's Classrooms

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: Simulation Curriculum

Teach astronomy and space science using the most effective and recognized tool available - Starry Night. We invite teachers to see our newest, browser-based NGSS aligned edition. We'll show the lessons, exercises, simulations and interactions along with the assessments and teacher materials.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Goodman (Simulation Curriculum: Hopkins, MN)

Earth & Space Science General Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

How Do You Support Students Through Productive Struggle?

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Great Minds

Come along as we undergo a rigorous student experience to work through a complex investigation. Throughout the course of the session, participants will discover the importance of fostering an environment that encourages challenge where students can struggle in a safe space.

SPEAKERS:
Madeline Cronk (Great Minds: Washington, DC)

Engineering Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

From Atoms to Oceans: Modeling the Properties of Water

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Dive deep into water's secrets! Harness 3D models to unravel states of matter, polar covalent bonding, solubility, and beyond in an immersive journey.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Arnholt (3D Molecular Designs: No City, No State), Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Chemistry Chronicles: Hands-on inquiry that gets a reaction with Flinn Scientific!

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Teaching Chemistry should be AWESOME! Flinn Scientific presents a variety of easy to perform and exciting chemistry.. Come see Flinn’s new demonstrations and some of your old favorites—all guaranteed to make your science classroom come alive. Handouts provided for all.

SPEAKERS:
Savannah Stanley, M.Ed. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

EarthComm – A System Approach to Teaching Earth Science

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Get a close look at the pedagogical strategies of a highly acclaimed Earth Science book. Developed by the American Geoscience Institute, this book relies on student-centered activities, students doing science! Take part in several activities and connect with other earth science teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Gary Curts (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

Earth & Space Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

From Circuits to Molecules: Biotech basics for middle school and general bio

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Link physical science concepts like circuits and charged particles to the essential biotech method gel electrophoresis. Build a reusable gel electrophoresis system with the Bandit STEM Electrophoresis Kit, and use it to separate colorful dyes. Also, add the A to STEAM with creative pipetting art!

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hennessy-McDonald, PhD (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

STEM Life Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Speed and Velocity: Accessible Lessons with Motion Graphs

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Get hands-on experience with sensors, demonstrators, and software for graphing motion. For students new to describing motion, position and velocity graphs can be challenging to interpret. Learn accessible methods to help your students solidify their motion graphing skills and comprehension.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Physics Engineering Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Positioning Students at the Center of Our Science Classrooms

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 502


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Positioning Students at the Center Resources
Slides - PositioningStudentsAtCenter_NSTA 2024.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Amplify Science

How do we uncover and leverage the wealth of background knowledge and experiences students bring to science classrooms? Join UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science for strategies and examples of how student-centered experiences can spark curiosity, empower students, and lead to deeper learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Curley (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Daniel Alcazar-Roman (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

Equity General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Effective Literacy and Writing Strategies in the Science Classroom (Grades 6-12)

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Come learn how to use effective literacy strategies so that students can better understand science content. Student understanding and critical-thinking skills will improve with these techniques. Join our constructivist approach that promotes literacy in the science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Thompson (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

The Fusion of Science and Language through Smithsonian Science for the Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Join our interactive science workshop where literacy meets exploration! Immerse yourself in a world of discovery as we blend scientific concepts with the power of language. Through engaging activities, see how students will not only unravel the wonders of science but also enhance their literacy skills. Leave with classroom resources.

SPEAKERS:
Hoover Herrera (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC), Sarah Glassman (Smithsonian Science Education Center: Washington, DC)

Literacy General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Enzymatic Explorations: Investigating Solutions for Lactose Intolerance

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Reimagine standards-aligned enzymology lessons with an updated real-world spin. Attendees will explore lactase enzyme function firsthand and use Vernier Go Direct® sensors to observe lactose breakdown. Students can make real-world connections to digestive health concepts like lactose intolerance.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM Environmental Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Introduction to Vernier: The Basics for Beginners

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Wondering how to get started with Vernier technology? Explore three of our most common sensors for chemistry, biology, and physics and learn about resources and support available to you from Vernier. Walk away with data collection tips and best practices to incorporate in your classes.

SPEAKERS:
David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

General Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

The CER Spark: Ignite Curiosity in Science Exploration!

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP Science

Looking to help students develop science inquiry skills and think critically about scientific concepts? Join our session on Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER), the framework that helps students make sense of the world around them and leave with an in-depth understanding and practical strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Kelsie Stocz (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Code Breakers: Using CRISPR to Rewrite Genetics

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Unleash the power of gene editing with your students using REAL CRISPR-Cas technology to knock out colorful genes in E. coli. Identify successful knockout based on the cell color. Experiment by switching RNA templates and analyzing results, letting your students prove the specificity of CRISPR!

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Equitable Unit Designs with Lab-Aids and SEPUP: Recovering Copper

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Learn about the intentional design of our units to embed equitable opportunities in phenomenon-based learning. This hands-on workshop uses a model activity showing how students use data to develop an evidence-based argument supporting the best way to recover copper from a waste solution.

SPEAKERS:
Ed Miller (Selden Middle School: Centereach, NY)

Physical Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Discover, Collaborate, Engineer: A Workshop for Practical Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: TCI

Join our dynamic workshop, blending engineering and speed dating! Experience hands-on challenges inspired by TCI's K-8 science programs. Engage in "speed dates" with engineering activities, gaining valuable lessons and insights. Don't miss this innovative session!

SPEAKERS:
Sara Kumar (TCI: Mountain View, CA)

Engineering Technology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

The Case of The Murdered Mayor – Solve a Forensic Case Using Multiple Lines of Evidence

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Assume the role of a crime scene investigator to solve a realistic crime scenario. Students use fingerprint, hair analysis, tire track impressions, blood typing, forensic entomology, and a police log review to identify a primary suspect from a pool of 6 alleged perpetrators.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC), Ryan Hainey (Product Manager of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Forensics: Burlington, NC)

Technical and Vocational Education Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Science Denial: Where does it come from? What can science educators do about it?

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

Scientific perspectives and data should help economic decisions, guide government policy, and improve health. Yet denial of science is everywhere. Evolution. Climate change, Vaccination. GMOs. We will analyze the causes of science denial, and discuss what can educators can do about it.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Levine (Science Writer and Producer: Concord, MA)

General Science Biology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Unleashing the Power of Game-Based Learning: Use Legends of Learning for Enhanced Student Engagement and Achievement

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Legends of Learning

Forget boring! Ignite learning with Legends of Learning's Game Based Adventures! Embark on an immersive learning experience. Active, engaging, unforgettable. Unleash the learning within!

SPEAKERS:
Sean Reidy (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD), Jonathan Gerlach (Legends of Learning: Laurel, MD)

STEM General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Exploring Solar Energy

Thursday, March 21 • 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: KidWind Project

Join us to explore the science of solar power! During this workshop, educators will learn the foundations of solar power including the science and technology of solar PV. We will also introduce activities for the classroom that engage students in dynamic, hands-on, energy-based learning.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Arquin (KidWind Project: Saint Paul, MN)

Environmental Science Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Exclusive Exhibit Hall Hours

Thursday, March 21 • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall

STRAND: No Strand

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Discover the latest and greatest science and STEM teaching and learning resources, tools, and products available during this break in concurrent sessions.

STEM Exhibits

Science Supervisors Roundtable

Thursday, March 21 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall D

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Calling all Science Supervisors, department heads, principals, school coordinators. Please join us for a roundtable discussion on curriculum, resources and supervision of science departments. Participants will be adding to and have access to a shared Padlet full of various ideas and resources!

General Science Informal Education Meeting

Early Childhood and Elementary Science Share-a-Thon

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participate in an exploration of science and STEM learning tailored for young learners. Navigate through informative stations, engage with colleagues, and establish connections with science leaders. Depart with lessons and resources designed to elevate STEM and science in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Elementary and early childhood educators will leave with resources, lessons, and ideas that will advance science and STEM learning in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

General Science Literacy STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Shedd Aquarium Free Grab-and-Go Teacher Resources

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Shedd Aquarium - Sea Curious Video Series.pdf
Shedd Aquarium - Stay Home with Shedd Video Series.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

To leverage the resources developed by the Shedd Aquarium team, this Share-a-Thon Table will offer free, grab-and-go resources for teachers: Sea Curious K-2 Lesson Plans, Stay Home with Shedd 3-5 Lesson Plans, Outdoor Learning Framework 6-12, and hands-on activities creating corals/mussels.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will be able to leverage informal education resources from aquariums connected to NGSS and Amplify Science to bring authentic stories and examples to their theoretical classroom phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Max Metz (Shedd Aquarium: Chicago, IL)

Environmental Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Wild About Science!

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Connect with Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium to uncover how educators are bringing science to life for all students. At OHDZA, we know learning continues beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom. Join us to gain meaningful ways to connect students to the world around them!

TAKEAWAYS:
Meet with Omaha's Zoo and Aquarium education team to see how HQIM are used in our Zoo Academies, Zoo After-School Programs, Zoo Outreaches, and Citizen Science Programs. Take away innovative ideas using HQIM to build stronger instruction, deeper engagement, and higher achievements.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Bustos (Coordinator of Camps and Classes: Omaha, NE), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: No City, No State)

Informal Education Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Introducing Free (OER) Integrated ML-PBL Science Resources for Elementary (Grades K-5)

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Check out and learn how to access free ML-PBL integrated science curricular units for Grades K-5. See how the features of PBL support sensemaking, check out examples of unit overviews, literacy integration and recommended trade books, and research supporting the Multiple Literacies in PBL Project.

TAKEAWAYS:
After viewing examples from multiple units within the ML-PBL K-5 unit sequence, participants will learn how to access the free K-5 curricular resources on the Sprocket site. Handouts provide access to support for accessing and implementing the resources, or for adapting current units.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Investigating Trees

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

In this share a thon session, participants will see how early childhood students investigate the structure and function of different tree parts using common materials

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will see how hands on activities makes concepts more concrete for young students, and get ideas for ways they can create hands on activities

SPEAKERS:
Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV)

Engineering Biology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Engineering with Paper - Amazing Projects with Simple Supplies

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

How to create hands on science and engineering activities using simple supplies of just paper, tape and scissors. Effective for grades K-8

TAKEAWAYS:
Remove the expense factor that often hinders the inclusion of STEAM projects

SPEAKERS:
Godwyn Morris (Dazzling Discoveries / Skill Mill NYC: New York, NY)

STEM Engineering Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT Learning About Plants with STEAM (Science and Children, Summer 2016)

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
seed bomb directions.docx.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Teachers how to begin planting using upcycled and free materials, how to reuse containers as planters, how to make biodegradable seedling planters in seconds, and how to transform desolate ground into a blooming wildflower garden with seeds and a container of air-dry clay.

TAKEAWAYS:
Simple, easy, and inexpensive methods for starting a school garden by using upcycled and free materials

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

Environmental Science General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Interactive Word Walls: Experience using a simple vocabulary scaffold that reduces language barriers

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science involves specific vocabulary & terminology. Students cannot develop & use models, analyze & interpret data, or construct explanations without using terminology & language structures that characterize the language of science. Experience using a simple vocabulary scaffold to reduce barriers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience using a simple vocabulary scaffold to reduce language barriers. This will support teachers' efforts to support students efforts to talk and write about science.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Jackson (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Outstanding Science Trade Books

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
OSTB_2024 .pdf
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

This year’s OSTB award books will be available for participants to peruse and enjoy. Additionally, we will share our methods and findings for a review of all 246 submitted books for topics in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Also, learn about our experiences serving on the committee!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants can view and discuss the latest Outstanding Science Trade Book winners.

SPEAKERS:
Ana Houseal (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA)

Literacy General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Sounds of the Ocean: What sound waves tell us about the health of marine ecosystems

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

Show Details

The marine soundscape provides biodiversity and population data to help determine the health of an ecosystem. This lesson explores acoustic data to assess coral reefs' dynamics, functioning, and resilience. Students will construct explanations and make predictions using authentic bioacoustic data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students will distinguish between abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic sounds. Biotic sounds tend to be more complex, with variations in frequency and pitch. Where abiotic and anthropogenic sounds are often characterized by uniformity.

SPEAKERS:
Missie Olson (Becker High School: Becker, MN), Jocelyn Miller (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC)

Biology Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Young Children Do Not Need Science :Lessons - They Learn Real Science as They Explore Every Day Materials

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This is a hands-on session where participants will use every day items and associate their use with scientific concepts. They will find that multiple items will lead to the same concept, and/or that one item can be associated with multiple science concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Children can learn real science through every day items. A handout will help participants remember some of these concepts and the science terms they can use with children.

SPEAKERS:
Ellen Cogan (Hilltop Early Childhood Services: No City, No State)

STEM General Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: (SEPA) Slow and Steady Wins!

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Demonstrating motion is easy, but what about allowing students to collect data for nonaccelerated motion? A simple activity engages students with dune buggies to show how data is taken for distance and how graphing that data is a great visual representing constant velocity or uniform motion.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how use a constant speed dune buggy to show students how uniform motion is measured and graphed.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Matsler (University of Texas Arlington: No City, No State)

General Science Physics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: (SEPA) Let it GLOW!!

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Students have “glow in the dark” clothes and hard seen UV beads, but do they know why they glow? Probably not. Use phenomena to help students understand the glow (energy transformations) that are seen in nature and man-made materials. Those stars on their ceiling will never be viewed the same again.

TAKEAWAYS:
Things that glow are naturally engaging to students. Understanding why they glow can open many different avenues for students to investigate. From man-made objects to plants and animals, this phenomena can move students forward in understanding and identifying energy transformations.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Matsler (University of Texas Arlington: No City, No State)

General Science Life Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Using community centered phenomena to foster learners' community cultural wealth

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Paramount tasks can develop learners’ scientific literacy and critical consciousness by problematizing real world situations. We will engage participants in explorations to demonstrate how community-centered phenomena and children’s literature can be catalysts for developing paramount tasks (EC-5).

TAKEAWAYS:
Paramount tasks foster opportunities to develop rigorous problems that intricately connect learners, their communities, and their cultures with key content and skills. This approach reflects the hallmark of the NGSS and positions learners and their communities at the forefront of learning.

SPEAKERS:
Kelley Buchheister (Associate Professor: Lincoln, NE)

STEM Advocacy Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Ants Arrows Apps and More with ScienceFairyProjects

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Experience 4 take-away activities for ages 2-8 in engineering and math. Integrate suggested apps from technology and the sciences. Preview a complete Science Fairy project for staff training. Bang for your dollar here.

TAKEAWAYS:
STEM activities (9) with at-conference DIY from That Science Fairy to implement in early education 2-8 settings

SPEAKERS:
Laura Weilert (Maker of Experiences: Colorado Springs, CO)

STEM General Science Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Fueling Student Engagement Through Leveling Up

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join two instructional coaches who will lead a medical-themed session where attendees will have the opportunity to travel through the cross-curricular leveling-up (station-based) activity. Attendees will leave the session with instructional strategies to fuel student engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will participate in a cross-curricular leveling-up (station-based) activity. Attendees will also receive access to a website that includes meaningful instructional sequences, grade-appropriate resources, a cross-curricular map, rubrics, and student organizers fueling student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Jamesa Broome (Instructional Lead Teacher: Richmond Hill, GA), Ann Vitello (Richmond Hill Middle School: Richmond Hill, GA)

STEM Literacy Mathematics Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Free Lesson Plans for Elementary and Middle School Chemistry

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Teachers will receive ready-made activity packet to be used with the free middle school lesson plans in middleschoolchemistry.com and the free elementary school lesson plans in inquiryinaction.org.

TAKEAWAYS:
Get access to free comprehensive lesson plans in chemistry for middle school and elementary school students.

SPEAKERS:
James Kessler (American Chemical Society: Washington, DC)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

(SEPA) A ”Taste” of Quantum

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Observations are the basis for understanding science principles, especially in elementary. Have you wondered if it is possible to “change” something by measuring it? Is there a difference in observation and measurement? Come find out.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students will be able to distinguish between destructive and non-destructive measurements. Students will be able to explain the difference in measurement and observation. Students will be able to determine when a change occurs while being measured.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Matsler (University of Texas Arlington: No City, No State)

General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Inspiring Wonder with the "Every Rock Has A Story" YouTube Series in Your Classroom or Informal Learning Space

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Every Rock Has A Story - Teachers handout NSTA 2024.pdf
Every Rock Has A Story - YouTube Channel
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Check out some dazzling rocks and minerals and learn about the Reginal EMMY Nominated "Every Rock Has A Story" YouTube Channel, a free educational archive of videos created and hosted by Professor Ethan Baxter of Boston College. Inspire your students through the stories of the Earth.

TAKEAWAYS:
There is so much more to rocks and minerals than just identifying them. You will learn some of the amazing and diverse stories locked inside all rocks. Learn how to navigate the 82 episodes from Seasons 1-4, with topics and co-hosts spanning all facets of Earth and Space Science content.

SPEAKERS:
Ethan Baxter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Science and Children

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science and Children is the preeminent resource for educators of elementary and early childhood-aged children. Whether it is finding ideas for your classroom or writing articles to share with a wider audience, Science and Children is your resource for science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Find out how to write for Science and Children or discover the implementable ideas, strategies, and lessons contained within each journal.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn (National Science Teaching Association)

General Science Preservice Science Education Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Competitive Elementary Robots and Coding

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

It is never too early to introduce students to robotics and coding. Learn about opportunities that are available at the elementary school level. Developing an early curiosity about how to solve problems, while working together are valuable skills that students will be able to use for a lifetime.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn about the resources that are available to begin a robotics program at the elementary school level.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy McIntyre (Robotics Education & Competition Foundation: Greenville, TX)

Robotics Computer Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Integration Station: Exploring SEEDS in Science and Language Arts

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A variety of activities exploring seeds, including: comparing and contrasting by size, shape, color, texture; experimenting with samaras to ask scientific questions, like which way do they spin as they fall to the ground; and more. Books about seeds will be available to view.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to integrate science into language arts, using seeds.

SPEAKERS:
Frances Hamilton (The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Huntsville, AL)

Life Science General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Get Ready for the April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Press books information
NSTA solar eclipse website URL
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

The last total solar eclipse in the continental US for 21 years occurs this April. NSTA has assembled an abundance of resources for you to make the most of this teachable moment – from 3D learning materials, to safe viewing strategies, to ways to make it a school-wide experience

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with links to resources for students to understand the science behind eclipses, plus safe viewing strategies and ways to make the event a school-wide experience.

SPEAKERS:
Dennis Schatz (Institute for Learning Innovation: Beaverton, OR)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT "Creating Picture Books to Promote Environmental Awareness"

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This project uses environmental topics from NGSS to promote research skills and strengthen awareness of the human impact on the planet, while also encouraging creativity through writing and visual arts. Lesson plans, bibliography, and strategies for implementing in K-5 will be included.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use grade-level, NGSS standards and concepts as inspiration for students to research, write, and illustrate their own picture books.

SPEAKERS:
Kerry Teeple (University of Findlay College of Education: Findlay, OH)

Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Homes for the Hurricane Homeless: The Integration of STEM, Place-Based Learning, and Designing Thinking in the Elementary Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will explore an engineering design challenge that engages upper elementary students in the creation of tiny homes as a solution to homelessness after a local natural disaster. Explore Design Thinking principles and how empathy plays a role in authentic and inclusive STEM inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Engage in an NGSS-based engineering design challenge where you design a solution for homelessness caused by natural disasters and learn the role of empathy in STEM inquiries by using Design Thinking principles and place-based strategies that engage all learners in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

STEM Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Teaching Engineering, Motion, and Energy Using Rube Goldberg

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wetland Wonderland: an Interactive Museum
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This introduction to STEM for elementary, secondary, or special education classrooms will allow participants to explore motion and energy while creating their own Rube Goldberg machine using found objects.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students can easily plan, build, and solve problems on their own Rube Goldberg project using recycled and found materials.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Sevin (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

STEM Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Building Wildlife Crossings

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Come build a wildlife crossing! Combine the science behind reconstructing a fragmented ecosystem and the engineering behind building a wildlife crossing into a relevant project-based learning opportunity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Young students will investigate how to be powerful problem solvers in their community. Through hands-on experiences, they will learn the engineering of bridge building combined with the science behind reconnecting a fragmented ecosystem.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Nordstrom (Ladera STARS Academy: Thousand Oaks, CA)

Environmental Science Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Old Enough to Make a Difference? Yes, you are!

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Old Enough to Make a Difference? Yes, you are! It is possible for students of all ages to start making a positive difference in their community. Inspirations from student projects will be shared along with resources for teachers. Great ideas for family engagement nights, science fairs, and more!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will have resources that can used in the classroom and community right away.

SPEAKERS:
Katie Stevenson (South Redford School District: Redford, MI)

Advocacy General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Distributing Time Across the STEM Disciplines: Teaching Nature of STEM using a 5th Grade Water Distribution 5E

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will demonstrate a 5E on the distribution of water on Earth (partially addressing 5-ESS2-2) and show how we give students experiences across the STEM disciplines. Each STEM discipline will be represented in the 5E.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn how you can embed science, engineering, technology, and math in a 5E on the distribution of water (5-ESS2-2).

SPEAKERS:
Elyse Clapp (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA), Star Swain (student), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Sharing lesson ideas for teaching animal family classification and camouflage

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Camouflage puppets, songs, and animal family activities for early childhood classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Camouflage puppets, songs, and animal family activities for early childhood classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Scharff (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

STEM Learning is for Everyone!

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Physical science and physics offer a wide assortment of authentic, open-ended early learning activities with hands-on multisensory materials and rich opportunities for group work, easily adapted for all learners, including children with diverse learning needs as they explore concepts and ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Adults help illuminate concepts and skills as children act on familiar multisensory, hands-on materials, developing their emerging scientific thinking, understanding, & causal reasoning. Before children can see themselves as scientists, adults must view all children as science learners.

SPEAKERS:
Shelly Counsell (Self Employed Consultant)

Physical Science Physics STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Fueling Success for Students - Win up to $20K for your students and school

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Do you impact your school and community with STEM? If you teach K–12, come learn how to apply to win up to $20K through this teacher competition

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to apply for the Shell-sponsored teacher competition, and collaborate with past winners and judges to learn how to strengthen your application.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

STEM General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

(SEPA) Mission Arctic

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Mission Arctic takes your students on an in-class field trip to the Arctic to explore the environment with scientists. Activities will include exploration of ice in the classroom promoting an understanding of what we can learn from ice and how it can inform our future.

TAKEAWAYS:
Scientists explore our natural world to understand what happened in the past, what is happening in the present, and how it can inform our future.

SPEAKERS:
Cathy Barthelemy (STEMexperts: Keller, TX)

Environmental Science Climate Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

Cultivating Curiosity with Denver Botanic Gardens

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn about all the ways that Denver Botanic Gardens connects K-12 students with nature and take back free resources and strategies to use in your classrooms. We will highlight virtual programs, STEM career exploration resources, and free worksheets and curricula around climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn about educational opportunities with Denver Botanic Gardens and Budburst, a project of Chicago Botanic Gardens. Take back free resources on STEM career exploration, climate change, citizen science, pollinators and more.

SPEAKERS:
Katelin Gaeth (Denver Botanic Gardens: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

NSTA Picture-Perfect STEM ClassPacks

Thursday, March 21 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join NSTA and ECA Science Kits Services for the pilot of their ready-to-use (TM) Picture-Perfect STEM ClassPacks. These ClassPacks are built around the expanded editions of Picture-Perfect STEM Lessons, K, 1, and 2 and feature everything you and your students will need to perform those activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Science and literacy are a wonderful match, and our Picture-Perfect program combines these perfect partners to help you teach your elementary students through lesson/trade books and classroom activities. You teach the lessons, and we'll handle the rest, with refurbishments available for all kits.

SPEAKERS:
Cathy Iammartino (Chief Product Officer: Bayside, WI), Emily Brady (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

PAEMST Alumni Reception

Thursday, March 21 • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall E

Show Details

PAEMST Awardees are invited to a celebratory reception of the 40th anniversary of the PAEMST award. Come and meet your fellow alumni!

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

An Instructional Tool to Help K-8 Teachers Identify Anchoring Phenomena for Phenomenon-Based Science Instruction

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ASET Phenomenon Tools
This google drive folder has the link to our presentation, a pdf version of the tool, and other resources!
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The NGSS highlights phenomena as one of the components of equitable instruction. This interactive workshop introduces an instructional tool that helps K-8 science teachers identify an appropriate phenomenon that will enable the teacher to plan and implement three-dimensional science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have opportunities to share their perspectives in identifying anchoring phenomena, use a phenomenon tool to evaluate a range of phenomena and non-phenomena, and discuss some common issues in identifying and using anchoring phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Lin Xiang (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY), Caitlin Ousley (Saint Agnes School/Archdiocese of Louisville: No City, No State), Kristin Cook (Bellarmine University: Louisville, KY)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

My Students Read, Write, and Speak Like Scientists! Do Yours?

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
My Students Read Write Talk Like Scientists_Public.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Although teachers understand the importance of literacy integration, the process of literacy integration remains elusive...until now! This session will support the development of a concrete plan for integrating literacy into your classroom. Resources included!

TAKEAWAYS:
Literacy integration does not mean teaching students to decode. Literacy integration, at its core, is the process of making text visible in the classroom so students can read, write, and speak like professional scientists. Literacy integration makes science fun!

SPEAKERS:
Mesa Davis (Clayton State University: Morrow, GA)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Meaningful Integration of Science with Social Studies, Math, and ELA

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Doing it All, March 2024
NSTA slide deck
Fifth Grade Integrated Unit Folder
Kindergarten Integrated Unit Folder
Third Grade Integrated Unit Folder
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Presenters will share three units in which science is integrated with ELA, math, and social studies. This session will share the process of unit creation and how incorporation with other content areas strengthens science instruction. Three units will be shared: kindergarten, 3rd, and 5th grade.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to integrate multiple content standards to strengthen science instruction, as well as leave with three examples of fully integrated elementary units. In addition to the sharing of the units, presenters will share the creation process so participants can engage in this work.

SPEAKERS:
Mandie Sanderman (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA), Chelsie Byram (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA)

Equity Literacy STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Drilling for Stardust in the Ice Core Record, A.K.A. The Mystery of the Missing Supernova

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Decoding Starlight - From Photons to Pixels.pdf
Entire_Ice_Core_Strip_Unlabeled_Color_opt.pdf
https://chandra.si.edu/edu/
Chandra X-Ray Observatory
Ice Core Investigation Jamboard Version
Ice Core Records.pdf
Ice Core Student Handout.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

A unique and open-ended STEM investigation that incorporates absolute and relative dating techniques, anomalies, historical context, volcanoes, solar proton events, energy cycles, Earth systems, terrestrial events, and supernovas by analyzing 430 years of Earth history from 1562 to 1992.

TAKEAWAYS:
In constructing knowledge, there is no definitive answer, only plausible conclusions based on constructing, analyzing, and comparing data and research from multiple disciplines. This investigation provides a better understanding of the scientific process of developing models and defending results.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Living in a Material World! How Materials Science Shapes the Future

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Materials science combines many fields such as physics, chemistry, engineering, and math to understand the properties of, and create new materials for, the modern world. Get some hands-on learning and get access to resources that will provide exciting cross-content experiences in your classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore materials science and help students make connections between the understanding of the STUFF things are made of and how this can change our world. Making things like cars, cellphones, medical technology, space exploration, sustainable energy and so much more possible! Materials Matter!

SPEAKERS:
Shelly Grandell (Assistant Director of Education and Outreach: Madison, WI)

STEM Chemistry Physics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Fostering Community Through Science: A Whole School Approach

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024---Fostering Community Through Science: A Whole School Approach
NSTA 2024---Fostering Community Through Science: A Whole School Approach
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

What started out as our solution to “viewing science fair projects can be boring” evolved into a well-attended, hands-on experience for our families and community. In this session, we will share our station-oriented activities and how to use them to build relationships with families and your school.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with the resources and confidence to organize large events for their school and community using science to build relationships. Session participants will be given an outline of helpful resources, tools, and ideas they can use to manage their own events.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Hunt (First Grade Teacher: Eustis, FL), Anne Fritz (Science Teacher: Eustis, FL)

General Science Advocacy STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Showing Students the Love of Nature

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1meDDQSdVK8rKc32NQm2BkfQPciEFyNR5r-hwwKkymHc/edit?usp=sharing
Presentation with links.
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Three different options will be shared that will help teachers bring their students outside where they can connect with nature. This includes 2 PBLs. Logistics and content will be clearly explained so that teachers can use these ideas immediately with their classes that focus on ecology.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn 3 different successful low-cost activities (including 2 PBLs) that they can use directly in their classrooms to connect their students with nature regardless of their geographic location. The presenter will share materials to help teachers plan logistics and content.

SPEAKERS:
Nadene Klein (Daniel C. Oakes High School: Castle Rock, CO)

Environmental Science Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Confessions of a New Teacher

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Research suggests that most teachers will leave the profession within 5-years. This presentation will share tips to help science teachers stay enjoying teaching! This session could prove helpful to any new or preservice teacher, teacher mentor, or anyone who wants a new perspective.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with tangible practices to implement in their lives as a teacher! I will offer tips that worked for me, discussing topics like the school social environment, the lingo of education, using district resources, combating burn out (preemptively and practically), and more!

SPEAKERS:
Marissa Christie (Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology: Conyers, GA)

Advocacy General Science Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Formative Assessment Techniques

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Formative Assessment Presentation.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will offer practical and adaptable examples of formative classroom assessment techniques that could be incorporated into any science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will present formative assessment techniques that attendees can take back to their classrooms and use immediately.

SPEAKERS:
Tyler Buchan (Salisbury Composite High School: Sherwood Park, AB)

Assessment General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Nature, Nano, and Student Engagement in STEM

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Discover engaging phenomena and relevant content (sensor technology, medicine, and the environment) to promote equity in your classroom by engaging ALL students in nanotechnology and scientific learning to help improve our world and the human experience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Nature-inspired solutions are needed to solve real problems and nanotechnology provides the tools to develop innovation solutions and engage students in learning; identify the locations of nano NGSS-aligned activities, resources, and virtual experiences for your classroom in any STEM subject area.

SPEAKERS:
Daniella Duran (Stanford University: Stanford, CA)

Physical Science Biology Engineering Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

It’s happening here and now: Supporting students’ agency for climate change action within and beyond the classroom.

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CEP Google Site for Materials
Temporary site for 2024. Visit main project site in 2025 onward.
Climate Education Pathways
Visit the teacher materials at https://sites.google.com/bscs.org/climate/home-page (page will be active until early of 2025, see main project page after)
Climate Education Pathways website
Presentation slides
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This workshop will introduce participants to environmental science agency as a climate change learning outcome. Participants will engage in student hat as they try tools to support student agency, and then brainstorm ways to use the tools in their classrooms. All materials are freely available.

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate change education requires more than just content acquisition about the science of climate change. It should also cultivate a sense of agency for students to act within and beyond the classroom, which can be supported by classroom instructional tools.

SPEAKERS:
Candice Guy-Gaytán (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Lindsey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Down The Rabbit Hole: Assessment of the Crosscutting Concept 'Patterns' in High School Chemistry

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We often rely on Crosscutting Concepts within the Next Generation Science Standards as ways of thinking students participate all the time, in every grade, in every subject. But what happens when those skills have not been honed in the way we need them to be for our grade level and disciplinary core?

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave our session having attained concepts and skills that will help them measure attainment of Patterns, a critical Crosscutting Concept in the Next Generation Science Standards. Participants will be introduced to assessment resources and instructions for using them.

SPEAKERS:
Sonal Patel-Dame (Plattsburgh High School), Anoopa Singh (Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics: New York, NY)

Assessment Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Embracing Growth: Education as a Transformative Journey

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://reimaginedschools.com/nsta-conference-presentations/
There is a copy of the slide presentation plus many other resources!
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Our world demands creative thinkers and problem-solvers. But what is creativity, really? If our job is to foster innovation and prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future, how exactly do we do that in classrooms from K to 16? What I have found out just might surprise you.

TAKEAWAYS:
Research shows that creativity can (and should) be taught. We want to assess it, but it seems so subjective! Attendees will get some background, critique some assessment tools, and collaborate to design research-based criteria to use in their own classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Elise Naramore (Pascack Hills High School: Montvale, NJ)

Assessment General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Fostering a theme of 'belonging' in the STEM classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this session participants will learn about key ideas from multiple perspectives on the topics of: 1) anti-racism, inclusivity, and asset-based orientations – as foundational pedagogies for preparing future teachers. The goal is to develop a classroom that places belonging before achievement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants challenge the achievement-first orientations to reframe classroom environments by placing ‘belonging’ as a central tenant of STEM pedagogy and practice.

SPEAKERS:
Adam Devitt (Associate professor science education: Turlock, CA)

Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Conservation Connections Through Community Citizen Science

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Conservation Connections through Community Citizen Science
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn citizen science activities to increase student engagement. Join a classroom teacher, National Geographic Explorer, and an education specialist at the Jacksonville Zoo, and integrate geospatial applications to help students build science skills through connections in their local community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Youth can drive change as citizen scientists in their local community while developing science skills in field research and data collection. Educators will learn how to empower youth to address community issues as young scientists and changemakers of tomorrow.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Blum (School Program Specialist: Jacksonville, FL), Alicia Pressel (Creekside High School: St Johns, FL)

Environmental Science Informal Education STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

A Baby Science Fair? Bringing the Science Fair to Our Youngest Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

65% of Elementary School students will enter STEM jobs that haven't been created yet. How do we prepare students for jobs that don't exist yet? While we don't know what problems our students will face, we do know that they will face problems, and those problems are solved through STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how Gwinnett County Public Schools is engaging our youngest scientists in science-fair-type experiences where curiosity takes its first steps.

SPEAKERS:
Brandon McKinney (Gwinnett County Public Schools: No City, No State), Kristin Luthi (Gwinnett County Public Schools: Suwanee, GA)

STEM Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

TEECH Justice: A Toolkit for Educators of Environmental, Climate, and Human Justice

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Justice-centered science instruction is a critical process for building transformative, empowering classrooms. The TEECH Justice toolkit for K-12 educators provides resources and planning templates for creating community-driven, justice-centered science learning experiences for students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Classroom learning experiences that center local issues impacting students and their communities are more engaging and meaningful for students, especially for students traditionally underrepresented and underserved by science education.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Meyer (Educational Service District 112: Vancouver, WA)

Climate Science Environmental Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

All Teachers Are Climate Teachers: The Washington State ClimeTime Network’s Integrated Approach to K-12 Climate Education

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
All Teachers Are Climate Teachers
Slides from today's presentation
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Have you felt all the responsibility of teaching climate in only your classes? Every K-12 classroom can integrate climate literacy & action. Join us to learn about Washington State’s ClimeTime Program’s resources and support for integrating climate literacy and action across all content areas, K-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with practical solutions to create connections between the climate literacy found in the Framework and non-science K-12 content areas. Guidance for working with their peers to anchor classroom instruction around climate change and climate solutions will also be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Korey Peterson (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Jacob Parikh (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Lori Henrickson (Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA)

Climate Science Advocacy Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Exploring Three-Dimensional Learning Through Pendulum Investigations

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver, 2024 NSTA.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us in mastering the art of the “explore-before-explain” instructional sequence, and witness the transformation in your classroom as you nurture an environment where every student’s voice resonates.

TAKEAWAYS:
An overview of essential planning considerations covers becoming an “explore-before-explain” teacher and designing lessons that use the assets all students bring to learning science.

SPEAKERS:
James Concannon (William Woods University: Fulton, MO), Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: O'Fallon, MO)

Sensemaking Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Tools for supporting student understanding of the nature and process of science through figuring out phenomena

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
__NSTA_ DENVER 2024 Tools for supporting student understanding of the nature and process of science through figuring out phenomena.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Figuring out phenomena engages students in the nature and process of science through the integration of all three dimensions. Observe how scientists investigate a question. Then use a web tool to illuminate the nature and process of science and apply to any lesson or phenomenon in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use the Science Flowchart interactive journaling tool to illuminate the dynamic nature and process of science, and how to apply the tool to any phenomenon or lesson in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Smith (Pound Middle School: Lincoln, NE), Lindsey Roy (Science and Digital Learning Coordinator: Lincoln, NE), Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State)

Sensemaking General Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Leaders to Build Capacity for Elementary NGSS Implementation

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

During this session, school leaders will explore a NGSS Implementation Toolkit that leverages classroom observations to support strategic alignment of resources for elementary science education. Participants will hear from educational leaders that utilize this tool to advocate for elementary science.

TAKEAWAYS:
This toolkit allows educational leaders across the system to gain a deeper understanding of student sensemaking and discourse in an NGSS-aligned elementary classroom. Teacher Leaders who open up their classrooms can leverage this process to advocate for structures and support for elementary science.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn O'Connor (CSU East Bay: Danville, CA), Nancy Wright (Hayward Unified School District: Hayward, CA)

Leadership Advocacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Integrating The Arts into the Teaching of Climate Science: STEAM Up!

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session introduces art, music, reading, writing, and drama ideas to be woven through your lessons on climate change. I have multiple examples of climate-related projects that have been used successfully with students to educate and empower. Dare I say that teaching climate change can be fun?!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers learn how to enrich their teaching and inspire their students by incorporating The Arts into their climate lessons. In addition, The Arts can provide creative and fun project-based learning that has the potential to communicate climate science effectively to the greater population.

SPEAKERS:
Kottie Christie-Blick (University of San Diego: San Diego, CA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

How to Use EdReports to Select High-Quality Instructional Materials

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_How to Use EdReports to Select High Quality K-12 Instructional Materials.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will learn about the characteristics of hiqh-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and how to identify them. They will use EdReports resources to compare and contrast materials based on markers of quality and discuss how to use this process when selecting HQIM for their local context.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through engaging in a sample materials selection process, participants will gain an understanding of the characteristics of high-quality instructional materials (including sensemaking and the presence of phenomena and problems) and how to use EdReports' free resources.

SPEAKERS:
John-Carlos Marino (Science Lead), Shannon Wachowski (EdReports.org: Fort Collins, CO)

Sensemaking Advocacy Leadership Presentation

Generating pathways: Strategies for differentiation and equity through Chat-GPT

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Generating Pathways, NSTA Presentation.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Embark on an AI-powered journey with Chat-GPT to grow your teacher toolbox! Join us to discover how Chat-GPT can offer options for differentiation and equity within your science classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will observe and synthesize differentiated activities to better address performance expectations using ChatGPT, such as finding animations for abstract concepts, tiered reading materials, supports for ESL students, culture integration in lessons, and enrichment opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Kipp (Texas A&M)

Technology Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Putting Science in the Science of Reading

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Participant Notebook for Science of Reading
Sci-Lingual Resources for ELD in Science
Science-Centered Language Development
Link to supporting resources for supporting literacy and science for K-2, 3-5, and Middle School
Slides for Putting the Science of Reading in Science
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Prior experience and knowledge are key to reading comprehension, especially for tackling complex texts. Join us for an interactive session where we'll explore how doing science and applying effective reading strategies are what students need to be successful readers and scientists.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students need to engage fully in the science and engineering practices in order to build reading comprehension. Science cannot be learned through reading alone, and readers need to be able to draw upon their experiences in science to understand and make sense of new concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Claudio Vargas (Sci-Lingual Education: Oakland, CA), Diana Velez (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

General Science Advocacy Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Designing Classroom Assessments to address NGSS Performance Expectations

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MsgVPXdqlIADYp0vTCAP6H2wkahkgqtjbwjq0NuAsKw/edit#slide=id.gcec4d27072_0_0
Please reach out with any questions... we'd be happy to connect and partner with you!
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

In this session, we will share how to use NGSS performance expectations to design classroom assessments. Sample assessments will be provided that require students to incorporate models and use evidence to support their responses.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will examine sample assessments for three-dimensional questioning and be given a chance to enhance a question on a topic relevant to their teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Anna Kopacz , Nicole McRee (KCSD#96)

Assessment General Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Light, Shadows, and Literacy: Not Just Reading About STEM but Doing STEM Every Day During Small Group Reading Instruction

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Additional Guidance
This resource contains detailed lists of materials, assessments, standards, and supports for teachers in investigating light & shadow with young children.
Light & Shadow Experience Sheet
This handout includes a description of the value of light & shadow experiences and the NGSS standards it meets; the developmental progression of children's understanding of shadows; ideas on how to introduce light & shadow experiences and launch student-centered investigations; and sets of materials to consider using in student-led investigations.
Questions that Nuture STEM Thinking
Research tells us that children learn most when consistently given feedback on performance (Pianta, et al, 2005). Effective feedback focuses on the process of learning NOT simply on getting the right answer. When educators provide specific information about their work, children can reach a deeper understanding of concepts than if they work without feedback. Feedback can also provide the motivation to stay engaged in an experience. Children want to know that their teacher values their work and by
Table Top Screens
Here is a description of a table top screen used in light & shadow investigations that can be made by a teacher or purchased.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engage in teacher play with LED lights, objects, and screens that invite PK-2 students to independently investigate light & shadow phenomenon. STEM coaches and teachers will come away with a plan that gives children access to STEM learning every day during small group reading instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
STEM coaches and PK-2 teachers will take away a list of easily obtained open-ended materials and a classroom-tested plan to allow students to independently engage in student-led STEM investigations every day that grows STEM dispositions and elevates student literacy learning as an added benefit.

SPEAKERS:
Beth Dykstra VanMeeteren (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

STEM Physical Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Improving Science Teaching and Learning with Multilingual Learners in Mind

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ImprovingSciTeachingand LearningwithMLLsinmindSfS.pdf
SciencefromScientists SEPsentence starters.pdf
SciencefromScientistsworksheetguidelines.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join us to explore and reflect on research-based practices for improving science engagement and learning for multilingual students through a mini-lesson, discussing how these practices are working with our students, and considering how to apply these strategies in your own classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with a selection of easy-to-implement practices for making science learning more accessible to multilingual students, and even other students in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Renee Nesnidal (Science from Scientists: Bedford, MA), Esther Niemasik (Science from Scientists: Burlingame, CA), Mary Hatton (Science From Scientists), Beth Murphy (Science from Scientists: Bedford, MA)

Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Nature Play in the City: Engaging Your Students and Their Families in the Great (and Small) Outdoors

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Research shows that time in nature is worth your WILD, with increased benefits for children. In this workshop, Denver Zoo will highlight the benefits of play in nature; how to build it into curriculum/schedules and ideas for implementing nature play tactics that engage entire school communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn strategies to increase learning through play in nature and parent/caregiver participation in their school community.

SPEAKERS:
Claire Buckley (Conservation Learning Coordinator: Denver, CO), Emily Murgia (Denver Zoo: Denver, CO)

Sensemaking Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Digital Mapping for Place-Based STEM

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Nothing excites an educator more than learning a new skill and sharing it with others! The goal of this session is to introduce Place-Based STEM using digital mapping and storytelling resources. Educators will receive direct instruction in digital mapping and resources for their classes!

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn to connect location and geography to science content locally, regionally, and globally through the use of digital mapping and problem-based learning STEM strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Ragsdale (STEM Professional Development: Grand Junction, CO)

STEM Earth & Space Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Reading and Writing in Science Beyond the Lab Report

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CORUI Reading Unit (th Grade Nebraska Academic Standards)
Liu_X _2009_Beyond Science LIteracy article.pdf
Mini Metric Olympics
Reading & Writing in Science beyond the Lab Report 2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Promoting reading and writing while learning science? Utilize proven literacy strategies to enhance your students’ science knowledge and science literacy for the 21st (STEM) century.

TAKEAWAYS:
Enhancing student learning in science utilizing literacy strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Beverly DeVore-Wedding (Nebraska Indian Community College: Meeker, CO)

General Science Equity Preservice Science Education Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Developing Effective Disciplinary Literacy Practices: Grade 3-8 Science Experiences That Help Students Develop Their Abilities to Think, Act & Communicate

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn effective ways to help students formulate effective questions, design explorations to answer their questions, apply analytical and critical thinking skills, collect and interpret data, and determine effective ways to communicate their findings and the concepts they have learned. Handouts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to help students read like a scientist, how to formulate effective questions they want to answer, how to set up explorations and learning experiences, how to apply skills and communicate their findings so that students can think, act, and communicate like scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell (Educational and Technology Consultant: Prairie Village, KS)

Literacy Robotics STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Problem-Based Learning for Environmental and Social Justice

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Problem Based Learning : Complete unit on Environmental Racism/Social Justice
This is the slide show for my presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in the development of a PBL Life Science unit— from start to finish for any secondary student. Several examples of successful PBL Units will be shared and participants will have the opportunity to create their own PBL— specifically Brownfields, Env. Disasters, etc.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to walk away with a partial or entire PBL unit.

SPEAKERS:
Margaret Busker-Postlethwait (Teacher/presenter: Akron, OH)

Environmental Science Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Engineering Solutions to Feed the World’s Growing Human Population

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Deck PDF
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

By 2050, 9.7 billion humans may be living on Earth. If current trends continue, food production will need to increase 60-100%. In this storyline, students design solutions to feed this growing population while building space spacing food production systems (ie-hydroponics, vertical garden).

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about a new storyline that engages students in designing and evaluating solutions for how to solve the issue of feeding the world’s growing human population based on scientific knowledge, student-generated sources of evidence, prioritized criteria, and tradeoff considerations.

SPEAKERS:
Shane Cullian (Whitewater High School: Whitewater, WI)

Biology Engineering Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

5D Assessment: Using student interest & identity to design meaningful, phenomenon-driven assessment opportunities for students

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Learn how student interest & identity are co-equal dimensions with disciplinary core ideas, science & engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts when designing phenomenon-driven assessments. Participants will learn how to use tools to elicit information about students for use in design.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators engage with the 5D Assessment Project's tools to elicit and use information about students' interests and identities to design meaningful, phenomenon-driven assessment opportunities. Work with examples of meaningful assessment aligned to the elements of the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Cooper (Contextus), Kevin Cherbow (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Abraham Lo (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Assessment Equity Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Teaching About Climate with the Latest Science from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Dr. Michael Wysession, NGSS co-author and geophysics professor, will explore ideas for climate-related phenomena and storylines from the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) as a way of making climate science relevant and engaging for students.

TAKEAWAYS:
The latest science (AR6 report) from the IPCC is a great resource for phenomena and storylines that can engage students and prepare them for assessments for the HS-ESS3-5 and HS-ESS3-6 NGSS performance expectations covering climate forcings, feedbacks, impacts, and environmental justice.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Wysession (Washington University in St. Louis: Saint Louis, MO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Curiosity and Wonder are Not Limited to Field Trips: How to Utilize Informal Teaching Strategies in Your Formal Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Museum educators have known that motivation and interest are vital for engagement. Learn how to bring these informal strategies into your classroom so students can not only interact with science in a different environment but make connections that allow them to see themselves as capable learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Come prepared to take part in activities led by a pair of formal and informal educators that will combine the best of both worlds. Museum educators know how to rapidly engage an audience and you will take away strategies to reach the same level of participation in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Matt Brady (Atkins High School: Winston-Salem, NC), Shari Brady (Kaleideum: Winston-Salem, NC)

Physical Science Informal Education Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Classroom Discourse for Sensemaking Through the Crosscutting Concepts

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join members of NSTA’s Professional Learning Committee to explore strategies and tools that focus classroom talk on sensemaking using the Crosscutting Concepts. You’ll have the chance to experience sensemaking strategies linked to discourse and consider applications in your sphere.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with discussion strategies and tools they can implement right away in classrooms to support student discourse and sensemaking anchored in the Crosscutting Concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association), Kimberley Astle (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Look ALL Around You: Practicing, Learning, and Teaching Observation Skills to Young Learners

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Data Sheet for Cloud Observatons
Data Sheet for Colors of the Seasons
NGSS Standards aligned with observation for young learners
Sky color observation template
Title sheet for Clouds.docx
Title sheet for Colors of the Seasons
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us learning how to teach observational skills to young learners. We will scaffold steps for learning observational skills. Participants will then learn how to teach observational skills through activities aligned to the NGSS for PreK – 2nd grade, taking home several classroom-ready lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will focus on the skill of observation for young learners. We will focus on how to scaffold this skill of observation for PreK - 2nd graders using examples that are aligned to the NGSS and practicing them by using student-friendly activities that can be replicated in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Judith McDonald (University of Hawaii at Hilo: Hilo, HI)

Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Microcontrollers in Inquiry-Based STEM to Facilitate Learning For All

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA Using Microcontrollers in Inquiry-Based STEM to Facilitate Learning For All.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Physical computing allows students to design and create interactive objects that emphasize computational thinking skills. Participants will engage in activities designed for middle school students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Microcontrollers are small computers that come with several integrated sensors. Their functionality makes them useful for both investigations and engineering projects. We will focus in how engineering tasks using microcontrollers provide opportunities for student sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Susan German (Hallsville Middle School: Hallsville, MO), G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

Sensemaking STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using Game-Based Learning to Educate Families About the Brain

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
HYB Flyer.pdf
Updated HYB Folding Puzzle.pdf
Using Game-Based Learning to Educate Families About the Brain.pdf
Using Game-Based Learning to Educate Families About the Brain.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Game-based learning is a powerful way to engage learners and introduce STEM topics. Working with experts, we designed an escape room for students and their families to increase their understanding of neuroscience phenomena and how the brain works. Try demo activities as you learn to design your own.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will demonstrate how to develop an educational escape room to serve informal and formal science learning objectives and get families actively interacting with science and engineering processes. It will also review methods of assessment, especially for out-of-school settings.

SPEAKERS:
Daisy Reyes (PhD Student: Brooklyn, NY), Lucas Leprince (Game Designer: No City, No State), Sandra Roberts (Science Friday: New York, NY)

STEM Informal Education Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Are They Talking About Climate or Weather?.pdf
Slides from the presentation on March 21, 2024
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Using a probe from the popular “Uncovering Student Misconceptions” series, the co-author will share student responses to address this key concept for teaching climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Understanding student misconceptions in this foundational component of climate change is critical prior to teaching the subject. Discover how engaging, open-ended probes provide insight into student ideas and misconceptions, while learning ways to support them in understanding the concepts accurately.

SPEAKERS:
Brett Thomsen (Science Department Head: Chimacum, WA), Laura Tucker (Consultant: Port Townsend, WA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Autism from a parent's perspective

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join a conversation with educators and the parent of an autistic child to gain awareness about autism and discuss ways to support the needs of autistic students and their families. Learn through discussion and anecdotal evidence from a parent’s perspective.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain awareness about autism; the evolving science behind it, how families navigate therapies, and the struggles students face in the classroom. Ideally this experience will allow participants to develop a growth mindset around the support autistic students need in a general education setting.

SPEAKERS:
Fredrick Weisbrot (Teacher: Brooklyn, NY)

Advocacy Biology Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Research for a More Just and Sustainable World: Developing Global Competence with our Middle School Students

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engage in a research strategy grounded in the Global Competence Framework. Using maps and data visualization tools, including the EPA’s Environmental Justice Screening Tool, participants will consider different perspectives, investigate the world, communicate ideas, and plan to take action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn a research strategy that helps make student research personally meaningful and globally relevant while developing their global competence. Learn how to use data visualization tools to explore environmental justice in your own community and inspire students to take action for a more just world.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Emery (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Catherine Knasas (University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Caroline Stabile (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State)

General Science Advocacy Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Educators Using Science Substance and the Resilience Revolution

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

The Science Teacher Symposium is a model focused on science content knowledge that simultaneously provides the space and support teachers need to focus on their own wellbeing. Hear the impacts and lessons learned after 6 years of crosscutting connections and 2 years of embedded resilience training.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand the pros and cons of the in-person vs. virtual versions of the multi-day symposium model and will learn about the incredible impacts the resilience training has had on the educators involved, including increased teacher retention.

SPEAKERS:
Meg Gebert (Arizona Science Teachers Association: Tucson, AZ), Alison Smith (The Thrive Designer: Chandler, AZ), DaNel Hogan (Waters Center for Systems Thinking: , ID)

General Science Leadership STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

A Kiwi's Guide Toward More Student-Centred, Hands-On Science in the Classroom — Adapting and Extending Exisiting Ideas

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will directly experience and undertake a more authentic science investigation by adapting and extending exisiting hands-on investigations. This is a step toward more student-directed investigations that allow exploration and the creation of evidence-based claims (i.e. sensemaking).

TAKEAWAYS:
Using the provided hands-on activities, participants will be given a plausible scenario encouraging them to explore and then create evidence-based claim(s) — modelling a more student-directed approach. This process strongly aligns with the sensemaking framework of explore-before-explain...

SPEAKERS:
Ian Kennedy (The Roadshow: Wellington, 0)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Critique Lessons & Success Criteria: Building a Growth Mindset While Supporting Students to Improve Their Scientific Explanations

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Explore tried-and-true strategies firsthand for supporting student-driven revision of written work. Walk away with strategies to help students self- and peer-assess their work and improve it.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn what a critique lesson can look like in which students generate success criteria for quality scientific explanations. They will walk away with strategies to implement in their own classrooms to support students with the NGSS practice "constructing explanations."

SPEAKERS:
Kristie Rachell (Haven Middle School: Evanston, IL), Claire Hiller (Chute Middle School: Evanston, IL), Kafi Chase (Chute Middle School), Alissa Berg (Evanston Skokie School District 65)

Assessment Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using Modeling to Develop a Deep Understanding of Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration as Chemical Processes

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Modeling Slide Deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this hands-on workshop, participants will work with models of chemical reactions, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration that can help students develop a deep and flexible understanding of these important processes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Modeling, an important component of the NGSS, can help students understand biological processes more fully. These hands-on, minds-on models are engaging and lead to rigorous learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Hofeld (Harrah High School: Harrah, OK)

Biology Chemistry Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Formative Assessment: Creating Opportunities for Students to Express Multidimensional Understanding of Elementary Science

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

BYO Device to this hands-on workshop for the Next Generation Science Assessment (NGSA) project. Explore free, high-quality, multidimensional tasks, consider how to use them to create opportunities for your students to demonstrate their science understanding in your elementary classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore freely available online formative assessment resources to make students’ multidimensional science understanding visible. They will gain confidence in using the tasks with students, analyzing and interpreting student work, and making instructional decisions to support learning.

SPEAKERS:
Carla Strickland (UChicago STEM Education: No City, No State), Jeanne Di Domenico (The University of Chicago: Chicago, IL)

Assessment General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

There is WHAT in our Water?! A Place-Based Approach to the Climate Change Standards (Local/Global Connections)

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

In New Brunswick, NJ, district leaders and educators engaged in collaborative spaces to design placed-based and phenomena-driven learning experiences centered on climate science and environmental justice. The community became our curriculum as we advocated for the local/global environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will explore a placed-based, phenomena-driven instructional model to address local/global environmental issues, and engage in interdisciplinary learning centered on climate change standards, creating a collaborative space for us to dig deeper into climate science and environmental justice.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Nunez (New Brunswick Public Schools: New Brunswick, NJ)

Environmental Science Climate Science Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Phone Physics: 3D Rotational Motion

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Decks for NSTA 2024
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This workshop will introduce teachers to classroom investigations using the built-in gyroscope in their smartphones which connect foundational physics to real-world applications such as virtual reality and fitness tracking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will conduct multiple hands-on investigations using the gyroscope sensor in smartphones to explore rotational motion. They will directly experience the amazing capabilities of the sensors and will go away prepared to implement the investigations in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
David Rakestraw (Senior Science Advisor: Livermore, CA), Michael Tobler (Moreau Catholic High School: Hayward, CA), Helene McLaughlin (Reservoir High School)

Physics Equity Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Using Coaching to Support Elementary and Middle School Leaders to Promote and Support Hands-on Science Learning Across Their Schools

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 601

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Jason will explain why CLEAPSS and King’s College, London decided to undertake this action-research project and what it’s taught he, and his colleagues, about supporting elementary and middle school science leaders to champion and facilitate effective hands-on science in their schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation provides educational professionals and coaches with insights into the effective practices and ways of working that we have developed to support elementary and middle school science leaders to lead science across their schools.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Harding (Teacher Educator)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Communicating Your Discoveries

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://padlet.com/gesherclass/communicatingyourdiscoveries
Slides Communicating Your Discoveries.pdf
Slide deck from Communicating Your Discoveries
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Communicating your findings is a huge piece of any science investigation or project. Come and see some of the different forms such communication can take in P-2 classes, as well as create some of your own!

TAKEAWAYS:
Ideas and formats for communicating science findings.

SPEAKERS:
Annette Venegas (Kent School District: Kent, WA), Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV)

Literacy General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Localizing National Curricula – Strategies for Centering Students and their Communities

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
3.21.24 Slide Deck for Localizing National Science Units.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

How do we center our own students and their communities in NGSS units designed for a national audience? Explore and try out localizing approaches, resources, and examples that are grounded in equity-focused research and built out by K-8 teachers and district leaders implementing Amplify Science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will become familiar with an approach used to localize national curricula and will take away research-based and equity-centered tools, resources, and examples they can use in their own efforts to localize their curricula and create an inclusive classroom environment.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Brad Street (IslandWood: Bainbridge Island, WA)

General Science Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Using Media to Enrich Three-Dimensional Learning for All Young Learners

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Eclipse 2024_Educators .pdf
PBS-LearningMedia-Elementary-resources.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Purposeful use of quality media resources can provide young learners with opportunities to investigate a broad range of phenomena and support three-dimensional learning. Learn how media can connect science content to students’ lives and make the science content accessible to more students.

TAKEAWAYS:
You’ll leave the session with a list of resources and ideas for actively engaging your students with phenomena through media and tips for supporting your students engagement in science practices and crosscutting concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy Gifford (Monomoy Regional Middle School: Chatham, MA), Shawn Stevens (GBH Education: Brighton, MA)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Legendary Lessons: How To Enhance Your Instruction Through Storytelling

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Once upon a time, there were dedicated teachers who wanted nothing more than classrooms full of happy, engaged, and inspired students. Alas, our heroes must face many dastardly obstacles including boring curriculum! This session will provide storytelling tips to help turn duds into happy endings...

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with compelling explanations/research behind the effectiveness of storytelling as an instructional tool as well as several examples of story integration into various STEM activities.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Wu (Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: Aurora, IL)

STEM Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

What is OpenSciEd HS? What do teachers who use OpenSciEd have to say?

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1P3urTNNQuY4JGBTPJHqgIiMMjJbyVChPvxxciN06b58/edit#slide=id.p1
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Get acquainted with OpenSciEd HS, from the anchoring phenomena to the curricular routines to assessment.

TAKEAWAYS:
OpenSciEd HS's storyline approach, curricular routines, student discourse strategies, and assessment systems work together to help students build equitable science learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

General Science Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Gender-Inclusive Biology Teaching: Language, Concepts, and Impacts

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Deck - Gender Inclusive Biology
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Life is diverse, the way we teach biology can honor and highlight diversity in gender, sex, and sexuality. In this session, we will share classroom-ready lessons and resources for teaching about diverse bodies, identities, and families.

TAKEAWAYS:
LGBTQ+ students, and all students, can benefit from teaching about gender diversity in evidence-based, ongoing, and positive ways.

SPEAKERS:
Sam Long (Denver Public Schools: No City, No State)

Biology Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Making science make sense for our youngest students (and their teachers)

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Early grades students are the most curious, uninhibited learners. They are ready and eager to share their ideas. How do we support them in developing accurate science understandings about complex phenomenon?

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will explore complex phenomenon that support the NGSS K-5 standards, developing not only their own understandings, but considering how they can support students in group sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Ananda Weigand-Sheerer (teacher leader: Rochester, NY), Kelly Peason (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY), Michael Occhino (The Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development: Rochester, NY), Kimberly Fluet (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY)

General Science Engineering Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Department of Defense STEM Programs – Growing the next generation of STEM leaders

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Air & Space Force STEM Outreach
Army Educational Outreach Program
DoD STEM
DoD STEM Opportunities
Naval Horizons STEM Essay Contest
Naval STEM
NSTA Denver DoD STEM Programs Session.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Imagine a world where you can solve real-world problems, build robots, and use cutting-edge of technology. The Department of Defense (DoD) offers diverse STEM programs for kindergarten to post-secondary students and teachers, including competitions, camps, professional growth opportunities and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
The Department of Defense has an extensive and diverse portfolio of STEM programs for kindergarten to post-secondary students and teachers. Attendees will discover the wide range of programs offered by the research offices of the U.S. Office of the Secretary of Defense, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and U.S. Air Force and Space Force.

SPEAKERS:
Louie Lopez (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering: Alexandria, VA), Kathryn Lasky (NSTA/Army Educational Outreach Program), Brian Leftridge (U.S. Army: Lakeland, TN), Kathleen Miranda (Naval STEM Coordination Office: No City, No State), Winnie Boyle (NSTA: No City, No State), Elyse Lohrbach (United States Air Force: No City, No State)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Exploring the Flow of Energy Using Robotics

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session introduces participants to the Dash robot and how it can be used in elementary science classrooms to explore the flow of energy. Participants will engage in a hands-on exploration with Dash to develop models using technology to illustrate sample food webs. Be sure to bring a laptop.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how robotics can be used to communicate information about the flow of energy within an ecosystem (5-PS3-1 and 5-LS2-1). Participants will be introduced to the functionality of the Dash robot and how it can be used as a tool to develop a model to describe the phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Alesia Moldavan (Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Science Education)

General Science Robotics Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

EquIP HQ: Demystifying the Patent Process in K-12 Education

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join the US Patent & Trademark Office with activities from the free online invention education platform EquIP HQ, Patent Sensei, and Patent Quest. Gain a conceptual understanding of some of the steps needed to take during the patent process including developing skills to help perform a patent search.

TAKEAWAYS:
All students have the power to invent. The USPTO is committed to providing free resources to help K-12 students realize their potential as inventors. Unlocking young inventors' potential, EquIP HQ introduces students to the patent process, igniting creativity and innovation in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Juan Valentin (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA)

STEM Equity Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Building on Students’ Experiences for Sensemaking: Developing and Using Models

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Collection: Building on Students’ Experiences for Sensemaking: Developing and Us
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Take a deep dive into the practice of developing and using models! We’ll explore how creating and using models help students build science ideas and can support students’ in developing and writing explanations. Experience the power of building science ideas together as part of a learning community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Developing models individually, in groups and as a class makes all students essential members of the knowledge-building community.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Rademaker (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Sensemaking Equity General Science Hands-On Workshop

Easy and Intuitive Science Conversations with The Visual Non-Glossary

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Blank stares and closed mouths no more! The Visual Non-Glossary makes rich, equitable small-group conversations super easy by providing structured visuals and guiding discussion questions and sentence stems for each of 1,500+ vocabulary words K-12 in Science, available in both English and Spanish.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to get kids to think deeply and talk elaborately about science content. We will interact in small groups with science content to see how all students of different backgrounds can intuitively engage with structured visuals.

SPEAKERS:
Stephen Fleenor (Seidlitz Education: No City, No State)

STEM Literacy Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teaching about the Intersections of Biology, Race, and Racism: Strategies, Curriculum Resources, and Research

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CLuEPHlllrjyQvTMYDLJrmqO5lANvILN
PD Playlist one pager - Equity in Science Ed.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-53-How-to-Avoid-Known-Pitfalls-Associated-with-Culturally-Responsive-Instruction.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-79-Dismantling-Systemic-Racism-through-STEM.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-86-Race-and-Young-People.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-89-Race-and-Identity-in-Science-Classrooms.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Racism is prevalent in our society. Participants will examine resources for engaging students in respectful and productive activity that contrast the social construct of race with scientific understandings of genetics. Examples of how science education can be a form of social justice will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Anti-racism work in science education is difficult. Resources to support teachers in engaging in controversial topics will be examined and used by participants to rehearse effective pedagogical moves in engaging in classroom discussions of racism and science. Curricular resources will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Jeanne Chowning (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center: No City, No State), Hanako Osuga (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center), Michal Robinson (K-12 Science, AP/IB Program Manager: Montgomery, AL), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Jason Foster (Evanston Township High School: Evanston, IL)

Equity Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Birds of a Feather Evolve Together: Explaining Speciation with BioInteractive

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Support students in using data to construct explanations! Join us as we utilize free BioInteractive resources to explore factors driving evolution among Galapagos finches.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Eberhard (St. Clair High School: Saint Clair, MI), Robin Bulleri (Science Teacher: Carrboro, NC)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Show me the Moo-ney! Determine the Genetics of a CA$H-Cow

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Agriculture, biology, and business knowledge are essential on the modern farm. In this hands-on workshop, use gel electrophoresis to visualize genotypes for a gene necessary for high quality cheese, and help a dairy farmer select which breeding pairs give her the best chance to have a Ca$h Cow!

SPEAKERS:
Whitney Hagins (Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Earth Science for Today's Classrooms

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: Simulation Curriculum

Teach about plate tectonics, minerals & rocks, earthquakes & volcanoes, geologic time, atmosphere, weather and climate using the most effective and recognized tool available - Layered Earth! We invite teachers to come and see our newest, browser-based NGSS aligned editions.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Goodman (Simulation Curriculum: Hopkins, MN)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Leveraging Curriculum Embedded Assessments

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Great Minds

Join us as we review the parameters of three-dimensional assessments and practice screening assessments for three-dimensionality. In this session, we'll brainstorm ways to work with system leaders to strategically plan around curriculum embedded assessments and uncover supports for every child.

SPEAKERS:
Madeline Cronk (Great Minds: Washington, DC)

Assessment General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

The Science Table by Anatomage – Introducing Interactive Virtual Science Experiments to your Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Anatomage, Inc.

The Science Table provides a library of over 60 biology, chemistry, and physics experiments with realistic-quality visuals on an interactive 7 foot-long touch-screen table. The workshop will focus on incorporating the Science Table into middle school, high school, and college level classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Jake Lehman (Anatomage, Inc: Santa Clara, CA)

Biology Chemistry STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling Membrane Explorations – Real-World Connections with Wet Labs

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Dive into modeling the movement of ions and nutrients across membranes. Help your students connect theory with the results from popular homeostasis labs.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Hutson (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Engineering Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Engaging Students in Science and Engineering Practices through Conservation Stories

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Wildlife Conservation Society

WCS presents Field Sight pairs the insight of our educators with the expertise of WCS field staff to bring you stories of the conservation work we are doing all over the world. Learn about our exciting fieldwork protecting wildlife, and bring this valuable information into your classroom!

SPEAKERS:
Anine Booth (Wildlife Conservation Society: Bronx, NY)

STEM Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engaging Demonstrations and Experiments for Physics Classes

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Physics should be exciting! Flinn Scientific presents a variety of easy to perform and exciting physics demonstrations. Come see Flinn’s new demonstrations and some of your old favorites—all guaranteed to make your science classroom come alive. Handouts provided for all.

SPEAKERS:
Jonnathan Medina Ramos, Ph.D. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Physics Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Supporting Students’ Communication Using Differentiated Strategies

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Learn how to enhance students’ overall communication in and out of the science classroom throughout their learning. Delve deeper into topics that include listening using classroom norms, strategies that help students with short response, and how to enhance students’ use of CER!

SPEAKERS:
Brian Klaft (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science Equity Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 2: NOAA Planet Stewards - Affect change through education, collaboration, and action - and receive up to $5000 to do it!

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Denver NOAA Workshop 2 - NOAA Planet Stewards - Copy.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Sponsoring Company: NOAA

As a NOAA Planet Stewards Educator you can become a STEM agent of change in your school and community. Learn how to access professional development opportunities, education resources, and funding, to increase students’ science literacy, and have them respond to real world environmental threats.

SPEAKERS:
Symone Barkley (Education Specialist: Silver Spring, MD), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD), Karen Metcalf (Cornerstone Learning Community: Tallahassee, FL), Kelley Hodges (Patronis Elementary School: Panama City, FL), Kyla Trahan (Beaumont Middle School: Lexington, KY)

Environmental Science Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Mendel’s Peas: A gel electrophoresis lab connecting Mendelian inheritance and molecular genetics

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Some of Mendel’s peas have been discovered in an old notebook! Can you confirm which gene Mendel studied in the 1800s using gel electrophoresis? This lab connects Mendelian genetics and Punnett squares with our modern understanding of how genes determine inherited traits.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hennessy-McDonald, PhD (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling Ocean Acidification: A Hands-On Approach

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Gain vital teaching tools to make global phenomena feel relevant to students to improve their understanding of climate change. We’ll show you how to engage students while monitoring local CO2 levels, modeling ocean acidification, and exploring global data sets with free classroom-ready resources.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Instructional Strategies Matter: 15 STEM Teacher Actions (Grades 3-8)

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

In the STEM classroom, an effective teacher selects actions that have an impact on student achievement. Come learn about the 15 STEM Teacher Actions to enhance your instructional practices and achieve improved student achievement.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Campana (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

STEM General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Let’s Investigate Like Scientists and Engineers

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Discover new ways to help students think and work like scientists and engineers. Through a hands-on lesson, we will model instruction and resources that support 3-dimensional teaching & learning including teacher instructional slides, student friendly materials, simulations, & student investigations

SPEAKERS:
Hoover Herrera (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Sensemaking General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Keep Calm and Chemistry On: Successful Lab Activities for the New Chemistry Teacher

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Explore easy, engaging, and safe chemistry activities that guarantee a reaction in your students. Whether you’re new to chemistry or feeling out of your element, create excitement with hands-on labs, demonstrations, and Carolina’s digital content.These lab activities support 3-dimensional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engineer Physical Science Excitement with a Carolina STEM Challenge®

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Apply creative problem-solving skills and engineering practices to chemistry and physical science challenges with race cars and rockets. Experience how Carolina makes it easy to incorporate STEM into your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Patti Kopkau (Retired Educator: National City, MI)

STEM Engineering Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Support 3D Teaching with Vernier Connections™

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discover the newest STEM solution from Vernier, built to teach and engage students in 3D science! Vernier Connections is a web-based platform that equips teachers with hands-on lessons. We will feature a lesson demonstrating the design & structures that make Connections a must for the STEM classroom

SPEAKERS:
Lori Anderson (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Technology General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Investigating Invisible Forces: Mapping Magnetic Fields

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Learn how to make magnetism visible and quantifiable for students! Dive into Earth science concepts such as modeling field strength, polarity, and orientation using the Go Direct® 3-Axis Magnetic Field Sensor. Investigate permanent magnets and electromagnets with hands-on, ready-to-use experiments.

SPEAKERS:
David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Physics STEM Technology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

What are crosscutting concepts and how can I possibly do this, too? - Learn with COESEE

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Re-imagining the Role of CCCs
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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The crosscutting concepts are particularly powerful at the elementary level. Join as we explore their power!

TAKEAWAYS:
Leverage crosscutting concepts in ways that help elevate science learning across the k-5 grades

SPEAKERS:
Carla Zembal-Saul (Penn State: University Park, PA), Mary Starr (Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network)

Sensemaking Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Equipping Students for Tomorrow: Navigating Science Education's Shifting Horizons

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP Science

Modern science education goes beyond memorization and traditional experiments. Educators now aim to cultivate transferable skills for students to thrive beyond the classroom. This requires an approach where students engage in a multidimensional world of inquiry, activating their curiosity and empowering them with critical scientific and data literacy skills. Join the discussion on the evolving landscape of science education to meet enhanced standards.

SPEAKERS:
Tim Powers (BrainPOP: New York, NY), Harshil Parikh (Tuva Labs Inc.: New York, NY), Kathy Perkins, PhD (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Hannah Bonville (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

The Sweet Laboratory: Exploring Food Science with Biotechnology

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Bring inquiry into your classroom with food science! Learn how to extract dyes from candy to analyze using agarose gel electrophoresis and paper chromatography. Students use the simple techniques as a starting point to design experiments, test hypotheses, and use STEM techniques to analyze results.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

STEM Informal Education Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Exploring a Learning Sequence about Patterns in Species Diversity

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Learning sequences to drive phenomena through a unit is one way to help students understand the content. In this model activity from our Lab-Aids program: Science and Global Issues: Biology, developed by SEPUP, you will use data to investigate how abiotic factors and species diversity are related.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Parker (Dublin Coffman High School: Dublin, OH)

Biology Environmental Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Getting Ideas Across: Integrating Literacy Skills in Science Investigations

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: TCI

This workshop offers a unique opportunity for educators to gain practical insights into integrating literacy skills within the science curriculum. Attendees will leave with tangible strategies and tools to enrich their teaching practices, fostering a more engaging learning experience for students.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Kumar (TCI: Mountain View, CA)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Colorado District Science Leaders March meeting

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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In this session, Colorado District Science Leaders are invited to attend our March meeting. During this time, we will network and share ideas regarding the implementation of three dimensional learning in your school, site, and/or district.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, Colorado District Science Leaders are invited to attend our March meeting. During this time, we will network and share ideas regarding the implementation of three dimensional learning in your school, site, and/or district.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Agoos (Colorado Department of Education: Denver, CO)

Leadership Equity General Science Hands-On Workshop

Teaching About Environmental Issues Through Civic Action Projects

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://cape.ifas.ufl.edu
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Our students are concerned about their environment and are making a difference in their community. Join us to learn how you can use our new curriculum to engage your students in civic action for the environment. You’ll take leave with resources to implement this curriculum with your community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Formal and nonformal educators will learn how to facilitate community engagement projects for the environment with their students so they can learn about environmental issues in their community and potential solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Cayton (Campbell University: Buies Creek, NC), Megan Ennes (University of Florida: Gainesville, FL)

Environmental Science Advocacy Climate Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Transforming Learning: Supporting Principals with Tools for Classroom Visits - Part 1

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Research to Practice

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These two sessions will focus on leadership. These sessions will include a discussion of the structures that need to happen to support these shifts in science instruction. How do you get teachers on board to engage in this work? For example, what are examples of the stories you need to tell to support teacher interest and buy in. What are examples of sustainable structures at a system level to support this work? What are examples of observation and instructional tools to support this work? In session 1, we will draw on case studies to engage how storytelling can be used to support onboarding teachers and to strengthen a science infrastructure. In session 2, we will share observation and instructional tools for leaders to support this work. In session 1, participants will gain strategies and insights utilized to enhance science instruction within a school system. In session 2, we will use classroom videos and other examples to illustrate how to do this work in schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain strategies and insights utilized to enhance science instruction within a school system.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine McNeill (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA), Stefanie Marshall (Assistant Professor: East Lansing, MI)

Presentation

Eliciting and Appreciating the Diversity of Intellectual Resources Students Use to Make Sense of Phenomena

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1m5x5ZUCTbZbGYSYPNzUmFDSzx035ovcj
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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In this session, participants will build their capacity to elicit, identify, and appreciate the range of intellectual resources students use as they make sense of phenomena. This session will help leaders work directly with educators to better appreciate students’ multiple ways of knowing and better shape instruction to support diverse sense-making through science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will help leaders work directly with educators to better appreciate students’ multiple ways of knowing and better shape instruction to support diverse sense-making through science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Tiffany Neill (Research Scientist: Oklahoma City, OK), Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Angela Kolonich (Minnesota Department of Education: Minneapolis, MN)

Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning: Using the Elements of Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: Part 1

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4

Show Details

Part 1. Examine research based approaches and enabling conditions that effective schools and systems have put in place to reinforce and amplify the power of high-quality curriculum and skillful teaching. Examine the foundation for The Elements, a challenge paper from Carnegie Corporation of New York

TAKEAWAYS:
Take away a deeper understanding of curriculum-based professional learning and insights into how the Elements were embodied in one district’s PL program.

SPEAKERS:
Jody Bintz (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Jim Short (Carnegie Corporation of New York: New York, NY)

Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Localizing High-Quality Instructional Materials to Improve Experiences for All Learners

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Join us to discuss recent research on supplementing and modifying science instructional materials and to hear from teachers about the important things to keep in mind while modifying and supplementing materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
For many reasons, including alignment to standards and lack of class time, most educators modify their science instructional materials. Teachers say that they would like professional learning, time, and models to help them make these modifications to meet their students’ needs.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead (National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA): Downingtown, PA), Karey Pierce (Nolan Middle School: Harker Heights, TX), Tram Nguyen (5th Grade Science, Math, and Social Studies Teacher), Cecelia Gillam (Hahnville High School: La Place, LA), Jennifer Childress Self (NextGenScience: San Francisco, CA)

Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Coaching with an observation tool for instructional leaders: supporting shifts to more student centered instruction

Thursday, March 21 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 BC@NSTA Denver.pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Seeking support in what to look for and how to provide feedback to best support teachers? We will share an observation tool, model a pre & post observation conversation, examine a range of coaching interventions, and consider action steps based on patterns that are observed in science classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders and coaches play an important role in supporting teachers as they shift to more student centered instruction. Participants will be provided with an observation tool and coaching interventions that promote trust and increase reflective practice to meet the needs of students and teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Renee Affolter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA), Grace Lugo (Boston College OEI: No City, No State)

Leadership Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Supporting elementary/middle school teacher professional learning - the Science Ninjas research project

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Research to Practice

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During this talk Jason will explain what Science Ninjas is, why CLEAPSS and King’s College, London (University of London) decided to undertake this research and what it’s taught he, and his colleagues, about supporting elementary and middle school teachers to plan effective active learning lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation provides educational professionals and coaches with insights into the effective practices and ways of working that we have developed to support elementary and middle school science leaders to promote hands-on learning across their schools.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Harding (Teacher Educator)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

5 West Geriatrics Unit: From Hypothesis to Conclusion

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Game Prototype Reducing Falls Risk
This Point has the Materials of the entire game along with instructions.
Implementing Prototype NSTA Presentation
This is the power point I am using to deliver the background behind the game and its facilitation.
Mocha Mindscape Instructional Design
This is my new blog for instructional design. You can use this to connect with me and discover different ideas about systems thinking as an instructional designer/educator.
Welcome to Falls
This was the Power Point I used at Central 9 to engage students.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This is a real-life scenario in a hospital setting. The goal is to decrease patient falls inside the 5 West Geriatrics Unit. The Participants team members and leaders in this particular unit will work together to implement a hypothesis to decrease patient falls.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using real-life scenarios can give context that will open up opportunities for leadership, solving problems, and working together as a team.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Biedler (Instructional Designer: Non-Hispanic/Non-Latino, IN)

STEM Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Making CER FUN: Having Fun with the Claims, Evidence, and Reasoning Framework

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Making CER FUN_Having Fun with Claims, Evidence, and Reasoning_Public.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Teaching students to use the Claims, Evidence, and Reasoning (CER) Framework is not easy. This workshop bridges the gap between theory and practice by providing a stepwise strategy that makes the process of evidence-based critical thinking visible to students. All activities are student-approved!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to successfully implement CER in their classrooms. In addition, attendees will leave the session with three readymade activities that are easily implemented but have a high impact.

SPEAKERS:
Mesa Davis (Clayton State University: Morrow, GA)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Investigate & Analyze the Physical & Chemical Processes of Stellar Evolution Using NASA/UoL JS9 STEM Image Analysis Tools & Supporting Resources

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Chandra X-Ray Observatory
Investigate & Analyze Physical & Chemical.pdf
Jamboard Version Card Sets
JS9 Image Analysis Tools
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Photons of electromagnetic radiation of all wavelengths are collected by telescopes and processed using computers. Scientists use image analysis software to analyze the data and construct unique models of the data, including stars and galaxies, while maintaining the integrity of the underlying data.

TAKEAWAYS:
All our knowledge of stars and galaxies is determined by spectroscopy— the analysis of radiation emissions, including radio, infrared, optical, ultraviolet, gamma, and X-ray. Knowledge of spectroscopy is essential to understanding the processes producing the individual wavelengths.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Freely Available Digital Tools and Storyline Unit to Explore Climate Change Data and Solutions

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Education Pathways website
Google site for Teacher Materials
Temporary for 2024. Visit main project page in 2025 onward.
Presentation slides
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This workshop session will engage participants in a storyline unit that uses digital tools to explore data on temperature changes around the world, greenhouse gas emissions, and future scenarios if we employ a range of carbon emissions and sequestration solutions. Please bring a laptop or tablet.

TAKEAWAYS:
Analyzing climate change data and using mathematical models for climate change solutions can support student sensemaking and prepare youth for informed action.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Betty Stennett (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Audrey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Climate Science Sensemaking Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Key Debates in Science Education - A UK perspective

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation.pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

A tour of the key debates that are happening in science education in the UK will be provided. The impact of these issues across different age-phases, on differing stakeholders and how they have shaped the curricula that can be found in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales will be outlined.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the key debates in education within the UK and compare and contrast these with their educational setting.

SPEAKERS:
Alex Sinclair (Senior Lecturer: HAMPTON, 0)

General Science Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science in the Early Childhood Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Early Childhood Science slides
UCDS_Magnet_Curriculum.pdf
UCDS_seed curric.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Investigate fostering scientific understanding and practice skills in our youngest learners. Take away topics of inquiry and tools for planning experiments and documenting student thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with strategies to: • Plan investigations to integrate science into their early childhood curriculum. • Build scientific practice skills in all of our youngest learners. • Reveal and document student understanding through lab notebooks.

SPEAKERS:
Alyssa Barr (Science Teacher: Seattle, WA), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA)

General Science Assessment Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Building Bridges to Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Building Bridges Slides with LInks
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn from our experience as a math and a science teacher collaborating together to give our students an interdisciplinary learning opportunity so that you can start your own plan. We will share the logistics from this authentic inquiry-based project and you’ll hear testimonials from our students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be provided with one way to overcome logistical challenges inherent with interdisciplinary collaboration at the secondary level, including differing rosters and schedules. Furthermore, attendees will have the opportunity to start their own plan for their own interdisciplinary project.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Schneiderwind (Daniel C Oakes high school: Castle Rock, CO), Nadene Klein (Daniel C. Oakes High School: Castle Rock, CO)

STEM General Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Lab Skills Performance Assessments in Chemistry

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Chemistry Lab Skills Self-Assessment.docx
Lighting a Bunsen Burner Checklist.docx
PA Presentation.pptx
Pipetting Skill Checklist.docx
Science Attitudes Survey.docx
Titration Skill Checklist.docx
Using a Graduated Cylinder Checklist.docx
Using an Electronic Balance Checklist.docx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will provide concrete and practical examples of how to implement lab skill performance assessments in the classroom and will offer easy-to-use and tangible information that teachers can take back to their own schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will present how to administer performance assessments of five basic lab skills and the benefits to the classroom that result.

SPEAKERS:
Tyler Buchan (Salisbury Composite High School: Sherwood Park, AB)

Chemistry Assessment Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Watermelon Genetics

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1y_wDN3knKkQYHA-Qz-flZMmkWzo6wYo9SJY_xasUShE/edit?usp=sharing
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will share the results of a four-year investigation into the genetics of different varieties of watermelons, and will highlight the advantages of using watermelons as a model organism for genetics investigations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Watermelons offer several advantages as a model organism for student research, including a variety of easily identifiable traits that exhibit Mendelian and non-Mendelian patterns, ease of growth, ease of cross-pollination, potential for cultural connections, and opportunities for original research.

SPEAKERS:
Steven Gaskill (K.O. Knudson Middle School: Las Vegas, NV)

Life Science Biology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Community Focused Science Events that Lead to Sensemaking and 3 Dimensional Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Hide A Butterfly Parent Sheet.pdf
Parent Sheet for Hide a Butterfly
NSTA Denver Community Science Events.pptx
Our slides from the presentation.
Unbeatable Beaks Parent Sheet.pdf
Parent Sheet for UnBeatable Beaks
Wiggling Worms Parent Sheet.png
Parent Sheet for Wiggling Worms
STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

What will be describe in this session is are community science events that can be organized with themes that use natural phenomena or NGSS standards, practices, and outcomes that a school would like to promote. We will also share how we form these partnerships with local schools and museums.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to update these events to go beyond the traditional Family Science Events that are superficial. One main takeaway are example indepth activities and resources that can be used with families and students at local schools and museums. We share information about resources.

SPEAKERS:
Morgan Glann (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Eli Vincent (Student: , MI), Lauren Rupe (Student: , MI), Jim McDonald (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Emma Patrus (Student)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Activating Students' Sensemaking Through Explore-Before-Explain

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
New 2024 Sense-Making Flyer.pdf
Here is the information for Pat's Upcoming Program
pdf of slides- Activating Students Ideas_Denver_NSTA.pdf
Slides from Afternoon Explore Before Explain Session
SC_JanFeb_2023_38-42_Brown+feature.pdf
Is It A Change? Assessments and demonstrations to challenge students’ conceptions about matter and encourage practice forming explanations
SC_MarApr_2023_30-33_Brown.pdf
NSTA Journal Article- Patrick Brown ( Science and Children)
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Get ready for three-dimensional teaching with ways to sequence instruction that promote long-lasting understanding for your students by using a simple yet powerful sensemaking approach: Explore-Before-Explain.

TAKEAWAYS:
An overview of essential planning considerations covers becoming an “explore-before-explain” teacher and designing lessons that use the assets all students bring to learning science.

SPEAKERS:
Tim Blesse (Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Denver, CO), Patrick Brown (Fort Zumwalt School District R-II: O'Fallon, MO)

Sensemaking Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Revitalize Your Rubrics: Streamline Grading and Elevate Feedback

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://reimaginedschools.com/nsta-conference-presentations/
You will find a copy of the presentation plus many other resources to help with implementation.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Transform your assessment tool into a powerful instrument for enhancing learning. Designed for educators from K-16, with an aim to streamline the grading process, make rubrics strengths-based, differentiable across all levels, and centered on developing transferable skills. Bring your own rubric!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with their own revised rubric that not only simplifies grading but also fosters student engagement and achievement. They will discover ways to provide constructive, actionable feedback that drives improvement and facilitates student growth.

SPEAKERS:
Elise Naramore (Pascack Hills High School: Montvale, NJ)

Assessment Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Ignite Your Passion for STEM with NASA’s SPARX!

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Igniting K-12 Passion for STEM with NASA SPARX! .pdf
STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

NASA's Next Gen STEM SPARX (Sparking Participation and Real-world eXperiences in STEM) offers an exciting entry-level opportunity for K-2 educators to access standards-aligned activities and resources that follow evidence-based practices to equip their students with the skills to thrive in STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the educator benefits of NASA SPARX and how this evidence-based model was selected, and will try their hands at some of the curated engineering design activities from the K-2 Educator Guide.

SPEAKERS:
Steven Smith (Education Specialist II), Miranda Fike (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center: Huntsville, AL)

Earth & Space Science Engineering STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Project-Based Learning and the Diverse Learner

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
PBL and the Diverse Learning
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

We will share strategies, ideas, accommodations, and ways to adapt and obtain student collaboration and engagement through the lens of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) focus. Come learn strategies for including diverse learners in your project-based classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with ready-to-use resources and ideas for instruction with students with diverse needs focusing on project-based activities within the STEAM framework. These ideas can be adapted to lessons in many content areas.

SPEAKERS:
Theresa Robertson (Middle School STEM teacher: Platte City, MO), Sandy Carr (Lorenzo ISD / EPEC-SSA: Lorenzo, TX)

Earth & Space Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Digging Into Soil in a School Garden

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We use the 3-H socioemotional learning cycle to engage learners, using hands-on inquiry around the composition of different soil types. Teachers learn how to identify the soil types of clay, humus, sand, and compost, and apply this information to what can grow and flourish in different soil types.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be provided with lesson plans and student work to initiate discussions about classroom applications. At the end of the session, participants will learn how to apply the 3-H model to engage students' hearts, heads, and hands in science learning using the phenomenon of soils.

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Trundle (Utah STate University: No City, No State), Rita Hagevik (The University of North Carolina at Pembroke: LAURINBURG, NC)

Environmental Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

From Classroom to Cosmos: Unraveling Light's Journey with Sensor-Based Experiments

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/16-hxcbYERgn0PrGpiDKgfR0B8L9yAEPB/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=108339669602356975930&rtpof=true&sd=true
LSI How to Travel on an Interstellar Adventure (Jenny McCall).pptx.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore advanced space propulsion methods, from chemical to laser propulsion, in this hands-on session. Learn how light intensity changes with distance using PocketLab Voyager Sensors and laser pointers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain a deeper understanding of light and laser intensity variations with distance through engaging experiments and practical applications. Model how to implement the Pocketlab sensors and notebook into their curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Jenny McCall (Winburn Middle School, Fayette County Public Schools: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Supporting teachers, challenging students, and increasing accessibility: How DoD STEM Ambassadors advance STEM education in their communities

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

With support from a sponsored organization and the DoD, DoD STEM Ambassadors are prepared to promote equitable education in their communities. Resources and strategies will be shared to encourage other teachers to utilize DoD STEM resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how DoD STEM Ambassadors increase STEM education and opportunities for disadvantaged students in their communities. Presenters will review DoD STEM resources and show how attendees can also serve their classrooms to close the achievement gap, with support from DoD STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Botello (Byron P. Steele II High School), Josephine Mesina (International High School at Largo: Upper Marlboro, MD), Thanh Le (Montebello High School: Montebello, CA), Nicole Rosen (The Ingenuity Project: Baltimore, MD)

Equity General Science Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Increasing Access to Science in Elementary Through Distributed Leadership and the Principles of Improvement Science

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Participants will learn how school districts were able to increase elementary science access by establishing a District Science team grounded in distributed leadership and using the principles and tools of Improvement Science. Panelists' insights and a toolkit of resources will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how several districts developed a distributed leadership team focused on increasing access to elementary science education. They will hear from panelists and explore the tools and processes these teams used as part of their science leadership teams.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy Wright (Hayward Unified School District: Hayward, CA), Dawn O'Connor (CSU East Bay: Danville, CA)

Leadership Advocacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

From Focus Groups to Classroom Practices: Building Multilingual Multimodal Formative Assessment Activities with Educator-Researchers and Multilingual Students

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA.pptx
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Multilingual students' science knowledge isn’t always visible to educators. Our innovative research uncovers that knowledge regardless of students’ English language skills. You’ll learn about our research and how to build multilingual multimodal assessments for your own instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn about multilingual and multimodal formative assessment strategies and how to implement them in your science instruction. You will have access to a formative assessment activity template and a rubric for reviewing multilingual and multimodal formative assessment activities.

SPEAKERS:
Keira Ballantyne (VP Programs & Development), Brittany York (Senior Research Assistant: Washington, DC, DC)

Assessment Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Earth from Space with My NASA Data

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Use the My NASA Data Earth System Satellite Cards and Data Literacy Cubes in multiple activities with different strategies to analyze global NASA Earth data, understand the relationship among different environmental variables, and explore how the data changes seasonally.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in active learning about Earth as a system and the relationship between key environmental variables. They will also learn how to engage learners in analysis of false color images of satellite data using scaffolded questions for different Lexile and WIDA proficiency levels.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Taylor (NASA Langley Research Center: Hampton, VA), Rosalba Giarratano (Outreach Coordinator: East Elmhurst, NY), Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using GIS to explore connections between forests and watersheds

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
PowerPoint Slides Using GIS to Explore Connections Between Forests Watersheds
Access the complete 56-slide presentation as a PDF.
Unit Overview + Academic Standards Connections
This handout was shared in-person at the session. The front details the Forests, Water & People unit for Grades 9-10 (with Grades 6-8 variations) and provides and introduction on the accompanying GIS tool (made possible by the USDA Forest Service). The reverse highlights the NGSS, Common Core ELA, and C3 Framework content correlations for the unit shared. The unit shared is accessible via the QR code on the front and back of this handout.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about a free unit of instruction that uses a GIS data explorer tool from the USDA Forest Service to explore connections between forests and watersheds. You’ll have an opportunity to try out the activities and receive copies of three lesson plans connected to NGSS and CCSS.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to engage students in using cutting-edge GIS technology in learning about natural systems and the connection between forests and the water they drink. Walk away able to use these tools immediately in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Nagle (Ivymount School: Potomac, MD), Jaclyn Stallard (Sustainable Forestry Initiative: Washington, DC)

Environmental Science Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Unlocking AI's Potential: Enhancing Efficiency and Ensuring Integrity

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover how AI can ease your workload and transform your instruction. Explore ways to harness the power of AI for your personal and professional gain. Learn how to leverage AI for deeper student learning. Whether you’re brand new to AI or a seasoned user, leave with ideas to implement right away.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how AI tools such as ChatGPT can be a game-changer in the classroom—saving teacher time and deepening student learning.

SPEAKERS:
Terra Tarango (Van Andel Education Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

Technology General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Sound and Waves (PS4) + Computational Thinking (CT): An Integrated K-8 Hands-On Approach Supporting the NGSS and CT

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA SLICE Sound and Waves 240321b.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Receive practical ideas to build understanding about how to combine hands-on activities and computational thinking skills as tools to understand the nature of sound and waves and support NGSS practices: analyze/interpret data, use computational thinking, construct explanations and design solutions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Offer ideas to integrate hands-on activities and computational thinking skills as tools to build confidence in, and understanding of, NGSS PS4-Sound and Waves. Provide examples about how we may advance teaching and learning in K-8 cross-disciplinary STEM and Computation education.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Robertson (East Tennessee State University: Johnson City, TN), Dylan Singleton (Student: , TN), Chelsie Pratt (Instructor: Johnson City, TN), Michaela Slagle (Graduate Assistant: Johnson City, TN), Chihche Tai (East Tennessee State University: Johnson City, TN)

STEM Computer Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

How to Implement PBL and Develop 21st Century Skills using STEAM Podcasts in the Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this interactive PBL experience, attendees will LISTEN to the STEAM podcast “Wow in the World”, WONDER to generate ideas, TINKER to choose a testable hypothesis, and MAKE a multimedia scientific inquiry or engineering design project in the free, private, and NGSS-aligned TinkerClass platform.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to streamline PBL instruction, manage the classroom to develop 21st Century skills, and excite K-5 students about hands-on scientific inquiry and engineering design using TinkerClass’ modular LISTEN, WONDER, TINKER, and MAKE experience.

SPEAKERS:
Carole Paterson (Science Teacher: Ligonier, PA), Twee Mac (Digital Associate Producer: Montclair, NJ)

STEM General Science Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Teachers Co-Designing and Co-Revising NGSS-Aligned Biology Materials with Researchers

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Educators and researchers from the inquiryHub partnership between DPS and CU Boulder share their experiences as they co-designed (and co-redesigned) the iHub Biology curriculum, professional learning to accompany it, and other classroom tools to support its use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers partnering with researchers can yield engaging curriculum materials that support more equitable teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Douglas Watkins (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO)

Biology Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

High School Chemistry Storylines

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Illinois Chemistry Storyline Presentation
Please email [email protected] for any further questions! Thanks!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This presentation will showcase a 3D + NGSS-aligned Northern Lights Storyline designed for High School Chemistry. This presentation will showcase the: Student Activities, Teacher Narratives, Formative and Summative Assessments in this Storyline.

TAKEAWAYS:
Anyone attending this presentation will be shown an example of a completed Chemistry Storyline based on the Northern Lights and learn how to implement three-dimensional learning in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Charlie Pozen (Gateway High School, Aurora CO: No City, No State)

Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

How Small Is Small? Bringing Nanoscience into the Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Do you want your students to understand how current scientific research is relevant to their learning and has real world applications? We will present an accessible STEM curriculum, informed by current work in a university research lab, that integrates nanoscience phenomena with content standards.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about current research in the field of nanoscience and will gain access to a STEM curriculum package that draws on nanoscience to help all students in grades 5-8 make connections between STEM content and their everyday lives.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Kwan (teacher: National City, CA), Donna Terrasi (Saint Clement School: No City, No State), Silvia Kenna (Blessed Trinity Catholic School: No City, No State)

STEM Mathematics Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Let's Get on the Giant Map of Colorado!

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join other educators on the Giant Map of Colorado! Learn how to integrate physical mapping into science-focused, problem-based learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators have the opportunity to learn how to access a Colorado Giant Map, for inclusion of Place and Problem-Based Learning. This can help address climate science, ecosystems, geology, river concerns, weather, and scientific history of Colorado.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Ragsdale (STEM Professional Development: Grand Junction, CO)

Earth & Space Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

PreK-2nd grade Get OUTSIDE for Learning with 3-D & Transdisciplinary Lessons

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Experience PreK-2 lessons, learn outdoor classroom management, and hear philosophies from School in the Woods, a public school with an outdoor focus. Crosscurricular lessons that meet your standards with 3-D Learning through outdoor, hands-on, minds-on discovery. Turn your classroom inside OUT !

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will experience outdoor lessons to use with students to meet all areas of the curriculum (with indoor alternatives and in/out infusion ideas). Free nature notebook.

SPEAKERS:
Maurine Banzhaf (Colorado PLT advisory council: No City, No State), DeLene Hoffner (eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO)

Environmental Science General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Customize Your Own Purposeful Solutions-Based Design Challenge

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
Resource list
Resource links to help “Customize Your Own Purposeful Solutions-based STEM QUEST Design Challenge”
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

After trying several K-12 solutions-based design challenges, choose one to customize for your students and environment. Adapt and leave ready to teach the entire QUEST (Question-Uncover-Explore-Solve-Teach). Written for Guam, these empower students to design projects that solve local problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will begin customizing one student-relevant purposeful design challenge QUEST, have access to many more, and will recognize the benefits of purposeful design challenges being part of a larger QUEST unit that requires intentional learning of STEM concepts and practices.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Arndt (Global GreenSTEM: Franktown, CO)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A Picture Walk to Spark Student Thinking about Energy Sources and Uses in Trees from an Environmental Context

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Picture Walk with Trees througuh the Seasons Handoutu
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

We asked the question, how can a picture walk of trees in forested environments spark student thinking about energy needs of trees? This presentation reports on the findings with undergraduates and shares insights on how the picture walk can be used with middle, secondary, and undergraduate students

TAKEAWAYS:
How to use an everyday phenomena of trees in forested environments to spark students in sensemaking about from where trees access their energy and what they do with that energy; foundational ideas for understanding photosynthesis and respiration.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Sharp (Missouri University of Science and Technology: Rolla, MO), Rebecca Krall (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY)

Biology Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Roundtable

Science Storybook Adventures: Examining Science Models and Explanations in Literature

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Delve into children’s literature that merges storytelling and science explanations, inviting elementary students to unravel intriguing investigations and uncover how and why science works.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will examine children’s literature that enhances critical thinking and guides elementary students in refining science models and explanations post-investigation. This session will showcase the transformative potential of literature in elementary science.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen Saxen (: Dayton, OH), Michelle Fleming (Wright State University: Dayton, OH)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Making Sense of Data Through the Crosscutting Concepts

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Join members of NSTA’s Professional Learning Committee to explore effective strategies and resources that focus on helping students make sense of data using the Crosscutting Concepts. In this session, you will engage with the strategies and consider how to implement them with students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with sensemaking strategies for engaging students in the Science and Engineering Practice of Analyzing and Interpreting Data, through the lens of the Crosscutting Concept of Patterns, that can immediately be implemented with students!

SPEAKERS:
Kimberley Astle (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A Local, Affordable, Outdoor-Education-Day Model for Your School or Setting: Earth Day at Cottage Lane

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Earth Day at Cottage Lane
Presentation and links.
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Come and see a model for an outdoor education day where invited scientists and environmental educators gather in a local state park to teach every student in our 3rd through 5th grade school. We have been hosting this event at a State Park near our school and it works. You can do it, too.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to successfully put together an outdoor education day involving local scientists, environmental educators, and conservationists. We have been putting together this event for over 10 years and can share what we have learned along the way.

SPEAKERS:
Jacob Tanenbaum (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY)

Environmental Science General Science Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Content Integration with Science as the Anchor

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Content Integration Handout
Content Integration Planning Tools
Slides for Content Integration Session
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Phenomena-based teaching and learning in science authentically lends itself to integration with literacy, language development, and other subject areas, yet each is often taught in silos. Explore how to shift K-5 classroom practice towards an integrated approach that supports all students’ learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers and leaders will gain insight into principles of content integration with science as the anchor and will explore tools, strategies, and system-wide approaches they can use in their own K-5 context in order to identify and plan for more equitable interdisciplinary science instruction.

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

General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Designing and Customizing NGSS Phenomenon-Focused Investigations: Challenges and Solutions

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
GEMS NSTA 2024 Slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Using a co-designed NGSS curriculum unit, we highlight solutions to challenges in designing and implementing a phenomenon-based investigation unit. Participants examine both design templates and finished curriculum to familiarize themselves with a revision and customization process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with curriculum design templates to use when customizing curriculum to support students’ sensemaking of phenomena. An opportunity will be provided to explore templates and ask clarifying questions. Participants will have access to a curriculum unit designed using the templates.

SPEAKERS:
Barbara Hug (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: Champaign, IL), Nick Leonardi (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: No City, No State)

General Science Life Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

A City is a Climate Change Laboratory: Participatory Science as a Means for Real-World Project-Based Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Lesson Plan Links
QR codes to link directly to place-based lesson plans
Place-based Planning Worksheet
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

In this session, we will explore how educators and partners are working together in Boston to create climate change project-based learning opportunities for students in grades 6-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore teacher-created, climate-focused PBL tasks, citizen science resources, and strategies for building sustainable partnerships.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Shoer (Senior Program Manager, Education & Engagement), Elisabeth Colby (Director of Visitor Experience and Engagement Programs: Boston, MA), Holly Rosa (Boston Public Schools: Boston, MA)

Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Invasive Species+CS - An Equity-Centered Approach to Integrated Elementary Science Curriculum

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

An integrated science+CS module about invasive species sets the stage for inclusive and culturally responsive instruction. Come to find out how we embedded inclusive approaches into our lessons, and take away hands-on, practical strategies to apply these approaches in your own classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will apply an Equity-Centered Curriculum Framework to inspect and modify existing science lessons to create classroom experiences that meet the needs of all learners. The Framework synchronizes Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, Universal Design for Learning, and Project-Based Learning.

SPEAKERS:
Carla Strickland (UChicago STEM Education: No City, No State), Annmargareth Marousky (Broward County Public Schools: Fort Lauderdale, FL), Jeanne Di Domenico (The University of Chicago: Chicago, IL)

Equity Computer Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Embracing the Difficulty in DEI for Science Education

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Share ideas and discuss ways to navigate the political and socio economic climates of diversity, equity and inclusion in science education. Highlight examples of schools and districts that have implemented DEI initiatives with current successes, pitfalls, and next steps for science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
The importance of addressing DEI in science education. This emphasizes the need for open discussions and idea sharing on how to navigate the political and socioeconomic landscapes related to DEI in science education.

SPEAKERS:
Sephali Thakkar (National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA): No City, No State), Sharon Delesbore (Stephen F. Austin High School: No City, No State), Leena Bakshi (STEM4Real: No City, No State), Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Advocacy Sensemaking Presentation

Fun with Force and Motion

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Acceleration War
Fun with Force and Motion Presentation
Lab Calculating Net Force
Lab Cars in Motion
Lab Newtons Laws
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Participants will engage in hands-on activities focused on force and motion concepts. Activities are easy set-ups, using low-cost household materials that promote inclusivity of all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be engaged in multiple activities that promote learning and inclusivity of all students. Necessary materials and best teaching practices will be shared so that attendees can immediately incorporate knowledge and activities into their own classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Andrea Starks (Houston Middle School: Germantown, TN)

General Science Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Phone Physics: E&M Sampler

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Decks for NSTA 2024
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Workshop participants will conduct investigations using the built-in magnetometer sensors in smartphones to investigate the 3D properties of magnetic fields, including the Earth's magnetic field and magnetic information storage.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will conduct multiple hands-on investigations using the magnetometer sensor in smartphones to explore magnetic fields. They will directly experience the amazing capabilities of the three-axis magnetometer sensor and will go away prepared to implement the investigations in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
David Rakestraw (Senior Science Advisor: Livermore, CA), Michael Tobler (Moreau Catholic High School: Hayward, CA), Helene McLaughlin (Reservoir High School)

Physics Equity Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Fishing in New England — Human Impact Unit

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Fishing Unit Supplemental Information
Supplemental resources from the UBD document. Please make a copy of documents.
Fishing Unit UBD
Session PowerPoint Presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the application of phenomenon-based science teaching through the lens of fishing. Applications for any state enable students to explore human impacts on natural recourses and the impact on the overall health of the ocean. Essential questions are investigated using mini-projects and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
This unit models a phenomenon-based unit about fishing and aquaculture. Students explore cultural, economical, and ecological impacts around fishing to explore human impacts on our natural resources. Mini project-based learning and dissections are used as teaching strategies in this unit.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Garcia (Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School)

Environmental Science Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Using the Dimensions of Success Framework to Support Authentic, Equitable, & Relevant Middle School Science Learning Opportunities

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using the Dimensions of Success for Authentic, Equitable, and Relevant Learning
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Are you looking for an evidence-based framework for observing science classrooms and giving feedback to teachers? Learn how the NSF-funded DoS observation system can help coaches and educators develop a common language to speak about productive science learning in MS classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Science leaders will learn to use DoS, which integrates the Framework for K-12 and equity, to build the capacity of colleagues in their districts to use a structured method and shared language to observe classrooms and give feedback to teachers about areas of strength and opportunities for growth.

SPEAKERS:
Virginia Andrews (Research Project Manager: Belmont, MA), Victoria Oliveira (Researcher: Belmont, MA)

Leadership General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Connecting the Classroom to the Outdoors: Using Student Ideas to Drive Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Use the STEM Teaching Tool’s self-documentation strategy as we go outdoors and create a map of our schoolyard. We will document observations & questions that can drive our learning. Consider how you might use a similar activity to connect classroom learning to your outdoor spaces.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use outdoor spaces to keep students engaged and invested in building new science ideas driven from their own observations and questions.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Houle (The University of Rhode Island: NARRAGANSETT, RI), Holly Emery (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Zachary Orefice (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: Narragansett, RI)

General Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Data Discussions & Sensemaking Summaries: Two Powerful Talk Routines for Enhancing Science Lessons

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 - Forsythe - Data Discussions and Sensemaking Summaries Handout
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come learn two transformative whole class discussion routines for your classroom. “Data Discussions” support students in finding patterns in their data while “Sensemaking Summaries” guide them to integrate findings from multiple investigations to develop data-based explanations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will be equipped to use “data discussions” in lessons to help students notice and analyze meaningful patterns in investigations, and use “sensemaking summary” talks to help students develop sophisticated explanations of phenomenon by synthesizing key findings from multiple investigations.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Forsythe (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Sensemaking General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

OpenSciEd High School Chemistry: How can we find, make, and recycle the substances we need to live on and beyond Earth?

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kdemzkYayC5s0ru_88CzNTUQOAPFIKKp?usp=drive_link
All presentation materials including handouts.
NSTA Denver 2024 - C.3 Molecular Processes in Earth Systems_ (1).pdf
Presentation slides.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

OpenSciEd Chemistry's 3rd unit explores how we can use chemistry and Earth and space science understandings to survive living off of Earth. Learn how students build understanding of atomic structure and function through modeling, investigations, and patterns of thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
This unit supports students as they figure out how atomic structure impacts the patterns we see on the Periodic Table and the role of water to sustain life and react with materials to form surface features. Participants will see how students build these ideas through investigations and manipulatives.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Novak (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Nicole Vick (Northwestern University)

Chemistry Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Substitute Plans that Support Student Sensemaking and are Easy to Implement

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Substitute Plans that Support Student Sensemaking - NSTA24
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

You have a coherent phenomenon-based learning plan for your students, and midway through, you get sick, or have jury duty-- now what?!? This session will highlight approaches to substitute plans that are flexible, easy to implement, and support student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
When students are tasked with sensemaking and figuring out, day in and day out, it is easier to have that happen without the teacher present. Utilizing a quality curriculum that supports student coherence and phenomenon-based learning is the best tool to make that a reality.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Delaney (OpenSciEd: San Carlos, CA)

Sensemaking Equity Preservice Science Education Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Navigating Instructional Routines

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Navigating Instructional Routines (3).pdf
Presentation includes steps to creating a phenomenon based lesson or unit, resources, and contact information.
NSTA Phenomenon Lab Sheet.pdf
Lab sheet to follow the presentation.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn strategies for planning an anchoring phenomenon routine that will generate questions to drive student learning. Participants will wear a "student hat" to share an experience to make sense of phenomenon.

TAKEAWAYS:
Planning inquiry-based lessons are easy as 1, 2, 3... Using an anchoring phenomenon routine to drive student learning.

SPEAKERS:
Karla White (Earl Harris Elementary: Bethany, OK), Lisa Pitts (Oakdale School: Edmond, OK)

General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Justice in the Geosciences: How Do We Support This Work in our Educational Context?

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Justice in Geoscience website
The Second National Conference (SNC) writing team will upload resources here as they are finished. Info from the SNC can be found here, including readings and books, conference session topics. The website also includes brief documentaries of work from the conference and the writing team.
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

We will discuss the work of the Second National Conference for Justice in Geoscience and explore how diversifying and working towards justice in geoscience fits in our classrooms. Presented by a middle school science teacher on the writing team working on plans to continue this conference work.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn about the current work of the Second National Conference: Justice in Geoscience. Then, in community, we will critically examine and reflect on topics such as environmental justice, how to learn from students about justice in geoscience, and how this fits in our educational contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Allyson Randall (East Valley Middle School: Nampa, ID)

Equity Earth & Space Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Infusing Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and Hope Into Climate Science Through the Inclusion of BIPOC Ecological Knowledge

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this workshop, we will explore the benefits of incorporating BIPOC ecological knowledge into curriculum and engage with methods to support culturally inclusive science learning. Using Papahānaumokuākea as an example, we will investigate how to infuse hope and SEL into climate science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Incorporating diverse ecological perspectives and knowledge systems can enrich students' well-being, sharpen their scientific skills, and empower them to tackle diverse climate and environmental issues.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Turner-Rosa (Curriculum and Program Developer / Graduate Student)

Equity Climate Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Integrating Education for Sustainable Development into the Science Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Come ready to wear your student hats and your teacher hats as we dive deep into how to integrate education for sustainable development (ESD) into the classroom! Through ESD we empower students to become advocates for environmental justice simultaneously with teaching our content.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover ways to empower your students while integrating ESD into your classroom. The natural ties between science concepts and environmental justice creates opportunities to develop leadership skills in your students while encouraging advocacy and learning the underlying scientific principles.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Brandt (Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy: North Windham, CT), Nicholas Kukla (Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy: North Windham, CT)

Advocacy Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Culturally Inclusive Practices in STEAM: Nurturing Diversity, Fostering Excellence

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
DynamicDuo Culturally Inclusive Strategies Presentation Materials
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join us for an enlightening session where we delve into the profound role of culture in STEAM education. Discover why embracing cultural diversity is not just essential, but transformative. You'll leave equipped with practical strategies and the confidence to create an inclusive learning environment!

TAKEAWAYS:
Why are culturally inclusive strategies important in STEAM classrooms? How can you synthesize strategies that challenge and engage a diverse group of learners? In this session, we will reveal a planning tool that you can use to advocate for learner success in STEAM classroom settings.

SPEAKERS:
Deanna Taylor (Interactive Learning Solutions LLC: Columbia, SC)

STEM Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Hands On Minds On: Enhancing Student Engagement: Innovative Practical Strategies for Enhanced Instructional Experiences for Students

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Are you ready to take you teaching to the next level and create a innovative and engaging classroom environment for your student? This Hands On Minds On PD session will share research-based instructional practices, to enhance student engagement in the classroom environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore a diverse range of innovative teaching strategies that encourage active learning through integration of technology, labs, and interactive learning resources to enhance learning experiences. Participants will access a wealth of online tools and teaching strategies.

SPEAKERS:
ROBBIE KEUCHLER JR (Secondary Science Specialist: Orange Park, FL)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Cultivating Literacy in Science: Strategies for Comprehension

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cultivating Literacy in Science Powerpoint
Cultivating Literacy in Science Resource Folder
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about the differences between content and disciplinary literacy. Participants will understand the benefits of implementing literacy strategies in science. Participants will learn vocabulary and literacy strategies that they can take to help build their student's comprehension of science texts.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, participants will learn about the differences between content and disciplinary literacy, and engage in vocabulary and comprehension strategies that they can use in the classroom to build their student comprehension.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Hodge (Science Professional Development Coordinator / Doctoral Student: Poplarville, MS)

Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Fostering Equity and Diversity in STEM Classrooms through Holistic Assessment

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Discover how to promote equity and diversity in STEM classrooms through holistic assessment. Gain insights into fostering inclusivity, addressing bias, and ensuring fair evaluation practices. Leave with practical tools and strategies to create an inclusive learning environment for all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Unlock the joy of learning while promoting equity & diversity in STEM! Holistic assessment fosters inclusivity, tackles bias, & ensures fair evaluation. Let's create an exciting, inclusive environment where all students thrive in STEM!

SPEAKERS:
Augustine Owusu Achiaw (Clemson University: Clemson, SC), Stephanie Tracey (Graduate Student)

Assessment Equity STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Cultivating Transformational Practices to Affirm the Cultural Wealth of Students and Communities in Science Classrooms

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Engaging in culturally responsive teaching requires that teachers shift their perspective by building relationships within the communities they serve. We present cases of science teachers who partner with communities to design curricula that affirm the assets of students while aligning with the NGSS.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about ways to meaningfully connect with communities outside of school to critique systems of oppression in science education and shift deficit perspectives. Participants will be empowered to advocate for their communities and engage in transformational teaching practices.

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Spencer (Illinois Regional Office of Education: Chicago, IL)

Equity General Science Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Exploring Sprocket: An online OER project-based science curriculum portal

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
sprocket.educurious.org
Sprocket_Powered by Educurious_NSTA 2024.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Introducing Sprocket: Powered by Educurious! Sprocket is a free platform with OER project-based learning science courses for educators everywhere. Created by researchers, experts, and educators, Sprocket is now part of Educurious. Join us for a guided tour of Sprocket’s courses and online community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Sprocket is the world’s only OER platform providing access to evidence-based, full-year, project-based learning courses at no cost. Participants will learn how to navigate Sprocket, access the curriculum, and connect with an online community of colleagues and collaborators.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Rosenberg (Digital Content Specialist: Rohnert Park, CA), Hanna Jaramillo (Educurious Partners: Seattle, WA), Sara Nachtigal (Educurious Partners: Seattle, WA), Alexandra Goodell (Educurious: No City, No State)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Biogeochemical Cycles and Their Relationship to Sustainable Agriculture

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Biogeochemical cycles are often an abstract concept students struggle to make a meaningful connection with. “Why are we learning this” sustainable agriculture through use of plant nutrients is a real-world bridge for that conceptual gap.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students will learn about biogeochemical cycles and their environmental importance through the lens of sustainable agriculture by exploring the chemical makeup of plant nutrients and how they interact with soil chemistry in order to sustainably grow food.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Guevara (High School Environmental and Agriscience Teacher: , FL)

Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Coherence from the Students’ Perspective: What, Why and How?

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Coherence from the Students’ Perspective_ What, Why and How_.pdf
Session Presentation Slides
Next Generation Science Storylines - Storyline tool #1
This link will force you to make a copy of a Google Doc. You can find a pdf file of this document as well as other storyline tools and information at https://www.nextgenstorylines.org/tools
Next Generation Science Storylines - Storyline tool #2 & #3
This link will force you to make a copy of a Google Doc. You can find a pdf file of this document as well as other storyline tools and information at https://www.nextgenstorylines.org/tools
Next Generation Science Storylines - Storyline tool #4 & #5
This link will force you to make a copy of a Google Doc. You can find a pdf file of this document as well as other storyline tools and information at https://www.nextgenstorylines.org/tools
NSTA Collection for this sesson
Link to slides and additional resources
Storyline Design Tool Set v 2.3 from Next Generation Science Storylines
This link will force you to make a copy of a Google Doc. You may also access this and other storyline development information and tools from https://www.nextgenstorylines.org/tools
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

What is the connection between coherent instructional sequences from the students’ perspective and equitable access to science learning? Learn how coherent storyline units support students’ genuine engagement and perseverance as they work to explain a complex phenomenon over the course of a unit.

TAKEAWAYS:
Storyline unit Instructional routines provide a coherent path from students’ questions about a phenomenon to the explanation or model of that phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
NSTA Online Advisors (Teachers), Holly Hereau (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Sensemaking Equity General Science Hands-On Workshop

Applications of virtual reality (VR) learning as classroom tools

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

Show Details

In this workshop, we introduce and explore applications of virtual reality (VR) learning resources as tools to help students connect with a dataset, incorporate accessible placed-based learning into classrooms, and communicate the nature of science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about three different application models of VR by engaging with VR tours in the context of climate science lessons developed by education and outreach specialists from the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder.

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Griffith (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, VT), Daniela Pennycook (Communication Specialist and Program Integrator: Boulder, CO)

STEM Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Food as climate justice: Teaching the science, policy, and promise of alternative proteins

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Alternative protein teaching library
Our library of open-access course materials holds syllabi, slide decks, recorded lectures, and recommended readings from alternative protein courses around the globe. Instructors can adapt and transform these materials to design new education and training programs. Most material is targeted at postsecondary students but is open for adaptation to best suit the needs of any audience.
Alternative proteins and biosecurity.pdf
This fact sheet outlines the ways in which a shift to alternative proteins addresses the growing concerns of antibiotic resistance and pandemic threat.
Educated Choices Program
Educated Choices Program is a free, non-profit education platform that creates video lessons and education packages on the health, environmental, and other benefits on the transition to a plant-forward diet. The Good Food Institute is currently partnering with Educated Choices Program to expand its content on alternative proteins to bring accessible, engaging content to a high school audience!
Environmental benefits of alternative proteins
We can feed more people with fewer resources by shifting from conventional meat to alternative proteins. Learn how we can minimize the environmental impact of our food system, from greenhouse gas emissions, to pollution, to deforestation, by transitioning to plant-based and cultivated meat.
Factsheet on environmental benefits of alternative proteins
This brief resource condenses a huge body of evidence showing how (and by how much) alternative proteins lead to tremendous environmental benefits when compared to their conventional counterparts. The statistics are drawn from a collection of life cycle assessments
Presentation slides
The Protein Transition: The science behind alternative proteins
Our free MOOC walks through the fundamental science and state of the industry of alternative proteins. Aimed at advanced high school or post-secondary students, these lessons are approachable to students and educators with a foundational fluency in biology and chemistry.
What is Cultivated Meat Student Starter Pack
Produced by our partners at Educated Choices Program, this resource highlights the career opportunities in the field of cultivated meat.
What is cultivated meat?
Produced by our partners at Educated Choices Program, this website is a fantastic introduction to the science and promise of cultivated meat.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate goals like the Paris Agreement are only possible if we transition to a more sustainable protein supply. Alternative protein science offers real-world applications and tangible links between lessons in biology, chemistry, engineering, and more, with climate solutions and career opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Incorporating alternative protein science into existing course material offers a means for educators to link science and technology with students’ values-driven interests. Attendees will learn how to achieve this through instruction and experiential learning opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Nathan Ahlgrim (Good Food Institute: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Climate Science Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Organizing Small Group Classroom Talk to Hear All Students’ Ideas: Equity-focused 3D Formative Assessment Through Talk

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1BWXCwDke1Uoukfdu67Pj4dNfhdpFHsdx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Talk is fundamental to learning. This workshop engages participants in a variety of talk strategies specifically designed for improving classroom equity while engaging in STEM learning experiences. Many supporting resources are shared that teachers can learn from and directly use with students.

TAKEAWAYS:
The goal of this session is to support teachers in understanding how best to meet the needs of all learners by starting from where students are at and drawing on their intuitive ideas and real world experiences to inform instruction. All strategies are framed as equitable 3D formative assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Sensemaking Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Go Fish: Using BioInteractive Stickleback Resources to Explore Inheritance Patterns

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Explore patterns of inheritance in stickleback fish using free BioInteractive resources! We'll also model how to have students use data to support their evidence-based claims.

SPEAKERS:
Tanea Hibler (Phillips Exeter Academy: Exeter, NH), Lee Ferguson (The Episcopal School of Dallas: Dallas, TX)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Sickle Cell Surveillance

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Sickle cell is an autosomal recessive disorder, and genetic testing is available to determine carrier, affected and normal genotypes. Run and visualize an electrophoresis gel to determine the genotypes of a family with history of sickle cell, and hear about progress with treating this disease.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal McDowell (Greenbrier High School: Evans, GA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

You Can Find the Time to do Phenomenon-Based Science Using the 5E Model

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: hand2mind

Finding time to teach science can be one of the most difficult tasks for an elementary teacher. Come experience how to engage students in phenomena-based learning in just 15-30 minutes a day using the 5E model.

SPEAKERS:
Brittany Goerig (hand2mind: No City, No State)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Exploding Frog Eggs and Water Channels

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Explore the movement of water with an interactive Aquaporin model to connect the molecular structure with protein function – and learn about this exciting phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Hands-on Science Reimagined

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Turn the traditional prescriptive lab on its head, adapting the learning style to meet your students as they explore and do science around real-world phenomena. See how you can combine videos, simulations, VR experiences, flexible assessments, and editable labs to create hands-on curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Savannah Stanley, M.Ed. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Biology Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Medical Terminology- Master the Language of Medicine

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Dean Vaughn

Dean Vaughn's Medical Terminology by Body Systems course is a one of kind tool that helps students with their memorization and pronunciation of complex Greek and Latin words. Med Term is a foundational piece for all Health Science careers, and our tool ensures it will stick the first time!

SPEAKERS:
Gregory Newcomb (Dean Vaughn: Denver, CO)

Biology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Water Can Do Work - Exploring Hydropower and Ocean Energy

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: The NEED Project

Inquiry-based, hands-on STEM and critical thinking activities that help students to develop a comprehensive understanding of energy, electricity, hydropower, and emerging ocean technologies.

SPEAKERS:
Vernon Kimball (NEED Facilitator: Manassas, VA)

Environmental Science General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

BIOZONE’s latest titles - Learn how these superb interactive texts deliver flexible and engaging High School NGSS and AP programs in print and digital formats.

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE Corporation

BIOZONE's innovative worktext approach delivers flexible, engaging, student-centred resources. Learn how our titles integrate into our digital platform and how the Teacher Toolkit helps teachers plan, deliver, and assess. Attendees each receive a FREE print title & 1-year digital access to a title.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Stilwell (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

General Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Using Informational Texts to Support the Sensemaking Journey

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Investigate strategies and ideas for using informational texts in science. As students obtain, evaluate, construct explanations, and communicate information about the world around them, engaging with informational texts is critical for building this background knowledge and supporting sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Tracy Marmolejo (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 3: How does my phone know where it is? The science behind GPS

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Come meet scientists from the NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey and learn how GPS uses time to pinpoint your location, enabling your phone to tell you where you are and how to get to the nearest pizza joint. Learn how to bring the lofty concepts of surveying and accurate positioning down to earth.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Winester (NOAA-National Geodetic Survey: No City, No State), Derek Van Westrum (NOAA-National Geodetic Survey: No City, No State), Galen Scott (NOAA-National Geodetic Survey: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

A hands-on lab to teach the central dogma of molecular biology

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Investigate transcription and translation without culturing cells! In this inquiry-based lab, RNA glows green and protein glows red, so you can see gene expression happen in a test tube. Use experimental data to test hypotheses about variables that affect transcription and translation.

SPEAKERS:
Allison Nishitani, PhD (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Circuits Made Easy: Untangle Your Circuit Labs!

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Experience the best way to teach basic circuits! Support student investigations of current, voltage, resistance, and series and parallel circuits with modular components that look identical to schematic drawings. Learn how to skip the tangled wires that confuse students and focus on the physics.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Engineering Physical Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Developing and Using Instructional Models in Math and Science (Grades K-5)

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Models are tools for representing ideas and developing explanations related to phenomena. Models can be used to deepen student understanding of scientific and math concepts. You will identify connections to the use of models in your instruction while examining your state standards and/or frameworks.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Thompson (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

STEM General Science Mathematics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Unlocking Science Success: Navigating Middle School Learning Progressions

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Take a deeper dive into understanding the importance of learning progressions in 3-dimensional learning using STC Middle School. Experience the importance of a coherent story line in student understanding. Leave with classroom resources.

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

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling DNA to Protein: Go Hands on with Protein Synthesis and Mutation

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Teach protein synthesis using reusable magnetic manipulatives to model the flow of information through DNA translation and transcription. Visualize each step of the process and apply their models to a region on the beta-hemoglobin gene and the mutation associated with sickle-cell disease.

SPEAKERS:
Ryan Hainey (Product Manager of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Forensics: Burlington, NC)

Biology Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Hidden Gems: What to Do with Inherited Vernier Sensors

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discovered new-to-you Vernier sensors in your classroom or storage? Join our beginner-friendly, interactive workshop to help you understand how to assess, calibrate, and start using hands-on Vernier solutions. Explore our suite of sensors and how they work with our Graphical Analysis app.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Cultivating Middle School Inquiry Skills Through Interactive STEM Experiments

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discover hands-on approaches to STEM learning that equip middle schoolers for high school and beyond. Attendees will explore updated activities with the Vernier Go Direct® temperature, light, force, and gas pressure sensors to model real-world phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

General Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Cultivating Curiosity: Engaging elementary lessons with Fast Plants that integrate science, math, and literacy learning—a hands-on workshop

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Learn easy strategies for teaching life cycles, plants’ needs, structures & functions, & SEPs with Fast Plants phenomena. Learn techniques for growing Fast Plants, modeling germination, & investigating what plants need. Take away an elementary reader to accompany the flowering plant life cycle.

SPEAKERS:
Hedi Lauffer (Director of Teaching & Learning)

Biology Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Navigating the CER Journey: Scaffolding Strategies for Students

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP Science

Revitalize student engagement in science inquiry! Join our session on scaffolding Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) experiences. Empower students to think critically, make sense of the world, and leave with practical strategies for a deeper understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Kelsie Stocz (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Help Save Our Wild Places: An Interactive Session with Award Winning Authors and Conservationists John and Hayley Rocco

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

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Sponsoring Company: Publisher Spotlight

The Roccos will discuss their new book, Wild Places: The Life of Naturalist David Attenborough, and the Children’s Book Creators for Conservation goal of creating free conservation-based programs for schools nationwide. They will end with an interactive “game show” about endangered animals.

SPEAKERS:
John Rocco (Penguin Young Readers: No City, No State), Hayley Rocco (Penguin Young Readers: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Advocacy Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Put the M into STEM: Quantitative Techniques for Biotechnology

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

You’ve planned the experiment and collected data, now let’s discuss the best way to analyze it. In this workshop, we’ll use PCR and ELISA to bring quantitative data analysis and statistics to the lab. Mastery of these skills is crucial to prepare students for careers in biotechnology and STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

STEM Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Hands-On Learning: The Moon’s Orbit

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Why aren't there eclipses during each lunar cycle? Explore this phenomenon through a modeling activity that looks at both the Earth's and the Moon's orbital planes. Come experience this hands-on interactive session and take home your own Lab-Aids Orbital Plane model.

SPEAKERS:
Ed Miller (Selden Middle School: Centereach, NY)

Earth & Space Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Using Performance Assessments to Teach and Assess

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

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Sponsoring Company: TCI

Join our session to learn how to harness the power of three-dimensional Performance Assessments! Beyond evaluating learning, these assessments offer students a meaningful context to demonstrate understanding. Explore the role of performance assessments in teaching core science concepts effectively.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Kumar (TCI: Mountain View, CA)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Why Can’t We Walk Through Walls?: Phenomena & Storylines in the Science Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

Why can't you walk through walls? This complex question spans biology, chemistry, physics, and involves strange quantum phenomena. Explore the answer and discover how to incorporate recent scientific innovations into your classroom through compelling storylines.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Moore (University of Nebraska Omaha: Omaha, NE)

Physics Chemistry Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Colorado Teacher Voices: An Open Forum

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: No Strand

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In this session, Colorado educators will have the opportunity to participate in a structured forum to share their experiences in implementing three dimensional learning and instruction as outlined in the Colorado Academic Standards for Science.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, Colorado educators will have the opportunity to participate in a structured forum to share their experiences in implementing three dimensional learning and instruction as outlined in the Colorado Academic Standards for Science.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Agoos (Colorado Department of Education: Denver, CO)

Leadership General Science Presentation

Accessing and Elevating Children’s Ways of Communicating and Negotiating Ideas for Sensemaking, with COESEE

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Elevating Negotiation in K-5
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Explore the myriad of ways K-5 learners share their sensemaking

TAKEAWAYS:
Expand ways in which we see children's ways of communicating.

SPEAKERS:
Carla Zembal-Saul (Penn State: University Park, PA), Mary Starr (Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network)

Sensemaking Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Efficiency in Upper Elementary: how to teach all three dimensions of the NGSS standards with limited science time.

Thursday, March 21 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/15Wx8krPRIvV-GICsOaGOt7QWhz3o9EffGE9935IpIR4/edit?usp=sharing
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Attendees will learn how fit in all 3 dimensions of the NGSS while working under the significant time constraints of a typical elementary classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with a unit map planning document, sample anchor phenomena and example SEP activities.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Magaw (Community Roots Charter School: Brooklyn, NY)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas (NSTA District 13) Mixer

Thursday, March 21 • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall F

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Get acquainted with New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas (NSTA District - 13 members) Science Teacher Association Officers and conference attendees. Learn what each state is doing to advance Science and STEM engagement in K - 16 settings.

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

Analyzing Formative Assessment Responses to Surface and Respond to a Range of Student Ideas about Science Concepts

Thursday, March 21 • 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10Nrjl2IohboQe4QvNWEOZjiD7F0hxqsa
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Students bring a range of intellectual and cultural resources, which they have accumulated in their unique life experiences, into the classroom as they learn science. These resources can be considered different “facets” of student thinking. In this session leaders will explore a protocol for identifying and attending to facets of student thinking from formative assessments. The protocol can be used to assist educators in recognizing, building on, and responding to the range of ideas—or Facets of students’ thinking—during instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students bring a range of intellectual and cultural resources, which they have accumulated in their unique life experiences, into the classroom as they learn science. These resources can be considered different “facets” of student thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Tiffany Neill (Research Scientist: Oklahoma City, OK), Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Ricky Scott (Tooele County School District)

Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Transforming Learning: Supporting Principals with Tools for Classroom Visits - Part 2

Thursday, March 21 • 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Research to Practice

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These two sessions will focus on leadership. These sessions will include a discussion of the structures that need to happen to support these shifts in science instruction. How do you get teachers on board to engage in this work? For example, what are examples of the stories you need to tell to support teacher interest and buy in. What are examples of sustainable structures at a system level to support this work? What are examples of observation and instructional tools to support this work? In session 1, we will draw on case studies to engage how storytelling can be used to support onboarding teachers and to strengthen a science infrastructure. In session 2, we will share observation and instructional tools for leaders to support this work.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use classroom videos and other examples to illustrate how to do this work in schools.

SPEAKERS:
Stefanie Marshall (Assistant Professor: East Lansing, MI), Katherine McNeill (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA)

Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning: Using the Elements of Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: Part 2

Thursday, March 21 • 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4

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Part 2. Examine research based actions and enabling conditions that effective schools and systems have put in place to reinforce and amplify the power of high-quality curriculum. Consider roles and responsibilities for putting into action the elements of curriculum-based professional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Take away a deeper understanding of curriculum-based professional learning and ideas for how to strengthen your own work.

SPEAKERS:
Jim Short (Carnegie Corporation of New York: New York, NY), Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Jody Bintz (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Needs Sensing During Curriculum Implementation: Gathering and Incorporating Feedback from Teachers to Improve Instruction

Thursday, March 21 • 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Monitoring implementation is a key piece of a successful science curriculum rollout. In this session, participants will examine methods for collecting data and feedback from teachers during the transition to a new curriculum and using it to adjust plans and support continuous improvement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders benefit from developing data collection and evaluation tools to continuously improve the implementation of new instructional materials and the professional learning program.

SPEAKERS:
Vanessa Wolbrink (WestEd: Washington, DC), Jenny Sarna (Director, NextGenScience), Andy Weatherhead (National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA): Downingtown, PA)

Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Meet Me in the Middle: Middle-Level Share-a-Thon

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

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Participants will engage in a variety of activities, collect information, discover new resources, and network with middle-level leaders from NSTA and NMLSTA. The new ideas and materials will be something that can be used next week.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will have networking opportunities with other middle-level science educators, both presenters and other attendees. In addition, they will discover new resources for all aspects of science teaching and they will engage in a variety of new activities to use with their students.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Lou Lipscomb (National Middle Level Science Teachers Association: Naperville, IL)

General Science Literacy STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

NSTA Research Division Open Meeting

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall E

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The NSTA Research Division cordially invites all members - researchers AND practitioners- to join us for a discussion of the relationship between research and practice and how NSTA can best foster that.

General Science Informal Education Meeting

Writing for Science Scope

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

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Interested in writing for Science Scope? Come talk to the editor!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn tips and tricks for successful manuscript submission

SPEAKERS:
Patty McGinnis (NSTA: No City, No State)

General Science Preservice Science Education STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

SaT Extraodinary PD Opportunities Sharing Corner

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Chat with alumni of extraordinary free professional development opportunities for science teachers. Where might your curiosity and thirst for learning lead you?

TAKEAWAYS:
Free travel, field experiences, and training programs are available to teachers looking for professional growth opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Loris Chen (Science Education Consultant: Fair Lawn, NJ)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

"SAT" Sweet Math: How Much Corn Have You Eaten Today?

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

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Many beverages contain various sugars, and most of that sugar comes from corn. Reading nutrition labels can inform students of the amount of nutrients in various beverages.

TAKEAWAYS:
Young students find it difficult to equate mass measurements with volumes. Also, students, when reading labels, do not do math! Single serving amounts do not mean the total grams of sugar in a container.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Cunningham (Purdue University: West Lafayette, IN)

General Science Biology Mathematics Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Answers to your Biggest Questions About Teaching Middle school Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Building a science community in your classroom. Strategies and resources for increasing engagement in doing and talking about science.

TAKEAWAYS:
This resource will help you build a positive science community, structure and manage your class, engage students in science, help students talk about science, and understand what students know so you can use that information to plan and move them forward.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Shafer, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ)

STEM Equity Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

NMLSTA Membership and Award Opportunities

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

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The National Middle Level Science Teachers Association supports middle level science teachers through many free activities open to members and nonmembers as well as members only benefits and opportunities for awards including Science Classroom Teacher Awards and the Hurd Award.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain a better understanding of the benefits of NMLSTA membership.

SPEAKERS:
Alison Seymour (Science Teacher: Winchester, 0)

Leadership General Science Preservice Science Education Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Climate and Energy - the best resources are only a click away!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

The Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network is the best resource for accessing free and scientifically vetted instructional resources on everything related to climate and energy. This session introduces tips for utilizing this comprehensive resource for your teaching scenario.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to access, curate, and combine high-quality climate science, climate change, and energy resources for your teaching scenario.

SPEAKERS:
Missy Holzer (Chatham High School: Chatham, LA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

NOAA Ocean Service Education

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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With NGSS and Common Core-aligned teaching guides and materials, tutorials, hands-on activities, PD and funding opportunities, NOS Education supports the teaching of ocean, coastal, climate, and Earth science at all student levels, and engages students and communities in hands-on stewardship.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about new and exciting data-driven, standard-aligned NOS Education resources to enhance their ocean, climate, Earth science content knowledge, and facilitate their planning and delivery of interactive, phenomena-based, age appropriate, classroom, and out of doors programs via a

SPEAKERS:
Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

STEM Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops Documentary Showcase

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Showcasing free educational resources, classroom materials, and teaching strategies surrounding the Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops series of scientific documentaries. The documentaries and their resources are suitable for grades 6-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to incorporate these documentaries to teach specific climate change science in the classroom in an interactive and engaging manner, utilizing our free resources designed for educators.

SPEAKERS:
Arlo Perez (Creative Producer: DENVER, CO)

Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Strategies for Utilizing the Word Wall to create a more Equitable Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will share the development of the Word Wall in our Science Classrooms and how they became interactive and informative to all of our Students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will walk away with an idea to support the use of scientific vocabulary for a diverse classroom of learners.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn Konieczny (Brooks Middle School: Bolingbrook, IL), Kim Nagle (Brooks Middle School: Bolingbrook, IL)

Equity General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Science Pawsibilities: Unleashing Learning with Classroom Pets

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teach with a Turtle or a Fish or a Hermit Crab or a _ (NSTA 2024).pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover how classroom pets can transform science education with engaging, hands-on lessons that spark curiosity! Learn to leverage these companions for engaging, hands-on lessons that spark curiosity. Review standards-based lesson plans and learn about how to get that classroom pet for free!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will feel confident in their ability to integrate a classroom pet, utilizing the standards based lessons presented. Pets foster empathy, responsibility, and emotional development but also teach the standards. And explore funding opportunities for your classroom companion!

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: No City, No State)

General Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Skype a Scientist

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Skype-A-Scientist Slides with links
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Educators will learn how to use a free online resource called Skype-A-Scientist. This unique application pairs classrooms with professional scientists to be virtual guest speakers.

TAKEAWAYS:
The takeaway is to leverage Skype-A-Scientist strategically to connect your students with real professional scientists as guest speakers in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Nadene Klein (Daniel C. Oakes High School: Castle Rock, CO)

General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Materials That Impact and Change Our World

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Come and explore ways to integrate materials science across your science curriculum with the University of Wisconsin Materials Research Science and Engineering Center. Take sample science kits and access to plans and resources to support students exploration of the materials that improve our lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
Create sample kits to take to your classrooms, access virtual resources and talk with MRSEC staff about the awesomeness of materials science!

SPEAKERS:
Shelly Grandell (Assistant Director of Education and Outreach: Madison, WI)

STEM Chemistry Engineering Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

eCYBERMISSION - 6th-9th Grade STEM Competition

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

eCYBERMISSION’s virtual STEM competition for 6th-9th graders promotes self-discovery as teams compete for awards while also supporting teachers with a wealth of resources. eCYBERMISSION's table will provide details regarding the competition along with a fun interactive activity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Throughout the competition, students and teachers are provided access to eCYBERMISSION staff, standards-aligned resources, grant opportunities and much more.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT Climate Solutions Activities and Other Middle School Resources from the UCAR Center for Science Education

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

We will share climate solutions activities from our catalog of free educational resources. We will also share information about free virtual programming suitable for grades 6 and up, as well as upcoming teacher professional development for middle level educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain new resources for teaching middle school students about climate solutions, and discover virtual learning opportunities for both teachers and students, offered by the UCAR Center for Science Education.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Snode-Brenneman (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO), Tim Barnes (Science Education Specialist), Melissa Rummel (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Jam with GEMS: Investigating Ecosystems from Micro to Macro

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Here we present curriculum units exploring phenomena in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems at multiple scales, from micro to macro. In these units, students investigate concepts of ecosystem stability with curricula based on science research.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to facilitate NGSS-aligned, inquiry-driven classroom investigations of ecosystems at multiple scales. We will share multiple examples of investigations based on our current work through GEMS, a NSF Biology Integration Institute. Curriculum materials will be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Barbara Hug (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: Champaign, IL), Patrick Wilson (PhD Student: Urbana, IL), Nick Leonardi (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: No City, No State), Jeannette Cullum (Graduate Student: Urbana, IL)

General Science Life Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Free Lesson Plans for Elementary and Middle School Chemistry

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Teachers will receive ready-made activity packet to be used with the free middle school lesson plans in middleschoolchemistry.com and the free elementary school lesson plans in inquiryinaction.org.

TAKEAWAYS:
Get access to free comprehensive lesson plans in chemistry for middle school and elementary school.

SPEAKERS:
James Kessler (American Chemical Society: Washington, DC)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

MySciLife: A Social Learning Platform for Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

During the middle level Share-A-Thon, we will give a brief overview of MySciLife and its functionality. Then, we will share practical ways you can begin to integrate it into your lessons to create more student engagement and collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about the FREE science social learning platform, MySciLife, and what opportunities are available to engage their students.

SPEAKERS:
Jesse Nolan (Product Manager, MySciLife)

Technology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Rethink Dissection Labs: Cut IN Safety & Innovation

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how to incorporate innovative and safer non-animal methods in your dissection labs. Teachers will have the opportunity to demonstrate AR/VR tech as well as realistic non-animal resources that will both amaze and engage middle level students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to find and access non-animal methods for their classrooms, therefore enhancing student learning as well as creating a safer science environment.

SPEAKERS:
Alisa Brooks (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA), Nicole Green (Animalearn: Jenkintown, PA)

Life Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Effective Assessment CONSTRUCTion for All Students

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

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We share the newest results of a study on effective multiple-choice questions in STEM education. We examined Science educators’ revisions to help reduce problems such as gender/racial/ethnic bias, and difficulty that are often present in test questions, while including common misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Evaluate assessment questions that you use to assess students’ sensemaking of elements outlined in the NGSS DCIs. Are the questions free of bias, not too difficult, or indicative of overall student performance? Do they include common misconceptions that students hold? Learn what works, and what does

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Crockett (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA)

Physical Science Assessment STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Tool for Student Wind Data Collection & Analysis

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Observations of students entering middle school and their perceptions of science. How much of these perceptions are preformed, and how much are still malleable?

TAKEAWAYS:
Students leave our classrooms with a definition of what science is and isn't and how it can and cannot be used in their lives and careers.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Laborn (STEM Teacher: , IL)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Classroom-ready digital content and creator tools from NASA's Infiniscope project

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This presentation will highlight the free resources available for educators through the NASA Infiniscope project. This includes NGSS-designed digital learning experiences, a virtual tour creator, and an adaptive lesson builder all supported with live and asynchronous professional development.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about classroom-ready content that they can use immediately and tools to create their own digital content for students.

SPEAKERS:
Sina Kirk (ASU: Tempe, AZ)

Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Energy House

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This STEM project from www.need.org will challenge students to use various materials to insulate a cardboard house, test its energy efficiency, and evaluate economic returns.

TAKEAWAYS:
Energy House is a STEM project from www.need.org that challenges students to design an energy efficient home with a cardboard box. The students must stick to time, budget, and materials constraints, which makes this an excellent engineering design project.

SPEAKERS:
Cori Nelson (Winfield School District 34: Winfield, IL)

STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

"SAT" Resources, Resources, and More Resources!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Do you find yourself falling down the Google rabbit hole when searching for lesson ideas? We have a time-saving solution. Participants will gain access to a newly compiled list of numerous resources for middle level science teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be given access to a list of resources compiled specifically for middle level science educators.

SPEAKERS:
Kathleen Brooks (CREC: No City, No State)

General Science Assessment STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Tool for Student Wind Data Collection & Analysis

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Presentation of a researcher designed tool for the purpose of authentic student data collection of wind speed & direction. Using the idea of a graph and a compass, a measurement tool was created for students to plot their wind direction and wind speed in place of (x,y) coordinates.

TAKEAWAYS:
Walk away with a template and understanding of how to implement tool for students to individually collect authentic wind data in a manner that is visually meaningful to them for analysis.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Laborn (STEM Teacher: , IL), Robert LaBorn (Jackson Middle School: Villa Park, IL)

General Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Fueling Student Engagement Through Leveling Up

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join two instructional coaches who will lead a medical-themed session where attendees will have the opportunity to travel through the cross-curricular leveling-up (station-based) activity. Attendees will leave the session with instructional strategies to fuel student engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will participate in a cross-curricular leveling-up (station-based) activity. Attendees will also receive access to a website that includes meaningful instructional sequences, grade-appropriate resources, a cross-curricular map, rubrics, and student organizers fueling student engagement.

Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: Championing Diversity & Innovation: Girls Who Code's Strategies to Recruit for and Design Inclusive STEM Programs in Today's Evolving Tech World

Thursday, March 21 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join Girls Who Code for strategies and tools on how to a) recruit and retain girls and BIPOC students in STEM, b) design inclusive holistic programs that build life skills, c) keep your curricula relevant to the changing tech landscape, and d) access free resources for 3-12th graders of all genders.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn strategies and tools on how to a) recruit and retain girls and BIPOC students in STEM, b) design inclusive holistic programs that build life skills, c) keep your curricula relevant to the changing tech landscape, and d) access free resources for 3-12th graders of all genders.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Ong (Girls Who Code: New York, NY)

Computer Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Share-a-thon Presentation

Out Of The Box: Meaningful Differentiation Strategies

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Unboxing differentiation presentation
Please do get in touch! [email protected] or at LinkdIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/luciana-girgulsky-337a0474/
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Discover fresh teaching horizons: surprise yourself, collaborate actively, plan consciously, and enhance communication. Enjoy a transformational opportunity to stifle enthusiasm for differentiation and revitalize teaching with diverse strategies that will inspire and motivate students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will obtain a range of meaningful and easy-to-apply differentiation strategies for their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Luciana Girgulsky (Northlands: No City, No State)

Assessment Equity Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science for Each

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EE.HS Squirrel Unit Folder
The complete, ready to use EE Unit for HS.
Science for Each, March 2024
NSTA Presentation Slide deck
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Essential Element standards for grades 9 and 10 were used for an integrated science unit regarding traits in life science. It was designed to facilitate learning with students who qualify for alternative assessment and for students with physical needs who may use communication devices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will discuss the process of unit design, intentional use of inquiry teaching practices, essential element standards, assistive technology, and preparing the teacher. One high school level unit and middle school sequence will be shared to use in their own teaching spaces.

SPEAKERS:
Mandie Sanderman (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA), Chelsie Byram (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA)

Biology Equity Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Constructing Interdisciplinary Storylines Involving Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate science is interdisciplinary and when broader society issues are addressed, like environmental justice, it becomes even more expansive. This presentation address these challenges by describing specific topics to include in instructional “storylines” that integrate student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
To learn how to sequence and communicate topics essential to explaining climate change, its environmental impact, and the broader societal concerns.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Clark (The Ohio State University: Columbus, OH)

Climate Science Chemistry Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Decoding Starlight – From Photons to Pixels to Images Using NASA Data Sets

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Chandra X-Ray Observatory
Decoding Starlight - From Photons to Pixels.pdf
JS9 Image Analysis Tools
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Construct a photon intensity map of a supernova using NASA data and convert the image into a public release image with this STEAM activity. This introduction to imaging and image analysis involves constructing models, interpretation, and computational thinking. Includes detailed tutorials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Photons of electromagnetic radiation of all wavelengths are collected by telescopes and processed using computers. Scientists use image analysis software to analyze the data and construct unique models of the data, including stars and galaxies, while maintaining the integrity of the underlying data.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

Earth & Space Science STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Chemistry Storylines: Northwestern University Materials World Modules (MWM)

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Chemistry storylines supporting phenomena-based curriculum and alignment to Next Generation Science Standards. High school chemistry teachers partnered with Northwestern University Materials Research Center to design and implement two new modules— STEM+C Solar Cell Project and SCI+Art Project.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how NGSS inquiry and design pedagogy can be used with Materials World Modules. Each module connects everyday phenomena to NGSS performance expectations, emphasizing how to build toward design and engineering skills. Presenters will share modifications to meet varying academic levels.

SPEAKERS:
Ami LeFevre (Niles West High School: Skokie, IL)

Chemistry Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Why is M’Kenna sick? A free, NGSS badged middle school unit on interacting body systems

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Come and experience A Medical Mystery and explain a middle school girl’s symptoms from a doctor’s note. You will use computer interactives to gather data and analyze it for evidence to back up your claims. You will leave with complete access to this freely available unit. Bring a laptop or tablet.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will see how explaining the symptoms of a 7th grade girl as she becomes suddenly ill can provide an engaging context for learning about interacting body systems. Participants will come away with a rich digital resource that includes student activities and educative teacher supports.

SPEAKERS:
Betty Stennett (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Life Science Sensemaking Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Scaffolding Critical Thinking in Your Students

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Critical thinking is a buzzword we often hear. However, can you define what it actually is? In this session, we will learn the intricacies of the term and go through a phenomena-based lesson on habitat fragmentation that will build all students' capacity for critical thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with a more concrete understanding of critical thinking and a tool they can take back to their classroom to help all students practice and reflect on their critical thinking. Definitions will be collaboratively constructed based on current research and lesson activities.

SPEAKERS:
Bailey Nafziger (Georgia Southern University)

Sensemaking Biology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using Performance Tasks to Make a Positive Shift in Elementary 3D Science Teaching and Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We all know that performance tasks are a great way to assess our three-dimensional science standards! Join RCPS’s Elementary Science Coach as she shares her district’s vision of implementing performance tasks across the district. Then, discover how performance tasks have supported a positive shift in 3D.

TAKEAWAYS:
One takeaway from this session is that you will learn how to design, implement, calibrate, and revise performance tasks based on your districts learning progressions.

SPEAKERS:
Christy Hernandez (Rockdale County Public Schools: Conyers, GA)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Bringing Informal Education into the Classroom: A Model for Statewide Partnerships

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation 2024.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Utah’s Informal Science Education Enhancement (iSEE) has been serving students and teachers across the state for 18 years. We’ll discuss funding, reporting, and collaborating with both other informal education providers and public schools to connect teachers and students with subject matter experts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how Utah has been bringing informal science education experts into formal classrooms across the state for 18 years with financial support from the state legislature and how this successful model can be adapted to other states across the nation.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Halvorsen (Education and Outreach Director: South Jordan, UT), Laura Cotter (The Leonardo: Salt Lake City, UT)

Informal Education Advocacy Leadership Presentation

In Sync: Using Science to Teach SEL

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

SEL does not have to be something additional to teach! Learn how to purposefully incorporate SEL skills in your science classroom. Leave with practical ways to make powerful lessons that captivate your future scientists and cultivate those skills that are essential for success beyond the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Practical ways to make powerful science lessons that captivate future scientists and also cultivate those SEL skills that are essential for success beyond the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn McCotter (Van Andel Education Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Science Classroom: A Practical Approach

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
FOSS SCLD 3-5.pdf
FOSS SCLD K-2.pdf
FOSS SCLD MS.pdf
NSTA 2024_ Supporting EMLs.pdf
Pencils In 3-5.pdf
Placemat Bilingual w Icons.pdf
Sci-Lingual Resources for ELD in Science
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session will provide teachers with practical and effective strategies for supporting Multilingual Learners. Through hands-on activities, we will model best practices for scaffolding the language demands of a science lesson and the language development opportunities provided by the Practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Science learning and language development are mutually supportive. Language learning occurs as a product of using language. As Multilingual Learners engage in the SEPs, they use disciplinary language to make sense of phenomena and use their emerging language to communicate their new understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Diana Velez (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Claudio Vargas (Sci-Lingual Education: Oakland, CA)

Equity Literacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

NMLSTA: Small Molecules to Macromolecules Using Models

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Models are excellent tools assisting students’ understanding of chemical structure and function. Different models highlight different aspects of the chemical they represent. Simple models are terrific tools for addressing science misconceptions, too.

TAKEAWAYS:
Models are used to develop questions, predictions, and explanations. As students construct explanations for different products using the same model, students gain an understanding of molecules and life’s complexities.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Cunningham (Purdue University: West Lafayette, IN)

Chemistry Biology Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The Challenge of Adapting Storylines: A Tool to Build Coherence in a Series of Lessons

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
(Updated) The Challenge of Adapting Storylines Presentation
The Challenge of Adapting Storylines Presentation
The Challenge of Adapting Storylines Session Materials Links.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Eliminate the obstacle of finding OER that adheres to local pacing by experiencing a tool to adapt existing high-quality instructional materials. This planning roadmap leverages sensemaking best practices while maintaining coherence surrounding an anchoring phenomenon for students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will discover the intentionality behind the components of a planning roadmap that maintains coherence while adapting storylines found in OER to local pacing guidelines. Participants will engage in a thermal energy phenomenon and experience prioritizing science ideas for a lesson sequence.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Cox (Knox County Schools: Knoxville, TN), Trudy Rogers (Knox Co Schools: Knoxville, TN)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Place-Based Education in Urban Schoolyards: Engaging Students’ Hands, Heads, and Hearts

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 3H presentation (2).pptx
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Urban elementary teachers and researchers will share successes from the NSF-funded Teaching Science Outdoors – Urban Partnerships project, describe their experiences fostering place-based science learning that is hands-on, heads-on, and hearts-on, and offer ideas to use in your instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the value of the 3H framework (hands-on, heads-on, and hearts-on) in place-based science learning using urban spaces. They will leave the session with real-life examples, resources, and ideas shared by teachers using the framework in their work with students.

SPEAKERS:
Kieshaune Perkins (Teacher: Saginaw, MI), Roberta Hunter (Research Associate: , NJ)

General Science Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Interdisciplinary Learning: An Authentic Path To Achieving Curriculum Goals

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Interdisciplinary Learning An Authentic Path to achieving curriculum goals
This is a pdf version of the slide deck from the presentation with all handouts embedded in.
Interdisciplinary Learning Planning Materials
Handouts to support the planning process for an interdisciplinary unit.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Interdisciplinary learning empowers students to combine frameworks and concepts across the curriculum to examine a theme or solve a problem from different perspectives. This enables them to see the interconnectedness of the content they are learning and apply it in a meaningful way.

TAKEAWAYS:
By implementing well-structured interdisciplinary units, teachers can effectively guide students in building deep skills within and across content areas. This session will provide administrators and teachers with an effective blueprint to begin a program in their own schools.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Chipman (Akiba Schechter Jewish Day School: Chicago, IL), Michelle Rotfeld (The Alcuin School: Dallas, TX)

Leadership Assessment Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Embracing Discovery: Model Organisms as Teaching Tools

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover the world of epigenetics and model organisms in this fast-paced, engaging session. Learn about 5 different model organisms and how they can be used in your classroom. Real-life examples will be given, and resources provided for you to bring model organisms to your students!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about 5 different model organisms and will be given real examples, as well as resources for them to take to their classrooms and incorporate into their curriculum, inspiring the next generation of scientists!

SPEAKERS:
Cory Kavanagh (Van Andel Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

Life Science Biology STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Listening for Good Wrong Answers in Student Thinking

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Taking up and building on students’ ideas and ways of knowing is important for equitably supporting student sensemaking, but this can be a challenge. In this session, participants practice talk moves that encourage K-3 students to build on their prior experiences and drive learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
How can we more effectively leverage student prior knowledge for sensemaking in the classroom? Participants will practice talk moves to guide students to actively reason about a K-3 appropriate phenomenon, engage with alternative ideas, and build to more complex scientific explanations.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Short (The Smithsonian Institution: Washington, DC), Emily Harrison (Smithsonian Institution: Washington, DC)

Sensemaking Earth & Space Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Explore the Role Bivalves Play in Sustaining Watershed Ecosystems

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

We’ll share 5 free online modules that engage students in the importance oysters and mussels play in watersheds via field studies, role plays scenarios, and a dynamic simulation. This NOAA-funded MWEE effort has students investigate, collaborate, and debate solutions to authentic problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers gain awareness of and access to OER support curriculum and student exemplars developed across a 3-year grant aligned with the 3 dimensions of NGSS and NOAA’s meaningful watershed educational experience framework. The modules were piloted across 3 diverse school districts (urban and rural).

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Edmondson (James Branch Cabell Libr: Richmond, VA), Al Byers (AB Advising: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Exploring Environmental Challenges Through Engineering

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Environmental issues, such as plastic pollution in the ocean, are often global in scale and thus overwhelming for students to consider. We’ll explore how engineering can frame these problems so that they are manageable for students to solve in the classroom while remaining relevant to global issues.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to apply socially engaged engineering to environmental problems using free lessons from the Museum of Science, Boston. Experience open-ended design challenges that get students thinking about large-scale environmental issues while building their confidence in solving problems.

SPEAKERS:
Darshita Shah (Senior Director of Curriculum: Boston, MA)

Engineering Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Climate Science for Your Elementary Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Science for Your Elementary Classroom Workshop
Climate Science for Your Elementary Classroom Workshop
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Explore a suite of free, standards-aligned lessons that get elementary students engaged with climate science by connecting them to their environment, fostering empowerment, and supporting social-emotional and interdisciplinary learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how climate science can be included in elementary classrooms in ways that help students feel empowered, connected to their environment, and grow their social-emotional skills as they learn how climate works and how climate change happens.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Rummel (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO), Leanne Rehme (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO), Katie Wolfson (School & Public Programs Manager: Boulder, CO), Lisa Gardiner (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Environmental Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Inquiry-based Lessons for People and the Planet

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
PopEd NSTA March 2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Use 3-D learning to engage students in understanding the balance between human activities, finite natural resources, and ecosystem health. Participate in lively simulations, modeling and problem-solving exercises for your classes and receive lessons matched to NGSS.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn ways to guide students’ inquiry around key environmental challenges, using hands-on simulations and modeling activities that employ 3D learning in an inclusive classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Merryn Cole (University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Las Vegas, NV), Diana Buirgy (Glenwood Springs High School/Roaring Fork School District: Glenwood Spgs, CO)

Environmental Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Best Practices for ALL from Presidential Awardees

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Each will identify grade level, core disciplinary ideas (science content standards), Science & Engineering Practice and Crosscutting concepts. Participants will leave with lessons plans, websites, grants ideas and other resources. Over 14 PAs will bring best practices from their varied expertise.

TAKEAWAYS:
K-12 teachers will leave with lessons plans, websites, grant ideas, and other resources from Presidential Awardees.

SPEAKERS:
DeLene Hoffner (eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO)

STEM General Science Mathematics Hands-On Workshop

The Magnetic Attraction Between Science and Literacy

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Experience the “magnetic attraction” of science and literacy while figuring out a noncontact force. Participants use speaking, listening, reading and writing to engage in a phenomenon routine that includes noticing, wondering, modeling, and finding evidence to support or refute their thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants understand the interdependency of science and literacy, receive knowledge of where to find investigations embedded with “inquiry principles” incorporated in the science and engineering practices, a sample interactive read aloud, and a resource list for everything shared in the session.

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

Physical Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Flopsy, Mopsy, and ... Fungi? Beatrix Potter and Other Surprising Scientists

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Booklist Beatrix Potter and Other Surprising Scientists.pdf
A list of the books we are highlighting!
Surprising Scientists Presentation
Here is the pdf we shared this afternoon--the links are embedded on most pictures of the "surprising scientists" and on occasion, in other spots!
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Beatrix Potter, mycologist? George Washington, agriculturalist? Rosalynn Carter, entomologist? Learn how biographies and other trade books about citizen scientists can lead to the exploration of the wonders of nature.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how they can address the NGSS and integrate literacy through incorporating high-quality science trade books about citizen scientists such as Beatrix Potter.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Broemmel (The University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Kristin Rearden (The University of Tennessee, Knoxville: Knoxville, TN)

General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

AUTHOR: Model-Based Inquiry in Biology: Three-Dimensional Instructional Units for Grades 9-12

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will introduce our recently published NSTA book containing a collection of units and resources to help teachers engage students in three-dimensional learning through model-based inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about four biology model-based inquiry units for rigorous and equitable instruction. Developed with secondary science teachers, the session guides three-dimensional learning, anchoring phenomena, modeling, and scientific explanations.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Campbell (University of Connecticut: Storrs Mansfield, CT), Ron Gray (Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ)

Sensemaking Biology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Beyond Climate: How Multiple Human and Non-Human Factors Interact with Climate Change to Affect the Function of Global Systems

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate change and other drivers of change in global systems are complex, interdisciplinary phenomena. Learn about a conceptual framework that connects drivers of change with global systems to help students understand the science behind the headlines.

TAKEAWAYS:
Human-biosphere interactions offer relevant narratives and conceptual frameworks that integrate cause-and-effect; systems and system models; structure and function; and stability and change.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Levine (Science Writer and Producer: Concord, MA)

Environmental Science Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Powerful, FREE Simulations for Three-Dimensional Earth, Climate, and Life Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Come discover how free, NSF-funded simulations and curricula from The Concord Consortium can add all dimensions of the NGSS to your Earth, Climate, and Life Science teaching, with a special emphasis on the Practices. Bring a device to this interactive session and take away free resources!

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies in the use of simulations for 3D NGSS-aligned teaching of Earth, Climate, and Life Science.

SPEAKERS:
Chad Dorsey (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Story Inspired Science: Using Children's Literature to Engage Young Learners in the Science and Engineering Practices

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Pillbugs.pdf
SEP Childrens Book Handouts
This file includes the handouts for the books presented by Simone Nance: Lion Lights, Penny the Engineering Tail of the Fourth Little Pig, and Something Great. (contact at [email protected] for questions)
Slides Story Inspired Science.pdf
Overview of the slide deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Led by members of NSTA Early Childhood-Elementary Committee, the session addresses the relationship between science education & children’s literature by providing an interactive platform for educators to discover how literature can support & enhance science & engineering practices in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore the integration of children's literature with science and engineering practices through cross-disciplinary connections and hands-on activities. Resources provided.

SPEAKERS:
Simone Nance (University of Southern Indiana: Evansville, IN), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA), Jenn Brown-Whale (Howard County Public School System: Ellicott City, MD), Annette Venegas (Kent School District: Kent, WA), Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV), Melissa Parks (Stetson University: Deland, FL)

General Science Informal Education Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Every Student, Every Time

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We are middle school teachers at a title one school with the highest number of grade 6-8 L25 students of the 125 schools in our district. This session will focus on the strategies that we use daily to ensure we are teaching with rigor in a way that all students can learn!

TAKEAWAYS:
"Every student, every question, every time" is our school philosophy. We will share our tried-and-true strategies for distributed summarizing and effective questioning.

SPEAKERS:
Dave McGinley (Teacher: Lehigh Acres, FL), Barbara Rebeor (Harns Marsh Middle School)

General Science Equity Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Supporting students in applying their understanding through phenomena based assessment tasks

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Phenomena based science assessments allow students to transfer knowledge to new phenomena while using all three dimensions. As students demonstrate understanding they also deepen their learning. We will examine sample tasks and hear from students and teachers on their experiences with these tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Transfer tasks ask students to make sense of phenomena using 3D understanding. These tasks can provide continued learning while assessing students. Identifying key features and hearing from students and teachers for how to support these tasks can help teachers implement them in their own classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Ridder (Boston College OEI: No City, No State), Thomas Clayton (K-5 STEAM Specialist: Berkeley Heights, NJ), Renee Affolter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Ecology Policy

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Ecology Policy Presentation
Slide deck of the presentation with embedded links to other resources.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Engage students in answering the question "How can I impact change?" as you partner Civics with Ecology. Learn to take students from hearing about ecology to taking a stand on ecological policy, and developing passion projects to influence change at the local, state, or national level.

TAKEAWAYS:
Walk away from this session with a cross-curricular project that takes students from merely hearing about ecology, to caring deeply about an issue, to take a stand and answer the question “How can I impact change?”

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Willet (Williamsburg Middle School: Arlington, VA)

Environmental Science Advocacy Climate Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Celebrating Student Identity with Coding

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learn how to help your students build upon their unique identity and funds of knowledge using a hands on STEM project. This session will provide participants a free unit that incorporates both engineering design and computational thinking patterns for students to share their identity in class!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will work through a full engineering design process to show their identity by constructing a lantern and coding a light show for the project. Can be utilized with a variety of technology and maker platforms. Includes access to all materials needed to implement in class tomorrow!

SPEAKERS:
Erin Brabant (STEM Lab: Northglenn, CO), Jessica Noffsinger (STEM Magnet Lab School: Northglenn, CO)

STEM Computer Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Implementing the Knowledge Gained from a Research Experience for Teachers (RET) in Your STEM Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation NSTA.pptx
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Participants in this session will leave with a STEM inquiry-based project and educational materials designed to captivate students while emphasizing 21st-century scientific applications and UN sustainable goals. Additionally, a list of potential RET opportunities for educators will be provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
Sharing how the RET experience has led to the production of a project that integrates nitrogen cycle pollution into a nitrogen circular economy, where the project's primary focus was on critical topics such as energy, climate, and food security; important topics to empower high school students.

SPEAKERS:
Milene De Farias (Southcrest Christian School: Lubbock, TX)

STEM Chemistry Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teaching Biology Through the Lenses of Aviation and Aeronautics

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Looking to increase achievement in an immersive way? The Air Camp Team will demonstrate how to harness the universal appeal of flight by captivating students with lessons and engaging activities rooted in biology standards while exploring exciting and fast-growing aviation career fields!

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn strategies to construct activities resulting in greater interest and mastery of biology for students in grades K-12. Explore distinct professional practices that expand biology standards into unforgettable learning experiences associated with human life, animals, plant life, and so much more!

SPEAKERS:
Christina Davis (Air Camp USA, Inc.: Dayton, OH)

STEM Biology Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Tread Lightly - Looking at ecological impact alternatives

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Tread Lightly
Slides
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Practice techniques for carbon footprinting and novel ecological impact assessment strategies for influencing mindful consumer choices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain tools to guide students to consider the systemic ecological impact of consumption choices.

SPEAKERS:
Maya Bhagat (The School District of Philadelphia: Philadelphia, PA), Maggie Osman (The U School - School District of Philadelphia: Philadelphia, PA)

Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Beams & Bridges - From Load-Deflection to Stress-Strain Curves

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Denver - Beams to Bridges.pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

A hands-on beam lab produces graphs critical to understanding beam properties for engineering. Focus on making, interpreting, and teaching the graphs in class. Real-world uses and applications of stress-strain curves in engineering will be shared and help to illustrate the importance of such graphs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take part in a simple beam lab using weights to determine the deflection of the beam material. Groups will have different beams and varying results will help support understanding of the graphs created. The results will then be graphed as a load-deflection curve and shared.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Spohler (Global Impact STEM Academy: Springfield, OH), Briana Richardson (Washington High School: Washington Court House, OH)

Engineering Physics STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

STEM in the Early Years: Intentionally integrating technology for meaningful teaching and learning

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Educators will engage in a hands-on science lesson that intentionally incorporates technology, centers students and builds agency and critical thinking skills. Educators will discuss what it means to be literate in the digital era and how to transform their teaching to benefit our youngest learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Intentional integration of technology in early childhood can build agency in our students, provide equitable access to media literacy skills, and transform teaching and learning. Participants will explore how to use digital tools to develop habits of inquiry and expression.

SPEAKERS:
Zachary Orefice (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: Narragansett, RI), Catherine Knasas (University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Kelly Houle (The University of Rhode Island: NARRAGANSETT, RI)

STEM General Science Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Phone Physics: Acceleration and Friction

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Decks for NSTA 2024
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The accelerometer sensor in smartphones provide students with the ability to precisely measure changes in 3D motion. Workshop participants will conduct investigations to experimentally determine the change in motion of an object, including the often tricky static and kinetic friction experiment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will conduct multiple hands-on investigations using the accelerometer sensor in smartphones to explore changes in motion. They will directly experience the capabilities of the three-axis accelerometer sensor and will leave prepared to implement investigations in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
David Rakestraw (Senior Science Advisor: Livermore, CA), Michael Tobler (Moreau Catholic High School: Hayward, CA), Helene McLaughlin (Reservoir High School)

Physics Equity Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Nurturing the Roots: Strategies for Supporting and Retaining New Science Teachers

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Nurturing the Roots Strategies for Supporting and Retaining New Science Teacher
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

A session dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by new teachers, especially alternative path teachers. We will explore strategies to retain talented educators in the field by demystifying education language and providing key tools and resources for a successful first year.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders will gain actionable insights into establishing robust support systems for new science teachers, resulting in improved teacher retention and implementation of science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Rhoades (Collaborative Science Teaching and Learning Group Consulting: Midlothian, VA)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

CAST:Integrating Anthropology, Geography, and Environmental Concepts for Teaching about Water Equity in High School Courses

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Colorado Water Citizen Guides
You can open each of the publications and read them online for free and use them with students.
Professional Learning Workshops with Wild Rose Education
Details on upcoming climate change, rivers and watersheds professional learning with strong environmental and climate justice woven throughout.
Slides for Session
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Hands-on workshop highlights considerations of water use and equity. Uses anthropology, geosciences, and environmental sustainability principles to discuss water equity and incorporating these concepts and disciplines into science education. Bring a laptop/tablet to fully participate.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will investigate the ethnohistoric context of water ownership, access and use in their regions, and practice how to unpack the complex topic of water equity and incorporate various aspects into activities that address the learning objectives of their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsie Romulo (Associate Professor of Geography, GIS, and Sustainability: Greeley, CO), Sharon Bywater-Reyes (Associate Professor of Geoscience: Greeley, CO), Sarah Johnson (Wild Rose Education: No City, No State)

Equity Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Stewardwardship and Climate Data through Nature Journals

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Stewardship Through Outdoor Learning Learn strategies to get kids connected to learning, stewardship, and climate data. Leave with a Nature Journal and confidence in managing middle schoolers outside. Participants will: build a nature journal, &get strategies to manage middle school students outside

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain confidence and techniques to teach stewardship and climate data through nature journals.

SPEAKERS:
Bridget Burke (Central Kitsap Middle School: Silverdale, WA)

Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Uncovering the Phenomena in Citizen Science Projects

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
GMRI: Intertidal Crabs Ecosystem Investigation
Uncovering the Phenomena in Citizen Science Projects
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join me as I share my experience of transforming a local citizen science project into a phenomenon-driven unit that uses a storyline approach.

TAKEAWAYS:
You’ll walk away with a step-by-step process for taking a place-based or citizen science project and learning how to build a storyline around it, including finding an authentic phenomena that will not only drive the unit, but engage you and your students.

SPEAKERS:
Kyle Beeton (Lisbon School Department: Lisbon, ME)

Sensemaking Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

How to Get Published in NSTA Journals: Grad Student edition

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Many graduate programs include a requirement to write an article for publication. This roundtable will offer Q+A for graduate students with two professors who specialize in helping their students get published.

TAKEAWAYS:
Instructions and tips for graduate students hoping to publish in NSTA journals.

SPEAKERS:
Brooke Whitworth (Clemson University: Clemson, SC), Colby Tofel-Grehl (Utah State University: Logan, UT), Peter Lindeman (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Sensemaking Postsecondary Roundtable

Explore Teaching & Assessing Students' Science Learning of a Grade 5 3D Science Instructional Framework: Matter & Energy in Organisms & Ecosystems

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA Students' Science Learning Grade 5 3-D Science Unit_ Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecoystems.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Grade 5 NGSS-aligned curriculum, instruction, and assessment resources created by the SIPS Project provide a scalable and coherent approach to improve three-dimensional science learning for all students including unpacking the science content, teaching and learning, and assessing student progress.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators’ ability to use three-dimensional instruction and assessment resources to provide inclusive, equitable instruction, promote sensemaking, assess learning, and make instructional decisions, will be enhanced. Benefits of a coherent system to improve student outcomes will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Rhonda True (Nebraska Department of Education: Lincoln, NE), Mary Nyaema (University of Illinois Chicago: Chicago, IL), Bill Herrera (edCount, LLC: No City, No State), Charlene Turner (Senior Associate: Laramie, WY)

Life Science Assessment Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Assessment of Sensemaking Through the Crosscutting Concepts

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

Show Details

Presenters will discuss assessment shifts of the CCCs from an implicit to an explicit approach, highlighting the benefits that has on teaching and learning. Students who use CCCs regularly build confidence in their science practices and develop a stronger sense of science identity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how CCCs are a lens for student sensemaking, uncover the HOW and WHY we use assessment to drive learning forward, and reflect on their own next steps for assessment and instruction related to CCCs for student sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Sharon Cates (Phenomenon Science Education: Amherst, MA), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Presentation

OpenSciEd High School: Developing and using models to explore inheritance and variation of traits through and investigation of cancer.

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

OpenSciEd Biology's 3rd unit explores who gets cancer and why and where we should focus efforts on treatment and prevention. Learn how students build understanding of inheritance and variation of traits through modeling, investigations and cause and effect thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
This unit supports students as they figure out understandings of inheritance and related ideas. Participants will see how students build these ideas through a series of investigations.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Biology Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Algorithm alleys: Strategies to elevate Science and Engineering Practices using ChatGPT

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation, Algorithm alleys Strategies to elevate Science and Engineering Practices using ChatGPT.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the application of ChatGPT to facilitate student choice, interest, and motivation and to address science and engineering practices! Investigate ChatGPT’s capacity to inform design decisions through inquisitive exploration, creative brainstorming, and interpretive lenses.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore how ChatGPT elevates science and engineering practices through the investigation of problems, topics, and phenomena; creative brainstorming options; generation of experiments with conceptual and hypothetical results; and interpretation of data for product improvement.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Kipp (Texas A&M)

Technology Engineering STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Culture Place-Based Strategies To Explain Phenomenon

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Using myths and legends which explain phenomenon. Examples of culture and place of Hawaii will be shared. Attendees will experience a lesson which weaves a Hawaiian legend (past) based on a phenomenon and be challenged to validate the legend with today's technology (present).

TAKEAWAYS:
The hope is for attendees to reflect on their sense of "Place" as a platform tool to engage students to understand their surroundings and cultures and how to use 21st century technology to validate a phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
Diane Tom-Ogata (W. R. Farrington High School: Honolulu, HI)

Environmental Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Stan-X: Unleashing a Passion for Research-Based Learning in Students and Teachers

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA National Conference Atlanta 2023-2.pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

We will present the efforts of twenty secondary schools and partners at Stanford University to create authentic Drosophila-based research experiences, and how you can too!

TAKEAWAYS:
Through Stan-X, middle school and high school students learn science through authentic, open-ended, publishable research. Coordination between schools, both public and private, across the world, can enhance scientific learning and research opportunities for your students and for teachers!

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Lantz (The Lawrenceville School: Lawrenceville, NJ)

Biology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science Leadership Cadre: Motivating Science Education

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Science Leadership Cadre: A Professional Learning network of K-12 Science Educators committed to supporting high quality, equitable science learning for all students in our region.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to bring teachers, teacher leaders, coaches, and administrators together to learn, share resources and ideas, and provide support to each other in the work to successfully implement high-quality science teaching for K-12 students.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Peason (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY), Ananda Weigand-Sheerer (teacher leader: Rochester, NY), Michael Occhino (The Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development: Rochester, NY), Kimberly Fluet (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY)

Leadership Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

eCYBERMISSION STEM Competition - The Power of Phenomenon-Based Learning

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

eCYBERMISSION, part of AEOP, is an online STEM competition for students in grades 6-9 that promotes teamwork, self-discovery, and the real-life applications of STEM. The competition’s phenomenon-based learning approach encourages students to investigate and solve real-world problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
eCYBERMISSION is a free virtual STEM competition for grades 6-9 that is supported by a wealth of standards-aligned resources. Attendees will discover strategies to utilize student-chosen local phenomena as the basis for long-term projects while participating in a rewarding STEM competition.

SPEAKERS:
Carey Dieleman (National Science Teaching Association: No City, No State), Lora Gibbons (Mountain Heights Academy: West Jordan, UT), Laura Stary (Southcrest Christian School: Lubbock, TX), Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

NextGen TIME: A Toolkit for Materials Evaluation

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

NextGen TIME is a free suite of tools and processes that supports districts in preparing to evaluate instructional materials for quality and design for the NGSS. This collaborative process helps you plan for next steps, including customization to improve student outcomes and effective implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how NextGen TIME supports the evaluation of current instructional materials to strengthen their design for NGSS, and how NextGen TIME tools and processes can serve as critical components of curriculum-based professional learning. You’ll walk away with free access to NextGen TIME resources.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Jenine Cotton-Proby (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Equity General Science Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Genetic Variations in Our Population

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This engaging workshop provides experience and insight into the complex nature of genetics. Participants will explore genetic variations and prevalence in the population resulting in enhanced understanding and empathy for those with Down’s, Klinefelter's, and Turner Syndromes and several others.

TAKEAWAYS:
Enhanced understanding and empathy for those with Down’s, Klinefelter's, and Turner Syndromes, and several others.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Tucker (Consultant: Port Townsend, WA), Brett Thomsen (Science Department Head: Chimacum, WA)

Biology Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Fail-Safe Literacy Strategies for Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us as we explore classroom activities that engage students in thinking, exploring, and making sense of the world using an integrated science and literacy approach. Learn how to use our 5 thinking routines to collect assessment evidence to support student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants gain a toolkit of engaging science activities strategically paired with literacy strategies to enhance instructional effectiveness and empower students to develop essential thinking routines to tackle scientific challenges, because together this approach 'just works' in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Lionel Sandner (Edvantage Interactive: Sidney, BC), Sandra Mirabelli (Brock University: Burlington, ON)

Literacy Preservice Science Education STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

What’s That Sound? Integrating Music in Elementary Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session explores an interdisciplinary 5E lesson investigating sound and vibrations using physical and virtual (Scratch) instruments. Participants will learn how music and science educators collaborated to design the lesson, and how music and science can be used to explore cultural connections.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore an innovative, interdisciplinary 5E lesson as an example of ways to integrate music into elementary science classrooms. Emphasis will be placed on exploring instruments’ properties, what sounds the instruments make, and how people play them referencing cultural connections.

SPEAKERS:
Graham Johnson (Adjunct Professor, Field Specialist, Ph.D. Candidate), Alesia Moldavan (Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Science Education)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

NASA Next Gen STEM 101

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NASAs Next Gen STEM 101
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

NASA's Next Gen STEM is focused on bringing quality STEM content and experiences to the K-12 community. Join this informative session to learn what we have to offer and how you can bring NASA to your students. Presented by NASA's Office of STEM Engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about NASA Next Gen STEM offerings related to professional development, STEM lessons, communities of practice, live virtual connections with scientists and engineers, student challenges and competitions, and competitive awards.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Edstrom (NASA Education Specialist), Miranda Fike (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center: Huntsville, AL)

STEM Earth & Space Science Engineering Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Chasing Clouds: Quantifying the Sky

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

When students engage in integrated math activities, they make deeper connections, gain a stronger understanding of concepts, and see the concepts as a whole. Teachers in K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 will collaborate on an integrated math activity focused on determining cloud coverage to connect with nature.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be provided lesson plans and student work to initiate discussions about what this could look like in their classrooms. At the end of the session, participants will see how collecting weather data can be integrated daily into their classrooms and help students connect with nature.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Parslow (Student), Katherine Vela (Assistant Professor: Price, UT)

Mathematics STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Place-Based Learning: Answering "But What Does This Have To Do With Me?"

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Has a student ever asked, “what does this have to do with me?” Place-Based Learning is a way to answer that question as students build observation, inquiry, and data analysis skills. Workshop presenters will share examples from their STEAM classrooms. Participants will complete a mini investigation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will feel empowered to incorporate Place-Based Learning in STEAM curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Anna Suggs (Teacher: Las Cruces, NM), Gaylynn Lynch (Eastside Preparatory School: East Palo Alto, CA), Amanda Petty (Bryan ISD Texas: No City, No State)

STEM General Science Mathematics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Microfossils reveal secrets of Earth’s past

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Through hands-on activities using real-world data, participants will explore and participate in lessons about how microfossils within ocean floor sediments reveal information about Earth’s history and geologic processes, such as tectonic activity and climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
The International Ocean Discovery Program creates educational resources that enable students to use real-world data from parts of our planet usually hidden to them; many of these resources can be synthesized as a unit to show how microfossils provide evidence of many different geologic processes.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD), Lauren Brase (American Geosciences Institute: , IL), Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Maya Pincus (Columbia University / U.S. Science Support Program: Palisades, NY)

Sensemaking Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Taking the Plunge into the Science & Engineering Practices

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Taking the Plunge into the Science & Engineering Practices.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this session, we will examine the skills that scientists and engineers utilize in their work and explore ways to incorporate these with our students. Participants will move through stations that employee the use of different science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have a better understanding of the science and engineering practices and learn ways to create small shifts in their lesson planning to give students authentic experiences in science.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Boykin (Science Specialist)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Discovering Indigenous Peoples STEM Skills

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Indigenous peoples throughout time have used STEM skills. This workshop features the STEM skills correlated with the Ute peoples of Colorado as an example of how all indigenous people STEM skills can be highlighted in social studies class content.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience how History Colorado developed Ute indigenous peoples STEM connections into a traveling take-out kit. Participants will be encouraged to explore collaboration with their history museums to encourage development of resources focused on their indigenous peoples.

SPEAKERS:
Maurine Banzhaf (Colorado PLT advisory council: No City, No State)

STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Pathway to a Post-Global Warming Future: Teaching Climate Change With Inspiration, Not Fear

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Global Warming Primer web site
Slides from Presentation (pdf)
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session will provide a brief overview of the basic science behind global warming and its consequences, plus discussion of how we can in principle achieve a “post-global warming” future in which today’s children will someday be able to talk about global warming as a problem of the past.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to teach global warming science without “gloom and doom” — and without provoking parents — by inspiring students to envision a post-warming future.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bennett (Big Kid Science: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Promoting Whole-Group Classroom Talk to Support Students’ Collaborative Sensemaking: Equity-focused 3D Formative Assessment Through Talk

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1BWXCwDke1Uoukfdu67Pj4dNfhdpFHsdx
Show Details

Collaborative talk between students is essential to students’ scientific sensemaking and learning. However, promoting, organizing, and facilitating large group, or even whole-class, talk can be challenging. This workshop engages participants in a variety of large group talk strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:
The goal of this session is to provide a space for teachers to reflect on their whole-class discussion routines and strategies, and learn new approaches for facilitating collaborative sensemaking talk that welcomes all learners into discussions, honors their ideas, and contextualizes learning.

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Sensemaking Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Shine a Light on Photosynthesis with HHMI BioInteractive Resources

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Students often struggle with visualizing photosynthesis across biological scales. Join us as we use BioInteractive resources to explore how photosynthesis models make student thinking visible.

SPEAKERS:
Amit Morris (Science Teacher: , ON), Katherine Ward (Aragon High School: San Mateo, CA)

Life Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Do IPAs Give You a Case of Bitter Beer Face? Check your Genetics!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

What do your genes say about your beer preference? Research behind bitter taste has been ongoing for over 100 years. Come see how bitter taste genotype and phenotype are linked, and how it can play a role in your fondness for certain foods!

SPEAKERS:
Mallorie Parks (Crandall ISD: Crandall, TX)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

The Tapwater Tour - Tapping into the Phenomena of Drinking Water

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: LaMotte Company

Water is the single most valuable resource essential for life on Earth, yet is subject to increasing scarcity, pollutants, and overuse. The Tapwater Tour curriculum makes the real world connection between the phenomena explored in the lesson and actual hands-on laboratory activities.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Evans (Kent County High School: Worton, MD)

Environmental Science General Science Informal Education Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Unlocking 3-Dimensional Learning (Grades 3-12) with Penda Science

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Penda Learning

Penda is a high-quality, gamified intervention and instructional resource that is phenomena-based and 3-D with tools for differentiation and is engaging for all students. Customizable reports and assessments assist with progress monitoring. Penda is handcrafted for NGSS, Texas TEKS and FL SASS.

SPEAKERS:
Mindy Pearson (Penda Learning: Loveland, CO), Taylor Willis (Penda Learning: Loveland, CO), Kathryn Kypreos (Penda Learning: Loveland, CO)

General Science Assessment Equity Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Designing a Sustainable Golf Course

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: STEM Sports®

STEM Sports' session will provide participants with a hands-on approach to learning STEM disciplines through Sports. Attendees will take on the role of students and be given an overview of how to design a sustainable golf course by considering the good of the planet, people, and profitability.

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Golner (STEM Sports®: No City, No State)

STEM Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Journey from Sequence to Structure with Amino Acids Unveiled!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Decode the language of proteins! Unveil the mystery of amino acids and protein folding with confidence through hands-on modeling.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Arnholt (3D Molecular Designs: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Promote Collaboration with a Classroom Rocket Mission Simulation

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Estes Rockets

This session highlights a model rocket mission simulation where students work together to complete a successful launch of the New Shepard rocket. Students consider thrust, altitude, and velocity to determine the best engine for the launch.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Freyschlag (Estes Industries: Penrose, CO), Kristen Yip (Education Program Manager)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

The Marriage of Project-based Learning and Phenomenon for an Engaging Physics/Chemistry Course

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Come investigate how phenomenon-based science can be articulated in the scheme of project-based learning. We’ll use both physics and chemistry to make the case that the context of a project makes the learning, explanation, and application of phenomena much richer and more relevant for all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Gary Curts (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

Physics Chemistry Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 4: SOS Explorer: Real-time Data Visualization Tool for your Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505

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Sponsoring Company: NOAA

SOS Explorer® is used to explain global environmental data. A mobile app version has always been free, but for the first time, the desktop version is also free and ready to install on your computer. Come learn how to download a free copy for yourself and see how we use it in a classroom setting.

SPEAKERS:
Hilary Peddicord (NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory: Lyons, CO), Beth Russell (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD), Eric Hackathorn (NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory: Boulder, CO), Juan Pablo Hurtado (NOAA: Washington, DC)

Technology Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Bacterial transformation made easy with True Blue™

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Experience an easy-to-implement genetic engineering lab with simple teacher prep - no starter cultures or incubator required! This robust lab allows students to visualize the transformation of bacteria from white to bright blue using a protocol that can be completed in a 45-minute class period.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hennessy-McDonald, PhD (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Transforming Science Through Project-Based Learning (Grades 6-8)

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Have you wanted to implement a Project-Based Learning unit in your classroom? Equity through Science Education (ESE) provides interdisciplinary science units for Grades 6-8. Experience hands-on lessons that deepen sensemaking for ALL students.

SPEAKERS:
Pam Richards (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Energize Claims and Evidence through Smithsonian Science for the Classroom

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Experience how science lessons can be structured using teacher instructional slides, where students work in groups, with specific roles, to develop claims [about how motion energy moves and changes] based on evidence observed through hands-on experiences. Leave with classroom resources.

SPEAKERS:
Hoover Herrera (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Sensemaking General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Featured Creatures

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Add excitement to your class with live organisms! Explore how organisms find food and interact. Discuss how these two hands-on activities can be applied to younger students: How creatures find food, and to older students: Social behavior and inter-species interactions.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC)

Life Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Next Generation Dissection: Form, Function, and Frogs!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

With the transition to 3-dimensional learning, is there still a place for dissections in the classroom? The answer is yes! As you dissect a frog, we will demonstrate how to integrate the 3 dimensions of learning while highlighting adaptations and the relationship between structure and function.

SPEAKERS:
Patti Kopkau (Retired Educator: National City, MI)

Biology Sensemaking Technical and Vocational Education Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Reactant Riddles: A Vernier Forensic Case

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Students can become crime scene investigators analyzing and defusing a “bomb” using their knowledge of half-lives! Attendees will use the Vernier Go Direct® SpectroVis® Plus Spectrophotometer to gather decay data and apply mathematical thinking to determine when the device was set to detonate.

SPEAKERS:
Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM General Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Eco Engineers: Building Wind Turbines with KidWind

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discover how to create 3D learning opportunities for your students with KidWind. Explore the engineering design elements of a wind turbine, build prototypes, and test and optimize them for design efficiency. Sharpen students’ problem-solving and engineering skills through real-world applications.

SPEAKERS:
Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Physics Environmental Science STEM Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Elevating Content and Practices through Year-Round Multidimensional Engagement

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: BrainPOP Science

Empower students in a year-round multidimensional journey! From spectators to active discoverers, practice the practices with student-led resources. Build skills and foster achievement through questioning, investigating, data collection, analyzing patterns, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

SPEAKERS:
Kelsie Stocz (BrainPOP: New York, NY)

Sensemaking Assessment Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Megawatt: An interactive way for students to learn about energy.

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: Nuclear Energy Education Initiative

Megawatt is a card game where students must build resilient, sustainable electricity grids while adapting to events like weather changes and carbon taxes. Players gain systems thinking skills as they balance cost, environment impact, and energy reliability tradeoffs. Learn to facilitate in a class!

SPEAKERS:
Miguel Trenkel-Lopez (Game Creator & Science Communicator: Bristol, England, United Kingdom)

Climate Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Heavy metal: Investigating the effects of environmental toxins on C. elegans

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Unlock biology's mysteries with model organisms! Join our workshop to learn how to culture and study C. elegans in your classroom laboratory. Explore heavy metal effects using a simple locomotion assay. Integrate STEM concepts, data collection, and statistics for an enriching learning experience.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

Environmental Science Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling a River Delta

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Students use a river model to investigate how flowing water erodes and deposits sediments to create common landforms. They then design erosion control structures and use the river model to test them. Based on the results of their initial testing, students redesign and retest their structures.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Parker (Dublin Coffman High School: Dublin, OH)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Destination Integration: Using science to launch cross-curricular learning journeys

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

High-quality investigations of science phenomenon are the perfect foundation for meaningful learning experiences that bridge content areas. Join us as we explore how to use science as an authentic context to motivate, review, and expand student’s knowledge and practice in English Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, the Arts, and more! You’ll leave with practical strategies to apply in your own lessons as well as planning tools to help your grade level team brainstorm new applications.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Forsythe (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

General Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Creating a Science Classroom Podcast 101 with COESEE

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Former teacher and host of the freely-available Tumble Science Podcast for Kids Marshall Escamilla will guide science educators in the nuts and bolts of creating a classroom podcast. We’ll cover the very basics of getting set up and sharing your content with the entire community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees at this session will learn the very basics of how to create a classroom podcast from a professional podcaster.

SPEAKERS:
Marshall Escamilla (Tumble Media Production: Greenfield, MA), Mary Starr (Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network)

STEM Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

District and School Leaders: Connect Your Teacher Groups with NSTA!

Thursday, March 21 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA-Natl-Conf-DEN24-Leaders.pdf
Slides for NSTA Presentation in Denver24 for District and School Leaders, March 2024.
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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The NSTA provides in-person, online, and blended professional learning experiences for cohorts of K–12 educators. All programs engage educators with digital resources, virtual programs, the larger community, and expert staff. Depending on your choice of services, NSTA membership is also included.

TAKEAWAYS:
District and school leaders will learn about the variety of professional learning opportunities that NSTA offers, delivered in-person, online, and blended that give their teachers the power to enhance their learning as well as the ability to learn with peers. Membership included for most services.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

CANADIAN MEMBERS OF NSTA

Thursday, March 21 • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall F

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CANADIAN DELEGATES WHO ARE ATTENDING THE NSTA NATIONAL CONVENTION ARE INVITED TO AN INFORMAL SOCIAL. PLEASE JOIN US AND SPEND SOME TIME NETWORKING AND GETTING TO KNOW OTHER TEACHERS FROM ACROSS OUR BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

Colorado Science Educators Meet & Greet

Thursday, March 21 • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom E

STRAND: No Strand

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Come network with your fellow Colorado Science educators and representatives from many Colorado Science Education Organizations, including CAST, CSEN, CSC, CAEE, CDE and others!

General Science Networking Opportunity

NMLSTA Board of Director's Meeting

Thursday, March 21 • 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Limestone (4th Floor)

Show Details

This meeting is open to NMLSTA members and those invited by a current board member.

General Science Informal Education Meeting

ESPRESS-O Yourself @ NSTA’s Morning Coffee Chats

Friday, March 22 • 6:40 AM - 7:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Blue Bear Cafe (Front Lobby)

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Grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and join us for an informal get-together with your peers. Each day of the conference will feature a morning coffee chat with opportunities to share ideas and experiences, expand your network, and connect with colleagues and friends from around the country.

Early Morning Exercise and Activities

Sunrise Yoga

Friday, March 22 • 6:40 AM - 7:40 AM

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center - Crestone B (3rd Floor)

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Calling all yoga enthusiasts! Regardless of whether you’re a newbie or veteran, join yoga teacher, Azra Chughtai, RYT, for a warm-up with breathwork; hatha yoga (gentle stretching exercises to wake up the body); and, of course, meditation for relaxation and de-stressing. Beginner friendly!

TAKEAWAYS:
Recharge: Energizing and Stress Relief

SPEAKERS:
Azra Chughtai (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Early Morning Exercise and Activities

A Picture of the National STEM Education Policy Landscape

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM Landscape March 2024.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

STEM Policy Expert Jame Brown will paint a picture of the federal public policy landscape for STEM education generally and science education in particular, including emerging policies in Congress and the federal government and the outlook for the future.

TAKEAWAYS:
Get smart on what’s going on in Washington, DC around STEM education and how it can impact the science education ecosystem and your local community.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown (STEM Education Coalition: Washington, DC)

Advocacy Assessment STEM Presentation

Help Your Students with Investigations: Increase Their Quality of Observations and Analysis

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how to build upon the NGSS SEPs so that students get more out of investigations and labs. Using hands-on explorations, students can learn to improve their collection and analysis of data – along with the communication of the results and learning. These strategies will make a difference.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session provides teacher strategies and resources to support students with investigations and labs. The quality of observations and analysis of scientific data can be enhanced, thus helping students communicate their findings to others.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Harding (Teacher Educator)

STEM Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Connecting Classrooms with Nature: Teaching Physical Science Using Underwater Sound

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
DOSITS
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This hands-on workshop will help participants incorporate the natural world phenomena of underwater sound into classroom physical and biological science activities. Online resources will be shared, including an audio gallery of the underwater sounds produced by animals, people, and the natural world

TAKEAWAYS:
Using the topic of underwater sound can be an engaging vehicle for middle and high school students to explore and connect with the undersea environment and the science of sound.

SPEAKERS:
Gail Scowcroft (Inner Space Center at The University of Rhode Island: Narragansett, RI), Liesl Hotaling (University of Rhode Island: No City, No State)

Physics Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

A Research-Informed Youth Environmental Citizen Science Curriculum Designed To Impact Science Identity Development

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Participate in sample activities from our collection of 40 FREELY available lesson plans that comprise our youth-led environmental citizen science curriculum. This NGSS-aligned curriculum brings our research on student science identity development into practice with authentic, place-based learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will experience how to implement this research-informed curriculum to strengthen student science identity development, and learn how to use environmental sensors and environmental monitoring data in lessons that build skills in SEPs, science communication, and scientific technology use.

SPEAKERS:
Charlie Blake (Assistant Professor)

Environmental Science Equity Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Immersive STEM Lab Challenges That Transform Your Whole Space: The "Who Did It?" Black Light Challenge and the Mad Scientist Escape Room

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

These immersive STEM lab challenges will engage students by allowing them to explore through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic stimuli. Each student grouping will navigate with their team members to collect evidence and clues to piece together the narrative of each scenario.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to design immersive lessons that go beyond the design process based on multiple STEM skills utilized throughout the school year. These lessons will optimize student engagement and enhance their problem-solving skills.

SPEAKERS:
Brielle Carabetta (Millstone Township Elementary School: Millstone Township, NJ)

STEM General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

The Incorporation of Menus into Science Class

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Menus Presentation
This is the presentation used for this session.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Menus are great opportunities for students to lead their own exploration of a science topic and be creative! In this workshop, learn the incredible flexibility in learning that menus offer, and how they can drive student interest. Delve into various menu styles and rubrics, and enhance your lessons!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn different menu styles for effective integration into 5E lesson plans, such as adding a menu into the Elaborate phase, or even menus to be used throughout all 5Es. We will also explore different menu formats (online, etc.) and presentation options to maintain student interest.

SPEAKERS:
Rama Sreekantham (Paragon Prep School: No City, No State)

General Science STEM Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Analyzing Heat Waves and Environmental Justice using GIS tools

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slideshow
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate Change is inevitable. Preparing students to deal with heat related change will enable advocacy and build community resilience. Building mapping literacy through use of the EPA’s EJScreen tool, attendees investigate climate risks to their communities and explore mitigation strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:
To assess heat waves’ disproportionate impact on communities, participants will gain insights into Environmental Justice issues through the use of the EPA’s EJ Screen tools to identify risk. We will also explore teaching strategies to engage students in meaningful investigations and discussions.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Luna (North Babylon High School: No City, No State), Tamanna Shahid (Eleanor Roosevelt High School: New York, NY)

Climate Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Four Levels of Empowered Engineering

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Knowles Engineering teachers co-developed and piloted a scaffolded framework for integrating social justice into engineering design that we are excited to share with the NSTA community. Come ready to explore how to empower your science students through intentional engineering curriculum design!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will interact with examples of empowered engineering curriculum, as well as apply the framework to their own classrooms. Teachers will leave with concrete ideas for how to incorporate more social justice work into their own engineering curriculum in manageable and expanding ways.

SPEAKERS:
Kylie Bertram (Science Teacher: Willingboro, NJ), Emily Berman (Global STEM Challenges Program)

Engineering Physics STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

How Safe Are You? A Look at Cybersecurity in the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will have the opportunity to explore a cybersecurity unit for grades 4-5 with hands-on experiences including defending a home, cryptography, and more. Participants will experience the unit from a hybrid (student & teacher) perspective.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will receive access to unit materials when they leave including the unit, reproducibles, formative assessments, etc., to help their students be aware of safety online. Door prizes will be awarded!

SPEAKERS:
Jess Blust (White's Tower Elementary School: Independence, KY)

STEM Computer Science Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Cultural Relevance in Science Education – Reflections and Discussion on Research, Partnership, and the Application of Cultural Relevance Frameworks

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 7

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Cultural relevance promotes inclusive environments that expand perspectives of science education to question: Who can participate in science and what constitutes scientific activity? This session explores frameworks for cultural relevance and ways they can be applied in science classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
This proposed workshop will consider the questions: (1) What is cultural relevance? (2) How has cultural relevance been applied? and (3) How can we make actionable steps in our own classrooms to affirm the diverse cultures and perspectives of our students?

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Spencer (Illinois Regional Office of Education: Chicago, IL)

Equity Advocacy Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

The Perplexing Parallel Paper Circuit Unveiled

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us to explore the nature of science using parallel circuits and the SEPs to make sense of unexpected circuit behavior. Uncover the underlying scientific principles and learn how to use the systems thinking phenomenon iceberg to track student sensemaking during 3-dimensional science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand the nature of parallel circuits and understand why the perplexing parallel circuit breaks the rules based on the photon energies of different colors of light. This will all be done while using the iceberg model to record patterns, structure, and mental models.

SPEAKERS:
Deborrah Black (Tucson Unified School District: Tucson, AZ), Lisa Kist (Gridley Middle School: Tucson, AZ), DaNel Hogan (Waters Center for Systems Thinking: , ID)

Physical Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Science Night: Ten Proven Activities to Make Your STEM Fair a Bubbling, Exploring, Zooming, Color-Changing, Inquiry Experience!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

It's science night again and you need an inexpensive, hands-on activity for somewhere between 50 and 1500 kids. We can help! Come experience ten “science night” booth activities that get kids involved, included, and active with informal science!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be resourced with 10+ science night ideas suitable for preK-12th, along with the science background and pedagogical content knowledge to deliver these to their students and parents in an inclusive and exciting way.

SPEAKERS:
Kate York (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX), Katherine Donaldson (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX)

STEM Informal Education Hands-On Workshop

Promoting Argument-Driven Explanation in Earth & Environmental Science

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Utilize argument-driven scaffolds for Earth and environmental science topics to critically evaluate connections between evidence and alternative scientific explanations with model-evidence link (MEL) diagrams to construct deeper student understanding of socio-scientific issues.

TAKEAWAYS:
An introduction to MEL instructional scaffolds designed to assist learners as they construct arguments to evaluate the plausibility of evidence connected to models and the research base that supports using these scaffolds. Participants receive access to all instructional materials and guides.

SPEAKERS:
Lorraine Ramirez Villarin (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA), Missy Holzer (Chatham High School: Chatham, LA), Donna Governor (University of North Georgia: Dahlonega, GA)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The Skull Comparison Investigation on a Budget!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This essential biology investigation requires students to compare hominid skulls, studying the morphological changes as humans evolved. Skull models cost thousands of dollars. Do this important investigation for free with our slide presentation, student instructions, 2D skulls, and online resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
This essential biology investigation requires students to compare hominid skulls, studying the morphological changes as humans evolved. Skull models cost thousands of dollars. Do this important investigation for free with our slide presentation, student instructions, 2D skulls, and online resources.

SPEAKERS:
Bertha Vazquez (G. W. Carver Middle School: Miami, FL)

Biology Equity STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Standards-Based Grading: A Tool for Student Success

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
SBG A Tool for Student Success Presentation
Tanker Model Assignment Template
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Attendees will learn more about the philosophy behind standards-based grading practices and apply NGSS-aligned standards to assess examples of student work from middle school level life and physical science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Standards-based grading identifies clear and specific learning goals for both students and teachers, and illuminates the path for students to demonstrate and teachers to assess proficiency.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Zarker Primomo (Lake Washington Girls Middle School: Seattle, WA), Katie Foutch (Science Teacher: Seattle, WA), Alexandra Guest (Science Teacher and Experiential Education Programs Coordinator: Seattle, WA)

General Science Biology Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Analysis of Supernova Remnants Using X-Ray Spectroscopy with Web-Based NASA Data and STEM Image Analysis Tools

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://chandra.si.edu/js9/
js9 website
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1lVGVzMDUBlxmy-y4Tbd1cpE1LmRnItTQCKxN35cgkYo/edit?usp=sharing
powerpoint
Xray Spectroscopy js9 (revised).docx
Student handout
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Identify elements in the spectra of supernova remnants to determine the properties of collapsed and exploded stars using web-based NASA X-ray data and image analysis tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
JS9 web-based software can be used to analyze NASA data sets to determine the type of supernova and provides students with real opportunities to do astronomical research.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Perry (Lewiston High School: Lewiston, ME)

Earth & Space Science Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Engineering Severe Weather Solutions

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Severe Weather - NSTA 2024.pdf
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Harness the power of technology with student-designed solutions for a changing climate.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use technology to expose students to coding and engineering design solutions for severe weather.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Voorhees, NJ)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Real World Problems: STEM Solutions, a Student Perspective

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM From a Students Perspective
My contact information, pictures of past inventions, details of competitions.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Lydia Denton is a 15 year-old inventor. She has been nationally recognized for her inventions and was named one of the 16 Under 16 in STEM in 2022, and was a 2022 NSTA Angela Award winner. Join her as she shares her journey and how you can encorage innovation and problem solving in your own classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how empowering students to tackle real-world problems in their community can increase student engagement, foster skills in perserverance, and draw on multiple skills to create prototypes for real-world solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Lydia Denton (Student), Covey Denton (Greenfield School: No City, No State)

STEM Engineering Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Modeling Mayhem in a 7th Grade Classroom: Using Multiple Modeling Perspectives to Explain Phenomenon

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how a class studying local ecosystems as part of a community science project utilizes multiple modeling approaches, including embodied modeling, system modeling with SageModeler, and data analysis using CODAP to enhance learning, contribute to research, and raise environmental awareness.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using multiple modeling approaches throughout the year improves understanding and is more inclusive by providing multiple avenues for students to engage with core ideas and crosscutting concepts, as they engage in multiple NGSS practices, specifically those related to modeling and data analysis.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Damelin (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA), Angela Gospodarek (Gorham Middle School: Gorham, ME)

Environmental Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Spilling the T: Using Computer Science and Computational Thinking Skills to Support the T in STEM

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Computer science is integral to STEM because it enhances problem-solving capabilities, enables data-driven research, facilitates automation and innovation, and serves as a unifying element that connects and supports various STEM disciplines.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn simple, yet effective, ways to integrate computer science skills into their STEM and Science Lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Brandon McKinney (Gwinnett County Public Schools: No City, No State), Kristin Luthi (Gwinnett County Public Schools: Suwanee, GA)

Computer Science Robotics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Can Insects Save the Planet: One Health Lesson Connecting Humans, Animals, and the Environment

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore how our sources of protein can affect human and environmental health. Experience hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based lessons related to One Health – the connections between human, animal, and environmental health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based approach, participants will leave with classroom-ready materials to engage their students in investigating protein malnutrition and how different protein sources affect the environment. Activities focus on the science practice of modeling.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Brosnick (SUNY Buffalo State College: Buffalo, NY)

Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Girl Power: Powerful Ways to Motivate Girls in STEM

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Discover the recent research on females in STEM and learn how to take intentionally small, but powerful steps in your classroom to ensure that our future female problem-solvers have the confidence, encouragement, and motivation to change the world, one STEM field at a time!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will discover the current reseach regarding girls in STEM, hear from female scientists from the Van Andel Institute, and leave with four powerful ways to increase female student interest, motivation, and confidence in these fields.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn McCotter (Van Andel Education Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

STEM Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Educurious and Supporting 3D Learning Through Technology; Productive Adaptations in PBL: Focus on Formative Assessment

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will explore technology integrated project-based units that guide and support 3D Learning and equity through adaptations by highlighting formative assessment opportunities (LookFors, Discourse Moves, Exit Tickets, Artifacts).

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will become familiar with open source online materials that they can use to supplement or guide their science teaching and units. They will become familiar with technology, assessments, and ways to adapt lesson and units to make them more responsive to their students.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired), Temitayo Oni (PhD Student)

Technology Assessment STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

New Tools for Analyzing and Creating Astronomical Images from Vera C. Rubin Observatory

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In Rubin Observatory’s new online Coloring the Universe investigation, students use filters and colorizing tools to analyze authentic multiwavelength data images, then apply what they have learned to create a unique color data representation that communicates the answer to their science question.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use the free, interactive Coloring the Universe online investigation and support materials designed for NGSS teaching and learning, as well as active learning and assessment strategies that support inclusive techniques for building student communication skills.

SPEAKERS:
Justine Schaen (NSF's NOIRLab: Tucson, AZ), Ardis Herrold (Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Tucson, AZ)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching Engineering, Motion, and Energy Through Rube Goldberg

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This introduction to STEM for elementary, secondary, or special education classrooms will allow participants to explore motion and energy while creating their own Rube Goldberg machine using found objects.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students can easily plan, build, and solve problems on their own Rube Goldberg project using recycled and found materials.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Sevin (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

STEM Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Nurturing the Roots: Strategies for Supporting and Retaining New Science Teachers

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Nurturing the Roots Strategies for Supporting and Retaining New Science Teacher
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

A session dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by new teachers, especially alternative path teachers. We will explore strategies to retain talented educators in the field by demystifying education language and providing key tools and resources for a successful first year.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain actionable insights into establishing robust support systems for new science teachers, resulting in improved teacher retention and a more resilient and passionate science education community.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Rhoades (Collaborative Science Teaching and Learning Group Consulting: Midlothian, VA)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Incorporate Science and Engineering Practices into Science Lessons

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
_NSTA - Denver Incorporate the Science and Engineering Practices into Science Lessons.pptx.pdf
Argumentation Toolkit- videos on Argument Elements and Teacher Learning
Claims, Evidence, Reasoning chart.docx
Copy of Notice 4 squares.docx
Copy of Reasoning Rubric.docx
Notebook Guidelines 1.jpg
RACE rubric.jpg
Science notebook rubric.pdf
Talk Moves map.png
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how to integrate some of the Science and Engineering Practices of Asking Questions, Constructing Explanations, and Engaging in Argument From Evidence into lessons driven by a phenomenon. Students of all backgrounds and abilities engage in these practices and feel part of a learning community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Resources for using phenomenon-based lessons, Question Board, Notebook Guidelines, Written Responses, and promoting Scientific Discourse will be shared. A guided lesson will be shared which covers DCI PS3.B and PE 4-PS3-2. A classroom video will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Mary O'Donnell (Penn State University), Gargi Adhikari (Holland Brook School/Readington Township Schools: Whitehouse Station, NJ)

General Science Equity Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Using STEM for Deeper Understanding of Literature

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
STEM for deeper understanding of lit.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Conducting a novel study is a wonderful opportunity to develop some STEM activities that allow for practicing those skills while also developing a deeper understanding of the book being read. This session will share examples of projects and guide participants through developing their own project.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave the session with project ideas for integrating STEM into novel studies.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Bebell (Middle school teacher: Brooklin, ME)

STEM General Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Learning With Your Team: Creating and Leading Professional Learning Opportunities

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Links from presentation
Presentation
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Presenters organize around four main ideas for departmental, building, and/or district-level professional learning. Topics include equitable classroom practices, lab safety, book studies, and incorporating SEPs, CCCs, and sensemaking in science instruction (including NSTA PLUs and courses).

TAKEAWAYS:
How to organize good in-district and in-building professional learning opportunities while leading as department chair, science administrator, or teacher (leading from the middle); and how to "shoehorn" these opportunities into any available time for all grade 6-12 science subjects.

SPEAKERS:
David Jacob (Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Hghts, NY), Harry Rosvally (Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Heights, NY)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Landfill Use and Mining for Nonrenewable Resources Investigation

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Through a hands-on lab investigation, students will explore landfill mining as a practice for the recovery of non-renewable resources and as a means to reclaim landfill areas for alternative uses. Students will learn about benefits, drawbacks, and steps involved in landfill mining.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through a hands-on lab investigation, students will explore landfill mining as a practice for the recovery of non-renewable resources and as a means to reclaim landfill areas for alternative uses. Students will learn about benefits, drawbacks, and steps involved in landfill mining.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Burns (Connetquot High School: Bohemia, NY)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

How to Integrate 3D Instruction Through Meaningful Investigations

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session introduces a way to create meaningful and authentic investigations for use in science classrooms that will help students learn the disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science and engineering practices at the same time.

TAKEAWAYS:
An opportunity for participants to experience an investigation that gives students an opportunity to use core ideas and practices from multiple disciplines to develop a solution to a problem.

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

STEM Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Symbiosis: Parasitoid Wasps

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Symbiosis and Other Realtionships Module
Teacher guide, multimedia and classroom materials for a 1-2 week module that explores symbiotic relationships.
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Explore a three-part symbiotic relationship involving parasitic wasps, caterpillars, and a virus to build a better understanding of ecological relationships. This free middle school curriculum module builds a deeper understanding of the real-world complexity of symbiosis.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to access and use a free module that includes an opportunity for students to analyze data through a simulated experiment involving the wasp parasitoid and its host, interweaving this example with more general information in a way that builds an understanding of complex ecological relationships.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Malone (The University of Utah: Salt Lake City, UT)

Life Science Biology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Periodic Exploration

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Charges
Has pages for -, +, -1, -2, -3, +1, +2, +3 already typed out
Slide Show
The Periodic Table Activity Sheet
Activity sheet that guides students through investigating patterns on the periodic table
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will share innovative activities to use with students where they will explore properties and patterns of the periodic table.

TAKEAWAYS:
Join us to share in ways to help students discover for themselves the patterns hidden in the periodic table.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Maguire (Virginia Tech: Blacksburg, VA)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Phenomenal Phenomena: Captivate Your Classroom!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1NBAGAi7SlEJvR1O7SNY-UpUKDej2Ilo5YSKxK0sEMss/edit?usp=sharing
Phenomenal Phenomenon Slide Deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Deep dive into phenomenon-based learning! In this immersive workshop, participants will experience phenomena, collaborate with other educators, and develop a toolkit of ways to captivate students’ curiosity. Instructors will model examples and offer time to connect around ways to elevate engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will walk away with an understanding of how phenomena can drive high-quality instruction, and a real-time toolkit of resources to support them moving forward. Using the Next Generation Science Standards framework, teachers will collaborate around student engagement in a meaningful and authentic way.

SPEAKERS:
Pam McWilliams (Science Partner for Curriculum and Instruction), Rebecca Rolater (pK-12 Science Performance Improvement Partner: Aurora, CO)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Conserve It or List It? A Strategy for Student-Directed, Place-Based Learning

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about Conserve It or List It, an exciting series of inquiry investigations driven by student questions that you can use to teach environmental and life science. You will participate in one of the experiments and receive the project guidelines as well as strategies for classroom implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Conserve It or List It is an exciting way to engage students in environmental and life science through inquiry-based lessons driven by phenomena and student questions, with the goal of helping students invest in science and bringing the outdoors into classroom instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Ryack-Bell (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA), Kathryn Atkins (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA), Rachel Stronach (Lloyd Center for the Environment: Dartmouth, MA)

Environmental Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Professional Learning For Your Science Teachers: A Multifaceted Approach to Building Leadership Capacity and Improving Instructional Practice in Your District

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Looking for ideas for Professional Learning structures that provide leadership opportunities and improve classroom instruction for your district? This session will delve into the Professional Learning and Leading structures implemented in our district, considering barriers and ideas for application.

TAKEAWAYS:
Ideas of structures for Professional Development that provide classroom teachers with the opportunity to stay in the classroom and still lead instruction in their school and district.

SPEAKERS:
Anthony Goad (Hamilton County Schools: Chattanooga, TN)

Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Synchronous Online Culturally Responsive Academic Tellers and Educational Supporters (SOCRATES) for Online Academic Coaching

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This project is to create a synchronous online instructional model that integrates academic coaching to enhance the learning experience of future elementary teachers regarding diverse cultures.

TAKEAWAYS:
This project is to create a synchronous online instructional model that integrates academic coaching to enhance the learning experience of future elementary teachers regarding diverse cultures.

SPEAKERS:
Jiyoon Yoon (The University of Texas at Arlington: Arlington, TX)

General Science Equity Technology Postsecondary Roundtable

OMG GMOs! Teach Decision-Making Skills and Close the Gap Between CP and Honors Biology

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
GMO BioBistro Flashcards
Students compare artificial selection examples with genetically modified foods.
GMO Genetic Parts Flashcards
Students use a variety of examples of genes for genetically modifying foods and use them to design their own GMO foods.
GMO Lesson Descriptions & Worksheets from Workshop
Learning objectives, vocabulary, lesson sequence, and full worksheets
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Scq62DOBWSCLwcvahH7wF6dmTOcdM8iluvXKenwuZLU/edit?usp=sharing
Lesson sequence, vocabulary, learning objectives, and full worksheets from the workshop
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1d58zw2OJHu3y0T4yZJjbawLZq3CuEEfaJ2W0P2YTrTQ/edit?usp=sharing
BioBistro Activity comparing artificial selection vs genetically modified foods
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1h14r6n0HR0uyjOBN8GUJwoByAVU8DVvGfT43nc25dG8/edit?usp=sharing
Slides used in the presentation including links to other lesson resources and references.
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1r7kkSVZSflJUKk1f_22GFLmyP2MVdK6ZpKaVDoLvOBs/edit?usp=sharing
Genetic Parts Flashcards for Designing GMOs
Slides from workshop
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will use activities that work in CP and Honors Biology to help students decide whether and how we should genetically modify corn. Materials can be integrated into DNA (genes), evolution (artificial selection), and/or ecology (environmental impacts of GMOs).

TAKEAWAYS:
Teach kids to make informed decisions about GMOs. Learn to scaffold group argumentation and CER skills in this unit. Students work in teams to discuss data and create a speech about how we should deal with this complex issue. This curriculum closed the gap between our CP and Honors students!

SPEAKERS:
Lindsey L'ECUYER (Andover High School: Andover, MA)

Biology Environmental Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Beyond Climate Science: Teaching About Climate Solutions

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Beyond Climate Science: Teaching About Climate Solutions Workshop
Beyond Climate Science: Teaching About Climate Solutions Workshop
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UFyltFlnS8jGCZq9SukKUjCv4X-oHTzZx2eq-5eZ-fY/edit
Google Doc linking to resources shared in the workshop
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

So your students understand the basics of climate science, but what’s next? Dig deeper into climate literacy by focusing on solutions. In this workshop we will explore hands-on activities and digital interactives that help high school students learn how we can solve and adapt to climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will walk away from this workshop with several classroom activities that they can use to help high school students learn about climate solutions and develop a deeper understanding of the choices communities must make when designing mitigation and adaptation strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Gardiner (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO), Kathryn Boyd (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO), Melissa Rummel (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Strategies and Tools for Enhancing Computational Thinking in The High School Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CT-S Cards
This is the card set that was used for the activity where participants tried to make sense of the CT-S framework.
Presentation Slides
This file is a pdf of the slide deck used during this presentation.
The CT-S Framework Paper
This is the manuscript that describes the theoretical underpinning of the CT-S framework presented in this session.
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Gain strategies and tools for enhancing opportunities for computational thinking in your current high school life or physical science curriculum. Bring current lessons and leave with concrete ideas for helping students engage authentically in the SEP of Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will take home strategies and tools based on the Computational Thinking for Science Framework that they can use to enhance opportunities for CT-S in any high school science curriculum. They will receive immediate feedback on lesson modifications they can implement in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Maia Binding (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Timothy Hurt (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Ari Krakowski (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Wendy Jackson (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

Biology Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Retro Report in the Science Classroom: Tell the Story of the Ozone Layer

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slideshow
This is the slideshow that was utilized during the session with all links
Retro Report Website
This is where you can browse all the other Retro Report resources.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore Retro Report’s videos and the free, high-quality classroom resources that accompany them. Participants will view a 12-min documentary on the hole in the ozone layer and act as high school science students to examine the related lesson.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how Retro Report videos can be used to infuse multiple disciplines in the science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jacqueline Katz (Science Teacher)

Climate Science Environmental Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Art and Science Integration - A Project Based Learning Experience - A Walk Through Water

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
PBL: A Walk Through Water, Resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

"A Walk Through Water" combines project-based learning with NGSS-aligned education, immersing students in real-world environmental exploration. This approach nurtures environmental consciousness, fosters scientific problem-solving, and promotes responsible citizenship.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience integrated art, science, and NGSS-aligned education through phenomenon exploration and sculpting an organism with model magic to create deeper connections in order to build empathy and connection to the natural world, in order to solve important environmental issues.

SPEAKERS:
Nikki Atkinson (Visual Arts and CTE Media Arts: Fort Collins, CO), Deborah Holman (Wellington Middle School: Wellington, CO)

General Science Environmental Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Spatial Skills: The Foundation ALL Students Need to Succeed in Science and How To Build Them

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1fMMXEkjHRCiKjLsmctcscFoSzPmRsfSkpq9t83t-eS4/edit#slide=id.g2c038f2cfa8_1_176
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Advanced spatial thinkers do well in science, and building spatial skills can improve achievement. In this session, we will explore why science teachers should care about spatial skills, pedagogical approaches to build these skills, and how they can be put into practice to build science knowledge.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will (1) understand what spatial skills are and why they are important for success in science, and (2) learn to identify how an NGSS performance expectation activates students to think spatially and how to leverage this to build scientific knowledge through engaging classroom practices.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Dupuis (Science instructional facilitator: , NC), Katie Stevenson (South Redford School District: Redford, MI)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Translanguaging to Plan Phenomenon-Driven Science Instruction for Emergent Bilinguals

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 704


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024_ (1).pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about and apply tools from a federally-funded professional development program around translanguaging. These tools will allow you to plan lessons that leverage emergent bilinguals' multilingualism and lived experiences as they analyze and interpret data and scientific texts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Translanguaging recognizes, values, and leverages emergent bilinguals full communicative repertoire. Science teachers can use strategic translanguaging moves to strengthen how science practices, such as analyzing and interpreting data, better foster biliteracy development.

SPEAKERS:
Edward Lyon (Sonoma State University: Rohnert Park, CA)

Equity Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teachers Build Science Classroom Communities Through Intentional Discourse Strategies

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Culture of Discourse Session Slide Deck
This is the Slide Deck for the session with links to the research articles, participant handout, and resources.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Teachers engage in classroom discourse strategies designed to support developing science classroom communities that promote more equitable student contributions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participating in purposeful classroom discourse strategies during teacher professional learning experiences results in more equitable science classroom community building.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Brushway (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO)

Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

More than Developing 3-D Units...Building Capacity in 3-D Teaching & Learning

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Arizona Science Teachers Association's website
Deeper Dive Web Page
Information about ASTA's Deeper Dive Program with links to instructional units
HO for More than Developing 3D Unit...Building Capacity
Handout to use during presentation
Presentation: More than Developing 3D Units...Building Capacity
Slide Deck of presentation
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

ASTA shares a professional learning model that promotes curriculum development and supports classroom implementation, both critical components in transforming science education. Using carefully designed steps, teachers craft cohesive units with performance tasks that incorporate the 3 dimensions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain an understanding of the challenges and successes of this multi-year, intensive professional learning program for constructing three-dimensional K-12 units and share ideas on how this process might be adapted to one’s own local context to support the educators they serve.

SPEAKERS:
April Holton (Arizona State University: Tempe, AZ), Adrian Alvarez (Grand Canyon Public Schools: Grand Canyon, AZ), Sara Torres (Arizona Science Teachers Association: Tucson, AZ)

Leadership Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using Physics Modeling Instruction to Engage Learners

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Denver24 Modeling Presentation.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Modeling workshops are structured inquiry approaches to physics teaching that incorporate computers and insights from content and physics education research. Modeling workshop attendees develop skills in scientific discourse, Socratic questioning, and in assessment of student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees at this session will be introduced to the Modeling Method via a hands-on activity that is engaging and is representative of a typical modeling paradigm lab.

SPEAKERS:
Jon Anderson (University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Minneapolis, MN)

Physics Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Advancing Equity in STEM Education: Learnings from PhET’s DEIB in STEM Education Initiative

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join PhET’s initiative to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in STEM education by increasing your familiarity with our resources, and considering how simulations + activities + facilitation can be used to increase representation, relevance, and accessibility.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use the PhET Equity Framework to explore aspects of PhET simulations and sim-based resources that can help all students learn, such as inclusive sim features, translations, diversified character sets, and equity-aligned rubrics to select and modify teacher-contributed activities.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Perkins (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Briana Clarke (Park Day School: Oakland, CA), Rebecca Vieyra (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Equity General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Strategies to Adapt Curriculum to Encourage More Student Voices and Ideas

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How do we get more students to see their ideas as important and valuable? How do we get more students to be willing to share and build on others’ ideas? We will explore strategies and examples for adapting curriculum to help elevate student voice and perspective for more equitable sensemaking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Encouraging student voice and perspective can reposition students as knowledge makers and support their science identity and motivation. We will share strategies and classroom examples for promoting student voice as well as a way to think about adapting curriculum to support equitable sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine McNeill (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA), Renee Affolter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA)

Equity General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

What Does Climate Science Learning Look Like? A dive into K-12 climate education resources from Washington State’s ClimeTime Network

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ClimeTime Resources
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Ready to engage students in climate learning while attending to equity, 3D teaching, and integration across content areas? Join Washington State’s ClimeTime network to dive into K-12 NGSS-aligned lessons and resources about climate science learning available for free from our state open-access hub.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will share example lessons for teachers, professional learning resources, and other ways that climate science learning has been supported across Washington State. Attendees will then have the opportunity to explore and incorporate these resources into their own practice.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Henrickson (Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Brad Street (IslandWood: Bainbridge Island, WA), Jacob Parikh (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Korey Peterson (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA)

Climate Science Environmental Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Climate Science Made Easy for Every Classroom and Every Child

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Dice for 3d Printing
This link includes two climate dice. One has 2 warm sides, 2 average sides and 2 cold sides. The second die has 3 warm sides, 2 average and 1 cold. These .stl files can be printed by most 3d printers. There is also a worksheet that students can use to keep track of data as they roll the dice.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Discover how and at what point in the curriculum to teach climate change in the elementary NGSS classroom. Explore student-friendly online resources to engage students, science projects to deepen understanding, and the many ways to move forward with environmental stewardship.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers are introduced to “classroom-tested” climate change activities and online resources that they can use to engage and educate diverse learners. They will also learn how to inspire their students to take climate action, helping to decrease climate anxiety and increase a positive outlook.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Levine (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY), Kottie Christie-Blick (University of San Diego: San Diego, CA), Jacob Tanenbaum (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY)

Climate Science Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Energy Analysis in Physics using Multiple Representations

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Energy folder
This folder contains everything from the presentation plus other things we do and some student samples (which may contain errors!).
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Yes, your students (even freshmen) can derive energy equations and solve complicated energy conservation problems, and have fun doing it, using toys! Find out how using force vs. distance graphs and a graphic organizer using multiple representations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to use the idea of Work done on a system to derive energy equations and then use this knowledge to solve for variables in various hands-on stations. Participants will experience how students must make judgments on how to analyze systems to complete multi-step energy analyses.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberlee Freudenberg (Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory: San Francisco, CA)

Physics Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

AUTHOR: The NSTA Atlas of the Three Dimensions

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

The Atlas is a collection of 62 maps of the practices, core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and performance expectations in NGSS and other Framework-based standards. The maps show how goals in science are meant to build upon each other and relate to each other over a student’s K-12 education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to read the maps and use other tools in the Atlas to understand and interpret standards and plan instructional sequences as part of their work in curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Willard (Discovery Education: Silver Spring, MD)

General Science Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

3 Critical Steps to Make Sense of Your Assessment Data

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session resource document
Access materials and the slide deck from the session.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

We are awash in assessment data, but it can be overwhelming to make sense of it. Join us to learn tips and strategies for how to wrangle these data, ask questions from it, and derive meaning from it for effective change for our students and teaching. Gain frameworks and tools to apply to your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore 3 easy practices used in a variety of schools and classrooms to gain actionable steps to approach assessment data differently at any level in which they are working, so you can work smarter not harder.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hunter-Thomson (Dataspire Education & Evaluation, LLC)

Assessment Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Diverse Science for Diverse Students

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Diversity is more than skin deep. It's part of who we are and who our students are. In this session, you will learn how your students differ on many levels and how you can tailor your lessons to better match their needs. Learn different strategies and practice modifying lessons!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn strategies to diversify their lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Hodge (Science Professional Development Coordinator / Doctoral Student: Poplarville, MS), Kristin Ambrose (Walhalla High School)

Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Exploring Cosmic Gamma Rays in a High School Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
HAWC Teacher Created Lessons
Full website containing a library of multiwavelength and specifically gamma ray astronomy lessons created by teachers in collaboration with the Michigan Technological University group of the High Altitude Water Cherenkov Gamma Ray Observatory (HAWC).
Presentation Materials
Slides from today, but also past presentations and lesson materials for teachers teaching astronomy and/or physics.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how high-energy astrophysics can be brought into the classroom by engaging in real-world research data. Explore cosmic gamma radiation using fresh popcorn, not one but two frustratingly addictive games, and discover how computers and machine learning are vital in scientific research.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees work through classroom activities designed to introduce students to photon (gamma) radiation and proton (hadron) radiation so that attendees are able to engage their students in real-world astrophysics research and gain an appreciation for how computers are utilized in current research.

SPEAKERS:
Katelyn McCarthy (Kalamazoo Area Mathematics and Science Center: Kalamazoo, MI)

Physics Computer Science Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Equitable from the Start: A Framework for Enacting High-Quality Lessons for All Students

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

This workshop provides participants the opportunity to engage in and reflect on science learning aligned to a framework for designing instruction that is more equitable and engaging for all students. Participants will reflect on the framework and consider ways it can apply in their own setting.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with a framework and concrete examples of its application for creating science learning experiences that are more equitable and engaging, and reflect on its use at the school, district, or regional level in supporting enactment of high-quality curriculum & instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Christi Sanderson (mySci Instructional Specialist: University City, MO)

Equity Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Supporting the Integration of Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) in Science Learning: The Next Gen ASET SEP Tools for Teachers

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Introducing the Next Gen ASET SEP tools created by university teacher educators and public school instructional specialists to: support teachers in understanding NGSS SEPs, facilitate curriculum development, and evaluate NGSS alignment with existing curricula.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will 1.) gain a deeper understanding of NGSS SEPs and their significance in science education, 2.) acquire practical skills to develop and assess curriculum in alignment with NGSS, and 3.) engage in collaborative discussions on effective SEP integration.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Stalker (Graduate Student: , CO), Lin Xiang (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY)

General Science Preservice Science Education STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

How Does the Framing of Anchoring Phenomena Affect Student Perception of Interest and Relevance?

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 205


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Vt_DcCukn9CxPlZ82K3ipTJFkFEOlyfBzNJ4DR8UH5o/edit#slide=id.g2c1966c69b2_0_1
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Little is known about how the framing of phenomena impacts students’ interest and sense of relevance. We share findings from a study where we asked students to rate how relevant and interesting they found four phenomena either described using an engineering, a local, a neutral, or a justice framing.

TAKEAWAYS:
Framing a phenomenon as an engineering design problem, a social or environmental justice issue, a local event, or a neutral problem influences students' perception of interest and relevance, which can influence how they engage as learners.

SPEAKERS:
Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Equity General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

CAST: Leveraging Local Phenomena

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Leveraging Local Phenomena Think-Tac-Toe
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Using phenomena in your classroom is a crucial way to drive instruction. However, many times phenomena are not localized and therefore do not relate to student interest. In this session, learn about different ways to use local phenomena to increase engagement in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
A list of possible local phenomena to use in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Autumn Rivera (Glenwood Springs Middle School: Glenwood Springs, CO)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Afar: Introducing the OpenSciEd High School Energy, Forces and Earth's Crust Unit

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In Unit 2 of the OpenSciEd Physics course, a series of Earth phenomena in Ethiopia motivate the need for forces to explain our observations. Students establish conventions for modeling forces and think deeply about the connection between unbalanced forces, energy transfer, and motion.

TAKEAWAYS:
This unit introduces students to the concept of force in an intuitive and grounded context. Students understand fundamental Earth Science ideas related to plate tectonics, radioactivity, convection, and rock formation at a HS level.

SPEAKERS:
Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO)

Physics Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Working Smarter Not Harder: Grading That's Good for Students and Teachers

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Grading that supports student sensemaking doesn't have to keep you at school all night. Learn approaches to grading that prioritize 3D sensemaking and utilize technology, collaboration, and existing resources so you have can your evenings back.

TAKEAWAYS:
The process of giving feedback and assigning grades is easier when there are strong materials and assessments to build from, and technology can help make it faster without decreasing effectiveness for students.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Delaney (OpenSciEd: San Carlos, CA)

Assessment Equity Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Digging into bioinformatics: how biologists use DNA analysis to identify hidden microbes.

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Digging into Bioinformatics presentation
Visit Nourishthefuture.org to find the student and teacher version of the activity under Biotechnology, the High School Advanced tab, all the way at the bottom of the list.
soil-bioinformatics-student.pdf
soil-bioinformatics-teacher.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Bring your laptop or tablet for a guided tour of the public database (NCBI) and an activity on how simple bioinformatics tools can help identify threats to our food supply.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants learn basic terms and tools (DNA barcodes, bioinformatics) used for DNA sequence analysis. A simple activity demonstrates how bioinformatics tools are used to solve problems in the real world.

SPEAKERS:
Jane Hunt (Nourish the Future - Education Projects, LLC: Columbus, OH), Zack Bateson (National Agricultural Genotyping Center: Fargo, ND)

Biology Computer Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

What Do You Do With an Idea?

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wild idea design project
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

What is design? How do we teach it to young children? Get a glimpse into a design project for grades 2-5 inspired by What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada. Students explore their why through values, creativity, and open-mindedness to design and build an idea that will change the world.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to shift students' attention to their purpose, passions, and high-level thinking vs. just wanting to make something in a design or STEM class. Teach them how to share their amazing ideas with a pitch. Go through the process of exploring your “why” and creating your own "wild idea."

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Jaeckel (K-4 Science and Design Teacher: Boulder, CO)

STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Transforming STEM Education: Bringing Real-World Research into the Classroom with Research Experiences for STEM Educators & Teachers (RESET)

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Research Experiences for STEM Educators & Teachers (RESET) is dedicated to improving STEM education across the nation. This presentation is for middle/high school educators who want to experience real-world research & learn about how to translate their experience effectively into the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
The audience will leave with information about AEOP programs and how to become involved with the AEOP RESET program.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Moore (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Leslie Suters (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Jennifer Meadows (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)

STEM General Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Don’t Give Up on Me: Leveraging Relationships to Create Student Buy-In and Belonging

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

What might seem like student apathy and lack of engagement may be a student simply needing connection, community, and care. Join high school teachers as they share instructional practices and strategies used to create a positive and equitable classroom that can improve student outcomes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be led through a variety of engaging activities and instructional practices put together over the past 3 school years. The activities are aimed at building engagement within the classroom with special attention to student trauma and equitable practices.

SPEAKERS:
Sydney Recknagel (Reeths Puffer: No City, No State), Kari Parnin (Science Consultant)

Equity Biology Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Climate Literacy for All: Resources from the US Global Change Research Program

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

There’s an ever-growing need for accessible resources to inform teaching climate change concepts in a variety of disciplines. Participants will tour the new Fifth National Climate Assessment and Climate Literacy Guide, share feedback with developers, and explore applications for the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
This interactive workshop will immerse educators in new authoritative climate information resources: the Fifth National Climate Assessment website; featuring an art gallery, key messages, engaging graphics, and the updated Climate Literacy Guide, a framework of climate principles and concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Carol O'Donnell (Smithsonian Science Education Center: Washington, DC), Jenna Hartley (US Environmental Protection Agency: No City, No State), Haley Crim (Climate Engagement and Capacity-building Coordinator: Silver Spring, MD), Frank Niepold (NOAA Climate Program Office: Silver Spring, MD), Aaron Grade (National Climate Assessment Staff Scientist: Washington, DC)

Climate Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Swimming in Knowledge: Daphnia Research in K-12 Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The water-flea, Daphnia, is a charismatic model organism in the life sciences. They are easy to find in lakes/ponds and to care for, making them great for classroom investigations. Here we present two interconnected curriculum units exploring the effects of pollution on Daphnia and their ecosystems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to facilitate NGSS-aligned, inquiry-driven classroom investigations with Daphnia. We will share two examples of interconnected investigations based on our current work as science graduate students at the University of Illinois. Curriculum materials will be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Patrick Wilson (PhD Student: Urbana, IL), Barbara Hug (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: Champaign, IL), Jeannette Cullum (Graduate Student: Urbana, IL)

General Science Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

FREE Resources and Strategies for Interdisciplinary Data Science Education

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come discover how free, NSF-funded resources from The Concord Consortium and EL Education can bring literacy, math, and social studies into the science classroom through engaging students with authentic real-world datasets. Bring a device to this interactive session and take away tips and resources!

TAKEAWAYS:
Resources and strategies for interdisciplinary sensemaking through interactive data-exploration simulations and activities.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Miller (Research Associate)

STEM Literacy Mathematics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Facilitate the "What is Sensemaking?" Discussion for your Team!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Leading Learning Building Powerful PLCs with NSTA PLUs
PLC Feedback Form
PLC Guide
Sensemaking for your Team PPT
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

NA

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will build an understanding of sensemaking and receive a toolkit to lead the session with other educators.

SPEAKERS:
Tricia Shelton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Hands-On Workshop

Engaging in Climate Science Education Through Connections to Everyday Life, Equity, and Justice

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session 6 Materials (Google Drive): Engaging in Climate Science Education Throug
Session 9 Materials (Google Drive): Resources for Engaging in Climate Justice Ce
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate change is here. Come explore ways to teach about this that intersect with issues of justice and provide action for the future. This workshop will support educators in all grades and contexts, including those who can’t even say “climate change”!

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies for engaging in climate change and climate justice learning appropriate to grade band NGSS standards, climate and energy literacy standards, and for both school and community based learning contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Climate Science Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using BioInteractive's Wildfire Resources to Tell a Phenomenal Story

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Join us as we explore the relationship between environmental changes and wildfires using free BioInteractive resources that feature authentic phenomena and data analysis.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Dinerman (Sherwood High School: Sandy Spring, MD), Beth Cates (Western Sierra Collegiate Academy: Rocklin, CA)

Life Science Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Who is Baby Whale’s Father? DNA Fingerprinting Solves the Mystery!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Come learn and get hands-on experience on how to teach gel electrophoresis and DNA fingerprinting in a single classroom session. You will pour, load, and run a gel, capture gel image, analyze the results, and deduce a probable conclusion for a whale of a forensic mystery.

SPEAKERS:
Mallorie Parks (Crandall ISD: Crandall, TX)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Anatomy & Physiology

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Simulation Curriculum

See our newest Interactive Anatomy & Physiology curriculum where we'll demonstrate its latest lessons, simulations and interactions. Correlated to standards with LMS compatibility and free resources make this edition the most effective, interesting and engaging for instructors and students alike.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Goodman (Simulation Curriculum: Hopkins, MN)

Life Science General Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

The Plight of the Bumblebee: Studying Bee Genetic Biodiversity using DNA Barcoding

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Bio-Rad Laboratories

Taxonomy in action: use visual cues and biotechnology techniques to sort bumblebees into separate species. Experience how PCR, sequencing, and bioinformatics help scientists distinguish bee species.

SPEAKERS:
Damon Tighe (Bio-Rad Laboratories: Hercules, CA)

Life Science Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Watershed Tour: Dipping into Citizen Science

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: LaMotte Company

Participants will learn how to use simple unit dose tablet reagents to assess water quality. Discover lesson ideas to turn your students into citizen scientists and advocates for their local watershed. Hands-on activities, curriculum connections and assessment ideas will be provided. Take aways.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Evans (Kent County High School: Worton, MD)

Environmental Science General Science Informal Education Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling Infection and Immunity - from Molecules to Cells

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Using innovative physical models and cellular landscape posters explore how flu, coronavirus and other virus can infect our cells and learn about new vaccine platforms.

SPEAKERS:
Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Dynamic Demonstrations from Flinn Scientific

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Seeing is believing! Flinn Scientific presents a variety of easy to perform and exciting chemistry and physical science demonstrations. Come see Flinn’s new demonstrations and some of your old favorites—all guaranteed to make your science classroom come alive. Handouts provided for all.

SPEAKERS:
Mike Marvel, Ph.D. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Chemistry Biology Physics Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Board games: a great way to develop environmental literacy and assuage eco-anxiety!

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Adventerra Games North America LLC

Come play & hear from teachers using Adventerra’s unique games to engage students and achieve curricular goals while also addressing students’ eco-anxiety. Will include updates from a Johns Hopkins Univ. study on the effectiveness of our K-12 environmental education games in teaching eco concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Bryan Mundell (Founder), Lauren Kelly (Crowley ISD: Fort Worth, TX), Cynthia Crockett (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA), Sue Mundell (Adventerra Games North America: Boston, MA)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Grades 3 - 5 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 5: Use Games and Role Playing to Engage Your Students in One of the Most Dangerous Climate Impacts of Our Time: Sea Level Rise

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Beat the Uncertainty 2024 NSTA Workshop 5.pptx
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Why are sea levels rising? Why is it so dangerous for everyone - no matter where in the US they live? How can we address it? Using hands-on role-playing activities from NOAA, engage your students on one of the most dangerous climate impacts of our time.

SPEAKERS:
Symone Barkley (Education Specialist: Silver Spring, MD), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Oodles of Labradoodles: A gel electrophoresis lab to explore Mendelian inheritance with dog genetics

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Puppies are born to Molly the Labradoodle, and students must use genetics to solve the paternity mystery. Use Punnett squares and DNA gel electrophoresis to track the inheritance of the furnishings trait across the litter. Then decide who’s the daddy: Zeus the Poodle or Otto the Labradoodle?

SPEAKERS:
Allison Nishitani, PhD (miniPCR bio: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Freaky Forensics: Solving a Mystery With Science

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Embark on a journey into the world of forensic science using maggots, flies and flesh to solve a mystery! Imagine discovering a decomposing corpse in a field with four missing persons fitting the description. Who is it? This gripping session takes you on an adventure where using the clues found at the grim scene is the only way to discover the answers to your questions. Forensic anthropologist Diane France helped to develop this forensic science lesson that’s perfect for middle school and high school students.

SPEAKERS:
Erick Archer (Texas Instruments: Dallas, TX)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Student-Centric Approaches to Colorimetry, Beer's Law, and Kinetics

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Learn the best way to develop deep student understanding of colorimetry and Beer's Law. Help students discover the link between solution concentration and light absorption through hands-on experimentation. We’ll show you how to teach students to use wireless sensors to collect and analyze data.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Chemistry Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Developing and Using Scientific Models in the Science Classroom (Grades 3-8)

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Models are tools for representing ideas and developing explanations related to phenomena. Models can be used to deepen student understanding of scientific concepts. You will identify connections to the use of models in your instruction while examining your state standards and/or frameworks.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Thompson (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Exploring OpenSciEd High School from Carolina

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Come experience a model lesson from OpenSciEd for High School and see how the new Carolina Certified Edition makes these high-quality instructional materials even better! Leave with classroom resources.

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

General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

The Case of The Murdered Mayor – Solve a Forensic Case Using Multiple Lines of Evidence

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Assume the role of a crime scene investigator to solve a realistic crime scenario. Students use fingerprint, hair analysis, tire track impressions, blood typing, forensic entomology, and a police log review to identify a primary suspect from a pool of 6 alleged perpetrators.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC), Ryan Hainey (Product Manager of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Forensics: Burlington, NC)

Technical and Vocational Education Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Urgent Lessons: Measuring the Effects of Climate Change

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Introduce new scientific concepts to your students by studying climate change phenomena. We'll discuss experiments that help students use data-collection technology to study climate change in the classroom, including an investigation into the effect of carbon dioxide on ocean and freshwater pH.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM Biology Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Bright Ideas: Investigating Light Bulbs and Simple Circuits through Guided Inquiry

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Find out how you can set up simple circuits in a safe, effective way! We’ll walk you through guided-inquiry simple circuit lessons, with attention to both the student experience and the teacher’s view. You’ll be able to customize the lessons to feature the sensors and software you already have!

SPEAKERS:
Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

General Science STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Introducing Your Students to CRISPR with Sickle Cell Gene Editing

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Explore Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR in our hands-on electrophoresis workshop! This powerful biotechnology breakthrough is making dramatic changes to human health RIGHT NOW. Dive into CRISPR biology with quick experiments modeling cures for genetic diseases like Sickle Cell Anemia and Cystic Fibrosis.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Developing and Using Models: Measuring and Graphing Speed

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

This interactive workshop uses a model cart system with ramps to help students learn to measure speed and rate. They also match segments of a distance-vs-time graph to portions of a narrative to help conceptualize the meaning behind slopes on motion graphs.

SPEAKERS:
Ed Miller (Selden Middle School: Centereach, NY)

Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Solving Real-world Problems Using STEM Cases

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: ExploreLearning

This interactive session will explore a digital interface that develops models to capture students' thinking when designing and testing solutions to real-world problems. We will immerse ourselves in solving a puzzling STEM Case to develop a model and use it to optimize a solution.

SPEAKERS:
Carrie Adler (ExploreLearning: Charlottesville, VA), Lauren Schetne (ExploreLearning: Charlottesville, VA)

STEM General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engineer Physical Science Excitement with a Carolina STEM Challenge®

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Apply creative problem-solving skills and engineering practices to chemistry and physical science challenges with race cars and rockets. Experience how Carolina makes it easy to incorporate STEM into your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Patti Kopkau (Retired Educator: National City, MI)

STEM Engineering Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

A Catalyst for Change: Assessment as an Entry Point to Advancing the NGSS

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: InnerOrbit

When transforming 3D teaching and learning within a school or district, what is the role of 3D assessment reform? How can a focus on phenomena-driven NGSS assessments lead to instructional change? Hear how Boulder Valley School District in CO leveraged InnerOrbit’s assessment platform and profession

SPEAKERS:
Erin Greenwood (Platt Middle School: Boulder, CO), Erin Cooke (Customer Success Manager), Brendan Finch (InnerOrbit: No City, No State)

Assessment Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Creating a Driving Question Board that Supports Students’ Ongoing Sensemaking

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

The DQB is an essential tool used throughout OSE units to generate, keep track of, and revisit student questions around the anchoring and related phenomenon. Join the collaborative fun finding ideas for developing, maintaining, and revisiting this exciting representation of students’ learning.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Klaft (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Lead with the science and include the literacy: Keeping science learning in the foreground, with COESEE

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

Show Details

Let's talk about how you can foreground science while you elevate literacy in an interdisciplinary classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn to identify opportunities to include high-quality science-focused literacy in the elementary classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Miranda Fitzgerald (University of North Carolina Charlotte: No City, No State), Marshall Escamilla (Tumble Media Production: Greenfield, MA), Mary Starr (Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network)

Sensemaking Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

FREE Federal STEM Education Resources –Where can I find them?

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
go.nih.gov/fedstemed
Website with links to many free STEM resources from federal agencies.
NSTA Federal STEM Presentation DENVER.pdf
Presenter slides with links to many different free resources from the federal government.
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Ever wondered where to find FREE Federal STEM education resources that can provide authentic learning experiences for your K-12+ students? Join Federal agencies, including but not limited to the Dept of Education, NASA, NOAA, EPA, NIH, USGS, USPTO and NSF to learn more & to receive a resource guide!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn about FREE K-12 STEM learning resources offered by federal agencies. In addition, teachers will engage in two-way conversations with federal representatives about the STEM resources, programs, and opportunities that are available and leave with a one-page resource guide.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Nickelsen (Forest Service/ Natural Inquirer), Rachel Crowley (NIGMS, National Institutes of Health: No City, No State), Eleanour Snow (U.S. Geological Survey: Reston, VA), Bekkah Lampe (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD), Kayla Smith (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Silver Spring, MD), Miranda Fike (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center: Huntsville, AL), Jorge Valdes (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA), Patti Curtis (U.S. Department of Education: No City, No State), Melissa Anley-Mills (U.S. EPA: Washington, DC)

STEM Earth & Space Science General Science Presentation

Elevate Teaching–Elevate Thinking–Elevate Learning

Friday, March 22 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

How do you enhance critical thinking skills in your classroom? Using research-based instructional strategies, we will model ways to create a classroom learning environment and culture where thinking is valued.

SPEAKERS:
Zipporah Miller (Educational Consultant: Bowie, MD)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

NSTA Job Fair

Friday, March 22 • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall

Show Details

Free to all who have registered for NSTA Denver24 Connect with hiring managers from 30+ school districts, universities & colleges, and other teaching services recruiting top educational talent from the U.S. and internationally. Jumpstart your career search at the NSTA Job Fair! NSTA is excited to host this event, featuring school districts, private academies, universities, and informal science institutions looking for qualified, dedicated educators to join their teams. Explore options, gather information, and interact with representatives about current and future employment opportunities

Networking Opportunity

Level-Up Your Next Project: A Tuning Protocol Workshop

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Level-Up Your Next Project - Resources
This digital handout includes links to the slideshow presentation, the Innovation Design Protocol, a template of slides to use when replicating the protocol, as well as additional STEM teaching resources.
Level-Up Your Next Project - Resources
This digital handout includes link to the presentation, the Innovation Design Protocol, a template of slide to use when replicating the protocol, as well as additional STEM teaching resources.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Does your teaching style lead to creative projects? Then join us to explore the transformative power of tuning protocols in the context of STEM education. Engage in a real-time project tuning and see how this collaborative process leads to better ideas. Leave with tools to replicate the process!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants in this workshop will learn the steps for conducting a tuning protocol to enhance a project, as well as learn about K-12 STEM education resources from the Dayton Regional STEM Center and DoDSTEM.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Drager (Montgomery County Educational Service Center: Dayton, OH)

STEM Assessment General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Engineering to Empower Students & their Communities through understanding Heat Islands

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Studying the Heat Island Effect covers multiple standards and content areas, and is an excellent grounding phenomenon to discuss equity and justice in the classroom. Come to this hands-on workshop to run through this experience and learn about a framework to develop empowering engineering projects.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with a framework for developing engineering projects that integrate social justice, and will also walk through one of our developed projects on the Heat Island Effect.

SPEAKERS:
Kylie Bertram (Science Teacher: Willingboro, NJ), Emily Berman (Global STEM Challenges Program)

Equity Engineering STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Drones to Combat Wildfires: How to Include NASA's ACERO Program in Your Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NASA and Drones ACERO program and STEM
This presentation showcases NASA's ACERO program, which utilizes UAVs, or drones, to mitigate wildfires. STEM content and resources are provided.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations project is using drones and aviation technologies to improve wildland fire coordination and operations. In this session, you'll learn how to incorporate the use of drones and aviation for climate protection into your education program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use NASA Aeronautics' resources for educators to incorporate the use of aviation technology for climate protection into their education programs.

SPEAKERS:
April Lanotte (NASA Headquarters: Washington, DC)

STEM Climate Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Out of This World Mini-Golf: An Interdisciplinary Project in Practice

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Mini Golf 2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about an interdisciplinary project that had teachers working in teams to build a miniature golf hole based on a moon of the solar system. Hear about how they took the project back to their schools and adapted it to their own practice and for their students, and try your hand at Sphero golf.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will provide hands-on exploration of an interdisciplinary project that can be scaled to meet the needs of all learners, and reflections by teachers who have both done the project and taught it.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Langley (Science Educator: Tulsa, OK), Hunter Bourjaily (Teacher PD Fellow), Kristina Martinez (Truman Middle School: Albuquerque, NM), Eileen Koenig (Ursuline Academy: Wilmington, DE), Shannon Baldioli (Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Washington, DC)

STEM Earth & Space Science Robotics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A Chemical Inquiry: Let’s Master Equilibrium!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join this workshop: “A Chemical Inquiry: Let’s Master Equilibrium!” and participate in a “hands-on” activity to help students overcome common chemical equilibrium misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to use Inquiry to overcome student misconceptions about chemical equilibrium, a critical chemistry topic.

SPEAKERS:
Gregory Dodd (Retired Chemistry Teacher: Pennsboro, WV)

Chemistry STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Energy, Climate, and You

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Hands-on lessons for your students to explore how we produce, consume, and save energy, and how this can affect our homes, communities, and our health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn activities to help students develop an awareness of environmental justice and inequities that can have influences on one’s local environment and personal health outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberly Swan (The NEED Project: Manassas, VA)

Climate Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Stimulating Curiosity Through Inquiry and Scientific Practices

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Given the many science-related global challenges, science teaching demands an emphasis on evidence and logic. An important precursor to this is getting students involved in activities that stimulate their curiosity. This workshop will focus on stimulating curiosity and argument-driven inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
The teacher is the leader within the classroom and must command a set of teaching practices that grab student interest and help them conduct investigations into phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Padilla (retired: Sterling, CO)

Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Determining the Expansion Rate of Supernova Remnants Using Web-Based NASA Data and STEM Image Analysis Tools

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://chandra.si.edu/js9/
js9 website
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1cu2OYseP3e7gyQEQ9_WXXEDoSNJyY0bJFPyjSvG5tpM/edit?usp=sharing
powerpoint
The Expansion Rate of a Supernova Remnant - a js9 activity (revised).docx
student handout
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Use STEM web-based analysis software and real data to determine the rate of a supernova remnant expansion and its uniformity.

TAKEAWAYS:
JS9 web-based software provides students with real opportunities to do astronomical research.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Perry (Lewiston High School: Lewiston, ME)

Earth & Space Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Engineering Design and Coding in the Chemistry Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Engineering Design in the Chemistry Classroom.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come learn how two teachers have added Python programming, engineering design, and data collection applied to real-world applications in the context of their Chemistry classrooms. No experience necessary!

TAKEAWAYS:
Coding and engineering design in the Chemistry classroom based on real-world data collection.

SPEAKERS:
Chris Coker (Camden Fairview High School: Camden, AR), Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA)

Chemistry STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NASA Resources and Opportunities for Your K-12 Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Learn about NASA’s K-12 project which creates, delivers, and curates NASA STEM products and experiences that make connections to NASA and fuel STEM learning and identity. Join us for this fun session and participate in an exciting activity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the vast resources offered by NASA's Next Gen STEM project; they will participate in a virtual chat with a NASA scientist or engineer and engage in an activity they can use in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Bethanne Hull (Education Specialist: No City, No State)

STEM Earth & Space Science Engineering Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Reading, Math, & Science...Integration, Not Segregation: All Content is Created Equal

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Gradual Release Recording Sheet
Use these sheets to record anecdotal notes to create small groups in each subject.
Integration Check Up Sheet
Integration PowerPoint
Slides of the presentation
NSTA Legal Size Handout.pdf
Integration Highlights
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this session, teachers will experience the integration of reading, math, and science instruction, and get more bang for their buck. The session will also discuss and demonstrate differentiation to support all learners. There will be a rotation simulation for brain stimulation!

TAKEAWAYS:
The hands-on session provides: ideas on classroom management for integrated stations and centers, detailed small-group instruction, Lexile-leveled lessons, and much more!

SPEAKERS:
Yolanda Williams (Veterans Memorial Middle School: Covington, GA)

Literacy Life Science Mathematics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Engaging Students Through Inquiry-to-Action Projects that Address the Impact of Climate Change on People, Animals, and the Environment

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Engaging Student through Action to Inquiry Projects
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Learn to use the Solutionary Framework to design instruction that engages students in solving real-world problems in their community. Empower young people to become climate solutionaries who explore complex problems and enact solutions that do the most good for all stakeholders.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will use the four-part Solutionary Framework to expand their ability to design units that empower students to address the complex climate issues facing their generation.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Meltzer (Director of K-12 and Teacher Education: Surry, ME), Angela Whittaker (Teaching and Learning Facilitator)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teaching Motion, Forces, and Energy with Robotics

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Thinking robotics is just for computer science and technology? In this session, explore how you can utilize robotics to teach forces and interactions, energy, and waves with an innovative approach using robots with sensors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will use robots to experiment with robotics and the engineering design process to apply real-world application of concepts in a way that they can test and visualize the effects in their everyday lives. Sample lessons will be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Birch (Sr Specialist Education and Workforce Development)

Physics STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

BEE and Engineer: Designing for Biodiversity in a Schoolyard

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Attendees will initiate sense-making through the data-driven phenomenon of pollinator decline. Attendees will analyze and interpret evidence on how resource availability affects native bee populations. Finally, we will design a school native bee habitat to encourage native bee biodiversity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave the workshop with lesson ideas and strategies to problem-frame the decline of native bee species and develop a possible solution by designing a native bee habitat for their school or community.

SPEAKERS:
Rita Hagevik (The University of North Carolina at Pembroke: LAURINBURG, NC), Kathy Trundle (Utah STate University: No City, No State)

Biology Engineering Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Building Belonging in Middle School (MS) Science Classrooms Using the Dimensions of Success (DoS) Framework

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Strategies to Build Belonging in Middle School Science and Engineering Classroom
Using the Dimensions of Success Framework to Build Belonging
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Do you want all your students to feel like they belong and to see themselves in your classroom? Learn how to use the NSF-funded DoS classroom observation and feedback system, which incorporates student voice, reflection, and equitable access to build productive science classroom communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn strategies to promote belonging for all students in your MS science classroom, through applying the evidence-based DoS observation framework to real classroom scenarios and having small group conversations about your peers’ experiences building inclusive and reflective classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Victoria Oliveira (Researcher: Belmont, MA), Virginia Andrews (Research Project Manager: Belmont, MA)

General Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Plus Three Degrees: A Virtual Climate Change Investigation

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Bring your laptop and come explore a place-based, virtual climate change investigation. This activity uses real-world data from across the country to highlight the potential impacts of a changing climate.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees at this session will leave with a virtual activity that can be tailored to science classrooms across the country.

SPEAKERS:
Merryn Cole (University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Las Vegas, NV), Jake Johnson (Biological Science Teacher/Graduate Student: Las Vegas, NV)

Biology Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Drama for Assessment and Retrieval Practice in Science

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Science and Drama Delegate Copy.pdf
Drama and science session slides NSTA 2024
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

An examination of how drama can be incorporated into science lessons to facilitate teacher assessment and support retrieval practice. This will be followed by a series of activities where the delegates will explore various drama techniques.

TAKEAWAYS:
How can drama be used to assess children's scientific understanding.

SPEAKERS:
David Allen (Associate Professor: Hatfield, 0)

General Science Assessment Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

How Can Students Make Better Decisions? Decision-Making Strategies for the Science Classroom and Beyond!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Decision Education Lesson Resources
Presentation Slides
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Are you interested in learning how to help your students (or yourself) make better decisions? This workshop will walk you through a variety of engaging activities and adaptable lessons to introduce decision-making strategies to your students (in partnership with the Alliance for Decision Education)!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to guide their students in making better decisions for themselves and their communities at large, along with possible learning strategies applicable for the attendees themselves!

SPEAKERS:
Brittany Beck (High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology: Brooklyn, NY), Yishan Lee (PS/MS 219), Yanique Sears (Columbia Secondary School for Math, Science and Engineering: New York, NY)

Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Busting Myths: Science and math careers compared to teaching

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Dive into data about a range of math and science careers and how these compare to teaching as a profession. While you’re here, share your story!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teaching is an attractive highly competitive career if you love young people! We want to hear from you too!

SPEAKERS:
Jia Wern Hue (Research Associate: Golden, CO)

Advocacy Leadership Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

The Double Helix at 70: Searching for the Real Story

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2023 assessment of Franklins work (NATURE)
DNA at 70 Slides
Francis Crick letter to his son
Possible Essay Topics
Presentation Slides
Review of Book on Franklin
Watson Crick - 1953 NATURE paper
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

The story of the double helix is standard fare, but it is usually told in a cursory and superficial way. The actual story, however, can be brought into the classroom in a way that excites students and shows the scientific process, warts and all, in a manner that promotes equity and inclusion.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will ask students to do the difficult work of placing themselves into the narrative in a way that enables them to address some of the scientific and ethical choices made by the various parties to the discovery of the double helix.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller (Brown University: Providence, RI)

Biology Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Instructional Strategies to Support Phenomenon'Based Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Unlock the world of inquiry and exploration in your science classroom! In this session, we will model several practical, engaging phenomenon-based teaching strategies to make your classroom come alive. Transform your teaching and ignite curiosity now!

TAKEAWAYS:
Diving into the world of phenomenon-based teaching is easy! Implement the "notice and wonder" and "scientists' circle" strategies to spark curiosity and foster discussion. Using these strategies will help equip your students with tools to explore and understand the world scientifically.

SPEAKERS:
Jerry Graham (Greeneville Middle School: Greeneeville, TN), Matthew Olson (6th Science Teacher: Greeneville, TN), Jessica Proffitt (Director, Academics: Richmond, VA)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teach students to find trustworthy scientific information and resist harmful misinformation

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Investigating Claims Using Bellringers - March 2024.pdf
This is a short article about using brief "bellringers" in which students investigate a claim about science. A list of claims you might use is included.
Slides - handout
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Scientific misinformation caused tens of thousands of COVID deaths and threatens millions of people due to climate change. I will explain why it is essential to teach students how to find trustworthy scientific information and discuss key teaching strategies to accomplish this vital goal.

TAKEAWAYS:
Everyone needs accurate scientific information. Teachers should teach students how to find trustworthy information and resist misinformation, because most students are not good at evaluating information they find online. This feasible goal is consistent with the NGSS but should become a higher priority.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Zucker (Independent Scholar: No City, No State)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Rocketry + Avionics: Taking Data to New Heights

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 Free Summer Rocketry Professional Development
NSTA 2024 Rocketry Presentation
SpaceLab Illinois Courses and Professional Development
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Inspired by recent space launches? Wondering how to capture the excitement with your students? Join us to learn how we use rocketry and avionics to teach data analysis and system engineering. This course allows exploration of Newton's Laws through guided modules that develop knowledge and skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will explore the phenomena of rocketry through hands-on activities focused on hardware and flight. They will then formulate how predictive and actual data tells the whole story of the rocket's flight. The session culminates with the supports to make rocketry accessible in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Arnett (STEM Coordinator: Champaign, IL)

STEM Physical Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Highlighting the Relevance of Earth Science through Connections to Sustainable Development Goals

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Participants will engage with resources and hands-on activities showing the relevance of Earth Science, specifically through the lens of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We will explore features of the SDGs and Education for Sustainable Development, relating them to NGSS dimensions.

TAKEAWAYS:
The UN Sustainable Development Goals represent an international consensus for action on the world’s most pressing problems. Making connections with them using hands-on, standards-aligned instruction can be an effective way to highlight the relevance of Earth Science instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lauren Brase (American Geosciences Institute: , IL), Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD), Chloe Westhafer (West Jackson Middle School: Jefferson, GA), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA)

Earth & Space Science General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using American Museum of Natural History Teaching Resources to Classify Dinosaurs Based On Fossils

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will use high-resolution images and descriptions of traits to construct evidence-based hypotheses for where two different fossils should be placed on the evolutionary tree of dinosaurs. The activity follows the same processes used by paleontologists to classify their fossil finds.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will gain access to materials that provide the backstory for an in-depth data analysis activity that can be used with students. Resources include hi-res images of fossils, descriptions and diagrams of traits that are useful for classification, and phylogenetic trees of dinosaurs.

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

Biology Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

How to create 3D Learning Experiences around Authentic and Meaningful Phenomenon or Problems

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Meaningful phenomena and authentic problems make learning experiences in science classrooms more relevant and equitable for students. Come learn what makes phenomena meaningful and problems authentic and then leave with some high-quality instructional materials that you can use in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Meaningful phenomena and authentic problems are more than a hook or an example – they drive learning and provide a context for sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Hutner (The University of Alabama: Austin, TX)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Making science fun, investigative, and connected to students' lives and interests through cooking and food (Bread and Yeast Labs)

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
See all lessons and resources here!
This website is where all of our instructional resources are, as well as additional information about professional learning, and who we are. Specific resources for this workshop were provided during the workshop. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions! You can also learn more about https://sciencecooking.seas.harvard.edu/teacher-outreach/.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How can we take advantage of simple ingredients like yeast to connect science to students’ interests, explore different cultures, & encourage students to meaningfully and safely design their own experiments? Learn through this fun & easy bread-in-a-bag lab with differentiated versions for gr6-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore a lesson that centers around the phenomena of bread and yeast, and see how you can make bread within classroom parameters. Consider how bread can be used to explore multiple science concepts like chemical reactions, organisms, phase changes, and heat transfer; make cultural connections.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Velasquez (Allium Montessori School: No City, No State), Meredith Moore (The Field School: Washington, DC), Shawn Boggs (Bullitt Lick Middle School: Shepherdsville, KY), Kate Strangfeld (Harvard University: Cambridge, MA)

General Science Biology Chemistry Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The When, Why, and How: Formative Assessments in Every Science Class

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Formative Assessments Interactive Science Notebook.docx
Mini Interactive Science Notebook for participants. If you decide to use, when printing, make sure you select "print on both sides, flip on short side."
Thinking Maps 4 Handouts Use 3-4.pdf
Thinking Maps handout. I share the paper copy of pages 3 and 4.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how to formatively assess students in different ways using data and plan meaningful active learning experiences with interactive notebooks based on that data. You will explore various formative assessments from a student's lens.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how formative assessments can be used in their classroom and plan using the provided science planning protocol, creating a final product.

SPEAKERS:
Chrissy Brouwer (School District of Osceola County: Kissimmee, FL)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Lessons from the Lab: Creating Science Instruction That Match Actual Science Practice

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How can we effectively prepare the next generation of scientists when science instruction is so vastly different from actual science practice? In this session, you’ll learn how research scientists work in a lab environment and how you can transfer those practices directly to your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will understand 6 practices of lab researchers that differ from science instruction in most classrooms. They’ll learn how to incorporate these practices into their classroom to better prepare the next generation of scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Terra Tarango (Van Andel Education Institute: Grand Rapids, MI)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Thinking Computationally About Heatwave Data Visualizations

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Are heatwaves happening more often? Or does it just feel that way? Using lessons from Heatwave Visualizations, available for free from the Museum of Science Boston and MathWorks, explore visualizations of heatwave data and discuss how an individual’s perspective may have unintentionally biased them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Navigate data visualizations generated from weather station data and learn how to help your students understand that a data visualization is produced by an algorithm written by a human, subjecting it to possible bias. Learn how to access the free materials needed to implement these lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Darshita Shah (Senior Director of Curriculum: Boston, MA)

Computer Science Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Fostering Collaborative Science Discussions with OpenSciEd

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 203

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Fostering collaborative discussions is an ongoing process to reflect upon often. Join two veteran OpenSciEd teachers as they share successful strategies to help students set their own goals, gain confidence in speaking with peers, and eventually engage in a more student-led learning experience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with a variety of effective, simple, and practical strategies or activities that will help students build confidence in talking with peers, reflect on and set personal goals for growth, and have a true voice in their own learning path. Strategies can be implemented immediatelyl

SPEAKERS:
Heather Galbreath (Lombard Middle School: Galesburg, IL)

Sensemaking Assessment General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Cell Cycle and Cancer: A Phenomenal Unit

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Cell Cycle and Cancer Google Folder
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Put on your medical hat and diagnose your patients through this interactive workshop. Gain firsthand experience and learn about the phenomenon-based unit that teaches students about the cell cycle, cancer, and stem cells. Everything you need to know to implement this unit in your classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will see and experience this phenomenon-based unit. They will have the tools and materials to implement this unit into their biology classes.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Ambrose (Walhalla High School)

Biology Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

The S.U.Pe..R. Approach to Engage Students

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
SUPER Approach to teaching science slides
Presentation slides
SUPER Science Handout
Session handout with resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn to flip student uncertainty to rev up student motivation to understand concepts! SUPeR stands for Student Uncertainty as a Pedogogical Resource. The approach was developed by Drs. Ying-Chih Chen and Michelle Jordan at ASU. Learn tips and tricks for student uncertainty to drive your class!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will understand when to maintain, raise, and lower student uncertainty to keep curiousity driving their classroom. Teachers will learn sensemaking strategies and ways to assess uncertainty in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Rapkiewcz (Mesa Public Schools: Mesa, AZ), Mandy Heal (Mesa Public Schools: Mesa, AZ)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Classrooms: Interactive Equitable Strategies for Three-Dimensional Science Learning

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sensemaking and Three-Dimensional Learning is an important aspect in today's science classrooms. This interactive session provides tools necessary to build engaging lessons for all students. This will include both high and low tech. Examples will stem from NGSS standards and framework.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be provided resources to take back to their schools and/or classrooms ready to implement. Teachers will have a short time to brainstorm and elaborate on their practices and exchange ideas with other educators.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Moss (Instructor/Supervisor: , KS), Meghan Shave (Emporia State University)

STEM Preservice Science Education Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Nurture Their Natural Curiosity (Don’t Extinguish It!)

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Teachers can use students’ natural curiosity to engage their students, teach content areas and process skills, and address standards. Our discrepant-event format uses two setups that allow all students (regardless of background) to identify a problem to be solved and then to solve it.

TAKEAWAYS:
One of the most engaging formats for learning is the discrepant event. The format can generate natural curiosity. If we channel this natural curiosity into learning problem-solving skills, we will nurture these skills, and students will feel comfortable and competent when doing science.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Jean Lynch (North Central College: Naperville, IL), John Zenchak (North Central College: Naperville, IL)

General Science Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Mathematical / Computational Thinking in HS Earth & Life Sciences

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 7


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Computational Thinking, Simulations, and HS Science
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A crosswalk of how to use and embed computer science to teach the three-dimensional standards in high school Earth & Life Sciences.

TAKEAWAYS:
There are 7 standards that specifically call out mathematics and computational thinking in high school Earth and Life sciences; participants will be able to use computer modelling (as referenced in 7 HS standards) to embody all parts of the science standards.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Hurley (Jeffco Public School District: No City, No State), Rachel Nolan (Science Curriculum Specialist: Golden, CO), Kathryn Yelenick (STEM Coordinator: , CO)

Earth & Space Science Computer Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Making Sense of Modeling: Exploring how to use modeling to help student sense-making in an NGSS Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come see a model of modeling! Engage in an Earth Science and a Biology activity, experience how models can be used to help student sense-making, and reflect on how to improve modeling in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how modeling can be used to improve student sensemaking of science concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Lily Fettkether (Ms.: Dunkerton, IA), Janell Wright (Waterloo Schools: No City, No State), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Connecting to The Night Sky: Using Space to Teach Your Students Important STEM Concepts

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
3D CONSTELLATION MODELS.pdf
3D CONSTELLATIONS - EACH ONE WILL HAVE A DIFFERENT SCALE FACTOR IF THE LONGEST STRING (CLOSEST STAR) IS THE SAME LENGTH FOR ALL.
CONNECTING TO THE NIGHT SKY - RESOURCES NSTA.pdf
LINKS TO MATERIALS AND RESOURCES FROM PRESENTATION
GlobeAtNightSampleActivity.pdf
2024 Globe at Night sample and Sky Exploration for Northern Hemisphere Winter into Spring.
HRdiagramSTARsample.pdf
This is a sample introducing students to the HR Diagram where they will place on wall diagram, observe patterns, and get their star for future work.
MARSVenusConjunction2024.pdf
TEMPLATE FOR OBSERVATIONS FROM HOME FOR KIDS - CONJUNCTION FROM 2024 MARS/VENUS
NSTAConnectingtotheNightSkyPresentationSlides.pdf
Slide Presentation: Connecting to the Night Sky
SLOOH1.sampleposters.pdf
Sample posters from Slooh from a variety of "Quests"
SLOOH2.sampleposters.pdf
SLOOH sample posters from a variety of "Quests"
StarProjectGradeSheet.pdf
Rubric for Star Project based on the star from the H/R Diagram activity.
UniverseInUs.pdf
Post Cards for Students to complete after the video on The Universe in Us (link on reference sheet).
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Want to teach students STEM concepts as they discover the wonders of space? Want to engage them in collaborative, discovery-based learning? Hear from a fellow educator and Space Foundation International Teacher Liaison about how you can immerse students in astronomical learning throughout the year.

TAKEAWAYS:
During this presentation, middle and high school educators will learn best practices and strategies for making space exploration an embedded part of their science curriculum. This session shows how to connect students to the sky using real-world science and technologies.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Hanover (Davila Middle School: Bryan, TX)

Earth & Space Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Let's Talk Climate Science with CLEAN Resources!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

STEM educator, Heidi Ragsdale will introduce the Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN) Collection of reviewed educational resources for teaching about climate and energy. Educator participants will learn how to search the CLEAN Collection and participate in Climate Trivia.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will know how to access grade and content level Climate and Energy resources for direct implementation within classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Ragsdale (STEM Professional Development: Grand Junction, CO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Building an Aquarium: Merging protected individual ideas to develop an expansive shared immersive experience

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Follow a prekindergarten journey to design a shared immersive experience bringing together the school community. Participants will play with loose parts to deepen our relationships with the natural world alongside children.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will consider how to deepen adult and child relationships with the natural world.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Zimbelman (Mentor Advisor: Boulder, CO)

Environmental Science Earth & Space Science Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Building Embodied Intuition for Science Graphs with Smartphone Motion Games

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn science on your feet! Move your body to match a motion graph and scaffold students’ sensemaking about linear and parabolic functions. This activity uses your body, a wall, and a modern smartphone with a free app developed with the support of the National Science Foundation (#2114586).

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn (1) evidence-based pedagogical strategies for introducing students to the representation of rates of change (of motion) on graphs and (2) how to use a freely-available smartphone app to support those pedagogies.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen Megowan-Romanowicz (American Modeling Teachers Association), Rebecca Vieyra (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Physical Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A Crash-Course in Meteorite Science: What You Need To Know About the Amazing, Mind-Boggling, and Potentially Scary World of Meteorites and Asteroids!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

There is no shortage of jaw-dropping discoveries made from meteorites. Known as the “poor man’s space probe” most meteorites come from the asteroid belt. Now that we have actual material from a known asteroid we better sharpen up about meteorite science, because we’re going to need it.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the exciting history and evolution of meteorites science through meteorite falls and discoveries. 500 years ago to the most recent meteoritic events, the science just keeps pouring out of these enigmatic rocks from space. Meteorites are the foundation for sample-return missions.

SPEAKERS:
Martin Horejsi (University of Montana: Missoula, MT)

Earth & Space Science Chemistry General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Developing Engaged, Future-Ready Science Learners: Emphasizing Explorations, Sensemaking, Essential Skills, & Effective Use of Innovative Technology Tools

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Attendees will actively engage with innovative devices; learning strategies to teach data collection and analysis; engineering design processes; robotics; and engaging ways to apply coding and AI to make devices “work”, adding rigor and complexity as learners gain skills and understanding.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to design accessible learning experiences using innovative devices; helping students learn essential science concepts; data collection and analysis; engineering design processes; robotics; and how to add rigor and complexity as learners gain skills and understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell (Educational and Technology Consultant: Prairie Village, KS)

STEM Engineering Robotics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

An AVALANCHE of STEM Ideas!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science and math are the “bookends” of STEM education. Integrating science and math should be seamless, natural, and painless. Come join the fun as we collect and analyze an AVALANCHE of data as we work together to make hands-on, inquiry-based instruction one of your go-to strategies!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience the power of having students collect and analyze their own data, while learning strategies for the effective science-math integration and collaborative instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Lukens (Retired Science Teacher: Sioux Falls, SD)

General Science Biology Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Tools for Picturing Climate Change as Simple, Serious, and Solvable

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

The science of climate change is simple to learn but serious for communities. Yet, it is solvable! Through role-playing, attendees will engage in an NGSS-aligned lesson for high school or college students centered on visualizing climate change from diverse cultural and economic perspectives.

TAKEAWAYS:
The Simple, Serious, Solvable model makes the teaching of climate change engaging, relevant, and accessible to students and teachers in diverse settings. Teachers across science content areas can adapt this NGSS-aligned lesson that focuses on drawing, role-playing, self-evaluation, and discussion.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Denning (Professor: Fort Collins, CO), Elizabeth Diaz-Clark (PhD Student: Fort Collins, CO), Meena Balgopal (Colorado State University: Fort Collins, CO)

Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NARST-Sponsored - Making NGSS-Alignment Easier and More Effective

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Making NGSS-Alignment Easier and More Effective (NARST)
Presentation for workshop on how NGSS alignment & implementation can be balanced with the daily challenges of teaching.
Packet 4.1 - Ecosystems Unit
Sample curriculum from Waterford, WI used for presentation to show how the instructional model balances NGSS-alignment/implementation with classroom realities.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

NGSS alignment is quite challenging for most teachers. We have designed open-source materials that achieved NGSS-aligned outcomes for 80-90% of students while reducing the challenges of instruction. We will guide participants through example materials that support NGSS implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees of this session will leave with specific strategies and options to improve NGSS alignment without significantly adding to the day-to-day burden of classroom instruction. This will also broaden their understanding of the goals and objectives of NGSS alignment.

SPEAKERS:
Craig Kohn (Waterford Union High School: Waterford, WI), Abigail Helmke (Biology teacher: , WI)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Selecting High Quality Science Picture Books that Center Justice, Equity, and Inclusion

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Come learn how to use the Justice, Equity, and Inclusion in Science Picture Books Checklist to select high-quality picture books for your classroom. In this interactive workshop, participants practice using the checklist and discuss takeaways. Several picture books will be raffled to participants.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants learn about a tool to analyze science picture books they select that center justice, equity, and inclusion. Participants practice using the tool with recently published picture books, analyze the value of the tool, and discuss how they can integrate it in their teaching environments.

SPEAKERS:
Ingrid Carter (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO), Caitlin Fine (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO)

Equity General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Deriving Newton's 2nd Law using the 3-Dimensions

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

See how students can use carts and tracks to determine the cause and effect relationships in Newton’s 2nd law through gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data. Briefly learn how technology-mediated lesson study has helped rural science teachers collaborate to design 3 dimensional lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
In one class period, students can gather, analyze, and interpret data to derive Newton’s 2nd Law by testing the cause-and-effect relationship of force and mass on acceleration.

SPEAKERS:
Douglas Morris (Carbon High School: Price, UT), Joshua Stowers (Brigham Young University: Provo, UT)

Physics Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

AUTHOR: Unpacking the Crosscutting Concepts with a new NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the Three Dimensions

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This new version of the Quick-Reference Guide (aka The Purple Book) is a must-have reference tool for working with NGSS and other Framework-based, 3D standards. This session will review the features of the book and show how to use the tools and resources in it to unpack the crosscutting concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to unpack the three dimensions using the tools and resources in the Quick-Reference Guide and will gain insights into the meaning of the crosscutting concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Willard (Discovery Education: Silver Spring, MD)

General Science Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

CAST: Blurring Preservice and Inservice Professional STEM Learning

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

This session is a panel discussion about an innovative partnership. Panelists include teachers and district staff from the innovation zone within a highly diverse urban school district, and preservice teachers and faculty from a teacher preparation scholarship program at an urban commuter university.

TAKEAWAYS:
This interactive session will serve as an exchange about ideas for both preservice and inservice professional learning that is focused on closing STEM opportunity gaps. Session attendees will have ample time to interact with panelists.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Perez (Brighton 27j School District: Brighton, CO), Mahexabel Garcia Nunez (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO), Janelle Johnson (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO)

Preservice Science Education Equity STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science Has to Have Story — But How Do You Get It In There?

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Our brains and our students' brains are programmed to engage with stories. This is true not only for the stories of STEM discoveries and history but also for broader applications. Engagement, understanding, and even classroom culture all benefit when the instructor becomes the storyteller.

TAKEAWAYS:
Come learn how to find, cultivate, create, and deliver the stories embedded within your content area with a published author and 16-year science educator. Also, learn techniques for adding story where it might not seem apparent and building the story of your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Matt Brady (Atkins High School: Winston-Salem, NC)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Muddy Boots and Natural Beauty: Exploring Wetland Restorations with Elementary Students

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wetland Wonderland: an Interactive Museum
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn how one school implemented a science-based, service learning program that takes elementary students into our local wetlands and brings the Science and Engineering Practices to life.

TAKEAWAYS:
1.) Learn how to establish mutually beneficial local partnerships that support science instruction; 2.) Discover how to encourage students to problem-solve local issues and take action in their communities; and 3.) Walk away with ideas and strategies for taking learning beyond the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Sevin (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

Environmental Science Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

STEAM Strategies Empowering English Learners and Culturally Linguistically Diverse Students with Disabilities

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusive practices through STEAM / STEM instruction. Future educators demonstrate culturally diverse STEAM strategies that enable teachers to effectively instruct and empower culturally/linguistically diverse English Learners and English Learners with disabilities.

TAKEAWAYS:
See examples of STEAM strategies and curriculum materials designed for instruction of Culturally Linguistically Diverse English Learners (ELs) and English Learners with disabilities. Replicate materials and teaching strategies for EL students and diverse learners with disabilities in your communities.

SPEAKERS:
Alma Sandigo (Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ), Patricia Peterson (Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ)

STEM Equity Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Hot & Cheap – Great Classroom STEM Activities!

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Hot & Cheap - STEM - Denver 2024 .pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Test some heat-treated metal samples; practice your math skills and artistry with a STEAM activity; work in groups for an engineering challenge! There’s a little something for everyone and we won’t judge anyone for wanting to be hot and cheap in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
There can be a lot of fun learning and STEM possibiltiies with cheap, accessible materials, application of heat, and a little creativity. Teachers will leave with a number of ideas useful for all levels of high school classroom: chemistry, physics, physical science, math practice, and engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Spohler (Global Impact STEM Academy: Springfield, OH), Briana Richardson (Washington High School: Washington Court House, OH)

Physical Science Chemistry Engineering Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Enhancing Student Engagement in STEM: A Model for Connecting Engineering Research to Elementary and Middle School Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

The Colleges of Education & Engineering at URI and UCONN developed a model to enhance student engagement in STEM classrooms and introduce a variety of college & career opportunities across engineering disciplines. Consider implementing a similar model and access project resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about a model for connecting engineering research to classroom learning without adding more to teachers’ plates. Access resources to share with teachers, including video and instructional materials that align to the NGSS and engage students in scenario-based tasks using data from current research.

SPEAKERS:
Caroline Stabile (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Christopher Cochran (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), John Koziatek (University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Valerie Maier-Speredelozzi (University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Kelly Houle (The University of Rhode Island: NARRAGANSETT, RI)

Leadership Engineering STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Money For Your Ideas

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come ready to learn about how the Toshiba America Foundation wants to work together with teachers who are looking for a better way of doing the right thing through engagement in STEM action projects.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with resources to apply for mini grants for use in local community action projects in the K-12 educational setting.

SPEAKERS:
Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Science notebooks as tools for guiding instruction around students’ ideas

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1La9Ik5CLuX_LdIoMwcg2HR6-xOPom9Av/view?usp=sharing
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Schools and districts seeking to implement 3D instructional practices that support all students need assessments that elicit evidence of students’ thinking. We will introduce practices for using science notebooks as resources to guide instruction that supports students and their growing ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers and leaders will experience, see examples, and learn practices for leveraging science notebooks as informal assessments of students’ 3D thinking and for using them to drive sensemaking practices that support all students.

SPEAKERS:
Jill Grace (K-12 Alliance/WestEd: San Marcos, CA), Jill Wertheim (WestEd: San Francisco, CA)

Sensemaking Assessment Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Empowering Science Leaders: Leveraging Asset-Based Approaches to Teaching Science and Engineering Practices

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Asset Based Approaches to Teaching Science and Engineering
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Immerse yourself in current trends and insights for inclusive learning, paving the way for leading inclusive, empowering, and identity-affirming science education with an asset based approach to learner variability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Embrace students' diverse funds of knowledge and identities to enrich science and engineering education. Integrate Zaretta Hammonds' Positive Feedback framework, respect identities, and employ multiple means of representation and expression for inclusive, effective learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Munoz (STEM4Real: No City, No State), Rosanna Ayers (UC Merced)

Equity General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

From Struggle to Success: Reading Strategies in the Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Attack that Word: Reviewing Decoding Strategies
Reading strategy for breaking down complex words. Though this in an elementary setting, it can very well be adjusted for all grade levels. This is an awesome way to help struggling readers to "attack" very tough science terminology.
Can we Afford to Ignore the Science of Reading? | Melissa Hostetter | TEDxUofISp
Video about research on how reading is taught in schools today.
Chris Emdin - Creating Magic
Video that was unable to be shown during presentation
PDF Presentation
Here is a simplified copy of my slides from the presentation. Thank you so much for attending. Feel free to reach out for more!
Teaching & Being Rachetdemic | Christopher Emdin | TEDxBerkeley
Christopher Emdin reveals how he aims to bridge the seemingly disparate worlds of the ivory tower and the hood in his talk, "Teaching & Being Ratchetdemic." Highlighting the major inequities in urban education, Dr. Emdin argues in favor of a simple solution: that being “ratchetdemic,” or both ratchet and academic (like having rap battles about science) can empower students to embrace themselves, their background, and their education. Christopher Emdin is Professor and Program Director of Science
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Reading proficiency is tied to academic success. Teaching various reading and testing strategies while using high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and innovative technology can help students overcome their challenges with comprehension and vocabulary acquisition.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to use reading strategies coupled with technology to help all students develop ways to navigate grade-level, challenging text. How creating a classroom culture can cultivate an environment conducive for welcoming and increasing literacy in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Leslie White (Duval County Public Schools: Jacksonville, FL)

Literacy Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

“AI”deas: Strategies for Using AI Tools for Professional Development and Classroom Practice

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 - Forsythe - AIdeas PPT
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Artificial intelligence is changing the game and soon will be commonplace in your students’ lives. Come explore ways to effectively use AI tools such as ChatGPT to enhance your professional development and teaching practice, as well as where AI can lead you and your students astray.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will be able to describe how AI tools such as ChatGPT work; use AI to build their professional knowledge and generate lesson ideas, such as how to adapt activities to local phenomenon; and recognize the limitations of AI tools in areas such as safety and questioning strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Forsythe (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Technology General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Using Games & Community Engagement to Empower Youth to Create a Resilient Future to Climate-Fueled Hazards; Wildfire, Flood, & Drought

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Wildfire, floods, and drought are becoming more severe; the impacts are most heavily felt by frontline communities. Experience an NGSS-driven curriculum that explores the science of hazards and engages students with scenario-based role-play games and community action projects to build resilience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be introduced to free units that use Colorado-based data and games to empower students to help their community be more resilient to climate-related hazards. Veteran teachers will share stories about actions they have taken with their students and communities using the curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Christensen (Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences: Boulder, CO), Krystal Brown (Teacher: Gunnison, CO), Mike Munoz (Teacher: No City, No State), Jamie Breitner (Teacher: Littleton, CO), Katya Schloesser (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Environmental Science Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

OpenSciEd High School: How did polar bears evolve and what will happen to them as their environment changes?

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Explore OpenSciEd's Common Ancestry & Speciation Unit. Investigate how coevolution between organisms and Earth's systems has occured in the past and what will happen in the furture.

TAKEAWAYS:
Support students in using SEPs and CCC to figure out big ideas in life and Earth science.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Biology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Where Does Your Water Come From and Where Does it Go?

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

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A look to the water source of your place; the flow and distribution of water, and how water was an integral part of indigenous cultures. Examples of the interaction and interdependence of water in a variety of cultural ecosystem settings and society.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will reflect on where their water comes from, it's path, and it's importance in the culture of their place, their surrounding indigenous practices, and compare their water source with global communities.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberley Norris-Jones (Richland Northeast Hs: Columbia, SC), Diane Tom-Ogata (W. R. Farrington High School: Honolulu, HI)

Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

STEM-Based Activities for Young Ecologists

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Discover empowering activities for elementary students to use their STEM skills to learn more about people’s relationship to the natural environment and ways to work toward a healthy planet. Raise environmental literacy while collecting and analyzing data, creating a carbon sink model, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn hands-on classroom activities to build students’ STEM skills while fostering environmental stewardships and empowering students on positive ways to impact their environment.

SPEAKERS:
Barbara Huth (Online Learning Manager: Washington, DC)

Earth & Space Science General Science Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Do You Feel the Pressure? A Python is Squeezing Data Out of a Micro:bit

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Do You Feel the Pressure NSTA.pptx
Pressure Handout.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Come have fun collecting real data to investigate the relationship between altitude and pressure using a micro:bit and a Grove sensor. We will walk through the Python code, collect the data, and investigate the relationship through the mathematical models, squeezing as much as we can out of our work.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience the marriage of science and mathematics by using the micro:bit and a Grove sensor to collect real pressure data to analyze. We will spend time creating and using mathematical models so that we can better understand the relationship between altitude and pressure.

SPEAKERS:
Adam Pennell (Professor of Mathematics: , NC)

Earth & Space Science Computer Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

What Does This Source Say About Science? Using Historical Primary Sources at the Library of Congress to Challenge Misconceptions about the Nature of Science

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Activity 2 Complexity Space Race Excerpts PDF.pdf
Powerpoint Slides
X-Ray Case Study
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Learn how historical primary sources can be paired with guided questions and analysis to challenge misconceptions about the nature of science. Join us for this workshop to experience how the free, digitized resources from the Library of Congress can lead students to more authentic views of science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to access millions of free digitized primary sources and practice inquiry-based strategies that challenge misconceptions about who does science and what that looks like, and provide surprising historical evidence that illustrates the evolving practice of science.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Apfeldorf (Library of Congress: Washington, DC), Kelsey Beeghly (Einstein Fellow: Altamonte Springs, FL)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using Hyper-Local Air Quality Data to Anchor an Environmental Chemistry/Policy Unit: Teacher and Student Hat

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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This workshop provides an overview of a 2 week project-based learning unit that empowers students to advocate for legislation that will improve local air quality. Teachers will create scaffolds to support student-authored policy briefs that address equity in considering the needs of communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
We can advocate for policy changes that will address some of the sources or sinks of air pollutants to improve our community’s health. By understanding air quality in our community, we can present solutions that meet our needs and address historical and modern inequities.

SPEAKERS:
Amber Eglund (Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment: Denver, CO), Madelyn Percy (Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment: Denver, CO)

Environmental Science Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Exoplanet Atmospheres with NSF’s NOIRLab

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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NSF’s NOIRLab’s Teen Astronomy Café – To Go! program brings the excitement of scientific discovery to students by providing them with an opportunity to explore astronomical data using Python Notebooks. Join us as we unpack educator resources and explore exoplanet atmospheres. Laptops are encouraged.

TAKEAWAYS:
By exploring the "Teen Astronomy Café – To Go!" program designed to support the NGSS, participants will learn about the resources available to introduce Python in their classrooms and help students develop critical thinking and data literacy skills through the simulation of astronomical phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Newhouse (Manager, AZ Education & Engagement: Tucson, AZ), Robert Sparks (NSF's NOIRLab), Fernanda Urrutia (NSF's NOIRLab: Tucson, AZ)

Earth & Space Science STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Evaluating Lessons for Sensemaking Using the NSTA Sensemaking Tool

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Do you or the educators you work with have questions about what science teaching and learning look like in classrooms implementing your state standards? Join us for a session where you will receive support to lead this module using classroom video of contemporary research-based teaching in action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will build an understanding of sensemaking and receive a toolkit to lead this session with other educators.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Mathews (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Sensemaking Equity General Science Hands-On Workshop

Analyzing Formative Assessment Responses to Surface and Respond to a Range of Student Thinking about Science Concepts

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Facet Analysis Sample of Student Work (1)
Facet Analysis Sample of Student Work (2)
Leadership Session 1 Materials: Analyzing Formative Assessment Responses to Surf
STEM Teaching Tool 15 Equity Overview
STEM Teaching Tool 37 Beyond Misconceptions
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Students bring a range of intellectual resources—based on their unique life experiences—into the classroom as they learn science. These resources can be considered different “facets” of thinking. Teachers explore a protocol for identifying and attending to facets through formative assessments.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will help participants: analyze cognitive formative assessment responses to surface the range of student thinking about science topics and concepts, guide instruction based on that diversity of student ideas, and design formative assessment tasks to support equitable 3D instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Tiffany Neill (Research Scientist: Oklahoma City, OK), Ricky Scott (Tooele County School District)

Assessment Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Designing Solutions to Preserve Biodiversity with New HHMI BioInteractive Resources

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Students can be change-makers! We’ll model using BioInteractive resources including Wild Hope, a new film series, to engage students in developing solutions for restoring biodiversity.

SPEAKERS:
Paul Strode (Fairview High School: Boulder, CO), Ann Brokaw (Rocky River High School: Rocky River, OH)

Life Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

DNA Forensics Solves the Murder Mystery of Dr. Ward

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Hair, fingerprints, and DNA evidence are left behind at the scene of a murder. Can you use them to find Dr. Ward's killer? Your students will love being the crime scene investigators while learning how to use electrophoresis to perform DNA analysis in a single classroom period. Come learn how!

SPEAKERS:
Mallorie Parks (Crandall ISD: Crandall, TX)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Conserving Panda populations through understanding their reproductive endocrinology.

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: Bio-Rad Laboratories

Can your students save the Giant Pandas? See how your students tackle topics like homeostatic regulation, effect of reproductive hormones, immunological responses and ecosystem balance as they engineer a hormone detection system that can be utilized for Giant Panda population conservation efforts.

SPEAKERS:
Damon Tighe (Bio-Rad Laboratories: Hercules, CA)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Biotech Breakthrough! Biotechnology Accessibility Through 3D Models and Design Challenges

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Empower all your students to unlock the secrets of enzyme specificity through biotech engineering design challenges, using dynamic physical models and student-created models.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Arnholt (3D Molecular Designs: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Hands-on Experiments for Middle School Science

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Middle Schoolers lover Hands-on Science! Flinn Scientific presents a variety of easy to perform and exciting demonstrations. Come see Flinn’s new demonstrations and some of your old favorites—all guaranteed to make your science classroom come alive. Handouts provided for all.

SPEAKERS:
Jillian Saddler (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

General Science Chemistry Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

BIOZONE launches BIOZONE WORLD, a stunning new science content delivery platform.

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: BIOZONE Corporation

Discover BIOZONE’s new platform that combines digital replicas of our highly acclaimed print titles together with Presentation Slides , 3D models, and curated videos - thereby providing powerful options for delivering your high school science programs. Attendees each receive a FREE 1-year licence.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Stilwell (BIOZONE Corp.: Parker, CO)

General Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 6: Explore the Ocean, Weather, Climate Connections with Teek & Tom, NOAA’s New Animated Series and Lesson Plans

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teek and Tom Workshop
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Teek and Tom Explore Planet Earth, investigates the relationship between the ocean, weather and climate on global to local scales. This workshop introduces ten hands-on activities for upper ES and MS students to reinforce Earth science concepts related to oceanography, meteorology and climate.

SPEAKERS:
Peggy Steffen (Curriculum Writer: West Liberty, IA), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

Environmental Science Climate Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Discovering Lemur Diversity: A gel electrophoresis lab to teach conservation genetics through an authentic case study

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Bring molecular techniques to Ecology and Evolution units. Join an expedition to Madagascar to decide if an extinct lemur species has been rediscovered! Test DNA with gel electrophoresis, build phylogenetic trees, and analyze authentic field data from the Duke Lemur Center.

SPEAKERS:
Rose Chaffee-Cohen (miniPCR bio: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

The Zombie Apocalypse: Surviving the Science of Outbreaks

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Engage middle and high school students in a thrilling exploration of disease transmission using the zombie apocalypse scenario! Zombies offer a captivating lens to understand how diseases spread through a population. Join us for this session that makes the science of contagion both exciting and informative, turning the undead into a powerful education tool.

SPEAKERS:
Erick Archer (Texas Instruments: Dallas, TX)

Biology Life Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Neuroscience Lesson Showcase

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: Society for Neuroscience

This workshop offers an opportunity for teachers to explore a new neuroscience curriculum designed for third through sixth grade students. The curriculum encompasses lessons aimed at improving academic performance and increasing mental health literacy among students.

SPEAKERS:
Carolann Berns (Society for Neuroscience: Washington, DC)

STEM Life Science Literacy Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Talking and Doing STEM

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

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Sponsoring Company: Imagine Learning

Discuss strategies to support STEM classroom experiences that position all students as thinkers and problem-solvers, reflect on peer experiences as you consider your own implementation of ideas that ensure the inclusion of all learners in authentic STEM focused tasks, and identify success criteria.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Biadasz (Senior Product Marketing Manager: Scottsdale, AZ)

STEM Computer Science General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Crash Cushion Design Challenge: A Lesson on Collisions

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Engage students in a real-world engineering challenge! Learn how students can design and test crash barriers with live collision data to explore the link between momentum and impact forces. Analyze the resulting data to improve upon further design iterations.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Engineering Physical Science Physics Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

But Does It Work? Key Takeaways from Research for Your Classroom Instruction

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Amplify Science

How do we know if the science instructional materials we’re using will lead to student learning gains? Explore the teacher moves and student investigations in the approach developed by UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science that are proven effective to lead to positive impact on science learning.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanna Loper (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Daniel Alcazar-Roman (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Leslie Stenger (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Earth and Space Science: Using Models to Teach Climate Change and the Big Bang Theory

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Participants will examine how models can be used to drive understanding of complex concepts. Tree ring data will be used as an example of a line of evidence to support climate models and a balloon model will be used to support universe expansion.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal Risko (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Effective Literacy and Writing Strategies in the Science Classroom (Grades K-5)

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Come learn how to use effective literacy strategies so that students can better understand science content. Student understanding and critical-thinking skills will improve with these techniques. Join our constructivist approach that promotes literacy in the science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Thompson (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Sparking Curiosity: Hands-On Experiments for Elementary Students

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Inspire your students’ curiosity about the world around them through hands-on activities using Vernier Go Direct® sensors. See how age-appropriate, sensor-based experiments teach students about data collection and analysis, encourage inquiry, build STEM literacy, and boost test scores.

SPEAKERS:
Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

General Science STEM Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Motion Three Ways: Experiments with the New Vernier Cart Fan

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Investigate force and motion with the new Vernier Cart Fan accessory! Attendees will collect force, acceleration, and velocity data by adding these easy-to-use, modular fans to our wireless Sensor Carts. Explore three different Newton’s second law lessons that you can use in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Physics STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Growing 3D Learning: Easy and engaging five-day strategies for teaching with Wisconsin Fast Plants

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Join us for an engaging MS/HS hands-on workshop full of ideas & resources for using Fast Plants as model organisms to teach environmental / agricultural / biological science content, CCCS, and SEPs. Get “how-to” tips and 3 investigations, including lesson plans and companion Open Source resources.

SPEAKERS:
Hedi Lauffer (Director of Teaching & Learning)

Biology Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Lion Family Reunion: Conservation Biology Genetics

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Edvotek

Wildlife conservators often return captive-bred animals to their native habitats to rewild the area. In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore the use of RFLP analysis and phylogenetics in conservation biology to analyze the DNA samples of two lions. Can we return them to their ancestral home?

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Snowflack, PhD (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC), Tom Cynkar (Edvotek Inc.: Washington, DC)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Modeling the Human Body

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Students use diagrams to create a 3D clay model of some of the organs and structures in the human torso. The concepts of structure and function are introduced as students begin to think about how the organs can be grouped into body systems based on their function within the human body.

SPEAKERS:
Ed Miller (Selden Middle School: Centereach, NY)

Life Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

The Fusion of Science and Language through Smithsonian Science for the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Join our interactive science workshop where literacy meets exploration! Immerse yourself in a world of discovery as we blend scientific concepts with the power of language. Through engaging activities, see how students will not only unravel the wonders of science but also enhance their literacy skills. Leave with classroom resources.

SPEAKERS:
Hoover Herrera (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC), Sarah Glassman (Smithsonian Science Education Center: Washington, DC)

Literacy General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Using Phenomena Throughout a Unit to Support Sensemaking

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: InnerOrbit

In this session we’ll provide concrete strategies to use throughout each of your units to help students engage with phenomena and sensemaking consistently, so they can more confidently approach the phenomena-driven tests or new units of instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Giulia Mota (InnerOrbit: Thousand Oaks, CA), Brendan Finch (InnerOrbit: No City, No State)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Shifting to a 3D Elementary Science Learning Environment

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Come join us to look at helping elementary students shift from learning about to figuring out. Meaningful conversations and ideas about what that might look like with 3-dimensional teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Tracy Marmolejo (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT), Jen Gutierrez (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

Biology General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

10 Minute Models for Anatomy & Physiology

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

Join us for this hands-on session. We will make low-cost, time efficient models you can easily pre-assemble or that your student will enjoy building for an active learning experience.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Espinoza (Savvas Learning Co.: , United States)

Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Letting Children Lead Investigation and Design with COESEE

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Children Lead Investigation Design
Rise & Thrive with Science https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/26853/rise-and-thrive-with-science-teaching-pk-5-science-and
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Elementary-age children come to science learning with expansive resources that we must leverage for sensemaking. Their brilliance unfolds when we create and maintain space for them to lead investigation and design opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through an elem science example, focus on how elem. science learning changes when students lead.

SPEAKERS:
Carla Zembal-Saul (Penn State: University Park, PA), Mary Starr (Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network)

Sensemaking Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

All Sides Being Equal: Exploring Isometric Drawing Through the Lens of Equity

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Attendees will employ engineering drawing techniques to draw a cube isometrically and extend that new skill to draw a cube puzzle built during the workshop using orthographic projections. This exercise will be used to illustrate equity building opportunities within classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Drawing isometrically allows us to create a different 2d representation of a cube where all sides are measurably equal, employing a model that better represents our actual lived experience and understanding of geometric shapes and strengthens spatial reasoning skills.

SPEAKERS:
Cheryl LG Riedel (Lester J Gates, Scituate Public Schools)

Engineering Equity STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Leadership: Perspectives for Science Teachers

Friday, March 22 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Members of this panel discussion will respond to questions about their experiences as leaders by and for sciences. Perspectives may include: goals, plans, mentors, equity relationships, and the courage to lead.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the importance of advocacy, modeling, collaborating, and providing professional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Rodger Bybee (Retired Executive Director, BSCS: Golden, CO), Jim Short (Carnegie Corporation of New York: New York, NY), Dora Kastel (New Visions for Public Schools: New York, NY), Maya Garcia (Colorado Dept. of Education: Denver, CO)

Leadership Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning Through Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: Change Management

Friday, March 22 • 9:45 AM - 11:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Curriculum implementation requires significant planning so that systems support the needed shifts in practice to strengthen science teaching and learning. Join us to figure out how leading change–an important element of curriculum-based professional learning–can make a difference.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders can create a culture that is conducive to the significant changes in knowledge, beliefs, and practices required to support the implementation of high-quality instructional materials designed for next generation science.

SPEAKERS:
Janna Mahfoud (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Jenine Cotton-Proby (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Jody Bintz (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Hands-On Workshop

NSTA Early Childhood and Elementary Science Committee

Friday, March 22 • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Sandstone (4th floor)

Show Details

Working meeting for the NSTA Early Childhood and Elementary Science Committee. Early childhood and elementary educators are welcome to join us if they are interested in learning about this NSTA standing committee and the work we do.

General Science Informal Education Meeting

Science and Math: A Match made in the Stars

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
1st Grade Snowflake Math and Science Lesson
3rd Grade Fibonacci Lesson
3rd Grade Fibonacci sheet
4th Grade Sound Waves Lesson
5th grade chemical reactions
5th grade observation Sheet
8th Grade Graphing with the Stars
Kindergarten Snowflake Math and Science Lesson
Math & Science Collaboration Presentation
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session is a hands on presentation to highlight the lessons we use to integrate math and science in a fun way but that follows grade level standards. Participants will walk away with student sheets and experience the activities for themselves.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will takeaway ideas on how to get to all the standards in math and science by combining standards into integrated and fun lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Newburger (Tappan Zee High School: Orangeburg, NY), Samantha Levine (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY)

STEM General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Improv to Improve Communication in the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Have you or your students ever groaned at the thought of yet another ice-breaker activity? Fear not! In this session, discover fun ways to utilize your students' (and your own) creativity to lead meaningful practice in communication using improvisation skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Be ready to go back to your classroom with tools and techniques to build a more communicative, inclusive environment. Practice guiding students (maybe other teachers and admin too!) through activities that will enhance communication skills.

SPEAKERS:
Shelly Grandell (Assistant Director of Education and Outreach: Madison, WI)

Leadership Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Cultivating Science Identity While Embedding Science and Engineering Practices

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Science, you either love it or hate it! Come learn how to build your students' science identity throughout the year in tandem with the science and engineering practices, so your students see themselves as scientists in your classroom and beyond.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to continually build science identity within their classrooms throughout the year.

SPEAKERS:
Whitney McCormick (Alliance College Ready Public Schools: Los Angeles, CA), Sheena Velasquez (Alliance College-Ready Public Schools: Los Angeles, CA)

Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

PRESS: Using Uncovering Student Ideas Formative Assessment Probes for Responsive Instruction

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The best teaching relies on the best evidence: how students think about core ideas in science and understanding where their ideas come from. Learn how this leads to responsive instruction that builds a bridge from where students are to where they need to be.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to effectively use formative assessment probes from the NSTA Uncovering Student Ideas series for responsive assessment and instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: No City, No State)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Dark Matter in the Bullet Cluster? Using Web-Based NASA Data and STEM Image Analysis Tools

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://chandra.si.edu/js9/
js9 website
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ktyeqkiaa1qXKbqW2uLmi4G7rujp7HuzkjYu9B03AUY/edit?usp=sharing
powerpoint
The Bullet Cluster v4.docx
student handout
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Use STEM web-based analysis software and real data to examine the Bullet Cluster, 1E 0657-56, in various bands of the electromagnetic spectrum for evidence of dark matter.

TAKEAWAYS:
JS9 web-based software provides students with real opportunities to do astronomical research.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Perry (Lewiston High School: Lewiston, ME)

Earth & Space Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Creative Engineering Design: Engaging Students in Equity- and Sustainability-Focused Engineering

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Creative Engineering Design Workshop
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Creative Engineering Design is a classroom-tested, ready-to-teach, hands-on introductory engineering curriculum that highlights concepts of the NSF-funded ASPIRE Engineering Research Center, which aims to make equitable and sustainable widespread electric vehicle-based transportation a reality.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore the Creative Engineering Design free resources and starter kit to engage your students in understanding the connections between engineering and environmental justice through real-world engineering applications of electric vehicle technology to improve health and quality of life for all.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Taylor (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Jennifer Ramos-Chavez (University of Texas at El Paso: El Paso, TX)

Engineering Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Investigating the Urban Heat Island Effect with Student Scientists

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

The most intensely-developed urban neighborhoods tend to be significantly warmer than areas that have more green space and less pavement. We will explore this phenomenon and consider how to use it as a meaningful avenue for students to become citizen scientists and environmental justice activists.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a combination of satellite and student-collected data, we'll discuss strategies to support students working to investigate the temperature variation in an urban area, utilize data to identify neighborhoods at risk, and evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation efforts.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Slack (I.S. 223 Montauk Intermediate School: Brooklyn, NY)

Climate Science Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Collaboration Over Compliance: How to Effectively Engage Students in an Interactive Science Classroom Through Student Decision-Making

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

What are some simple ways to better engage your students in science learning? How can you get your students to work with you, rather than against you? In this hands-on presentation, we will demonstrate numerous strategies you can use to improve student decision-making and collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Exploring principles for student decision-making through engaging in meaningful science activities.

SPEAKERS:
Ramy Mahmoud (Savvas Learning Co.: Paramus, NJ), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Sensemaking Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Electromagnetic Spectrum in the 21st centur

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/184z418eBbeoaCqUC1CxvauKMQOSHvTgo
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Using coding in the science classroom, attendees will see how to put meaning to electromagnetic spectrum calculations homework. Using technology and coding attendees will see how they can make the calculations of frequency, energy, and wavelength come to life with sound, colors, and pictures.

TAKEAWAYS:
Bringing meaning to work in the science classroom. Have students interact with the work that we expect from the calculations from the EM spectrum equations.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA), Chris Coker (Camden Fairview High School: Camden, AR)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Summative Assessment of 3 Dimensional Science Performances

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Using 3D science performance tasks to assess student learning requires tools that measure students' engagement with making sense of phenomena. This session provides a set of assessments for each of the science standards and coaches participants on how to develop analogous assessment items.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave the session with a set of assessment items for each of the NGSS standards for the 3-5 grade band and a less-complete set for other grade bands. Participants will learn how to use templates to structure the development of assessment items and experience developing a task.

SPEAKERS:
Juan-Carlos Aguilar (Georgia Dept. of Education: Brookhaven, GA), Brett Moulding (Partnership for Effective Science Teaching and Learning: Ogden, UT)

Assessment General Science Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Food & Cooking to Make Sense of Science: Fresh Cheese

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
See all of our lessons and learn more about us here!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in a hands-on activity and a series of investigations to consider how fresh cheese is made (anf how this relates to science topics like pH and solubility). This activity will be delivered at ~grade 9, but can easily be scaled up or down to accommodate grades 5-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about what components in milk make up curds and how they chemically change during curd formation and get resources that facilitate eliciting student prior knowledge, making observations, asking questions, and constructing claims based on evidence.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Strangfeld (Harvard University: Cambridge, MA)

Chemistry General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Question Formulation Technique (QFT) in the Science Classroom to Help Students Make Sense of a Phenomenon

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xXDPhFNeIfV9D9MhDYCBKN2nyLh97Jiq?usp=sharing
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

QFT helps students formulate questions in order to make sense of a novel phenomenon. Creating opportunities for collaborative learning through student questioning instills a sense of ownership and builds authentic connections with the content. Connections to SEPs and CCCs will be explored.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to implement QFT at any grade level. Examples of various methods to use QFT will be modeled. Ties to SEPs and CCCs will be discussed. In addition, participants will be given resources they can use in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Lynn DiAndrea (Farmingdale School District: Farmingdale, NY), Dr. Kristen Cummings (Farmingdale Union Free School District: Farmingdale, NY)

Sensemaking Equity Preservice Science Education Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using American Museum of Natural History Teaching Resources to Analyze and Interpret Blue Whale Feeding Data

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will use sets of essays and videos to follow the work of marine biologists studying blue whales. A web-based interface gives students the ability to analyze whale dive data to understand how the largest animal that ever lived evolved by eating small crustaceans.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will gain access to materials that provide the backstory for an in-depth data analysis activity that can be used with students. Data includes time series graphs of blue whale dives, and video from forward and backward mounted cameras on the back of a whale.

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

Biology Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Genetic Technologies For Health

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Genetic Tech Investigtions Curriculum Module
Teacher guide, multimedia, and classroom materials for a short module that explores the biochemistry employed by genetic technologies and how they can be used to diagnose a genetic disorder.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Reinforce genetics concepts by exploring the molecular processes technologies employ to understand genetic disorders. Experience an interactive curriculum module that is a window into biochemical processes at different levels from DNA to protein, and the technologies that illuminate them.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to access and use a free, NGSS-friendly curriculum module that helps students gain a deeper understanding of molecular genetics and the ways genetic disorders affect the pathway from DNA to a functioning protein by exploring the biochemical processes that technologies employ to detect a disorder.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Malone (The University of Utah: Salt Lake City, UT)

Biology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using the Patterns Approach to Engage all Students in the NGSS

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 7


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using the Patterns Approach to Engage all Students in the NGSS
Link to presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover a transformative, three-year NGSS curriculum that's equity-focused and engineering-based, including climate science. Adopted in 33+ Northwest districts, this vertically articulated program could revolutionize your high school science program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover a transformative, three-year NGSS curriculum that's equity-focused and engineering-based, including climate science. Adopted in 33+ Pacific Northwest districts.

SPEAKERS:
Matt McCollum (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR), Bradford Hill (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR)

Physics Climate Science Engineering Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Connecting Math and Science Through Technology: Data Analysis Made Easy

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Increase student engagement in analysis and evaluation of real data. Engage students of different ability levels in mathematical models with measurements not previously accessible in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use real data to develop mathematical models and learn how to test your hypothesis by performing an experiment and analyzing your results, combining graphing calculators with handheld sensors to maximize class time.

SPEAKERS:
Karlheinz Haas (Science/Math Instructor, Retired: Tequesta, FL)

Physical Science Mathematics STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Creative Assessment Strategies for STEM Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us to learn engaging and creative assessment strategies for your classroom. Move beyond multiple choice tests and challenge your students to apply their learning in new ways. Learn how you can use Claim-Evidence-Reasoning, EdTech Platforms, Google Forms and more to assess student progress.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn and practice with several creative assessment strategies to assess student learning. The emphasis of these strategies is to get students to apply what they have learned and communicate effectively, while giving teachers quality data on their progress towards learning goals.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Freyschlag (Estes Industries: Penrose, CO)

Assessment General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Soil: More Than What’s Under Your Feet!

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Often overlooked, but key to our survival, soils are vital to sustaining life. What makes this natural resource so special? Join us for an active session that digs into numerous soil science concepts and vetted teaching resources connecting soils to the lives of everyone, everywhere.

TAKEAWAYS:
No matter where one lives, soils are the foundation upon which life exists on Earth. The life that teems below ground supports the life above ground. Understanding the ecosystem services provided by soils requires cross-disciplinary thinking and reveals how vital soils are to our existence.

SPEAKERS:
Missy Holzer (Chatham High School: Chatham, LA)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Inspiring Hope: Teaching Climate Change to Foster Empowerment

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate change impacts are causing distress and anxiety among young people. Join NCSE and CLEAN to practice and engage with strategies that promote hope and empowerment. Participants will receive free teacher-tested lesson plans, storylines, activities, and other classroom resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will walk away with engaging climate change resources that foster a sense of hope. They will learn how to support their students in the face of climate change-induced stress, as well as help students develop social-emotional skills to cope with climate anxiety.

SPEAKERS:
Wendy Johnson (National Center for Science Education: Oakland, CA), Alicia Christensen (Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences: Boulder, CO), Kathryn Boyd (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO), Lin Andrews (National Center for Science Education: Oakland, CA)

Climate Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

CSSS: Building Awareness for Sustainability Education: Identifying and building networks around sustainability-focused learning.

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BASE Framework Session Slides
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Designing and implementing meaningful sustainability-focused learning involves all stake-holders in a community. Join CSSS members as they share their use of the Building Awareness for Sustainability Education (BASE) framework to advance equitable sustainability education in their communities'.

TAKEAWAYS:
Decisions about advancing sustainability education in a region should be made at the local level and include all local stake-holders.

SPEAKERS:
Carol O'Donnell (Smithsonian Science Education Center: Washington, DC), Lori Henrickson (Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Olympia, WA), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA)

Environmental Science Climate Science Equity Presentation

Fostering Scientific Curiosity through the Fusion of Children's Literature and Hands-On Explorations

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session shares resources to create meaningful, integrated learning experiences for young learners. By incorporating trade books tailored for young learners, the session offers insights into how these books can function as catalysts for sparking curiosity and providing pathways for SEPs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn techniques to evaluate science content from trade books and will take away a curated collection of recommended literature and hands-on activity ideas built on science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Parks (Stetson University: Deland, FL)

General Science Literacy STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Roundtable

Gearing up Mechanical Engineering, a PBL!

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Gearing Up Mechanical Engineering
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this demonstration of a middle school mechanical engineering PBL unit, attendee's will build and test the performance of Lego toy cars, evaluate competing designs, and suggest improvements to how they would improve designs. There will be math and writing, and so bring a pencil and a calculator!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will see a demonstration of a full problem-based learning unit outlining a full engineering design cycle for mechanical engineering, and the pedagogy used in lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Brabant (STEM Lab: Northglenn, CO)

Engineering Mathematics Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Values Analysis of State Science Standards

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

As science educators and PhD students, the facilitators will present a research project they are working on to uncover values embedded in state standards documents.

TAKEAWAYS:
Audience members will learn about this research project, participate in a discussion of values embedded in NGSS-based standards, and learn how to use a web app to conduct similar research.

SPEAKERS:
Juanita Martin (Life Science Educator/ Educational Psychology Doctoral Student: , NY), Jesse Mechanick (CUNY Graduate Center: No City, No State)

General Science Advocacy Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Students Soar with Self-Regulation Learning

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Students Soar with SRL.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Building Self-Regulation Learning into the classroom creates high levels of learning for all students. Learn how to walk student through identifying what they need to learn, set a goal to address learning, choose activities, evaluate their learning, and redesign to learn deeply.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn to use Self-Regulation Learning (SRL) to create a personalized classroom that challenges all students at deep levels. Learn to guide students' learning and encourage them to learn content and skills of learning at deep levels.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Willet (Williamsburg Middle School: Arlington, VA)

Equity General Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Making NGSS-Alignment Easier and More Effective

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Making NGSS-Alignment Easier and More Effective (NARST)
Presentation for workshop on how NGSS alignment & implementation can be balanced with the daily challenges of teaching.
Packet 4.1 - Ecosystems Unit
Sample curriculum from Waterford, WI used for presentation to show how the instructional model balances NGSS-alignment/implementation with classroom realities.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

NGSS alignment is quite challenging for most teachers. We have designed open-source materials that achieved NGSS-aligned outcomes for 80-90% of students while reducing the challenges of instruction. We will guide participants through example materials that support NGSS implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with specific strategies and options to improve NGSS alignment without significantly adding to the day-to-day burden of classroom instruction. This will also broaden their understanding of the goals and objectives of NGSS alignment.

SPEAKERS:
Abigail Helmke (Biology teacher: , WI), Craig Kohn (Waterford Union High School: Waterford, WI)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NARST-Sponsored -- LTER Data Jam: Students Make Data Their Jam

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Data Jam Challenge 3
Student activity; answer a research questions, construct a graph and develop a scientific argument
Data Jam Challenge 3 Student answer
Data Jam Challenge #3: Examples of Students answer
Data Jam Overview presentation
Student work protocol
Data Jam: Looking at student work protocol
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Luquillo LTER Data Jam provides students access to long-term ecological data found in their own backyard in Puerto Rico. Our research focus is students’ awareness of NGSS practices used: develop a research question, analyze data in CODAP (a free statistical tool), and develop a scientific argument.

TAKEAWAYS:
Luquillo LTER Data Jam students can articulate differences in practices involved in Data Jam compared to their other science lessons. Students' final projects demonstrate engagement in the practices of asking questions and developing a scientific argument, despite not being conscious of doing so.

SPEAKERS:
Isabel Delgado (Science Teacher Educator), Noelia Báez Rodríguez (Education Coordinator), G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

Life Science Climate Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Lactose Intolerance to Investigate the Variation and Patterns in the Distribution of Traits Expressed in a Population.

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Engage in 3-D sensemaking by investigating the patterns and distribution of lactose intolerance inheritance worldwide using mathematical and computational thinking models. Briefly learn how technology-mediated lesson study has helped rural science teachers collaborate to design 3-D lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will see how patterns of inheritance, and mathematical and computational thinking skills, can be used to make sense of why the distribution of traits for lactose intolerance follow certain worldwide patterns.

SPEAKERS:
Douglas Morris (Carbon High School: Price, UT), Joshua Stowers (Brigham Young University: Provo, UT)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Closing the Revolving Door for Novice Teachers: Strategies that Work

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Almost 50% of new teachers leave the profession after 5 years in spite of having developed effective teaching skills. Come collaborate around strategies for retaining novice teachers that you can begin to implement immediately in your school or district.

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies to support and retain novice teachers and build the capacity of mentors.

SPEAKERS:
Juliana Coleman (Southern Regional Education Board)

STEM Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Wait, that’s a job I can do someday? Connecting Engineering Research to the Middle School Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Engage in activities that show how to connect your current science lessons to cutting-edge engineering research and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM. Receive access to grades 6-8 NGSS-aligned resources that immerse students in scenario-based tasks using data from current STEM research.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to enhance student engagement, and promote STEM college and career pathways by connecting classroom learning to current engineering research at URI and UCONN. Leave with access to video and instructional resources aligned to NGSS and connected to the research.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Emery (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Christopher Cochran (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), John Koziatek (University of Rhode Island: No City, No State), Valerie Maier-Speredelozzi (University of Rhode Island: Kingston, RI), Caroline Stabile (GEMS-Net, University of Rhode Island: No City, No State)

General Science Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Unlocking Science’s Hidden Depths: A Sensemaking Journey Using the Iceberg Model

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Use the iceberg model to guide students through sensemaking using both natural phenomena and by surfacing science misconceptions using formative assessments. Help students see more than the tip of the phenomenon iceberg, and dive into understanding and scientific reasoning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand the value the systems thinking iceberg model has for tracking the patterns, structure of the systems, and mental models of a scientific phenomenon needed to develop the scientific reasoning connected to the standard they are teaching.

SPEAKERS:
DaNel Hogan (Waters Center for Systems Thinking: , ID)

Sensemaking General Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Assessing Communication and Collaboration (Soft Skills) in a Phenomena Based Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 203

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Phenomena based science classrooms require students to listen, discuss, collaborate, and support one another as they uncover science ideas. But how do we assess those skills in order to provide feedback for students? We will examine tools and strategies for gathering and sharing data on these skills

TAKEAWAYS:
Students need to be able to listen, engage in discussion, work collaboratively, and support one another as they uncover science ideas. Often gradebooks do not communicate information about these skills. Participants will leave with tools that can help collect and share this data with all stakeholders.

SPEAKERS:
Thomas Clayton (K-5 STEAM Specialist: Berkeley Heights, NJ)

Assessment General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Analyzing Data to Explore Environmental Justice in Local Community Contexts

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Come to this session to learn how one teacher engaged students in analyzing graphical and map-based data to explore environmental justice in the local community. We’ll introduce a variety of data sources that can be used no matter where you live and share learning tasks that use those data sources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to engage students in analysis of environmental justice issues in their community by exploring a variety of data sources and mapping tools. They will also walk away with data analysis scaffolds to support student engagement with these tools/data sources.

SPEAKERS:
Brianna Balke (Blackstone Academy Charter School: Pawtucket, RI)

Environmental Science Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

EC- My Journey to Becoming an Elementary Science Teacher

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Past and present members of the Early Childhood Education Committee will share their journey of how they became elementary science teachers. The discussion includes the importance of science equity from the beginning of a child's education, and how panel members 'grew' science in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
The panel would like to promote and support early education and elementary teachers to teach science as an interdisciplinary discipline. Sharing our "journey" is a way of dispelling the myth that great science teachers haven't had the same struggles as novice teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Jenn Brown-Whale (Howard County Public School System: Ellicott City, MD), Mary Lynn Hess (Goldsboro Elementary Magnet School: Sanford, FL), Annette Venegas (Kent School District: Kent, WA)

General Science Advocacy Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Roundtable

Understanding Challenges of Equity through STEM Challenges

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Equity Through STEM Challenges
Slide deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in a team STEM challenge to illustrate the impact of unequal access to resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain tools to guide students to consider how advantage and disadvantage impact STEM challenge outcomes as an allegory for societal inequities, building empathy to fuel socially just thinking and action.

SPEAKERS:
Maya Bhagat (The School District of Philadelphia: Philadelphia, PA), Maggie Osman (The U School - School District of Philadelphia: Philadelphia, PA)

Engineering Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Mining Copper - Magnificent Malachite & Beautiful Butte (Montana)

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Copper in CO.pptx
Powerpoint from session
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Set up a simple lab and watch a cool demo to talk about resources and the environment, using copper as a specific example. These labs can be used for many levels of understanding - geology, environmental science, chemistry; and a focus on environmental impact of resource acquisition.

TAKEAWAYS:
Recovering pure copper will provide chances to talk about environmental impacts and concerns of resource acquisition. The Berkeley Pit in MT and mining in CO will be discussed. Resources provided will help students understand the challenges faced when balancing competing interests.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Spohler (Global Impact STEM Academy: Springfield, OH), Briana Richardson (Washington High School: Washington Court House, OH)

Chemistry Engineering Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

The Scoop on K-12 STEM Programs and Teacher Awards Administered by NSTA

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA K-12 STEM Programs & Teacher Awards.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us for a chance to learn about the value and how to implement K-12 STEM innovative programs with hands-on learning strategies utilized to motivate engagement. NSTA administered programs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to enhance student STEM engagement through the use of NSTA administered programs.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Michelle Butler (National Science Teaching Association: No City, No State), Acacia McKenna (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Kathryn Lasky (NSTA/Army Educational Outreach Program), Winnie Boyle (NSTA: No City, No State)

STEM Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Incorporation of Iterative Modeling for Earth Science Literacy

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Interactive modeling aids in addressing alternate conceptions for major science concepts and develops students’ science identity. This session will share the research results from a middle school Earth Science classroom and explore methods to incorporate modeling for increased Earth Science literacy

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with ideas to incorporate Iterative modeling in Earth Science classrooms, addressing alternate conceptions to increase Earth Science literacy and using modeling for formative and summative assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Jocelyn Miller (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC), Missie Olson (Becker High School: Becker, MN)

Earth & Space Science Assessment Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Unveiling the Fundamental Forces: Exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion through the engineering of a Balloon Car in Action

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this session, participants will work on hands-on activities and test a prototype to learn about forces using the engineering design model and translanguaging for middle grades

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to teach about forces for elementary grade level using an engineering activity and translanguaging (English/Spanish).

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

Engineering Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The OpenSciEd High School Assessment system

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xJPNfpCbGq0zFqTE5CigaHcN6-yV7PKJ?usp=sharing
File containing all handouts.
OpenSciEd Assessment System.pdf
Presentation slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the structure of the OpenSciEd High School assessment system across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

TAKEAWAYS:
In OpenSciEd HS, the assessment system is structured to support teachers in assessing all three dimensions of the NGSS through formative, summative, peer, and self-assessment opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Vick (Northwestern University), Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Assessment Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Elevate Student Talk in the Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Talking about science is an integral part of “doing science.” Together teachers will experience a phenomenon to explore talk formats, talk moves, and monitoring tools. Teachers will consider how these tools support students to clarify, build, and share their ideas with others.

TAKEAWAYS:
Supporting student talk that meets the targeted learning goals for your instruction requires a plan for classroom talk and practice facilitating learning conversations. Teachers will choose talk formats, employ talk moves, and develop monitoring tools to support students in talking about science.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Shafer, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ)

Sensemaking Life Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Bioinformatics are a BLAST: Beginners guide to identifying aquatic microorganisms with DNA sequence analysis.

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bioinformatics are a BLAST
Bioinformatics session on organisms found in an environmental sample.
water-bioinformatics-student.pdf
water-bioinformatics-teacher.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

How do scientists identify harmful algal blooms and other aquatic microbes? Bring your laptop or tablet for an introductory lesson and discussion on DNA analysis using free web-based tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants learn basic terms and tools (DNA barcodes, BLAST) used for sequence analysis. The activity explores the public database (NCBI) used by educators and scientists around the world.

SPEAKERS:
Jane Hunt (Nourish the Future - Education Projects, LLC: Columbus, OH), Zack Bateson (National Agricultural Genotyping Center: Fargo, ND)

Biology Computer Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Metacognitive strategies for the science classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Metacognitive Strategies for the Science Classroom
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Teachers will explore the role of reflection as a metacognitive strategy and learn how to facilitate high-quality metacognition. They will work in groups to develop a reflection tool they can apply in their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through small group discussion and collaboration, participants will identify what cognitive strategies are best suited for their practice and co-create a metacognitive reflection tool. This tool will allow them to leverage those strategies and empower students to be independent learners.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Kovar (Denver North High School), Mary Frances Harris (Senior Analyst), Julian Martins (Graduate Student / Undergraduate Instructor)

Physics Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Evaluating Classrooms for Sensemaking Using the NSTA Sensemaking Tool

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Evaluating Classrooms for Sensemaking...Collection of Resources
Denver24: Evaluating Classrooms for Sensemaking Using the NSTA Sensemaking Tool Collection of Resources
Using the NSTA Sensemaking Tool to Evaluate Lessons - Elementary Denver 2024
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

The NSTA Sensemaking Tool can be used in coaching cycles that support implementing high-quality instructional materials. Gain experience using the tool to identify sensemaking “look and listen fors” in classroom observations and how to use those observations to facilitate productive discussions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use the NSTA Sensemaking Tool to support productive coaching cycles.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Emily Mathews (NSTA: Arlington, VA), NSTA Online Advisors (Teachers), Holly Hereau (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Sensemaking General Science Leadership Hands-On Workshop

Why Science Educators Need to be at the Policymaking Table

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Join NSTA, the STEM Education Coalition, the Hands-On Science Partnership and the National Academies to learn about emerging public policy issues and how NSTA members can engage in the policymaking conversation at the national, state, and local level.

TAKEAWAYS:
As the old saying goes: If you are not at the table, you might end up on the menu. We will talk about practical ways to get science educators around today’s policymaking table. Also get a preview of upcoming NAS studies that can impact the field.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Stephens (The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine: Washington, DC), Erika Shugart (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Alex Molinich (Aldon Corporation: , United States), James Brown (STEM Education Coalition: Washington, DC)

Advocacy Leadership STEM Presentation

Making Science Instruction Compelling for All Students: How to Integrate the Cultural Lives of Your Students into Your Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ACESSE C Instructions
Self-Documentation Student Catalogs of Health Activities
STEM Teaching Tool 31 Building on Student Interest
STEM Teaching Tool 33 How to Assess Emerging Bilingual Students
STEM Teaching Tool 58 Interest Driven Science Instruction
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session highlights cultural dimensions of meaningful science learning. It showcases a powerful instructional technique for formative assessment called “self-documentation”—where students collect information related to a particular theme or topic in their everyday lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers learn how to promote equity by focusing on learning and teaching as an inherently cultural process. They develop a shared understanding of how cultural formative assessment can reveal the interests, experiences, and identities of students.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Tiffany Neill (Research Scientist: Oklahoma City, OK)

Assessment Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Workshop: Understanding and Creating 5E lesson plans

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
5E lesson planning guide
This is the infographic handed out during this session.
5E lesson planning presentation
This is the presentation used for this session.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

5E lesson planning lends itself wonderfully to inquiry-led, tactile science lessons. This session discusses the components of a 5E lesson, why it works for Science, and pointers for creating engaging experiences. Participants will create their own excellent lesson and receive examples of 5E lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain a greater understanding of 5E lesson plan structure and gain confidence in writing them. I will support them in creating their own unique lesson from activities they have done prior and other resources. Their new lesson will integrate art/math/engineering, and promote inquiry.

SPEAKERS:
Rama Sreekantham (Paragon Prep School: No City, No State)

General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Unleashing Young Scientists: Spark Curiosity and Deepen Understanding Through Sensemaking in Grades 3-5!

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A

Show Details

These interactive sessions equip educators with engaging strategies to nurture students' natural curiosity and cultivate critical thinking skills as they explore science through the lens of sensemaking.

Elementary Science - Students and Sensemaking
Inclusive Argumentation in the Elementary Classroom Engaging students in arguing from evidence supports student sense making and the vision of inclusive instructional strategies. Come explore how students in a fourth grade classroom argue from evidence.

Free Project-Based Learning Resources for Elementary Science
Get a brief introduction to free OER integrated science curricular units for Grades 3-5 and see how well the features of Project-Based Learning provide the tools and routines to support sensemaking.

Integrating Literacy and Science in Elementary Classrooms -- Lessons Learned during the Multiple Literacies in Project-Based Learning (ML-PBL) Study
ML-PBL teachers find ways to further integrate literacy and science throughout their day. ML-PBL's free OER project-based curriculum resources support students in applying their figuring out and critical thinking processes to all subject areas. Access free resources and rationale for integration.

SPEAKERS:
Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State), Miranda Orellana (Elementary Teacher: Lincoln, NE), Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired), Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired)

Speed Sharing

Sparking the Future: Cultivating Young STEM Champions in Grades 3-5

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

Show Details

Ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math in elementary students! These sessions equip educators and advocates with engaging strategies and resources to promote and integrate STEM learning in Grades 3-5, fostering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

Exploring Institutional Expectations as a Barrier to Teaching STEM in the Elementary Classroom
This presentation will discuss institutional barriers such as heavy content demands and time restraints to teaching integrated STEM in the elementary classroom.

Exploring Standardized Testing As a barrier to teaching STEM in the elementary classroom
This presentation will discuss standardized testing as a barrier to teaching integrated STEM in the elementary classroom.

Exploring Teacher Efficacy as a Barrier to Teaching STEM in the Elementary Classroom
This presentation will discuss teacher efficacy as a barrier to teaching integrated STEM lessons in the elementary classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State), Miranda Orellana (Elementary Teacher: Lincoln, NE), Brooke Conrady (Student Teacher), Olivia Fate (student: , MN), Eliza Kos (Student: Apple Valley, MN), Selina Richter (Student: , MN), Ari Nguyen (Pre-Service Teacher), Amber Murphy (Pre-Service Teacher: , MN), Brooke Conrady (Student Teacher), Olivia Fate (student: , MN), Eliza Kos (Student: Apple Valley, MN), Selina Richter (Student: , MN), Ari Nguyen (Pre-Service Teacher), Amber Murphy (Pre-Service Teacher: , MN)

Speed Sharing

Sprouting Scientists: Cultivating Young Minds for a Sustainable Future

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Connected Science Learning PPT
Smithsonians National Zoo - Conservation Classroom
URL to Connected Science Learning Journal
URL to Smithsonian's Conservation Classroom
Show Details

Dive into engaging activities and explore key environmental science concepts like ecosystems, climate change, and conservation, all designed to spark curiosity and empower grades 3-5 students to become responsible stewards of our planet.

Conservation Classroom at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Connect K-5 students with nature by integrating STEAM resources from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo into your classroom. Conservation Classroom is a free collection of videos, programs, and activities that invite students to wonder, engage, act, and connect with animals, science, and sustainability.

Making Science Learning Lifelong, Lifewide and Lifedeep: Incorporating Out-of-School (Informal) STEM Learning experiences in the classroom.
Learn about research on when and where STEM learning occurs, as well as effective science experiences between schools and out-of-school programs.

Making Science Learning Lifelong, Lifewide and Lifedeep: Incorporating Out-of-School (Informal) STEM Learning experiences in the classroom.
Learn about research on when and where STEM learning occurs, as well as effective science experiences between schools and out-of-school programs.

SPEAKERS:
Kaden Borseth (Learning Programs Specalist: Washington, DC), Dennis Schatz (Institute for Learning Innovation: Beaverton, OR), Dennis Schatz (Institute for Learning Innovation: Beaverton, OR)

Speed Sharing

Sparking Curiosity: Hands-on STEM Explorations for Grades 3-5

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Storytelling & Role-play to Teach Hurricane Science Presentation
Show Details

These sessions ignite a love for science, technology, engineering, and math through engaging activities and resources designed specifically for young learners in grades 3-5. Get ready to explore, experiment, and create as we delve into the exciting world of STEM education!

Using Storytelling and Role-play to Teach Hurricane Science
Join the UCAR Center for Science Education as we share our experience and tips for creating energetic and engaging lessons that blend storytelling, role-play, and authentic science to turn students into collaborative meteorologists-in-training who work to track a developing hurricane.

Exploring Professional Development as a Barrier to Teaching STEM in an Elementary Classroom.
The research project shows a significant gap; many teachers lack access to relevant and ongoing professional development opportunities in integrated STEM. As a result, teachers express reduced confidence in their ability to effectively teach STEM concepts and employ innovative teaching strategies.

Plickers - A Fast, Free, and Fun Assessment Tool for the Science Classroom
Plickers is a mobile app and web-based tool used to conduct formative assessments in classrooms. Instead of using traditional methods, Plickers is an easy-to-use, no-cost solution that allows teachers to quickly and easily gather student feedback. Come learn more about Plickers at this session.

SPEAKERS:
Malorie Wyman (Pre-service Teacher: Mankato, MN), Kylie Swanson (Assistant Professor: Colorado Springs, CO), Katie Wolfson (School & Public Programs Manager: Boulder, CO), Malorie Wyman (Pre-service Teacher: Mankato, MN), Kylie Swanson (Assistant Professor: Colorado Springs, CO)

Speed Sharing

Unleashing Young Climate Champions: Engaging Grades 6-8 in Climate Science & Action

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

Show Details

These interactive sessions equip educators with engaging activities and resources to empower grade 6-8 students to understand climate science, explore its impacts, and become agents of positive change.

Around the World with NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission
Freshwater is our most valuable natural resource, and the amount of freshwater resources varies across communities around the world. Learn how freely available precipitation data, collected by a NASA satellite, is being used to bring about positive change in a wide variety of ways.

Engaging students in socioscientific issues by building and using small sensors
Learn how students can build small, low cost sensors to ask and answer their own questions about air quality. We will share results about student impact from our own experiences in the classroom.

Louisiana Wetland Days: Standard Aligned Learning in A Place-Based Context
School districts partner with Louisiana Sea Grant to co-create place-based learning opportunities. Funded through the National Academies of Science, Wetland Days are customized exploration in community wetland areas where students apply scientific principles to locally relevant phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Dorian Janney (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center: Greenbelt, MD), Laura Carsten Conner (University of Alaska Fairbanks: Fairbanks, AK), Nathan Cotten (Terrebonne Parish School District: Houma, LA), Alvera McMillan (Louisiana Sea Grant)

Speed Sharing

Engaging Assessment in Grades 6-8 Physical Science

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Investigating the Effect of Microplastics on Algae (NSTA 2024).pdf
Wonder Games Presentation.pptx
Show Details

Spark curiosity and empower your students in physical science! Explore innovative assessment strategies that go beyond the textbook, foster critical thinking, and celebrate diverse learning styles in grades 6-8.

(Trans)Formative Assessment Planning Template: Explicitly Welcome Translanguaging During Formative Assessment in Your Science Classroom
Come learn about a planning tool that will help you develop or modify science formative assessments that welcome multilingual students to demonstrate their science ideas through translanguaging (all language resources) and multimodality. Participants leave with blank and example planning templates.

Investigating the Effect of Microplastics on Algae
Learn about a hands-on inquiry lesson where students explore the impact of microplastics on aquatic life. Students observe the interaction between live brine shrimp and fluorescent microplastics, helping them to understand the effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.

Wonder Games: A Curriculum-Based Engagement Strategy
Unlock the secret to engaging your students all year long with Wonder Games, a competitive, curriculum-based engagement strategy. Wonder games motivates students to stay focused and invested in their learning, as they may be chosen to compete and bring victory to their class.

SPEAKERS:
Maren Getz (North Middle School: Aurora, CO), Caitlin Fine (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO), Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: No City, No State), Christopher Lucht (Middle School Science Teacher: , IL), Leora Kurtz (8th Grade Science Teacher: Northbrook, IL)

Speed Sharing

Exploring Environmental Science for Grades 6-8

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

Show Details

These sessions dive into engaging and effective ways to teach environmental science to middle schoolers, fostering their understanding and inspiring real-world action!

Investigating Pollutants in the Ecosystem: What's the Point (and Non-Point)?
Congrats! You’ve won the lottery and decide to develop a plot of land along a local river. After choosing, designing, and sketching the locations of your developments, investigate the various types and amounts of pollutants these cause using a pollutant guide and color-coded beads.

Students who are blind and visually impaired can learn science too!
Learn how tools such as a talking calculator, handheld electronic magnifier, and Colorino (handheld talking device to identify colors) can assist students with low vision as well regular education students with normal vision too.

Using Satellites to Learn About Animals
Explore a collection of free, NGSS-aligned classroom activities and comic book stories designed to help upper elementary and middle school students understand how scientists study animals around the world using satellites.

SPEAKERS:
Amber Meeks (North Carolina State University: Raleigh, NC), M. Gail Jones (North Carolina State University: Raleigh, NC), Kathleen Bordewieck (North Carolina State University: Raleigh, NC), Madeline Stallard (North Carolina State University), Rhea Miles (East Carolina University: Greenville, NC), Lisa Gardiner (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO)

Speed Sharing

Cultivating Teacher Leadership in Middle School Science

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

Show Details

These sessions equip grades 6-8 science teachers with the skills and strategies to become impactful leaders within their schools, fostering a vibrant and effective science learning environment.

Evolution for Middle School Educators
The Teacher Institute for Evolutionary Science helps teachers teach evolution with confidence. Participants will receive a free unit of materials, including many active learning ideas. We focus on content, hands-on activities, and online resources. (www.tieseducation.org)

NMLSTA Awards for Middle School Teachers
What do you need to support your students and build your classroom inventory? The National Middle Level Science Teachers Association offers Classroom Teacher Awards twice each year. Learn how and where to apply. It’s easy!

SPEAKERS:
Bertha Vazquez (G. W. Carver Middle School: Miami, FL), Anne Schoeffler (Seton Catholic School: Hudson, OH)

Speed Sharing

Bridging the Equity Gap in Grades 6-8 STEM Education

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Water Cycle Diagram Lesson - presentation
Show Details

These sessions explore creative strategies to promote equity and inclusivity in your Grades 6-8 science classroom, fostering a learning environment where all students can thrive and discover their passion for STEM.

Advancing Accessible Place-Based Learning Through Immersive DIY Virtual Field Trips
Imagine your learners exploring virtual field trips about local research, places, and communities! Learn how you can use Infiniscope's Tour It to create customized immersive field trips with 360 degree spaces and media hotspots using just your computer and a smartphone.

DIY Digital Lessons: Create Custom Online Lessons for Your Varied Learners
Create interactive digital lessons that students can explore anytime. From single lessons to multi-unit courses, you can build a library of digital content that can be used at scale, increasing accessibility. Embed assessments, collect data and guide your learners with customized real-time feedback.

Teaching with the updated USGS Water Cycle Diagram
Discover engaging teaching resources related to the updated USGS water cycle diagram! Participants will become familiar with ways the model can be incorporated into curricula as a pre-assessment, teaching tool, learning activity, and post-assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Sina Kirk (ASU: Tempe, AZ), Sina Kirk (ASU: Tempe, AZ), Diane Ripollone (Cardinal Gibbons High School: Raleigh, NC), Jessica Swann (Arizona State University: Tempe, AZ), Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD), Jessica Mckay (Science Communicator), Lauren Brase (American Geosciences Institute: , IL), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA)

Speed Sharing

Engaging Middle School Minds in Science Exploration

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Resource Collection_NSTA Denver 2024_ Question Formulation Techinque Speed Share.pdf
Show Details

Explore how Interactive network graphs can help you explore the NGSS standards and find aligned resources, while a guide offers NGSS-aligned solar eclipse activities, including a chance to contribute data to NASA.

Effectively Engage Students in the SEP Asking Questions with the Question Formulation Technique + OpenSciEd
Participants will engage in an effective instructional strategy, the Question Formulation Technique (QFT), to help students develop questions after observing a phenomenon from an OpenSciEd Lesson.

NGSS Explorer – An Alternative Way To Explore and Navigate the Next Generation Science Standards
The NGSS Explorer offers an alternative way of exploring, searching and navigating the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Instead of presenting the NGSS as a set of linked tables, the NGSS Explorer exploits the connectivity between the standards to display them as interactive network graphs.

Solar Eclipse One-Week Pacing Guide
The Solar Eclipse GLOBE Educator One-Week Pacing Guide provides a five-day sequence of NGSS aligned activities to learn about, prepare for, safely observe and collect citizen science data using The GLOBE Program’s GLOBE Observer app during a solar eclipse whether on not you are in totality.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association), Reindert Reitsma (Professor: Corvallis, OR), Rosalba Giarratano (Outreach Coordinator: East Elmhurst, NY), Jessica Taylor (NASA Langley Research Center: Hampton, VA), Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: No City, No State)

Speed Sharing

Building an Equitable Science Classroom for Grades 6-8

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Equitable AI, NSTA Presentation.pdf
NSTA_Conference_TE_SpeedShare_2024.pdf
Show Details

Dive into strategies for making science inclusive and engaging for all students in grades 6-8.

Equitable AI: Three tips how to support diverse learners using Chat-GPT
Enhance your lesson planning to foster differentiation and equity in your science classroom with the assistance of Chat-GPT! Join our dialogue where we use Chat-GPT to elevate practice by generating tiered reading activities, language supports for ESL students, and culture integration strategies.

NMLSTA: Strategies to Create a More Equitable Science Classroom
Most classrooms are diverse. Meeting the needs of all students can be difficult for teachers. Learn strategies to support equitable learning.

TeachEngineering: Free, Teacher-tested K-12 STEM Resources
The TeachEngineering Digital Library is a free, online collection of K-12 curricular STEM resources. This session highlights the key features and benefits of TeachEngineering, shedding light on how this digital collection empowers educators to explore the “E” in STEM: engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Kipp (Texas A&M), Dawn Konieczny (Brooks Middle School: Bolingbrook, IL), Kim Nagle (Brooks Middle School: Bolingbrook, IL), Jennifer Kracha (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Ellen Parrish (TeachEngineering: Boulder, CO)

Speed Sharing

Unleashing the Power of Chemistry and Technology in High School Science

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
(Save Offline in Chrome) Use Spreadsheets to Learn Inquisitively/Differentiation
Please save this document offline in Chrome before attending the conference in order to ensure use of the document in case the internet is unavailable at the conference.
Show Details

These sessions explore innovative ways to integrate chemistry and technology in your grades 9-12 curriculum, sparking student curiosity and preparing them for future STEM careers.

Chemistry and Social Justice -- Applications of Student Learning through Variety of Presentation Modes
Information literacy and scientific communication practice for summative projects provide ways students can demonstrate their learning about complex chemistry and sustainability topics. Increases student engagement and equitable participation in the chemistry classroom.

Using Spreadsheets to Learn Science Inquisitively and via Differentiation
A showcase of using dynamic spreadsheets that provide instantaneous, differentiated feedback to students as they learn or practice new content independently or in small groups. This method amplifies confidence for students of all abilities and frees teachers to assist those most in need.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Juhl (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs, CO), Tisha Mendiola (University of Colorado Colorado Springs: No City, No State), Sean Regan (Chemistry Teacher: Framingham, MA)

Speed Sharing

Sparking Innovation: Engaging High Schoolers in the Future of STEM

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Maya Pincus - NSTA Denver 2024 - Student Science at Sea (speed sharing).pdf
What is scientific ocean drilling and how can you use it in your classroom? This slideshow details the many free resources available for educators to engage their students in authentic, exciting science.
NSTA 2024 Presentation Slides
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Join us for a dynamic exploration of high-impact strategies to ignite curiosity, build essential skills, and prepare students for thriving careers in STEM fields.

"Frozen Worlds Unveiled: A Journey from Classroom to Climate Change"
Experience an interdisciplinary lesson challenging students to achieve an understanding of climate change by improving their comprehension about the polar areas at the North and South Poles. Data sets and a hands-on experiment will be shared as well as strategies for inclusive, anti-bias teaching.

Patient X Ray Diagnosis Using Free Google AI Tool
In this classroom lesson, students load X Ray images into a Google AI site to create image recognition models. The models will then be trained to classify lung X Ray results into various categories, producing patient diagnoses. Students also analyze the reliability of the AI model using statistics.

Student Science at Sea
Participants will learn how to access hundreds of free classroom activities that will involve students in the authentic science and data of ocean-drilling research expeditions, and how students can interact in real time with scientists aboard the JOIDES Resolution while they are at sea.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Burkart (Life Sciences Faculty: Avondale, AZ), Milton Johnson (Bioscience High School: Phoenix, AZ), Maya Pincus (Columbia University / U.S. Science Support Program: Palisades, NY), Ashley Burkart (Life Sciences Faculty: Avondale, AZ), Milton Johnson (Bioscience High School: Phoenix, AZ), Maya Pincus (Columbia University / U.S. Science Support Program: Palisades, NY)

Speed Sharing

Climate Action Starts Here: Building Climate Literacy in Grades 9-12

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Speed Sharing AMS El Nino Lesson.pptx
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These sessions delve into effective strategies for teaching climate science to grades 9-12 students. Explore engaging hands-on activities, data analysis, and discussions that foster critical thinking, build scientific literacy, and empower students to become informed and active participants in addressing climate change.

Bringing Heatwaves into Classrooms: A Framework for Education
This presentation discusses a framework that can be used to integrate the concept of heatwaves into formal education via the school curriculum. It aims to promote students’ climate literacy and empower individuals and communities to respond to the challenges due to climate change.

Earth's Energy Budget Story Map from My NASA Data
This 5E, NGSS aligned story map includes NASA data for different components of Earth's energy budget, how the energy is absorbed and reflected, and what contributes to variations in the flow of energy into and out of the Earth System. It incorporates the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning model.

"Unveiling the Oceanic Tango: Exploring the Enigmatic Dance of El Niño and La Niña in Ocean-Atmosphere Warming and Climate Change”
The educational materials presented in this speed sharing session will allow educators to vividly convey the intricate science of El Niño and La Niña phenomena, and its effects on the climate. The speed sharing session will offer a brief explanation of the atmospheric and oceanic dynamics at play.

SPEAKERS:
Evangelia Mavrikaki (Professor: Athens, 0), Apostolia (Lia) Galani (Associate Professor: Athens, 0), Jessica Taylor (NASA Langley Research Center: Hampton, VA), Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: No City, No State), Diane Ripollone (Cardinal Gibbons High School: Raleigh, NC)

Speed Sharing

Physics, Robotics & Engineering Education for Today's High Schoolers

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teaching Physics with Real World Support
Teaching Physics with Real World Support
Information provided to help support teachers with finding and working with community partners to enhance physics lessons in the high school setting.
Teaching Physics with Real World Support One Pager (Additional Resources)
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Join us to discover innovative approaches to integrating physics, robotics, and engineering into your high school curriculum. Engage students through hands-on activities, explore design challenges, and learn about leading STEM education resources.

Developing Students into STEM Advocates
Students who can share their passion about STEM subjects are making a difference as advocates. They are making an impact by providing opportunities for all students to study in these important areas, and earn the skills needed in our future workforce.

Picture Yourself in a STEAM Career with Rubin Voices Trading Cards
Rubin Voices Trading Cards showcase the many types of people required to make the design and operation of the Observatory possible, as well as enable discoveries in science. Students will use these cards as a guide to create and share their own personal Rubin Voices Trading Card.

Teaching Physics With Real World Support: Collaborating with Local Organizations and Universities to Foster Equitable and Inclusive Learning Environments for High School Students
Come explore how collaborative relationships with a local university foster equity, inclusion, and engagement to support STEM career readiness and choices. The implementation of a lesson plan co-created through collaboration for the Physics classroom will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy McIntyre (Robotics Education & Competition Foundation: Greenville, TX), Ardis Herrold (Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Tucson, AZ), Karen Covil (North Star HIgh School: Lincoln, NE)

Speed Sharing

Spark Science & Tech Innovation in High School

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Unlocking Science for All Presentation Slides
Presentation Slides from NSTA 2024 in Denver
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These sessions delve into innovative strategies to ignite a passion for science and technology in grades 9-12, empowering students to become leaders in the future workforce.

Information Literacy in the Classroom: Key K-12 Education Stakeholder’s Perspectives of Scientific Information Literacy
Information Literacy (IL) is an important skillset in the digital age but is underrepresented within chemistry classrooms. To evaluate why, we must open conversations with key stakeholders in K12 science education. These conversations with K12 educators provided key insights into obstacles.

Unlocking Science for All: XR Strategies to Support Students with Disabilities
Come learn how extended reality (XR) can support students with disabilities in science settings. Leave with foundational behavior expectations for implementing XR in the classroom and selection criteria for identifying the XR for the classroom aligning with student needs and NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Matilynn Lam (Graduate Student: , FL), Shalece Kohnke (Auburn University)

Speed Sharing

Building Resilient Coastlines: Harnessing Earth & Space Science for Hurricane Preparedness (Grades 9-12)

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Long-term Data Collection Projects in an Earth Science Classroom.pptx
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Explore how Earth and space science concepts like ocean currents, atmospheric pressure, and solar activity can be used to understand hurricane formation, predict their paths, and prepare communities for their impact. Engage in interactive activities and learn best practices for incorporating hurricane resilience into your grades 9-12 curriculum.

Advancing Data Literacy with NSF's NOIRLab
NSF’s NOIRLab has developed a variety of free data-based science education programs for elementary through high school classrooms. Strategies will be shared for bringing authentic data and experiences into classrooms that support three-dimensional learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Hurricane Resilience: A Curriculum for High Schools in the Cone of Uncertainty
Explore the Hurricane Resilience curriculum, which aims to empower high school students in hurricane-prone areas to have a voice in resilience planning and help them understand the relationship between hurricanes and climate change and the local impacts of these storms on people and places.

Long-Term Data Collection Projects in an Earth Science Classroom
Check out two long-term data collection projects that have been implemented in a high school earth science classroom to allow students to connect what they’ve learned about earthquakes and seasons to patterns they can observe in real-world data.

SPEAKERS:
Robert Sparks (NSF's NOIRLab), Justine Schaen (NSF's NOIRLab: Tucson, AZ), Lisa Gardiner (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO), Kori Bowns-Kamphuis (Lindblom Math and Science Academy: Chicago, IL)

Speed Sharing

Cultivating Critical Thinkers for Environmental Action (Grades 9-12)

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

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Equip yourself with engaging strategies to empower high school students to make sense of complex environmental issues, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and a passion for positive change.

Connecting talk, task and doing for deep science learning for all
This presentation invites attendees to examine the connections between talk, task and doing in science with emphasis on strategies to promote talk.

Effects of a Video Project on Students' Science Affinity
This study measures the effects of a video project competition using a science, technology, and society (STS) approach on students in Grade 4-11.

Live and Local: Connecting Students with Living Organisms and the Environment
Three strategies using live animals and plants will be presented to help connect students to topics ranging from traits of living things to food webs to energy flow and ecosystem services. The activities focus on using local, on-campus resources and budget-friendly organisms.

SPEAKERS:
Takumi Sato, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ), Jiyoon Yoon (The University of Texas at Arlington: Arlington, TX), Chris Barnett (Niles West High School - D219: No City, No State)

Speed Sharing

Reimagine Biology Education: Engaging Students in the Next Generation of Life Sciences

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Community Science in the Classroom by Clark and Moncrief.pptx
NSTA Narendra.pptx
Representation
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Explore innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge technologies, and best practices to transform your postsecondary biology classroom.

NARST-Sponsored - Teachers' Choices of Multiple Visual Representations for Teaching about the Cardiovascular System
It is widely recognized that the use of various representations play an important role in teaching/learning. Drawing on a study which investigated teachers’ choices of representations for teaching the cardiovascular system, this session will discuss what factors led to good or poor decisions.

SCST Presents: Community science in the classroom - Using Budburst to enhance student learning and broaden participation in scientific research.
This session will focus on community science and its role in increasing equity and engagement in STEM. National Louis University has partnered with the Chicago Botanic Garden in its Budburst Project, which entails students collecting local phenology data with a mobile application.

SCST Presents: Creating creative memories: Teaching students to use what they know to learn what they don’t
This presentation will introduce creative memory association techniques used by memory masters and student’s alike. These simple techniques can make learning both fun and easy.

SPEAKERS:
Narendra Deshmukh (Scientific Officer E: Mumbai, 0), Orinna Clark (National Louis University: Chicago, IL), Ian Moncrief (National Louis University: Chicago, IL), Thayne Sweeten (Utah State University: , UT)

Speed Sharing

NSTA Postsecondary & SCST Presents: Moving Beyond Lecture - Proven Pedagogy for the 21st Century College Science Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Denver 2024 - Pereira - Moving Beyond Lecture.pptx
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Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students? Join your colleagues as they share how they have put research into practice in their classrooms.

NSTA Postsecondary & SCST Presents: Moving Beyond Lecture - Proven Pedagogy for the 21st Century College Science Classrooms
Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students? Join your colleagues as they share how they have put research into practice in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Richard Jones (University of Hawaii-West Oahu: Kaploei, HI), Renee Clary (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS), Victor Pereira (Harvard Graduate School of Education: Cambridge, MA), Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Orinna Clark (National Louis University: Chicago, IL)

Speed Sharing

NSTA Post-Secondary Presents: Supporting Students with Disabilities in the College Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Speed Sharing - Supporting Students with Disabilities-Updated.pdf
This is the presentation from NSTA Denver.
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Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students with special needs? Join your colleagues as they share how they use culturally relevant pedagogies, anti-bias teaching, and other resources to support STEM instruction for students

NSTA Post-Secondary Presents: Supporting Students with Disabilities in the College Science Classroom
Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students with special needs? Join your colleagues as they share how they use culturally relevant pedagogies, anti-bias teaching, and other resources to support STEM instruction for students

SPEAKERS:
Richard Jones (University of Hawaii-West Oahu: Kaploei, HI), Rachel Hallett-Njuguna (Florida State University: Tallahassee, FL), Rhea Miles (East Carolina University: Greenville, NC), Kelly Moore (Walters State Community College: Morristown, TN), Elesha Goodfriend (Walters State Community College: Morristown, TN), Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Speed Sharing

Using NSTA in Lieu of a Textbook w/Preservice Teachers: Instructors’ Stories

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA-Natl-Conf-DEN24-Speed-Share-Instructors.pdf
Slides for NSTA Presentation at Denver24. Speed Sharing session with Instructors sharing their stories about how they use NSTA with pre-service teachers.
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University/College instructors talk about how they integrate NSTA resources in their courses. Come and listen to their stories and ask them questions! Find out the benefits that this opportunity provides you and your teacher candidates.

Using NSTA in Lieu of a Textbook w/Preservice Teachers: Instructors’ Stories
University/College instructors talk about how they integrate NSTA resources in their courses. Come and listen to their stories and ask them questions! Find out the benefits that this opportunity provides you and your teacher candidates.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Speed Sharing

Fostering Active Learning in Your Postsecondary Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BIOL1123 Semester Project Overview.pdf
Davis Talk Science Without Jargon.pptx
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Explore engaging, inquiry-based approaches to science instruction in college. Learn how to design student-centered activities that spark curiosity and deepen understanding.

Keep It Simple: Teaching Students to Talk Science Without Jargon
Students may use science terms without fully grasping their meaning, which can interfere with conceptual understanding. I created a team project requiring students to explain a science concept using only simple English. Students expressed confidence and a sense of mastery after the project.

SCST Presents Online Course Success Stratigies
This session reviews effective online course strategies for post-secondary sciences classes, including instructor training, organization, and student demographics. These strategies have been refined over 15 years in 20 different online geosciences courses showing these strategies effectiveness.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Davis (Lecturer II: Denton, TX), Athena Nagel (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS)

Speed Sharing

STEM Design Challenges in Action (Middle/High)

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

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Engage students in collaborative, real-world STEM challenges that connect science concepts to engineering, technology, and math through hands-on activities and critical thinking.

Leveraging Extended Reality to Support Students with Disabilities in Science Education"
Extended reality (XR) can increase access for all. Learn how XR was implemented in inclusive biology classrooms to reduce the achievement gap between students with and without disabilities. Walk away with free resources used in this study and best practices for implementing them in the classroom.

How science really works: Enhancing instruction with the Science Flowchart interactive
Find out how to modify your current instruction to better communicate the dynamic process of science using an interactive tool from the Understanding Science website. Help students recognize science as a dynamic, exciting, creative, and intensely human endeavor!

Integration of Scratch Programming into Teacher Education Courses
Scratch programming promotes computational thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. This project focuses on promoting those skills in teachers through a professional learning community. We will share artifacts from teacher implementation, reflections & recommendations for application.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Smith (Pound Middle School: Lincoln, NE), Lindsey Roy (Science and Digital Learning Coordinator: Lincoln, NE), Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State), Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State), Shalece Kohnke (Auburn University), Kirsten Smith (Pound Middle School: Lincoln, NE), Lindsey Roy (Science and Digital Learning Coordinator: Lincoln, NE), Betsy Barent (Lincoln Public Schools: No City, No State), Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State)

Speed Sharing

Fostering Clarity and Inclusion in Science Education

Friday, March 22 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Marching Through Boundaries.pptx
NSTA Blatticomposting Presentation.pptx
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Explore practical strategies to create a science classroom where every student can learn, engage, and thrive. Build clarity through accessible explanations, diverse representation, and inclusive materials. Spark curiosity and a sense of belonging for all!

Composting with Cockroaches in Northeast Iowa K-12 Schools
Do you and/or your students find composting to be dirty, smelly, and overall a bore? Welcome to the future of composting! Blatticomposting, a form of composting with cockroaches that are a non-evasive exotic species, Blaptica dubia, is a modern take on an age-old classroom classic.

Leadership skills developed utilizing teamwork in the creation of a case study during an anatomy and physiology course.
This presentation will include the development of leadership skills, teamwork readiness, time management, and group cohesiveness based on the presenter's personal experience collaborating with different individuals.

Marching through Boundaries
At Wartburg College I had the opportunity to work with a high school student with autism. He has a strong interest in ants, so we started research on ants and how to bring them into the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Holderness (Student: , IA), Alex Holden (Student: Waverly, IA), Zeyuan Li (Student), Mikayla Prusha (Wartburg College Pre-Service Teacher: No City, No State)

Speed Sharing

SEPA/APAST Luncheon

Friday, March 22 • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall G

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Annual luncheon for Presidential Awardees and guests.

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

Exclusive Exhibit Hall Hours

Friday, March 22 • 11:40 AM - 1:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall

STRAND: No Strand

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Discover the latest and greatest science and STEM teaching and learning resources, tools, and products available during this break in concurrent sessions.

STEM Exhibits

Who’s in your Network?

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Networks matter. Creating professional networks is challenged by time, space, and resources. Learn how facilitated networking with STEM experts, education researchers, and other teachers improved our earth and environmental science teaching and made student learning more relevant and engaging.

TAKEAWAYS:
Effective, quality teachers need a collaborative network. Building a comprehensive network includes professionals within and beyond the educational sphere. Attendees will learn about the importance of teacher networks and strategies for building their own network to enhance curriculum development.

SPEAKERS:
Alyssa Weisenstein (Marion High School: Marion, IL), Angela Zier (Windsor High School: No City, No State)

Leadership Advocacy Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Bringing STEAM and Literacy to the Periodic Table

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Hear how an elements project integrates technology, literacy, and arts into the study of atomic structure and the periodic table.

TAKEAWAYS:
Student-generated learning project that can be done at any level by any student, which integrates STEAM in the physical science curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Weissman (The Ramaz School: New York, NY)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Using Microscale Iodine-Starch Test to Promote Student Learning to Design and Evaluate More Complex Experimental Designs

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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This poster presents a protocol for the microscale iodine-starch test that requires significantly less hands-on manipulations and can be performed within 10 minutes. It describes how this protocol can be used to teach middle school students how to design and evaluate more complex experimental designs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to conduct microscale iodine-starch tests with their students. They will also learn how to design worksheets that encourage students to think about designing and interpreting the results of more complex experimental designs (e.g., multivariate experimental designs).

SPEAKERS:
Kennedy Kam Ho CHAN (Associate Professor: Hong Kong, 0)

Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Embedding Information Literacy Practices in an Upper Division Chemistry Lab Class at a University in the United States of America

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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This poster will specifically discuss the implementation of information literacy into an upper-division inorganic chemistry lab and the strategies employed to improve students’ information literacy in the laboratory courses.

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies to develop information literacy practices in STEM classrooms need to be explicitly taught. These explicit activities need to familiarize students with concepts, as well as provide specific scaffolding to support its implementation.

SPEAKERS:
Matilynn Lam (Graduate Student: , FL), Katy Miller (Department Head, Student Learning and Engagement and UCF Connect Libraries: Orlando, FL)

Chemistry Literacy Postsecondary Poster

Explore the Salish Sea: Culturally Responsive Elementary Science Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Come learn about how the FREE Explore the Salish Sea curriculum supports culturally responsive elementary science teaching through engaging students in using Western and Indigenous knowledge to solve local environmental problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about culturally responsive elementary science teaching through concrete examples from Explore the Salish Sea, a place- and project-based science curriculum aligned with the NGSS. Lessons are freely available and customizable.

SPEAKERS:
Josie Melton (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA)

Environmental Science Advocacy Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Climate Action Using STEM

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Climate change can affect us all differently, but it is still the biggest threat to humanity on our planet. Learn how engaging in STEM projects can elevate student voices and hope for the future through climate action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Get ideas on how to incorporate STEM projects while teaching Climate Change and Environmental Science.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Voorhees, NJ)

Climate Science Informal Education STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Meaningful Frog Dissections: Putting Invasive Species To Use in the Biology Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

For the past 5 years, I have partnered with my state's wildlife agency to use the invasive bullfrogs they remove that are threatening native species throughout the state. My students collect data that is used by the department to determine the impact these frogs have on Arizona ecosystems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to establish a partnership with local wildlife agencies and scientists to get your students collecting data that is useful to scientists and gives meaning to organisms that are frequently discarded by scientists but still useful in an educational setting.

SPEAKERS:
Shoshanna Kroeger (Phoenix Coding Academy: Phoenix, AZ)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Addressing Epistemic Injustice in Informal Science Spaces

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

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This poster will share how science museums and informal spaces can address epistemic injustice by considering the narratives these spaces create about science, and how this can disenfranchise (or engage) groups who are often already marginalized from knowledge production.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about epistemic injustice, or the exclusion and marginalization of groups from knowledge production, and the ways in which we highlight contributions to science. We’ll share examples from a qualitative research project of a science history museum.

SPEAKERS:
Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Ariela Ikezawa (Pre-Service Teacher)

Equity Advocacy Informal Education Poster

The Business of Science: Shifting Early College Curriculum Through Cross-Curricular Co-Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We present a framework for the next generation of early college STEM education. This framework highlights a unique co-taught, cross-curricular experience which has been made possible through the early college partnership between Berlin High School (CT) and Southern Connecticut State University.

TAKEAWAYS:
We aim to provide a framework for educators interested in incorporating cross-curricular, co-taught, NGSS and project-based learning experiences into early college curricula. This session presents a freshly designed curriculum which may be adapted in its entirety or utilized on a per unit basis.

SPEAKERS:
Theodore Jones III (Faculty: Berlin, CT), Christopher Wisniewski (Berlin High School: Berlin, CT)

Life Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

STEM Inspired By Germany

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Inspired by the Transatlantic Outreach Program STEM Study Tour for teachers, the free online lessons use phenomena common to the United States and Germany. Framed as a virtual tour of Germany, the four STEM unit topics are sustainability, renewables, climate change, and ecosystems.

TAKEAWAYS:
In addition to accessing STEM lessons and information on future, free TOP STEM Study Tours, attendees will learn how science and engineering can be applied to local and global sustainability issues.

SPEAKERS:
Loris Chen (Science Education Consultant: Fair Lawn, NJ)

STEM Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Academic Self-Concept Development for STEM College Students: An Analysis on Gender Difference

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Using a nation-wide college student dataset, this study examines the gender disparities in academic self-concept for undergraduate students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) majors and investigates college experiences affecting academic self-concept in this population.

TAKEAWAYS:
Findings show that overall college satisfaction is the strongest positive predictor of academic self-concept for STEM college students, and that institutions and their members should strive to facilitate satisfactory and educationally meaningful college experiences for these students.

SPEAKERS:
Cameron Conn (Assistant Dean, College of Osteopathic Medicine: Memphis, TN)

STEM Equity Postsecondary Poster

Peer questioning as learning strategy in experiential physics classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This session will take a deeper look at experiential physics courses. We’ll evaluate the impacts of peer questioning in terms of supporting deep content learning, providing differentiated instruction for advanced students, and affecting attitudes of science as measured by CLASS survey.

TAKEAWAYS:
Session participants will explore the impacts of peer questioning as a learning strategy in high school science courses and take away concrete strategies for implementing peer questioning in their own science courses.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Sarbanes (Green Street Academy)

Physics Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Effects of Course-Based Research Experiences on Student Engagement in Secondary Biological Science Courses

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Student engagement has been linked to increased persistence in STEM. In this poster presentation, I will share the results of my research on the effects of integrating course-based research experiences into high school biological science courses on student engagement in STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
The main takeaway from this session is that integrating course-based research experiences into the curriculum is important in STEM courses, as it can lead to increased student engagement, which is associated with persistence in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Shawndra Fordham (University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus: Aurora, CO)

STEM Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Enhancing STEM Education Through STEMified Instruction with AI Integration in The Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

AI integration in STEM education enhances learning, fosters critical thinking, and empowers educators. STEM-ified instruction is developed to ensure students are well-prepared for STEM challenges in our Technological world.

TAKEAWAYS:
Integrating AI into STEM education enhances learning, critical thinking, and teacher empowerment. It offers STEM-ified instruction and practical learning experiences, preparing students for the STEM-driven future. Professional development is essential for effective AI integration.

SPEAKERS:
DAISY MAE BONGTIWON (graduate student: Manila, Philippines)

STEM Advocacy Technology Poster

Connecting Classrooms and Colleges

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Connecting Classrooms and Colleges showcases how to cultivate successful partnerships between the K-12 setting and higher education to improve science education for all level learners, from kindergarten to graduate school and beyond.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how educators can find opportunities to cultivate partnerships with colleges that benefit all that seek to learn and improve science education. A decade-long partnership between the University of Georgia Genetics Department and a middle school teacher will be featured.

SPEAKERS:
Audrey Hughes (Clarke Middle School: Athens, GA)

Life Science Advocacy STEM Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Using Food & Cooking to Make Sense of Science & Make It Relate to Students: The How & The Why

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
See all of our lessons and learn more about us here!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How can food and cooking encourage students to connect science concepts to their everyday lives, communities, and global issues? What can this look like in a science classroom? See examples of lessons and multimedia resources you can use to use this approachable, accessible medium to teach science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn about resources that include videos, lesson plans, labs, and readings that they can use to teach science through food and cooking. Resources target grade levels 6-12. They will also learn how a building community of teachers is using these resources and see a sample lesson.

SPEAKERS:
Meredith Moore (The Field School: Washington, DC), Mary Velasquez (Allium Montessori School: No City, No State), Kate Strangfeld (Harvard University: Cambridge, MA)

General Science Biology Chemistry Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Understanding Student Relatability to Scientists and Stereotypes of Scientists within a first-semester community college introductory Biology Course

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This scholarship of teaching and learning study parallels Aranda et al. (2021) by having students author two Scientist Spotlights assignments in a community college biology course and assessing the impact of the intervention on the students’ stereotypes of scientists and relatability to science.

TAKEAWAYS:
The main takeaway is to understand if authoring Scientist Spotlight assignments influences student relatability to scientists and/or shifts stereotypes of scientists from negative stereotypes to positive stereotypes, and nonstereotypical descriptions in a community college intro biology course.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Tarus (Minnesota West Community & Technical College: Worthington, MN)

Biology Equity Life Science Postsecondary Poster

Connecting People to the Arctic Ocean - Scientists, Schools, and Wooden Boats

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Arctic Education with Wild Rose Education
Connect the Arctic - Arctic Science Education Network
All educators and researchers are invited to join this free lively network of polar educators.
Float Your Boat
Arctic education program for classrooms
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Classrooms engage with the Float Your Boat program by decorating small wooden boats to deploy on the Arctic sea ice alongside a parent buoy and then track its path across the northern top of the planet. Students learn about Arctic Ocean circulation, its sea-ice cover, and how it’s changing.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students engage with the Float Your Boat program fostering connections with the Arctic sea ice, ocean circulation, and its changing conditions. This International Arctic Buoy Programme project reaches numerous young people annually around the world, expanding their understanding of the Arctic Ocean.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Johnson (Wild Rose Education: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Let's Talk... About the Science and Engineering Practices

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
"Can I...? Did I...?" A Tool to Support Student Learning of SEP
The BPS STE Department worked with a great team of teachers and others to develop this set of guiding questions for each practice, based on Appendix F of the NGSS and the NGSS@NSTA Practices Progression Matrix. Use the QR Codes to take you to the appropriate grade level.
SEP all grade (K-12) progressions by practice
Each of the practices is described through questions for teachers, families and students. “Can I” questions can be posed during a lesson as a tool to help students learn how to engage in the practices. “Did I” questions can be used to help students reflect on their use of the practices after a lesson or unit.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will illustrate how Science and Engineering Practices "Can I… Did I…" reflection questions can help create a common language in science for school communities. These questions were created in collaboration with Boston Public Schools science teachers and Science Department staff.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students use the reflection questions to think and share about how they are acting like scientists in the classroom. Teachers utilize them as tools to help integrate SEP in a developmentally appropriate manner. Families use them to engage in conversations about science/engineering outside of school.

SPEAKERS:
Juanita Shaffer (Pittsfield High School: Pittsfield, MA), Theresa Lee (Boston Public Schools: Boston, MA)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Investigating with the All of Us Databrowser

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://teach.genetics.utah.edu/content/allofus/
Teacher guide, multimedia and classroom materials that make use of the publicly available All of Us Data Browser.
STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Introduce students to research and the power of “big data!” Learn about an exciting, new, publicly available biomedical database and the All of Us Research Program that makes it possible. Find classroom resources that support using the database in class.

TAKEAWAYS:
The All of Us Research Program is building the largest, most diverse biomedical database of its kind. The program is making de-identified, aggregated data from the database available to the public through a Data Browser and providing resources to help students navigate it.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Malone (The University of Utah: Salt Lake City, UT)

Biology Equity Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Watershed Awareness using Technology and Environmental Research for Sustainability (WATERS)

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Explore free WATERS student-centered activities and models for middle school classrooms for learning water concepts and building water career awareness. Students predict the likelihood that water will follow one pathway over another and to trace the connections among groundwater, surface water and

TAKEAWAYS:
The lessons include these learning activities: discover your local watershed; learn about your stream organisms; test your local water chemistry; manipulate water models; explore your schoolyard; investigate your schoolyard; model improvements to your schoolyard; and create a road map to action.

SPEAKERS:
Carolyn Staudt (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Designing a Path Towards a Student-Centric and Competency-Based Biology Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14PJlDfLQgaQzoUtll_iTbUEQ2o3C3Pm3?usp=sharing
Google Drive Folder with Examples and Resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will share strategies and outcomes from our experience in restructuring biology classes to focus on competency-based learning and student voice and choice. We will offer takeaways for educators to reimagine their classrooms as communities built on student agency and competency-based learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Competency-based learning and student agency in the classroom have positive impacts on academic success and mental health. Science educators can move towards this model in a way that is feasible and accessible.

SPEAKERS:
Ashton Trawinski (Upper School Science Teacher: No City, No State), Megan White (Forsyth Country Day School: Lewisville, NC)

Biology General Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Classroom Practices: Integrating STEM, Literacy and Computation in Elementary Education (iSLICEE)

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA iSLICEE Poster.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Receive practical ideas to integrate computational thinking (CT) into K-5 science, mathematics, and English Language Arts curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn examples about how to integrate STEM, Literacy, and Computational Thinking into everyday lessons. Different technological tools available for educators.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsie Pratt (Instructor: Johnson City, TN), Michaela Slagle (Graduate Assistant: Johnson City, TN), Dylan Singleton (Student: , TN), Chihche Tai (East Tennessee State University: Johnson City, TN)

STEM Computer Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Developing Community STEM Education Partnerships to Deepen Youth Experiences

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Developing STEM Education Partnerships to Deepen Youth Experiences
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

How can community partnerships inspire youth to explore locally relevant environmental issues? Learn how to activate untapped resources within your STEM ecosystem and build community partnerships to provide real-world connections to student investigations and exposure to STEM careers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to build a network of community partnerships that can support efforts to increase youth interest in STEM careers. This poster describes a toolkit that you can use to develop a STEM partnership program to bring together students and STEM professionals from your community.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Rummel (UCAR Center for Science Education: Boulder, CO)

STEM Informal Education Technology Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Engineering with Paper: Amazing Projects with Simple Supplies

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Access to supplies is often a barrier to learning, yet amazing projects can be made with just paper, tape, and scissors. Learn how to transform paper into creative roller coasters, catapults, windmills, and dozens of other hands-on engineering projects.

TAKEAWAYS:
You don't need expensive equipment to do hands-on interactive projects.

SPEAKERS:
Godwyn Morris (Dazzling Discoveries / Skill Mill NYC: New York, NY)

Engineering Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Contraptions in the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How to use Rube Goldberg contraptions to teach physics and physical science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Create a fun way for students to learn about simple machines and apply those concepts to a hands-on interactive project.

SPEAKERS:
Godwyn Morris (Dazzling Discoveries / Skill Mill NYC: New York, NY)

Physics STEM Grades 6 - 8 Poster

A First-Grade Engineering Case Study: Empowering the E in STEM!

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

View the results of a case study highlighting engineering, problem-solving, creativity, and SEL in a first-grade classroom. Presentation includes research, data, pictures, assessments, and student artifacts. Learn why research supports immersing young learners in science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will see a summary of research, data sets, and student work from a recent onsite first-grade case study in engineering. Experience and evidence support the research that schools need to include science and engineering in the early learning curricular lineup.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Nolan-Beasley (Elementary STEM Teacher, Consultant and Science Teacher Trainer: Walla Walla, WA)

Engineering Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

District Leaders Develop an Audit Tool to Evaluate Adopted Curriculums for Equity Considerations

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Audit Tool
Created by Denver Public Schools
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Denver science instructional leaders use research evidence to design a curriculum audit tool to support meeting their district's equity goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Research on equitable instructional practices can be used to design tools to support moving toward system-wide goals for equity in science classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Johnston (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO), Keyerria Howard (Middle. School Curriculum Specialist: Denver, CO)

Equity General Science Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Top 10 Tips for Teaching the SI

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
SI Teaching Tips-Resources-NSTA-Denver-2024-03.pdf
Handout resources include the poster, instructions on how to obtain a free NIST SI Teacher Kit, classroom activities, learning job aid, posters, and other NIST metric system and STEM digital resources.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore 10 strategies to cultivate an immersive classroom measurement climate full of application opportunities that reinforce scale, proportion, and quantity. This poster shares solutions to build all students proficiency as they apply the International System of Units (SI) measurements in STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
It’s easy to learn and teach the metric system. Participants will identify how to obtain a free NIST SI Teacher Kit, supplemental learning activities, and other digital resources.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Benham (National Institute of Standards and Technology: Gaithersburg, MD)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Poster

Tales from the Deep: Storytelling brings scientific ocean drilling to life in the classroom

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Through scientific ocean drilling, we have made countless discoveries about Earth’s history, climate change, and the origin of life, but we often forget the people who make it all possible. TALES FROM THE DEEP partners with StoryCorps to humanize complex science through the stories of those at sea.

TAKEAWAYS:
Free multimedia classroom resources, including audio narratives from the people involved in scientific ocean drilling and associated activities and worksheets, allow students to interact with the people who participate in complex science and engage in sensemaking about geoscience concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Maya Pincus (Columbia University / U.S. Science Support Program: Palisades, NY)

Informal Education Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Learning the Language of Science

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This poster session will provide examples of activities that build language comprehension skills for English Learners. Activities will help connect science content to background knowledge while thinking critically about scientific concepts using informational text, visuals, and hands-on exploration.

TAKEAWAYS:
They will learn about a scaffolded set of activities designed to build language comprehension skills using a science concept.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Die (Regional Curriculum Coordinator: Nederland, TX)

Literacy General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN): Building a foundation of support for climate and energy educators

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CLEAN Poster
Poster describing the CLEAN Project
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

CLEAN is a climate education project that supports educators of all types to bring climate and energy topics into their teaching. CLEAN stewards a collection of nearly 900 resources including videos, visualizations, and activities that are reviewed by scientists and educators and easily searchable.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through our resource collection, teaching guidance pages, and network, we work to center people, place, and science in climate education. CLEAN offers educators multiple perspectives and ways to understand the challenges, relationships, responsibilities, and solutions for climate change.

SPEAKERS:
Kathryn Boyd (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO), Patrick Chandler (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Poster

TeachEngineering Digital Library: Free, Standards-Aligned STEM Resources

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_Conference_TE_Poster_2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The TeachEngineering Digital Library is a free, online collection of K-12 curricular STEM resources. Our goal is to help educators put the ‘E’ in STEM— by making applied science, technology, and math come alive through engineering design and design thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
TeachEngineering provides 1,850+ free STEM curricular resources focusing on hands-on, standards-aligned activities for K-12 students.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Kracha (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Dua Chaker (TeachEngineering: Boulder, CO), Ellen Parrish (TeachEngineering: Boulder, CO)

STEM Engineering General Science Poster

STEM Hub: Authentic Experiences in Science and Engineering for Young Learners

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Inspired to bring joy to our students through authentic STEM investigations that are culturally and historically responsive, we collaborated to create a common framework for planning learning experiences.

TAKEAWAYS:
Having a dedicated STEM resource for teachers helps to streamline the curriculum and give teachers ideas for incorporating STEM in ways that are accessible to all students and mindful of a K-5 teacher’s workload.

SPEAKERS:
Elcilia Taveras (K-5 Math Instructional Specialist), Meera Rajani (Math Specialist: White Plains, NY), Carmen King (Mamaroneck Avenue Elementary School: White Plains, NY), Susannah Waksberg (K-5 Math Instructional Specialist)

STEM Equity Robotics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Using digital media to support inclusive phenomena-driven science instruction and three dimensional learning

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Eclipse 2024_Educators .pdf
Prep for April 8 eclipse
Eclipse_Resource Document_022924.pdf
PBS-LearningMedia-poster-resource-list.pdf
Stevens-GBH-NSTA-2024-poster.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Learn how media can enrich science instruction and provide opportunities to engage all students, including English learners and students with disabilities, in three dimensional learning while making science content more meaningful to them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with a list of resources and ideas for actively engaging their students with phenomena through media, and tips for creating an inclusive science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Shawn Stevens (GBH Education: Brighton, MA)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Poster

Ethics of Information: The Challenges Of and Strategies For Introducing Information Literacy to Elementary Students

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Information literacy (IL) is an essential skillset in the digital era, making it important to develop throughout students' academic careers. However, the ethical topics of IL may be difficult to introduce to younger students. We identify the possible challenges and provide strategies to tackle them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators face several challenges teaching elementary students ethical information usage. To combat this, we have devised a few strategies that can make this aspect of information literacy easier to develop in younger students.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Randles (Assistant Professor: Orlando, FL), Matilynn Lam (Graduate Student: , FL)

Literacy Chemistry General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Key Stakeholders’ Interpretations of Scientific Information Literacy: A Survey of Orange and Seminole County Postsecondary Educators

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Gaining meaningful access to a discipline requires students to engage with multiple literacies. Here we report on a study investigating postsecondary faculties interpretations, implementations, and assessment of information literacy in university classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Embedding information literacy (IL) practices in postsecondary chemistry classrooms will require significant curriculum and professional development to support faculty to implement IL practices in their classroom, given faculty temporal and capability restrictions.

SPEAKERS:
Matilynn Lam (Graduate Student: , FL)

Chemistry Literacy Postsecondary Poster

Science is Lit! Infusing Literacy Strategies into 3D Science Instruction: An Action Research Study

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Poster
Science & Literacy Strategies.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This action research investigates the impact of job-embedded professional learning (focused on using science and literacy strategies in the science classroom) on the performance and achievement of students, and the effectiveness of the science teacher.

TAKEAWAYS:
The key takeaways will include a suite of strategies and interventions that can be implemented district-wide or at the classroom level. These strategies focus on the intersection of science and literacy, and how they interplay in the science classroom and curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Marissa Murdock (Dekalb County School District: No City, No State)

Literacy General Science Leadership Poster

Technology Tools to Keep as we Leave the Pandemic Behind

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The poster will highlight and discuss some of the valuable technology resources that played a key role in allowing teachers to provide students with an equitable learning experience during the pandemic and how they can continue to be utilized as we return to the post-pandemic classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
The poster will discuss strategies using tools such as Classkick, Gimkit, Blooket, and Edpuzzle to differentiate instruction in the classroom while encouraging persistence and achievement in students.

SPEAKERS:
Selene Verhofstad (Dobie High School: Houston, TX), Faryal Shaukat (Dobie High School: Houston, TX)

Technology General Science Informal Education Poster

eCYBERMISSION STEM Competition - Authentic, Engaging, Accessible

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

eCYBERMISSION is a free virtual STEM competition for grades 6-9 that offers standards-aligned resources, grants for teachers and thousands of dollars in awards for students. eCYBERMISSION fosters critical thinking and creativity while preparing students for the future.

TAKEAWAYS:
eCYBERMISSION is a free virtual STEM competition for grades 6-9 that offers standards-aligned resources, grants for teachers, and awards for students. eCYBERMISSION provides educators the resources to foster critical thinking and creativity while preparing students for the future.

SPEAKERS:
Carey Dieleman (National Science Teaching Association: No City, No State), Lora Gibbons (Mountain Heights Academy: West Jordan, UT), Laura Stary (Southcrest Christian School: Lubbock, TX), Kelly McDonald (Andover West Middle School: Andover, MA), Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Poster

STEM Doodles with 3-D Printing Pens

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Wondering about ways to use 3-D printing pens with your students? Practice using a 3-D pen to create a small but STEM-tastic model or design to use in your classroom. Explore the possibilities of using the engineering design process to solve real-world problems with creativity and a new tech gadget.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have an opportunity to use a 3D pen to make (and take) a small model or design for the classroom, using a provided pattern or an original design. Information about eCYBERMISSION and programs administered by NSTA and sponsored by AEOP will be available.

SPEAKERS:
Carey Dieleman (National Science Teaching Association: No City, No State), Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Poster

AEOP Virtual Reality “Lab”

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Experience the “real” feel of working in a lab from the physical layout to the various “tasks” performed. Take on the role of a scientist/engineer and conduct scientific studies with a prototype. Catch a glimpse of an Army lab in action and learn how equipment used by our troops is developed.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will have an opportunity to use virtual reality goggles and applications to explore a technological alternative to hands-on scientific inquiry and engineering design processes. Information about eCYBERMISSION and programs administered by NSTA and sponsored by AEOP will be available.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Moskalik (NSTA: No City, No State), Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM General Science Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Human + AI: Immersive Guardian-Teacher Conference Simulations in Teacher Education

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Participants engaged in experiential learning with an avatar-based virtual platform to facilitate guardian-teacher conferences. During this poster, curriculum examples from the professional learning experience will be shared, along with character development and participant reflections.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take away recommendations for leveraging technology such as Mursion in teacher education.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Advocacy Technology Postsecondary Poster

Quick Quizzes - Successful Cycles of Feedback for Teachers and Students

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Explanation for Students
Explanation for Teachers
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how to implement a Quick Quiz system to provide consistent and timely feedback to your students, as well as guide your instruction. Students can replace formative Quick Quiz scores by showing mastery by the Summative assessment. Stop checking homework, and start Quick Quizzing!

TAKEAWAYS:
Use daily formative quizzing to allow teacher and students to understand where they are in the learning process, and to drive instruction. We will share our system for making this easy on both teachers and students, and detail how a redemption policy makes these Quizzes a true Formative assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberlee Freudenberg (Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory: San Francisco, CA)

General Science Mathematics Robotics Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Connecting to nature through mathematics and rainfall.

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 208

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Using a garden based, STEAM integrated lesson, participants will view a poster to explore how much rain their area receives and how much water their garden needs to thrive.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how much rain their area receives and determine how much water is needed for a garden to thrive. They will be provided the lesson plans and resources and discuss how this activity could be implemented. Participants will see how the lesson connects students to nature.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Vela (Assistant Professor: Price, UT), Michelle Parslow (Student)

STEM Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Poster

They Didn't Write What They Think They Said

Friday, March 22 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

As teachers we know students can verbalize a correct response, but when posing with the same question and asking for a written response, students often do not answer in the same ways they did verbally. So, where is the disconnect?

TAKEAWAYS:
The objective of this session is to explore how teachers can improve students' writing in science classes. We will explore how to help students transfer the verbal response to the written in order to help improve students’ ability to write in the discipline of science.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Neesemann (Bay Ridge Prep: Brooklyn, NY), Catherine Walsh (College Board: Alachua, FL)

Biology Chemistry Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning Through Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: Transformative Learning, Learning Designs, and Models

Friday, March 22 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Curriculum implementation requires a robust professional learning program to support teachers in making the shifts called for in NRC’s Framework. This experience leverages BSCS’s new instructional model, Anchored Inquiry Learning (AIL), and an immersion model of professional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders can support teachers with making the instructional shifts called for in the NRC’s Framework through immersive, curriculum-based professional learning programs.

SPEAKERS:
Jenine Cotton-Proby (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Strategic Communications Training to Advance K12 Science

Friday, March 22 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Deep dive trainings in strategic communications; focused on the use of digital and social media tools to reach broader audiences and on persuasive writing tips and techniques. Trainings will be followed by a panel of state teams who completed the trainings and are using the skills locally.

TAKEAWAYS:
Skills to effectively advocate for K12 science via digital and social media tools and techniques for securing OpEd/LTE and blog placements.

SPEAKERS:
Josh Parrish (Collaborative for Student Success: No City, No State), Julia Rothenberg (VP, Digital strategy, GMMB: Washington, DC), Eric Rosenberg (EMR Content + Communications Inc.: Arlington, VA), Adam Ezring (Collaborative for Student Success: No City, No State)

Advocacy General Science Leadership Presentation

High School Share-a-thon

Friday, March 22 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom E

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Engage in a variety of activities, collect information and resources, and network with high school-level leaders. Discover new ideas and materials that you can use next week.

TAKEAWAYS:
The participants will network with other high school-level science educators and leaders to discover and engage in activities that will expand their knowledge and be usable in all aspects of their work.

Share-a-thon Presentation

NGSS-Aligned Summative Classroom Assessments Of Three-Dimensional Learning

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NGSS Summative Assessments_NSTA_Denver_2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

What’s a good assessment? Learn what to look for (or include) in an effective assessment that tracks students’ 3D learning related to middle school PEs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn about key features for summative, benchmark 3D assessments designed to be used in any NGSS-aligned middle school classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Maia Binding (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

Assessment Earth & Space Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using the NGSS SEPs as Proficiency Scales in Standards-Based Grading & Reporting

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1oYFtKQKu88sJ76iNDLdJbhmGgO__6BBs1dQyrYMEgxQ/edit?usp=sharing
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn to integrate science and engineering practices into proficiency scales for evaluating student performance in assessments. Explore how classroom educators calibrate student assessments and how to report scores into a gradebook that communicates to all stakeholders.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn how to integrate the SEPs into proficiency scales that can be used in a standards-based model, including instruction, assessments, and in PLCs through calibration and reporting.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Sinner (Davies High School: Fargo, ND), Alexandra Kollman (Fargo Public Schools: Fargo, ND)

Assessment Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Assessing Notebooking Through the Practices

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
_Notebooking Checkpoint_ Grade 6-8.pdf
Google Slide Deck
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1N2K8ITiyi1GjXUhLtRrZyWkZgausCC-IXxKujdhLhco/edit?usp=sharing
Slide Deck - Assessing Notebooks through the SEPs
Notebooking Checkpoint_ Grade 3-5.pdf
Notebooking Checkpoint_ Grade 9-12.pdf
Notebooking Checkpoint_ Grade K-2.pdf
NSTA 2024 - Notebooking Slides.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Science notebooks can be a powerful tool for students to capture their thinking and chart growth in learning. But how can notebooks be assessed to help students grow in their science and engineering practices? Proficiency rubrics will be shared to allow teachers and students to assess notebooks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave this session with 4 different proficiency scales to assess student notebooks through the science and engineering practices. While notebooks should not be assessed as “right and wrong,” they can be used to help students grow in their science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsie Byram (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA), Mandie Sanderman (Central Rivers Area Education Agency: Cedar Falls, IA)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Hands-on with Climate Science Explorations

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Engage in hands-on, critical thinking, and math-savvy activities that will help students distill a somewhat complex topic and understand how the consumption of energy sources relates to climate.

TAKEAWAYS:
Lessons aimed for students to understand more about energy, carbon dioxide, climate, and climate change with regard to their personal energy choices as well as a global perspective – recognizing choices made in the U.S. have an impact on the global environment.

SPEAKERS:
Vernon Kimball (NEED Facilitator: Manassas, VA)

Climate Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Implementing Hexagonal Thinking: A Concept Mapping Strategy

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Blank Template with Text Boxes
This template has a large background image of the hexagons to make it easier to type in the text boxes. Text boxes can still be moved, and fonts and text sizes are still adjustable.
Blank Template with Text Boxes
This template has a large image background of hexagons with textboxes added. The textboxes can still be moved, and fonts & text sizes are still adjustable. This link is View-Only, so please make a copy in order to create your own versions!
NSTA 2024 Denver Handout
This handouts has the main points of what we learned, as well as the QR codes for the blank templates for you to create your own.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Hexagonal thinking is a collaborative hands-on concept mapping strategy focused on making connections across vocabulary, concepts, and other subject-specific components that can be utilized in any content area, including cross-curricular settings. Come learn how to implement it in your own classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will experience the strategy from a student POV and learn the process of implementation for a variety of settings (traditional and digital) and materials. Examples of student work will also be shown.

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Thomas (University of Southern Indiana: Evansville, IN), Simone Nance (University of Southern Indiana: Evansville, IN)

Sensemaking Assessment General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

THAT'S the Science Class I Want to Be In!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Guide
This guide explains the the Planning Template
LS Lesson Materials
This document are the student pages created to support the High School Life Science lesson sequence.
LS Lesson Plan
This document shows the planning template with a High School Life Science example
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

When you get it right, students are engaged and making sense for themselves. Your lessons are aligned to standards and include scaffolded supports. Here's how to plan those lessons!

TAKEAWAYS:
SEPs, DCIs, and CCCs are the three legs of the stool that support a cohesive lesson. By being immersed in a sensemaking experience, participants define the most important elements and how to plan. Electronic resources are provided.

SPEAKERS:
David Jacob (Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Hghts, NY), Harry Rosvally (Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Heights, NY)

Sensemaking Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Vocabulary Instruction for English Language Learners!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024, ELL NSTA.pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

How do we teach Tier 3 science vocabulary to students with limited English (or no English) and encourage success? We will share multiple strategies for teaching Tier 3 Academic Science vocabulary, as well as modalities that incorporate visual aids, manipulatives, and kinesthetic activities to engage

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Tier 3 strategies for teaching science. 2. The inclusion of visual and kinesthetic activities to engage ALL students. 3. Forms of assessment for ALL levels of English Language Learners.

SPEAKERS:
Darren Wells (Mather Elementary School: Dorchester, MA), Karen Ziminski (EMK Academy for Health Careers: Boston, MA)

Equity Advocacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Dog Mode Design Challenge

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Dog Mode Design Challenge - NSTA Python (1).pdf
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Keep your pets safe from being left in hot cars by using automatic sensors to design an alarm that could save their lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
Solve a real-world problem with coding and engineering design; no prior experience needed.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Voorhees, NJ)

STEM General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Cracking the CER Code: Use an Anchored Science by Mi-STAR Lesson toHelp Your Students Construct Explanations and Argue from Evidence with Confidence

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Mi-STAR CERA Handout NSTA March 2024
Handout from Mi-STAR CERA presentation, NSTA March 2024
Mi-STAR CERA Slides NSTA March 2024
Slides from the presentation Friday March 22 at 1:20 pm
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

As long as there have been CER templates, there have been students who struggle. What’s the difference between evidence and reasoning, or an explanation and an argument, exactly? Our Mi-STAR CER lesson and templates help answer these questions and they are open to all - join us to learn more!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with clear and concise definitions of reasoning, explanations, and argumentation, along with a lesson plan, activities, and templates to help students define and construct all three in the science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Chris Geerer (Mi-STAR: , MI)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Revisiting Student Assessments with Discourse & Argumentation

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engage in an assessment activity that deepens students’ conceptual understanding, provides opportunities to evaluate scientific information, improves analytical abilities, and strengthens communication skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about a student-driven re-assessment strategy that provides an additional opportunity for students to collaborate while analyzing scientific information.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Bowen (Johnson City Schools: Johnson City, TN)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The Computational Science Classroom: Using Physical Computing to Drive Student Learning, Thinking, and Action

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Our innovative approach to science and STEM engages students through hands-on and minds-on physical computing curricular units. Through this approach you can enable students to leverage computational thinking to investigate, develop models, and ultimately enact local and global change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to effectively bring computational thinking and programming into the middle school classroom, based on curriculum units developed by Schoolwide Labs at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Our place-based focus is a powerful promoter of equity for all students.

SPEAKERS:
Quentin Biddy (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Greg Benedis-Grab (CU Boulder: No City, No State)

STEM Computer Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The Science of Skepticism: Empowering Educators with Sagan's Baloney Detection Kit

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the importance of reflective thinking, skepticism, and the tools for critical inquiry as emphasized by Sagan's Baloney Detection Kit. This session guides educators in fostering students' intellectual curiosity and equipping them with survival skills for the information age.

TAKEAWAYS:
Equip yourself with strategies to foster reflective and skeptical thinking in students, empowering them with Sagan's nine components of critical inquiry, ensuring they navigate the information glut with discernment.

SPEAKERS:
Nathan Lang-Raad (Author, Speaker, Educator: , ME)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Assessment 3.0: The Learning Progression Model

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://reimaginedschools.com/nsta-conference-presentations/
A copy of the slide presentation plus many other useful resources!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The Learning Progression Model is a flexible, equitable assessment strategy to provide descriptive feedback, set goals, evaluate teaching, and report achievement. Attendees leave knowing how they can implement this in their classrooms, even in a traditional grades school. For K-College, all courses.

TAKEAWAYS:
Understand how the Learning Progression Model keeps students engaged and accountable, how learning progressions are used to develop/assess skills and knowledge aligned with NGSS, and how to integrate this approach into the traditional grading system.

SPEAKERS:
Elise Naramore (Pascack Hills High School: Montvale, NJ)

Assessment Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Build a Monster: Reviewing & Refining Resources

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In today's tech-driven world, with abundant information and limited planning time, achieving both content-rich and inclusive lessons can lead to "analysis paralysis." Break free from overwhelm with our practical tool for evaluating resources. Join us!

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this lesson, educators will be able to apply effective strategies to critically evaluate a range of resources, thus enhancing the overall sense of inclusivity and belonging within their classroom communities.

SPEAKERS:
Jailyn Jenkins (Manager of Resident Development, Innovation, Coaching: , CO)

Equity Biology STEM Presentation

Fun Ways to Get Students to Argue with Evidence

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This interactive session will provide fun ways for students to argue with evidence. CER ideas and activities will be provided as well as rubrics for assessments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will analyze student CERs, learn methods of implementation, and write claims with evidence and reasoning.

SPEAKERS:
Leah Ward (Science Teacher: Pleasant View, UT), Allison Halling (Teacher), Becky McKinney (Weber High School: Pleasant View, UT)

STEM Assessment Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching the Science of Climate and Justice Through Interdisciplinary Methods

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teaching the Science of Climate and Justice through Interdisciplinary Methods
Google Slides deck
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Workshop will focus on the structure of a Climate Science and Environmental Justice course and how it could be used as a model to engage students of all ages in climate literacy, advocacy, justice, and sustainability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with a concrete template to design a lesson, unit, or course in an interdisciplinary fashion. Also, participants will be given time to plan and design for a lesson, unit, or course to be used immediately in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Bigelow (Social Studies Co-Chair: Chicago, IL), Ryan Zaremba (Francis W. Parker School: Chicago, IL)

Climate Science Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Disappearing Bees and One Health: Connecting Humans, Animals, and the Environment

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Bees are dying! Investigate the causes of declining bee populations and how this loss can affect your food supply. Experience hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based lessons related to One Health – the connections between human, animal, and environmental health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based approach, participants will leave with classroom-ready materials to engage their students in investigating why bee populations are declining. Activities focus on the science practices of constructing an explanation and designing solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Brosnick (SUNY Buffalo State College: Buffalo, NY)

Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teach Like an Elder and Have Success in a Modern, Healing STEM Classroom!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will connect the teaching methods of our elders to the current best practices in STEM education. This will include the removal of barriers to learning as well as taking the lessons into the world of students. Lesson templates will be shared as well as examples of all methods.

TAKEAWAYS:
For many attendees, existing materials and methods can be adapted to the worlds of the students and drastically increase engagement, critical thinking, and practical application. This will result in a strengthening of the student's identity as a STEM learner, as well as STEM being a possible career.

SPEAKERS:
Joel Truesdell (Kamehameha Schools Hawaii Campus: Keaau, HI)

STEM Chemistry Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

JROTC STEM Leadership Academy

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
MCPSS JROTC STEM Leadership Academy
Mobile County Public School System JROTC STEM Leadership Academy Overview.
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

The purpose of the JROTC STEM Leadership Academy (first began in 2015 in Mobile, AL) is to engage a unique population of high school students, 9th and 10th grade JROTC cadets, in STEM content, skills and fields of study needed by business and industry today.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to incorporate STEM lessons into after school and summer programs while building an interest in area industries and workforce development.

SPEAKERS:
Chastity Touchstone (Mary G. Montgomery High School: Semmes, AL), Ashley Daigle (Mary G. Montgomery High School: Semmes, AL)

STEM Leadership Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Investigating Material Properties to Classify Objects

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engage in the science practices of investigating (making observations) and analyzing data to make a claim about classifying objects based on observable material properties. Participants will explore and classify a set of K-2 appropriate materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore a set of materials to determine how to classify them according to their observable properties. Next, participants examine sample student work to uncover student ideas and think about why those ideas may be reasonable to them.

SPEAKERS:
Jaclyn Murray (Mercer University: Macon, GA)

Sensemaking Physical Science Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Secondary Science Outdoors (It’s not just for K-5)

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This hands-on session will generate ideas on how to get your secondary students outside and moving while still covering your science standards. Good NGSS practice starts with an anchoring phenomenon. What better way to explore a phenomenon than getting outside?

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with immediately applicable strategies and ideas to use in their secondary science classrooms outdoors.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Bateman (Clemson University), Brooke Whitworth (Clemson University: Clemson, SC), Summer Landreth (educator: , SC)

General Science Life Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching Biology in a Time of Conflict: Challenge, Opportunity, and Optimism

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides-1
Presentation Slides-2
Presentation Slides-3
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Are these the “Worst of Times” for science education? With widespread public rejection and even hostility to vaccines, climate science, and evolution, these might seem to be grim times in the science classroom, but I will suggest that is not the whole story.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be presented with some of the principal challenges facing science educators around the nation. However, each of these challenges presents a unique opportunity to engage students with topics of interest that are deeply relevant to their everyday lives.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller (Brown University: Providence, RI)

Biology Advocacy Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

When Storylines Meets Design Camp: Building Youth Learning Activities to Support Science Learning, Making, and Coding for Informal Learners

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The storyline approach has guided the design of high-quality instructional materials for K-12 science education. We will present an adaptation of this framework to a youth camp focused on design in the context of learning radio frequency communication technologies.

TAKEAWAYS:
The storyline approach is a powerful framework to guide the design of learning experiences that build upon student ideas in formal and out-of-school settings. Participants will see some of the adaptations of this framework in a camp engaging youth in coding, craft making, and engineering contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Guy Ollison (Science Educator: Colorado Springs, CO), Nancy Hopkins-Evans (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Sherry Hsi (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

STEM Informal Education Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Sculpting Scientific Understanding: Unit Planning and Summary Tables for Sensemaking

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Intentionally planning sensemaking opportunities within NGSS-aligned science units empowers students to become active learners, critical thinkers, and scientifically literate individuals. It also equips students with the skills needed to address complex real-world challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn to design a single spreadsheet that includes both a teacher-facing plan and a student-facing summary table. This integrated approach will emphasize sensemaking and the effective use of scientific vocabulary, streamlining the planning process for an enriched learning experience.

SPEAKERS:
Saswati Koya (Loyola University Chicago: Chicago, IL)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Overcoming Obstacles: Strategies for Supporting Implementation of High-Quality Instructional Materials in Science

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Explore solutions to common challenges in implementing high-quality science instructional materials in schools. In this session, presenters will share practical strategies for how they navigated alignment and buy-in barriers to support successful implementation of OpenSciEd in MS classrooms in TN.

TAKEAWAYS:
No set of curriculum materials will perfectly fit the needs of teachers and students. Thoughtful and intentional use of high-quality instructional materials provides a foundation for strong 3D instruction, and a common language and framework to support teacher collaboration.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Proffitt (Director, Academics: Richmond, VA)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Got Questions Now What? Creating Dynamic Driving Question Boards (DQBs) to Engage All Learners

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/18JLxSJavIyTu0ldpKNrIKk_dsZxUcv2j?usp=sharing
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

DQBs are an inquiry tool that can be used to address multiple SEPs. We will demonstrate how students can use CCCs as a lens to process and think about data and information, model how to make a DQB for a classroom and learn strategies to utilize the DQB to keep students focused on learning goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will create a DQB and discover its applications in project-based and inquiry-based learning. Strategies for making the DQB a dynamic part of each lesson will be demonstrated. DQBs allow students to be intrinsically motivated and take ownership in their own learning.

SPEAKERS:
Lynn DiAndrea (Farmingdale School District: Farmingdale, NY), Dr. Kristen Cummings (Farmingdale Union Free School District: Farmingdale, NY)

Sensemaking Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Hands-On Equity: Making STEM Education Manageable

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Hands-on Equity presentation pdf
Review this sessions slide show at your own convenience to learn more about PBL and our associated activity.
Science Buddies mini-trebuchet website
A great resource for this trebuchet build and tons of other hands-on activities!
Science Buddies: build a mini-trebuchet
We'll build this fun mini-trebuchet during our workshop!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in student equity tips & activities as they work to complete a STEM build. Everyone will leave with materials, resources, & useful inclusion practices in this STEM engineering challenge. Teamwork will be used to create the task & classroom adaptations will be explored.

TAKEAWAYS:
STEM education is easy, fun, & accessible. Your students & colleagues will benefit from these engaging activities regardless of your professional track. NM MESA educators are specialists when working with rural & underserved communities; join us and you’ll take away build kits, resources, & ideas!

SPEAKERS:
Terry Ramirez (NM MESA: Albuquerque, NM), Kim Scheerer (NM MESA)

STEM Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Collaborative Structures in any High School Science

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Collaborative Structures in Science NSTA 2024.pdf
Presentation from the workshop.
Collaborative Structures Interactive Science Notebook.docx
Mini Interactive Science Notebook for participants. If you decide to use, make sure when you print, select "print on both sides, flip on short end."
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn quick activities to engage students using collaborative structures that require little planning, but provide big results.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how quick activities increase engagement and collaboration and will plan their implementation for an upcoming lesson.

SPEAKERS:
Chrissy Brouwer (School District of Osceola County: Kissimmee, FL)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Powerful and Equitable Physics Exploration - The Work and Power Lab Revisted

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this powerful workshop, teachers will learn how to promote an equitable and safe space to design, experiment, and investigate the topics of work and power as an alternative to the traditional stair lab.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will work through an alternative lab that allows students to build and examine the work and power involved in a conveyor belt system. The lab, suggested materials, and analysis will be supplied to teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Sabrina Whitaker (Farmingdale High School: Farmingdale, NY)

Physics Engineering STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Mission Mars: Help Students Master the NGSS Through an Engaging Lesson on Harvard's LabXchange Platform

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Labxchange (Denver) 2024
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

You can utilize LabXchange's free resources to engage your students in understanding the critical STEM concepts NASA must master for a Mars mission, including engineering design and problem-solving skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
At the session, attendees will learn how to access and effectively use Harvard's LabXchange to enhance their science lessons, fostering a dynamic STEM learning environment.

SPEAKERS:
Lauren Kelly (Crowley ISD: Fort Worth, TX)

STEM Earth & Space Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Differentiation in the AP Physics Classroom: Reaching and Challenging ALL Students

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In my AP Physics 1 class I have a student who can’t rearrange simple equations alongside a student who got a 5 on AP Calc BC. I have the star of Honors English Lit and a new international student who doesn’t yet understand simple directions in English. How can I reach and challenge every student?

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to cater for every student in your classroom using my three guiding rules: facilitate self-paced learning, emphasize mastery, and playing to students’ strengths. This will ensure all students get a solid conceptual foundation and have the support that they need to reach their full potential.

SPEAKERS:
Abigail Vega (Physics & Chemistry Teacher: , CA)

Physics Assessment Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

A Hands-on Approach to Teaching Anatomy Using Clay on a Skeletal Model

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this workshop, attendees will build replicas of human anatomy using clay and a specially-designed skeletal model in a classroom setting. Educators will learn how to implement a unique curriculum system which helps students create a kinesthetic map of the human anatomy.

TAKEAWAYS:
They will acquire the knowledge to engage science students with immediate, hands-on learning using a proven method that is nationally recognized to increase both student retention and test scores.

SPEAKERS:
Brandee Gillham (Educator)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Incorporating Soil Data Into Instruction: An Introduction to Web Soil Survey and NRCS Resources for Educators

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Incorporating Soil Data into Instruction - presentation
Explore NRCS's Web Soil Survey and related lessons and guides. Links to resources are included in the ppt.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants should bring a computer to learn about and explore the soil data platform from Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey. Participants will learn how to acquire local data of interest and be provided with a teacher guide and multiple lessons that include soil data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Incorporating real, scientific data about soils is easy with Web Soil Survey and AGI’s new Educator Guide. Including local soil data in instruction will make science content more relevant to students as they learn about topics such as soil health, erosion, flooding, infrastructure, and more.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD), Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lauren Brase (American Geosciences Institute: , IL)

Earth & Space Science STEM Technical and Vocational Education Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Changing Views of our Earth System, NASA Data in Your Environmental Science Class

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
My NASA Data Earth System Data Explorer
Sneak Peek of a the updated My NASA Data tool that will be released soon.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us to discover and discuss how NASA satellite data can enhance sensemaking in your environmental science instruction (all levels including AP). Learn how short, engaging, phenomena-based, Earth system instructional nuggets can help students build toward Big Science Ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
NASA satellite data and observations are excellent resources to support phenomena-based instruction within environmental science lessons. Participants learn how to integrate satellite observations to support sensemaking opportunities in classroom instruction centered on various spatial phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: No City, No State), Missy Holzer (Chatham High School: Chatham, LA), Natalie Macke (Pascack Hills High School: Montvale, NJ)

Environmental Science Climate Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Climate in your Classroom, Climate in your World: Use Free NOAA Resources and Data to Teach this Integrated Topic

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Want to teach climate literacy but don’t know where to start? NOAA offers lesson plans, videos, data, webinars, and more, to inform and inspire students. This session is appropriate for 3rd grade through college educators and informal educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to improve climate literacy and discuss climate and climate change in your classroom with free resources from NOAA.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Smith (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Silver Spring, MD), Bekkah Lampe (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Get the M in STEM Working for You!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Plans and Presentation
Check here for the documents that support the lessons in my presentation!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Let's face it, science often takes a backseat to math! Change the conversation with ideas to support integrating science curriculum and find funding for authentic learning experiences. Help get your topics more recognition and revitalize the most hated subject in school, math!

TAKEAWAYS:
Discuss successful steps taken to integrate curriculum, fund activities, and even co-teach ES, biology, chemistry, and STEM topics with math teammates. Walk away with lesson plans you can take to your math department to model the process.

SPEAKERS:
Scarlett Lyon (STEM Outreach Coordinator)

General Science Life Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Identifying Scientific Misinformation with Computational Thinking

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in computational thinking practices to identify trustworthy scientific sources in the media. This session includes classroom-ready activities focused on disciplinary core ideas to enhance media literacy through science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Computational thinking (CT) is an iterative process useful for identifying trustworthy scientific sources in the media. Through inquiry, CT enables students to disaggregate media content, recognize patterns, focus on important information, and develop systematic processes to improve media literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Missie Olson (Becker High School: Becker, MN), Dennis Liu (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC), Jocelyn Miller (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC)

General Science Computer Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Transform Static Word Walls Into Interactive Teaching Tools

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation resources
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Transform static word walls into interactive tools that involve students, include visuals, organize content, target key vocabulary, and support student discourse. Bring vocabulary to life so students can build meaningful relationships with Disciplinary Core Ideas rather than simply memorizing them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to transform static word walls into interactive teaching tools that involve students, include visuals, organize content, target key vocabulary, and support student discourse. We will build an interactive word wall and use it to support academic discourse during the session.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Jackson (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Outdoor Science: Reading & Writing About the "B-List" for "A-Plus" Results

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Follow butterflies, bees, birds, and childrens' books into the school yard with an NSTA Press author who shares strategies for journaling like wilderness explorers and wildlife habitat champions interwoven with stories of creating and preserving the phenomenon of Monarch migration. Free seeds!

TAKEAWAYS:
The main takeaway is most prominently the set of strategies (nature journaling, integrating childrens' literature) that help students in interdisciplinary efforts to use or create school gardens that promote pollination and provide a pathway for migrating butterflies, various birds, bees, and bats.

SPEAKERS:
Steve Rich (Science Author/Consultant: Atlanta, GA)

Environmental Science Advocacy Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Crash and Learn – Using Basic Science Concepts to Help Students Make Safe Decisions While Riding in or Driving a Vehicle

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join award-winning science educator Griff Jones and members of the IIHS Vehicle Research Center to practice a sample of engaging demos and hands-on activities, such as paper car crashes and egg drop competitions, from the IIHS’s free “Crash Science in the Classroom” program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will try out a selection of inquiry-oriented discrepant events and hands-on crash science activities, and learn how to access other free, video-supported, classroom-tested lessons and resources to teach crash-related science and engineering concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Joe Young (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute: Arlington, VA), Griff Jones (University of Florida: No City, No State)

STEM Biology Engineering Physics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Examining Pokémon Cards to Elaborate About Inherited Traits

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
5E Components.pdf
NSTA Spr24 Denver Pokemon Presentation1.pptx
PokemonSampleSet.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Pokémon cards depict fictitious animalian life stages that can be leveraged to discuss life science concepts such as inherited and acquired traits. After briefly reviewing inherited versus acquired traits and 5E lessons, participants will explore the cards to develop sci-fi writing samples.

TAKEAWAYS:
While some Pokémon character cards depict physical and behavioral development over two or more stages, such character cards may be leveraged as science fiction writing seeds, to help early adolescents apply their understanding of life science concepts while learning about the Science Fiction genre.

SPEAKERS:
Omah Williams-Duncan (University of Houston-Clear Lake: Houston, TX)

Life Science Biology Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

The NUGGETS of Your Science Classroom: Data Collection Activities

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come learn how easy, important, and fun it is to collect and analyze data as a part of good, solid, responsible science education. Integrating science and mathematics isn't just a good idea, it is essential for today's STEM learner. Today's technology makes it quick, easy, fun and meaningful!

TAKEAWAYS:
ALL attendees will be active participants in the data collection activities in this session. But collecting data will not be the greatest takeaway. Rather, instilling confidence in ALL attendees to perform mathematical analysis of the data will be the main goal of the session.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Lukens (Retired Science Teacher: Sioux Falls, SD)

General Science Biology Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Beyond Pre-Teaching Vocabulary: Intentional Language Instruction in a Secondary Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Beyond Pre-teaching Vocab Resources
This page (either download or the URL) has links to all of the resources shared in this session.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session is intended for secondary science teachers with multilingual learners (MLLs). MLLs bring important science ideas that contribute to learning. This session will emphasize meaningful language instruction for all students and provide ideas for how to support emergent multilingual students.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, participants will engage with meaningful examples of teaching techniques to support higher-level thinking for all students, especially multilingual learners. These examples can be implemented in any secondary science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Amber Snapke (Middle School Science Curriculum Developer: , WA), Angela DiLoreto (Bellevue School District: Bellevue, WA)

Equity General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Engaging Students in the Science and Engineering of Food

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Ag Biology Overview & Apples 03_22_24.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engage in conversations for how to use the three dimensions of the NGSS and the NRC Framework, storylines, driving questions, formative and summative assessments, and hands-on activities to learn science and engineering skills while making sense of one of our most basic needs – FOOD.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in a morsel of a storyline on producing the perfect apple. In this storyline, students notice and wonder about different varieties of apples and are challenged to explain why it took 30 years for the Honeycrisp apple to be available to consumers.

SPEAKERS:
Shane Cullian (Whitewater High School: Whitewater, WI)

Biology Sensemaking Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Empowering Youth: Climate Justice Community Engagement in Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

How do we cultivate students’ voice & agency through civic action? Through a partnership between UC Irvine and Anaheim Union High SD, we co-designed equity/justice-centered, NGSS-aligned units and created a civic engagement matrix. We'll share how to use this tool to support students' civic action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn a civic action matrix that can be used to guide students' projects and empower students to become agents of change in their communities.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Lieu (Magnolia High School: Anaheim, CA), Jessica Yett (AUHSD: Anaheim, CA), Hosun Kang (University of California, Irvine: Irvine, CA)

Chemistry Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Effectively Engage Students in Developing and Using Models with this 5-Step Routine!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Resource Collection_NSTA Denver 2024_ Effectively Engage Students in Developing and Using Models with this 5-Step Routine!.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage as student learners to experience an OpenSciEd middle school lesson and gain an understanding of how to implement an effective 5-step modeling routine for making sense of phenomena adapted from the text, "Ambitious Science Teaching," with middle school students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain an understanding of an effective 5-step instructional routine for developing student’s proficiency with the Science and Engineering Practice of Developing and Using models, and how it supports sensemaking of a phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association)

Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching Climate Through a Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Lens

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Teaching climate change in diverse contexts often means we need to meet communities where they are at and teach through concerns that are central to their lives. The SDGs provide a framework of 17 central goals that help to foster thriving and sustainable communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore the interrelationships between the SDG Framework and climate learning goals across diverse contexts. Using resources provided, plan possible connection points with the SDG Framework to your own teaching to help foster climate awareness and agency.

SPEAKERS:
Carol O'Donnell (Smithsonian Science Education Center: Washington, DC), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Tana Luther (Louisiana Dept. of Education: Baton Rouge, LA)

Climate Science Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

CSSS:3-Dimensional Summative Performance Assessment Tasks

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will become familiar with an approach to develop 3-dimensional performance tasks to assess student learning. These assessment tasks use analogous phenomena that is directly aligned to the NGSS performance expectations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave the session with a set of assessment items for each of the NGSS standards for the 6-8 grade band. Participants will learn how to use templates to structure the development of assessment items and experience in developing a task.

SPEAKERS:
Juan-Carlos Aguilar (Georgia Dept. of Education: Brookhaven, GA), Michele Snyder (Arkansas Dept. of Education: Little Rock, AR)

Assessment Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

University and College Instructors: Use NSTA with Preservice Teachers

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA-Natl-Conf-DEN24-NSTA-Class-Bundle.pdf
Slides for NSTA Presentation in Denver24. For Instructors considering use of NSTA Class Bundle with pre-service teachers. Presented in March 2024.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Are you a preservice teachers’ instructor? Learn how NSTA's digital resources, web seminars, and online community can help students become the BEST teachers they can be. We will discuss what’s available at NSTA and how to easily access it from your own Class Landing Page. Membership is included.

TAKEAWAYS:
Instructors using NSTA as their Textbook (or as a supplement) have students who create a library of resources, grow their network of professional colleagues, and enhance their content and pedagogical knowledge of science. Membership is included.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Preservice Science Education Advocacy Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

Quick & Easy to Implement SEL Strategies That Support Belonging & Learning for All Students in Science Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pUl2EiOV8hz1_TGHgG6tRamNQl8TWfSipr65e67aMZY/edit?usp=sharing
NSTA 2024 Quick & Easy to Implement SEL Strategies.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join me as we engage with many high-leverage SEL strategies I regularly incorporate into my high school classroom. I use these strategies to foster a sense of belonging and support strong development of the NGSS SEPs. We’ll discuss successes and strategize your adaptations of my ready-to-use tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
One core SEL strategy I’ll share is a “temperature check” in which students take 5 minutes of class weekly to fill out a digital (or paper) survey to let me know how they’re doing. I’ll share my rationale behind the questions I use and how they have increased my ability to support students.

SPEAKERS:
Andrea Ames (Meridian High School: Bellingham, WA)

Biology Chemistry Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Transforming Everyday Science Lessons into Three-Dimensional Learning Experiences

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Do you have an instructional unit published before 2013 or do you ever buy online lessons and wonder how to confirm alignment to three-dimensional learning? Learn about a practical approach for vetting science instructional units.

TAKEAWAYS:
This workshop presents a practical rubric for vetting lessons and a framework for transforming any lesson into a three-dimensional learning experience for students.

SPEAKERS:
Leidy Luciani (Parish Episcopal School, Midway Campus: Dallas, TX)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Sensemaking in the Garden: Pairing Science and Literacy to Help Students Make Sense of Their Natural World

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us in the garden as we engage in lessons that help students learn about life in their environment. Each lesson is paired with teacher-approved books and strategies to help integrate science and literacy. Topics include plants, fruits, life cycles, pill bugs, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be exposed to a sensemaking framework to engage students in concepts such as life cycles, how animals process information, and plant structure and function. Each lesson in the workshop will be paired with topic-specific children's books appropriate for teaching the content.

SPEAKERS:
Frances Hamilton (The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Huntsville, AL), Sandra Lampley (The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Huntsville, AL)

Life Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

AUTHOR: Model-Based Inquiry in Chemistry: Three-Dimensional Instructional Units for Grades 9-12

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We will introduce our forthcoming NSTA book containing a collection of units and resources to help teachers engage students in three-dimensional learning through model-based inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about four chemistry model-based inquiry units for rigorous and equitable instruction. Developed with secondary science teachers, the session guides three-dimensional learning, anchoring phenomena, modeling, and scientific explanations.

SPEAKERS:
Ron Gray (Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ), Todd Campbell (University of Connecticut: Storrs Mansfield, CT)

Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Homes for the Hurricane Homeless: The Integration of STEM, Place-Based Learning, and Designing Thinking in the Elementary Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will explore an engineering design challenge that engages upper elementary students in the creation of tiny homes as a solution to homelessness after a local natural disaster. Explore Design Thinking principles and how empathy plays a role in authentic and inclusive STEM inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Engage in an NGSS-based engineering design challenge where you design a solution for homelessness caused by natural disasters and learn the role of empathy in STEM inquiries by using Design Thinking principles and place-based strategies that engage all learners in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

STEM Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Ready, Set, Launch Students Into Engineering Design!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

Show Details

Inspire your students to think like scientists and engineers with this hands-on STEM approach. Test variables, make predictions, and design the perfect straw rocket. See how this STEM approach can be used to create any design challenge in your class. Receive resources to transform your STEM lessons!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn hands-on strategies to help students develop measurement, data collection, and analysis skills they can apply in engineering design lessons. You will learn methods to differentiate this in any K-12 setting and leave with free resources to implement this in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Davis (Air Camp USA, Inc.: Dayton, OH)

STEM Engineering General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Effective Professional Learning Experiences in Science Education

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

Show Details

The underpinning of meaningful professional learning lies in coherent and sustained professional development experiences teachers can apply in the classroom. This session focuses on how to apply the Science Professional Learning Standards in modeling discourse to improve instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
A clear understanding of how to apply the Science Professional Learning Standards to select and design professional learning experiences. A set of strategies and lesson plans for modeling classroom discourse and applying these strategies in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Candace Penrod (Salt Lake City School District: Salt Lake City, UT), Brett Moulding (Partnership for Effective Science Teaching and Learning: Ogden, UT)

Leadership General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Solving Real-World Problems with Invention Education

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How can we teach students to be inventors and provide them with skills to solve real problems? Join PBS NewsHour Classroom's session on "Invention Education" with teachers whose students have successfully solved problems in their communities through the invention process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with a solid understanding of Invention Education, the 7-step invention process, and how students, who are natural inventors and problem-solvers, can implement this strategy to solve problems in their own communities and beyond.

SPEAKERS:
Martin Momsen (Houston High School: Houston, MN), Mary Lynn Hess (Goldsboro Elementary Magnet School: Sanford, FL), Victoria Pasquantonio (PBS NewsHour: Arlington, VA)

Engineering Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Engineering Student Success on a Budget

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

NGSS includes standards for engineering. Many small schools don't have the resources for high-tech maker spaces, so we meet those standards using common, inexpensive materials. Come see how we make it work!

TAKEAWAYS:
Engineering doesn't have to be complicated, and it doesn't require high-tech tools and equipment. We can engineer solutions to world problems using simple household materials.

SPEAKERS:
Vanessa Ueltzen (Walther Christian Academy: Melrose Park, IL)

STEM General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

From Greenland to our coasts: Learning about the Earth system with GIS and authentic data

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about using maps and authentic data your classroom with free resources co-designed by scientists and instructional specialists from the University of Colorado Boulder. Geospatial data and GIS data helps students visualize how effects from far away places like Greenland impact us.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore how to use authentic Greenland-focused geospatial data in their own classrooms using the open-source QGIS software and the step-by-step tutorials and beginner video series produced by QGreenland.

SPEAKERS:
Alyse Thurber (Curriculum Developer: Geneva, IL)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Let’s Tinker with Toys: The Power of Reverse-Engineering

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 - Forsythe - Tinker with Toys Handout
Handout
NSTA 2024 - Forsythe - Tinker with Toys PPT
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Ever wondered what’s inside a calculator? Or how a wind-up toy works? Join us as we tinker with toys and learn how reverse-engineering activities can be a powerful learning experience for students. Come prepared to take simple objects apart. The challenge will be putting them back together again!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will gain experience deconstructing and reconstructing everyday objects such as toys; be able to identify learning opportunities in simple reverse-engineering activities; and be prepared to facilitate reverse-engineering activities in elementary classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Forsythe (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Engineering Sensemaking STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Designing for Justice in OpenSciEd High School

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/11zSn0ZPg4RpIte3y7yxHg39cnd2JAomv0nBpxF5hoPU/edit#slide=id.g2c046704233_0_2
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Consider how instruction can support students in making positive changes in their communities. Explore how in OpenSciEd HS, students use science ideas and practices to make sense of design problems that emerge from complex systems at the nature-human divide.

TAKEAWAYS:
NGSS-designed instruction that is oriented toward justice can not only teach students to understand the natural world, but broadens their perspectives on how humans fit into natural systems, what constitutes science, and what they can accomplish using science.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

How to Integrate SEL in STEM

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slide Deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join Dr. Christy Hilton to learn how to easily imbed the five cognitive and behavioral competencies of social and emotional abilities into your STEM lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain insights and resources to implement each of the five cognitive and behavioral competencies into their STEM lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Hilton (Central Indiana Educational Service Center: Indianapolis, IN)

STEM General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Building Relationships Between Teachers and Informal Science Institutions: How Zoos & Aquariums are Bridging Access in New York City

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Building Relationships Between Teachers and Informal Science Institutions
How Zoos & Aquariums are Bridging Access in New York City
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Engage with teachers and informal educators to learn about informal and formal partnerships in the largest school district in the country. Session will include a hands-on brainstorming session to inspire participants to think outside of the box when creating community partnerships.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will glean insights from educators about their experience working with informal science institutions and the benefits to their teaching practice. Participants will brainstorm engagement with different informal science institutions and the steps needed to form partnership connections.

SPEAKERS:
Shannen Rivadeneira (Coordinator of Professional Development: Bronx, NY), Megan Janke (Community Roots Charter School: Brooklyn, NY), Jessie Scofield (Staten Island Zoo: Staten Island, NY)

Leadership Advocacy Informal Education Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Kinematics is Elementary!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Many elementary students have a basic understanding of motion, but may be unable to graph motion in terms of distance, direction, and intervals of time. We will use a dune buggy to examine and graph motion. The activity can easily be taken back to your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
This hands-on session provides a learning cycle for constant motion using a constant speed buggy. Attendees will make physical graphs using adding machine tape and/or sticky notes or washers.

SPEAKERS:
Jan Mader (Retired Physics and Chemistry Teacher: Great Falls, MT)

Physics General Science Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching With Primary Sources: It's For STEM Too!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us and learn how to revitalize STEM instruction using Library of Congress primary sources which align with Next Gen Science Standard and visual thinking. Inspire future STEM leaders using practical strategies and inquiry with digitized resources from our nation's library.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session showcases how digital resources from the Library of Congress offer authentic connections to STEM concepts and NGSS. By examining primary sources, teachers and students can explore scientific ideas, technological innovations, and the societal impact of STEM advancements.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Israelsen (Digital Literacy Partner: Broomfield, CO), Michelle Pearson (Adams 12 Five Star Schools)

STEM Literacy Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

From the Barrens to the Bay — Developing a Project-Based, Outdoor Environmental Science Curriculum with Community Partnerships

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://sites.google.com/prsdnj.org/prhshonorsecology/home
Barrens to Bay course website/blog
PRHS Barrens To Bay NSTA Presentation.pdf
Presentation from 3/22/24
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This session will inspire you to take your classes outside by featuring a high school ecology class that promotes student discovery of local ecosystems, campus stewardship, and engagement with the science community (professional partnerships on grants/projects to explore & restore native habitats).

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will be inspired to put textbooks aside and get outside to create meaningful experiences that connect students to local ecosystems, deepen understanding of concepts, & build community in/around their school. Participants will be able to identify essential steps to creating a similar course.

SPEAKERS:
Jim Ardoin (Pinelands Regional High School: Tuckerton, NJ), Kimberly Clark (Pinelands Regional Junior High School: Little Egg Harbor, NJ)

Environmental Science Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

We See What You Mean: Leverage Visual Learning to Promote Visible Learning

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
We See What You Mean 2024.pptx
These slides provide an overview of the session's major concepts as well as exemplars of student and teacher work.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science can be challenging for multilingual learners because it is heavy with tier two and three vocabulary. Educators may be challenged by the needs of those at the entering or beginning level of proficiency. Comprehensible input makes content and concepts visible, thereby improving accessibility.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn several strategies that make content visible and therefore more accessible to multilingual learners. Comprehensible input strategies include explicit vocabulary and pictorial compacting. Comprehensible output strategies include student-generated realia and thinking maps.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Schell (Clarke Middle School: Athens, GA), Nathalie Guerin (Clarke MIddle School: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Equity Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

CAST: Wolf Reintroduction — Connecting Science and Society

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

CO voter's approved Prop 114, a plan to restore and manage gray wolves in CO. Join CPW to learn how you can engage students in lessons that utilize this current and relevant work to understand the relationship between science and society in conservation and wildlife management.

TAKEAWAYS:
Conservation and wildlife management does not happen in a silo, but needs to take into account many stakeholders' wants, needs, and concerns. It's important to understand the perceptions of people as much as the ecological and biological requirements of a species for a reintroduction to be successful.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Hubbard (Statewide Formal Education Coordinator: Denver, CO)

Biology Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Maps, Scatterplots, Histograms, and More: Leveraging NASA Data to Explore Wildfires

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Join us to learn how to use different types of digital tools (e.g., NASA, CODAP) and datasets to explore place-based phenomena. Participants will take part in hands-on activities and pedagogical discussions, and think about how to implement place-based, data-rich activities in their own classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will develop broader definitions/descriptions of what counts as data; explore how to find and access data tools using online resources (e.g., NASA, CODAP); develop awareness of the power of using multiple data representations to explore and understand complex Earth systems and phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Lionberger (WestEd: San Francisco, CA), Sara Salisbury (Research Associate: , PA)

STEM Climate Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Discourse with an Equity Lens in a Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Discourse for Sensemaking with an Equity Lens in Science Classrooms
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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In Discourse with an Equity Lens in a Science Classroom participants will explain what it means to disaggregate science instruction and discuss the role of linguistic bias in science classrooms, explain the process of “figuring out”, and identify teacher talk moves and productive talk.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers can use discourse to promote sensemaking and affirm students’ science identity.

SPEAKERS:
Evelyn Larose (Science Program Director and Educational Consultant), Alicia Wedderburn (Science Instructional Coach: , MA)

General Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Supporting Instructional Coaching Cycles with NSTA Coaching Tools

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Supporting Instructional Coaching Cycles...Collection of Resources
Denver24: Supporting Instructional Coaching Cycles with NSTA Coaching Tools Collection of Resources
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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NSTA’s suite of instructional coaching tools support teachers, coaches and leaders in making the best use of instructional coaching cycles to support students’ sensemaking in the classroom. Become familiar with all of our OER coaching tools and try a few out a few in this session!

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use NSTA’s suite of instructional coaching tools to support instructional coaching cycles in your school/district.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Resources for Engaging in Climate Justice Centered Teaching and Learning

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session 9 Materials (Google Drive): Resources for Engaging in Climate Justice Ce
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Come explore teaching strategies and instructional supports for helping youth learn about climate justice-centered phenomena and issues. Youth are seeking out this type of socio-ecological learning opportunity! Help them learn how to engage in collective action!

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate Ed Tools contain rich examples of climate justice instruction, strategies for engaging youth, and to support climate change learning and communication among educators. These open education resources (OER) include video overviews, valuable guidance educators, and tons of background resources!

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Climate Science Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

From Initial Ideas to Assessment: Using Ecological Models with BioInteractive

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Models help make student thinking visible. Join us as we engage with different methods and scaffolds to model ecological phenomena using free HHMI BioInteractive resources.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Johnson (Arroyo High School: San Lorenzo, CA), Brian Mason (Teacher: , AK)

Life Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Decoding BRCA: Insights into Breast Cancer Genetics

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Delve into the world of breast cancer markers, explore the scientific and bioethical considerations associated with genetic testing, and analyze specific genetic markers linked to breast cancer susceptibility using pedigree analysis and gel electrophoresis.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal McDowell (Greenbrier High School: Evans, GA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Science behind Opioid Dependence

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: Bio-Rad Laboratories

Two out of three drug overdoses are due to opioids. Understanding the environmental & genetic links to drug dependency can reduce risk when opioids are prescribed to high-risk patients. Discover how math, genetics, & personalized medicine can determine the likelihood of addiction.

SPEAKERS:
Tamica Stubbs (Bio-Rad Laboratories: Hercules, CA)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Making the Cut with CRISPR that Changes Lives

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Discover how modeling with interactive, collaborative tools can help your students learn about this new gene editing technology. Hear how the treatment has helped people.

SPEAKERS:
Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Chemistry Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Creating a Culture of Safety in High School Science Courses

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

The persistence of laboratory incidents injurious to high school students demonstrates the need for work towards implementing strong safety cultures in our school science labs. Please join us to learn about simple things you can do to make the laboratory a safer environment for your students.

SPEAKERS:
Mike Marvel, Ph.D. (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Chemistry Biology Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Creative Assessment Strategies for STEM Classrooms

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Estes Rockets

Join us to learn engaging and creative assessment strategies for your classroom. Move beyond multiple-choice tests and challenge your students to apply their learning in new ways. Learn how you can use Claim-Evidence-Reasoning, EdTech Platforms, Google Forms and more to assess student progress.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Freyschlag (Estes Industries: Penrose, CO)

Assessment General Science Physical Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 7: Easier Than You Think: Bringing Equity and Environmental Justice Into Your Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Explore a new resource that you educators and students can use to assess environmental injustices in their neighborhoods and school communities. This tool features a community inventory, indicators of environmental justice, and stewardship-based solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Symone Barkley (Education Specialist: Silver Spring, MD), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

Equity Environmental Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Wrongfully Convicted? A forensic investigation examining DNA evidence with gel electrophoresis

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Use gel electrophoresis to investigate if someone was wrongfully convicted. Based on the principles from the FBI’s CODIS system, this forensics investigation allows your students to make connections between DNA analysis and its uses in the criminal justice system. Inspired by the Innocence Project.

SPEAKERS:
Rose Chaffee-Cohen (miniPCR bio: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Coding Emotions: A Digital Mood Ring Experience

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Feeling moody? Dive into the fascinating blend of science and coding as we guide you through how to create your own digital mood ring. No coding experience required! Grab a seat for this interactive session as we unravel the science of color and consider body temperature thresholds, all while deciding if fuchsia should feel flirty or if green feels groovy.

SPEAKERS:
Erick Archer (Texas Instruments: Dallas, TX)

STEM Physical Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Stoichiometry Simplified: Strategies for Student Success!

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: PASCO

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to facilitate deeper student understanding of mole ratios, stoichiometry, and limiting reactants. This hands-on activity uses common household chemicals to simplify setup and a Wireless Pressure Sensor to support live data collection and immediate data analysis.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

It's Not All or Nothing: Uncovering Synergies between Science and Literacy

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Amplify Science

Unlock the powerful connections between science and literacy to improve learning outcomes in both disciplines. Experience how literacy-rich NGSS-designed learning sequences from UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science are synergistic with language comprehension goals from the Science of Reading.

SPEAKERS:
Alestra Menendez (Amplify: Fairfield, CA), Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA)

General Science Literacy Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Transforming Science Through Project-Based Learning (Grades K-5)

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Research to Practice

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Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Have you wanted to implement a Project-Based Learning unit in your classroom? Multiple Literacies in Project-Based Learning (ML-PBL) provides interdisciplinary science units for Grades K-5. Experience hands-on lessons that are enjoyable and intellectually satisfying for the teacher and students.

SPEAKERS:
Pam Richards (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Next Generation Science Explorations for Middle School Students

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discover solutions for phenomenon-driven middle school curricula, including materials developed by Vernier for OpenSciEd. Bring 3D learning to life with sensor-based experiments such as Matter Cycling and Photosynthesis in this interactive session tailored for educators adopting NGSS standards.

SPEAKERS:
Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

General Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

On the Right Track: Hands-On Explorations of Motion and Force

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Master motion concepts using Vernier wireless sensor carts! Collect position, velocity, acceleration, and force data and investigate graph slopes firsthand in kinematics and dynamics experiments. Walk away equipped with go-to motion experiments and ready-to-use activities to try in your class.

SPEAKERS:
David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Physics STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Teaching with Impactful Phenomena

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

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Sponsoring Company: Mosa Mack Science

You’ll learn how to choose and implement the best science phenomena. You’ll also receive free access to Mosa Mack Science phenomena lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Elisabeth Johnson (Mosa Mack Science: Fairfield, CT)

General Science Physical Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Making Sense of Cell Differentiation and Gene Expression

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Explore the use of sensemaking strategies to help students understand how selective gene expression works. Come experience a model lesson from the Lab-Aids' program: Science and Global Issues: Biology, developed by SEPUP. This hands-on workshop will also show a connection to genetic engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Parker (Dublin Coffman High School: Dublin, OH)

Biology Literacy Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Unlocking Science Success: Navigating Middle School Learning Progressions

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Take a deeper dive into understanding the importance of learning progressions in 3-dimensional learning using STC Middle School. Experience the importance of a coherent story line in student understanding. Leave with classroom resources.

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

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Journey Through the Heart

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Take a tour through the mammalian heart and trace the path of a blood cell on its journey to oxygenation. Participants take blood pressure readings. Then dissect a preserved sheep heart to model blood flow and connect BP to heart anatomy. Don’t skip a beat - it’s going to be hands-on fun!

SPEAKERS:
Patti Kopkau (Retired Educator: National City, MI)

Biology Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Keep Calm and Chemistry On: Successful Lab Activities for the New Chemistry Teacher

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Explore easy, engaging, and safe chemistry activities that guarantee a reaction in your students. Whether you’re new to chemistry or feeling out of your element, create excitement with hands-on labs, demonstrations, and Carolina’s digital content.These lab activities support 3-dimensional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

An Innovative Approach to Integrated STEM

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC)

This session explores a unique approach to integrated STEM. The approach places curricular units that focus on engineering and computer science directly into the core curriculum for every student, PreK-12.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Reynolds (Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC): Boston, MA)

STEM Computer Science Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Scaffolding Sensemaking by Leveraging the 3 Dimensions

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: InnerOrbit

How can we check how students are progressing towards sensemaking? In this session, explore recommendations for scaffolding sensemaking with 3-Dimensional and 2-Dimensional questioning. Educators will experience a small group analysis, take-home resources, and Q&A!

SPEAKERS:
Brendan Finch (InnerOrbit: No City, No State)

Assessment Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

An Engaging Introduction into OpenSciEd for High School

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Learn about transitioning HS science courses to phenomenon-based instruction putting students at the center of the learning process. See how students develop explanations for phenomena by doing the science! Experience how OSE can be used to achieve the goal of moving to 3-dimensional instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Jodi Bahr (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Designing a Sustainable Golf Course

Friday, March 22 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: STEM Sports®

STEM Sports' session will provide participants with a hands-on approach to learning STEM disciplines through Sports. Attendees will take on the role of students and be given an overview of how to design a sustainable golf course by considering the good of the planet, people, and profitability.

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Golner (STEM Sports®: No City, No State)

STEM Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

District XIV Social

Friday, March 22 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Foyer (3rd Floor)

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Come meet your fellow educators in District XIV (Colorado, Utah, and Arizona)!

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

SCST Business Meeting

Friday, March 22 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall D

Show Details

Society for College Science Teaching Business Meeting for members and interested educators in higher ed.

General Science Informal Education Meeting

DebriefScape: Innovative Tools and Resources to Support STEM in Special Education

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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The DebriefScape project aims to improve science and math instruction for students with disabilities. To achieve this, our freely available resources are: a Coaching Model, a digital Observation tool, and a collection of hundreds of professional development opportunities for coaches and teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to access the freely available DebriefScape tools and resources, and see examples of their application thus far. The presenters will share lessons learned through their research and gather input to improve the tools and resources in the future.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Dieker (University of Kansas: Lawrence, KS), Rachel Hallett-Njuguna (Florida State University: Tallahassee, FL)

STEM Equity Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Video Editing in Your Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bean - Video Editing in Your Classroom.pptx
Digital Storytelling.pptx
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/16JrdInrKrmsSgdLwJPXTohXwnGYN_rdZ/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110652946919793398733&rtpof=true&sd=true
Video of Self.docx
Virtual Lab Rubric and Outline.docx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Bring your teaching to life by having students create videos of what they learn in science class. In this workshop you will learn how to use Adobe Express to create your very own video! By learning these skills, you will be equipped to help your students create video of their very own.

TAKEAWAYS:
Creating videos using images and videos.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Bean (8th Grade Science Teacher: Chicago, IL)

Technology General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Groovy Sounds

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Get in the groove and make a real working record player! Investigate sound and wave properties with an easy-to-build homemade record player. Learn how music is encoded and played back. Understand the difference between digital and analog information transfer with this DIY device.

TAKEAWAYS:
Sound waves and their application in technologies for information transfer.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Muller (Exploratorium: San Francsicso, CA)

STEM Engineering Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

There is ALWAYS Time for Talk

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1WMNxKQmy6R03JmKSZWQhUFlSQv1HEbAJrist5afmfw0/edit?usp=drive_link
Talk circles for all grade and all content areas.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Students are going to talk anyway. Learn to make talk productive with student-led talk circles. Use this powerful strategy tomorrow to build students’ scientific literacy! (K-8)

TAKEAWAYS:
Talk Circles enable educators to uncover student ideas and misconceptions as well as reveal students’ understanding to pave the way for further investigation.

SPEAKERS:
Sheri Geitner (Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy: North Windham, CT), Patricia McMahon (Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy: North Windham, CT), Nicole Bay (Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy: North Windham, CT)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Explicit Instruction to Teach Python Programming

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teaching Python with Explicit Instruction Final Revised.ppt
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Learn to use Explicit Instruction (EI) to teach Python programming as part of a science course or a standalone course. EI can help reach ESL, lower socio-economic backgrounds, and special education students. It can also keep ALL students engaged in the lessons as it involves hands-on practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Develop an Explicit Instruction (EI) lesson for Python ‘if statements’ and have the knowledge to develop a full EI curriculum in Python programming to reach all students, including underserved students.

SPEAKERS:
Gargi Adhikari (Holland Brook School/Readington Township Schools: Whitehouse Station, NJ), Mary O'Donnell (Penn State University)

Computer Science Equity Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Foraging for Fish in a Melting Arctic: Seabirds as a Model for Monitoring Climate Change

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bird Band Activity Instructions (1).pdf
Bird band combinationsx2.pdf
Black Guillemot Reading
https://cooperisland.org/
Slideshow
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore a seabird study and the effects of climate change. We will share our integrated curriculum: authentic data analysis, field techniques, seabird biology, the Arctic ecosystem, and talking about climate change with students. Come try a fish foraging simulation, bird banding, and research tools!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore an integrated curriculum centered on a 49-year Arctic seabird study and the impacts of climate change on the Arctic ecosystem. Hands-on: fish foraging simulation (very fun!), bird banding activity, research tools, and strategies for talking about climate change with students.

SPEAKERS:
Alyssa Barr (Science Teacher: Seattle, WA), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA)

Climate Science Biology Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Neuroscience Unveiled: Decoding the Science of Learning

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this engaging session, you're invited to delve into the fascinating world of neuroscience as it relates to the art and science of effective teaching and learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation goes beyond theory to provide you with practical strategies and evidence-based techniques that can be integrated into your teaching methods.

SPEAKERS:
Martha MacKay (Science Teacher: Emporia, KS), Erica Huggard (Biology Teacher: Emporia, KS)

Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Free lesson plans in chemistry for grades K-5 from the American Chemical Society’s online resource inquiryinaction.org

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

What makes it rain? M&Ms versus Skittles? Baking soda versus baking powder? Free online lesson plans of hands-on activities and animations help your elementary students build foundational concepts in chemistry.

TAKEAWAYS:
By conducting hands-on investigations of common phenomena and interacting with molecular model animations, teachers will develop grade-appropriate explanations using atoms and molecules to help students better understand the causes of the phenomena they observe.

SPEAKERS:
James Kessler (American Chemical Society: Washington, DC)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

SIOP Model in Science: Supporting the ELL

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
SIOP Model in Science Slides with Links
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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The SIOP Model is an effective research-based instructional model for meeting the academic needs of English language learners. Learn how to use it to support ELLs in your science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
1.) The eight components to the SIOP model will be explained; 2.) Examples of actual and effective classroom implementation of the SIOP model; and 3.) Consideration for not only teaching science content, but doing so in a culturally-conscious manner will also be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Nadene Klein (Daniel C. Oakes High School: Castle Rock, CO)

Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Copper: Two Inquiries to Begin and End the School Year

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come and take part in this workshop: “Copper: Two Inquiries to Begin and End the School Year” and learn about the chemical properties of copper using appropriate technology in a “hands-on” activity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take part in an Inquiry experiment, use technology to collect/analyze data, and visualize what occurs on the submicroscopic level by employing particulate drawings.

SPEAKERS:
Gregory Dodd (Retired Chemistry Teacher: Pennsboro, WV)

Chemistry STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching STEM Concepts Using Custom Pumped Hydro Storage Boards

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Lesson Plan for Pumped Hydro Storage Boards.pdf
Pumped Hydro Storage Board Assembly.pdf
Pumped Hydro Storage Worksheet ESPANOL.pdf
Science Discovery Pumped Hydro Storage Lesson.pptx
Science Discovery Pumped Hydro Storage Worksheet.pdf
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Pumped Hydro Storage facilities store vast amounts of energy and can help society transition to cleaner energy sources. In our workshop, we will share an inquiry-based lesson where student teams control hands-on, interactive models of a city’s storage facility while exploring sustainable energy use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will participate in a cross-disciplinary activity for science and math students around sustainability and energy conversion. Attendees will receive complete instructions on how to create their own models and lesson plans aligned to current NGSS science and Common Core math standards.

SPEAKERS:
Caitlin Anderson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Scott Sieke (Lead of Curriculum Design)

STEM Environmental Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Byte-Size STEM

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Engaging STEM activities that can be done in any science content class in 45 minutes or less.

TAKEAWAYS:
Expose your students to STEM skills through short, easy, and engaging STEM activities that can be completed in a single class period.

SPEAKERS:
Brad Posnanski (Comsewogue High School: Port Jefferson Station, NY), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Voorhees, NJ)

STEM Computer Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies and Aloha ʻĀina Education: The Next Generation of Science Education

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Ethnomathematics Curriculum Library
Hawaiian Newspapers Resource
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1S0gpUL7KolYqXBuhn9Ui_LpXpoLYBZnqkLd7QhCcnWk/edit?usp=sharing
NSTA Presentation March 2024
NSTA Presentation_March 2024 (1).pdf
STEMS^2 Curriculum Library
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

To deepen our connections with our students, community, and place, educators must be committed to social justice and culturally sustaining pedagogies. In this session, educators will have an opportunity to cultivate new perspectives and skills to provide a meaningful science education.

TAKEAWAYS:
One main takeaway is that educators will understand that Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and that teaching science can be aligned to indigenous knowledge systems, different languages, community assets, and indigenous/cultural values.

SPEAKERS:
Phillippe Fernandez-Brennan (Halau Ku Mana Public Charter School (Hawai?i Department of Education))

Equity Advocacy Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Planting a Garden in an Indoor Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Indoor Gardening (1).pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Create a successful indoor garden using basic materials, and on a budget. Perfect for the urban classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to choose appropriate plants and materials for an indoor environment.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

Environmental Science Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Preservice Teacher Education: NSTA Preservice Teacher Chapter Program: Engaging the Next Generation of Educators of Science

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2023 NSTA Preservice Teacher Chapter Program_ Engaging the Next Generation of Educators of Science (1).pptx
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Inviting all Preservice Teachers, University-Level Teacher Education Faculty, and Faculty Advisors attending the conference to learn about NSTA’s Preservice Teacher Chapter Program with National and Local Preservice Teacher Chapter options.

TAKEAWAYS:
Preservice Teachers, University Teacher Educators, and Faculty Advisors will walk away informed about how to participate in NSTA’s Preservice Teacher Chapter Program.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Debi Hanuscin (Western Washington University: Bellingham, WA), Morgan Glann (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Eli Vincent (Student: , MI), Lauren Rupe (Student: , MI), Emma Patrus (Student), Jim McDonald (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI)

Preservice Science Education Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

Get Out of Your Seats!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
Resource List
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about a variety of instructional strategies that utilize movement to engage students in learning chemistry and physics. All attendees will participate in activities themselves and be given resources to bring back to the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about pedological strategies that promote movement and student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Gutierrez (Science Dept. Chair: Santa Monica, CA)

Physics Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Physical Science Fun and Inquiry Across the Grade Bands

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Palm Pipe Handout
Directions for Making Palm Pipes Directions for conducting the activity 9 Songs for Palm Pipes Explanation of how Palm Pipes produce different sounds
Physical Science Fun and Inquiry Across the Grade Bands
Power Point Presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join the fun and inquiry as we apply a variety of hands-on activities to core concepts across grade levels, from elementary to middle school to high school.

TAKEAWAYS:
One of the goals of the NGSS is that topics should not be taught in a striated series of unrelated levels, but rather learning should be articulated vertically through the grade bands.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Ostlund (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX)

Physical Science Chemistry Physics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Using the Cultural Wealth Model to Build Classroom Community

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This presentation is aimed at providing an overview of the six tenets within the Cultural Wealth Model, each including activities and strategies that can be implemented within the classroom to promote social justice, equity, and cultural relevance.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation will provide teachers with resources to begin constructing culturally relevant lessons with ease, while building community in the classroom and resisting oppressive structures within education.

SPEAKERS:
Maizie Dyess (Graduate Assistant: , NV)

Equity Advocacy General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Tick-Borne Diseases and One Health: Connecting Humans, Animals, and the Environment

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Investigate the spread of tick-borne diseases in humans and animals. Experience hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based lessons related to One Health – the connections between human, animal, and environmental health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a hands-on, minds-on, NGSS practice-based approach, participants will leave with classroom-ready materials to engage their students in investigating the problem of tick-borne diseases and climate change. Activities focus on the science practices of analyzing data and constructing explanations.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Brosnick (SUNY Buffalo State College: Buffalo, NY)

Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

YouthQuake: Engaging students in a computational geology experience to forecast earthquake hazards and explore risks

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Explore classroom tested, free, online curriculum that helps students use block coding to create simulations and data visualizations for investigations of earthquake risks in California.

TAKEAWAYS:
This workshop will allow participants to become familiar with a free, online curriculum focused on estimating the hazards and risk of earthquakes in California. Participants will engage with the GeoCode curriculum as a student to see this innovative approach in teaching earthquake hazards and risk.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Seevers (Teacher: Evergreen, CO), Christopher Lore (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Earth & Space Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Go Fish! Using zebrafish as the hook for increasing students’ scientific curiosity and advancement - special focus on English Learners.

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 605


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
TEACHER RESOURCES FOR ZEBRAFISH
ZEBRAFISH SUMMER INSTITUTE FLYER
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Explore the use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) a freshwater fish at the forefront of biomedical research and easily maintained in a classroom aquarium, to spark ALL students’ curiosity and scientific engagement with real-life science experiences through multiple-learning modalities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learning how zebrafish and low-budget pet store supplies can be used to engage diverse learners, including English learners, in multimodal (visual, kinesthetic) real-life science learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Pam Kirkland (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX), Vinita Hajeri (The University of Texas at Dallas: Richardson, TX)

Biology Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Authentic Data to Evaluate the Expansion of the Unverse

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In Rubin Observatory’s new online Expanding Universe investigation, students use galaxy redshift and supernova data to reconstruct Hubble’s law, then advance to a higher redshift data set to discover how the expansion of the Universe has changed over time, and its connection to dark energy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use the free interactive Expanding Universe online investigation and support materials designed for NGSS teaching and learning, as well as scaffolded teaching, and formative assessment strategies to ensure that all students may achieve a successful learning experience.

SPEAKERS:
Justine Schaen (NSF's NOIRLab: Tucson, AZ), Ardis Herrold (Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Tucson, AZ)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NMLSTA - Polar Science is COOOOOL!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Polar Science is COOOOOL! (1).pdf
PDF of presentation
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Polar regions are in the vanguard of climate change and are also remote, exciting parts of the world. In this workshop, try activities that will help you bring polar issues to life in middle and high school classrooms. These include glaciology, Indigenous lifeways, energy balance, and tundra life.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will sample classroom activities, hands-on and online, to investigate climate change and polar conditions, enriching their understanding of the relevance of the Arctic and Antarctic to all regions of the Earth.

SPEAKERS:
Katie Lodes (St. Joseph's Academy: Saint Louis, MO), Anne Schoeffler (Seton Catholic School: Hudson, OH)

STEM Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Inexpensive 3D-Printed Biotechnology

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Folder
PowerPoint along with editable fusion 360 and stl files
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Explore the use of biotechnology by having your students build their own 3D-printed gel electrophoresis equipment and perform experiments with inexpensive and easily obtainable materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Biotechnology can be accomplished using inexpensive 3D-printed equipment and easily obtainable generic materials.

SPEAKERS:
James Lettieri (Polytech High School: Woodside, DE), Judith Campo-Sobota (Polytech High School: Woodside, DE)

STEM Biology Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Getting Your Fahrradführerschein– Your Bicycle License! How Germany Promotes a Sustainable Future Through the Fourth-Grade Bicycling Program & How We Can Too

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

We will learn about the German fourth-grade bicycle license program, Fahrradführerschein, and consider ways to incorporate the world of biking into our teaching. We will plan bike-related sustainability, climate change, or physics lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Bikes are a useful tool to teach about sustainability, climate change, and physics. We can teach our students how to advocate for better bike infrastructure in their communities so they can ride more safely. We can use bikes as a tool to empower our students to build more sustainable communities.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Patel (Second and Third Grade Math and Science Teacher: Berkeley, CA)

Environmental Science Advocacy Climate Science Physics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Get Ready for the April 8 Total Eclipse! Classroom Understanding and Activities

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Totality app home page
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

By now you are probably well aware of the upcoming total solar eclipse on 4/8/24, which passes over many major cities on a path running from Texas up through Maine. The rest of the contiguous US will have a partial solar eclipse. Learn how to be ready for this awesome STEM education opportunity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn everything you need to be ready for the upcoming eclipse, including the science behind eclipses, how to view the eclipse safely, and how to create educational opportunities for your school and community.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bennett (Big Kid Science: Boulder, CO)

Earth & Space Science General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Draw It Out

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will explore scientific drawing as a tool to strengthen student understanding of the underlying science concepts. This session will allow participants an opportunity and experience to combine the visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learnings.

TAKEAWAYS:
Reinforce the understanding of photosynthesis through a scientific drawing.

SPEAKERS:
Courtney Martinez (3rd Grade Vanguard Math and Science Teacher), Suparna Vashisht (Assistant Principal: Houston, TX)

Life Science Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teach with a Turtle, or a Fish, or a Hermit Crab, or a ?

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Explore how pets can be dynamic teaching tools, investigate standards-based lessons, participate in a challenge, and find opportunities to fund your classroom pet. Leave with a toolkit of ideas and a fresh perspective on enhancing your curriculum with our furry, feathered, or scaly friends!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will be empowered to use pets in their classroom and understand the lasting impact of using pets to inspire science learning, fostering empathy and curiosity in students. Teachers will leave with the tools they need to incorporate a classroom pet into their curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: No City, No State)

General Science Life Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

3-5th grade NUTS About NATURE! Outdoor/Indoor Learning that's 3-D & Transdisciplinary!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Turn your classroom inside OUT. Classroom lessons that meet your standards with 3-Dimensional Learning through outdoor, hands-on, minds-on lessons. Experience activities, learn outdoor classroom management, and hear philosophies from School in the Woods, a public school with an outdoor focus.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn outdoor lessons to use with students to meet all areas of the curriculum (with indoor alternatives and in/out infusion ideas). Free nature notebook.

SPEAKERS:
DeLene Hoffner (eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

The Power of Modeling as a Sensemaking Tool

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1esYadS6OFG8LttY51Ae4ujcmd23tUewv?usp=sharing
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Modeling is a sensemaking tool that can help students process information and make connections to the real world. Participants will be active learners to explore methods on creating, evaluating, and revising models for validity. Different ways in which modeling can be utilized will be presented.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how modeling encourages student collaboration and provides opportunities for peer feedback. Techniques for evaluating and revising models will be demonstrated. Examples of how modeling can be a gateway to using additional SEPs throughout a unit will be discussed.

SPEAKERS:
Lynn DiAndrea (Farmingdale School District: Farmingdale, NY), Dr. Kristen Cummings (Farmingdale Union Free School District: Farmingdale, NY)

Sensemaking Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

How to Promote and Support Learning After Introducing a Phenomenon

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Phenomenon-based instruction can make learning experiences more relevant and equitable for students. Come learn how to foster student sensemaking after you introduce a phenomenon today and then leave with a library of high-quality instructional materials that you can use for years to come.

TAKEAWAYS:
Introducing meaningful phenomena is necessary but not sufficient for fostering sensemaking. Students must also have opportunities to use DCIs, CCs, and SEPs during the learning experience and the experience must be structured in ways that make the process of sensemaking useful and inclusive.

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

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Infusing STEM Into A Truly Integrated High School Science Course

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Integrated science? Teach NGSS-focused geology, ecology, biology, engineering, and physical science through real-world problems. Access rubrics, guides, lesson plans, timelines, and other ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a thematic approach to integrated science truly integrates the disciplines, making it highly engaging by giving students real-world applications of the content. The NGSS does not have a set of "integrated science" standards, yet aligning this course to the NGSS is possible!

SPEAKERS:
Vanessa Ueltzen (Walther Christian Academy: Melrose Park, IL)

General Science Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Ways to structure student discussions to increase participation and collaborative sense-making

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A hallmark of collaborative sense-making is productive discussion. Come learn how to foster productive small group and whole class discussions in your classroom and then leave with a library of high-quality instructional materials that you can use for years to come.

TAKEAWAYS:
Collaborative sensemaking requires productive and inclusive talk. Teachers can foster productive talk between students using specific activity structures, talk prompts, talk moves, and supports.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Hutner (The University of Alabama: Austin, TX)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Driving Question Boards to Elevate Student Questions and Engagement

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Driving Question Boards to Elevate Studernt Questions and Engagement
This google folder ocntains all materials used in the presentation, including the slide deck, handouts, and data sources.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the effective use of a Driving Question Board (DQB) as a tool for generating, organizing, and revisiting student questions that serve as the driving force behind investigating an anchoring phenomenon. See how DQBs progress student thinking through inquiry and collaborative learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will discover how the Driving Question Board (DQB) strategy supports the Science Practice of “Asking Questions”; understand the prerequisites, purpose, and the 'why' for using DQBs; and identify the benefits of DQBs that support student sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Lindi Kudlacek (Katy ISD: Katy, TX), Tina Hovance (Katy ISD: Katy, TX)

Life Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Authentically “do science” and relate it to students’ lives through food-based labs

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
See all of our lessons and learn more about us here!
This website is where all of our instructional resources are, as well as additional information about professional learning, and who we are. Specific resources for this workshop were provided during the workshop. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions! You can also learn more about https://sciencecooking.seas.harvard.edu/teacher-outreach/.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Food is a powerful tool to teach science: it’s approachable, accessible, & relevant to students and can give them agency in how they make sense of science & how it relates to them. But classrooms aren’t kitchens- how can we harness the power of food in a traditional classroom & why should we do it?

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in an investigative, food-based mini-lab and learn from teachers about how they have used food-based labs in their classroom with different classroom parameters, and why it was worth it. This lab will be at a high school level, but this can easily be adapted to middle school.

SPEAKERS:
Mary Velasquez (Allium Montessori School: No City, No State), Shawn Boggs (Bullitt Lick Middle School: Shepherdsville, KY), Meredith Moore (The Field School: Washington, DC), Kate Strangfeld (Harvard University: Cambridge, MA)

Chemistry General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Visible & Invisible Light and Energy In a 3-Dimensional Learning Setting

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA.2024.EMspectrum.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Practice activities with simple materials exploring the EM Spectrum and explanatory models that illustrate real world space science applications. Learn about the Virtual Astronomy Academy program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Practice "Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning," and a gallery walk of student work to review models; practice collaborative learning to investigate filters and wavelengths. Attendees will also learn how to join NASA's Virtual Astronomy Academy professional development program.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Marie Dubick (Cobb County School District: Marietta, GA), Coral Clark (SETI Institute: Mountain View, CA), Jenny McCall (Winburn Middle School, Fayette County Public Schools: No City, No State), Pamela Harman (SETI Institute: Mountain View, CA), Brittany Chase (Mahone Middle School: Kenosha, WI), Milo Maughan (Utah State Board of Education: Salt Lake City, UT), Diane Ripollone (Cardinal Gibbons High School: Raleigh, NC)

Physics Earth & Space Science General Science Hands-On Workshop

From the Moon to the Stars

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ESA Moon Media Kit
European Space Agency Moon materials
Periodic Table of Elements
Periodic Table of Elements
Presentation From the Moon to the stars
Learning Scenario for classroom
Useful Links
Useful Links
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We’ll share teaching resources teachers may use in the classroom in a playful way, focusing on the next stage of the Man on the Moon with Artemis Mission. Teachers put hands-on teaching resources to maintain human life on the Moon and build a didactic game (Battleship Exploring the Periodic Table).

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will inquire, “How may we build a lunar base?” To solve this problem, teachers will explore the elements of the Moon soil and will build a Periodic Table battleship game. Participants will dig deeper into the organization of the Periodic Table and understand that elements are all over.

SPEAKERS:
Isabel Borges (Institute of Education University of Lisbon: No City, No State), Carla Sofia Ranito (Teacher: Queijas, Portugal), Adelina Machado (Educational Coordinate: Queluz, 0), Sandra Vasconcelos (Teacher: , Portugal)

Earth & Space Science Chemistry STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teachers Co-Designing and Co-Revising NGSS-Aligned Chemistry Materials with Researchers

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Educators and researchers from the inquiryHub partnership between DPS and CU Boulder share their experiences as they co-designed (and co-redesigned) the iHub Chemistry curriculum, professional learning to accompany it, and other classroom tools to support its use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers partnering with researchers can yield engaging curriculum materials that support more equitable teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Douglas Watkins (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO)

Chemistry Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teachers engaging with science reform ideas presented in Ambitious Science Teaching and Science in the City books through ongoing professional learning sequences.

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Denver Public Schools science instructional specialists share how they co-designed professional learning opportunities for K-12 Science educators to engage students with pedagogical practices described in the books Ambitious Science Teaching and Science in the City.

TAKEAWAYS:
Ongoing professional learning designed to support targeted science reform ideas related to more equitable classroom science experiences promote shifts in educator practice.

SPEAKERS:
Eva Bridgeforth (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO), Melissa Braaten (Associate Professor: , CO), Keyerria Howard (Middle. School Curriculum Specialist: Denver, CO)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Author: Uncovering Student Ideas in Three Dimensions Through Responsive Instruction

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Understanding students' ideas is critical to responsive teaching and learning. This session will focus on how students use scientific practices and crosscutting concepts with NSTA's Uncovering Student Ideas in Science formative assessment probes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how the scientific practices help students make sense of the DCI elicited by a formative assessment probe and the crosscutting concepts used as thinking tools.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Harding (Teacher Educator), Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: No City, No State)

General Science Assessment Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

CAST: Using Three-Dimensional (3D) Instruction with Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
3D Poster.pdf
Schulte_2018_Connecting to Students through Place_Vol 39_2.pdf
Three dimensional learning_tst1508_50.pdf
Using Project-Based Learning to Prepare Students for Cutting-Edge Careers _ Edutopia.pdf
Several Edutopia articles on PBL
Using Three-Dimensional Instruction with Project-Based Learning.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Incorporate the three dimensions of the NGSS to guide your students through project-based learning opportunities (PBL) addressing local/regional issues and topics. Strategies for designing PBLs to engage students, integrate phenomena and content, and solve real-world problems will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
PBLs provide all students opportunities to utilize the three dimensions of NGSS to enhance their learning and apply that knowledge to address and propose solutions to issues of concern.

SPEAKERS:
Beverly DeVore-Wedding (Nebraska Indian Community College: Meeker, CO)

General Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Deep Dive with Dummies – Exploring Equity in Crash-Testing Research to Teach About the Nature of Science

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Is crash-testing biased against women? Join science education professor Griff Jones and IIHS Vehicle Research Center staff to learn about the latest research regarding equity issues and crash-testing, and participate in a live Q&A with crash test dummy research experts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn why ensuring equity in crash-testing research is more complex than simply putting a female dummy in the driver’s seat and how IIHS’s “Deep Dive with Dummies” free video series can be used to teach grade 5-12 students about the nature of science.

SPEAKERS:
Joe Young (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute: Arlington, VA), Griff Jones (University of Florida: No City, No State)

STEM Biology Engineering Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Authentic Phenomenon to Develop Summative Assessments

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

A major aspect of the NGSS is the inclusion of 3D summative assessments. However, this is something with which all teachers struggle. Using the National Center for Science Education’s free, high-quality assessments as a model, learn how to use phenomena to create assessments for your own students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will walk away with the confidence to select appropriate phenomena to use as the foundation for a summative assessment and an understanding of how to build a 3D assessment using a phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
Lin Andrews (National Center for Science Education: Oakland, CA)

Biology Literacy Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Powerful, FREE Simulations for Three-Dimensional NGSS Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 7

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come discover how free, NSF-funded simulations and curricula from The Concord Consortium can add all dimensions of the NGSS to your physics, physical science, and chemistry teaching with a special emphasis on the Science Practices. Bring a device to this interactive session and get free resources!

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies in the use of simulations for 3D NGSS-aligned teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Chad Dorsey (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Physical Science Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

CSSS: Designing Equitable and Just Outdoor Learning Environments

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Come learn more about underlying barriers and current trends in youth outdoor participation. Building life-long relationships with the outdoors benefits students and their communities. Explore strategies and resources to create more just and equitable outdoor student learning opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore strategies and resources to increase outdoor student engagement and participation for more inclusive and equitable science learning.

SPEAKERS:
Lizette Navarrete-Burks (University of Houston-Downtown: Houston, TX)

Informal Education Equity STEM Hands-On Workshop

The Illinois Biology Storylines: Introduction and Updates

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slide Deck PDF
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Storylines led by phenomena improve student engagement and understanding of overarching biological concepts. We will model using phenomena to anchor and lead instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Storylines provide an equitable, culturally-responsive learning experience that support long-lasting learning for all students.

SPEAKERS:
Michele Koehler (Riverside Brookfield District 208: Riverside, IL), Shane Cullian (Whitewater High School: Whitewater, WI), Kathy Van Hoeck (Retired Educator: Marion, IA), Charlie Pozen (Gateway High School, Aurora CO: No City, No State)

Biology Equity Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Exploring Molecular Synthesis, AI, and Building-Block Based Chemistry with the Digital Molecule Maker

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Attendee Materials
Use this link to access our NSTA presentation materials before, during, and after the session. We look forward to seeing you in Denver!
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Come try out the Digital Molecule Maker, a platform created by the Molecule Maker Lab Institute at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Supported by AI research, learners can explore the world of molecular synthesis and create novel molecules alongside complimentary hands-on activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how novel AI techniques in chemistry have allowed researchers to create a system that enables learners to combine different molecular building-blocks and get feedback on predicted molecular properties. They will also get examples of complimentary hands-on activities.

SPEAKERS:
Sabrina Abdulla (Outreach Coordinator), James Planey (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)

Chemistry Computer Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Climate Change Activities to Raise Environmental Justice Awareness

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Explore activities that will engage your students in activities that bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and the real-world impact of climate change on society and the environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave this session with resources to engage students in activities that promote a deeper understanding of climate change and its impact at various scales in the human and natural world, with opportunities to explore environmental justice.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Yajaira Fuentes-Tauber (Rocky Mountain High School: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Biology Climate Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Computational Modeling Physics First: Adding a New Representation to your Model

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1UhH0rAPif68jV6Hx_eTcoYQ9dYN9uo7Y?usp=sharing
Computational Modeling presentation
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Learn about the newest iteration of Modeling Instruction: Computational Modeling Physics First. Give ALL students exposure to coding by having them teach Physics to the computer to program simulations to learn Physics concepts more deeply.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will learn about the newest curriculum in Modeling Physics, how a computational representation enhances understanding, and why we choose to teach using Computational Modeling. We will work through the constant velocity sequence, using coding to enhance critical and proportional thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberlee Freudenberg (Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory: San Francisco, CA)

Physics Physical Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Ecosystem Investigations with a modeling lens🔎

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

There are lots of great ecosystem investigations out there, but we don't always have access to those ecosystems at our schools. Learn how your class can create your own investigation and, through modeling, make sense of ecosystems, analyze data, and communicate findings with a broader community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers: learn how your class can connect with local citizen science projects or create your own, while simultaneously helping students make sense of the world around them through modeling. Workshop includes example “embodied model” games to show ecosystem dynamics.

SPEAKERS:
Katrina Heimbach (Msad 55: Hiram, ME), Laura Seaver (Loranger Memorial School: Old Orchard Beach, ME)

Environmental Science Earth & Space Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

From Stream to Salt Marshes: Real-World Data in Your Backyard

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Scientists rely on data to describe nature and uncover relationships. In this workshop, you will learn how to access data and how to graph and analyze the data in EXCEL and use online statistical tools to test hypotheses and uncover significance.

TAKEAWAYS:
The USGS has an archive of data and collects real-time data from a variety of locations throughout the United States. Learn to introduce data science in authentic ways that connect students’ interests. People of all ages can engage data in ways that are useful and meaningful.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Joslyn (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow: No City, No State)

STEM Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Help Students "Muck About" in their Data

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session resource document
Access all resources, including the session slide deck, from the session via this link.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come explore different ways we can assist our students to “muck about” in their data to get comfortable and better understand it. We will discuss the importance of Exploratory Data Analysis as a compliment to more traditionally emphasized Explanatory Data Analysis.

TAKEAWAYS:
Identify ways to increase student engagement in data activities using real-world data in existing curriculum to build their data and sensemaking skills as you teach your science.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Hunter-Thomson (Dataspire Education & Evaluation, LLC)

Sensemaking Literacy STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Asset-Based Teaching: Practices That Promote In-Depth Collective Sensemaking in Science

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Participants will explore concrete strategies for cultivating a safe classroom environment for collective sensemaking and in-depth learning that supports all students, particularly diverse and emergent multilingual learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about 3 strategies for enacting an asset-based approach to science teaching, and walk away with tools and resources they can leverage in their own instructional planning.

SPEAKERS:
Claire Hiller (Chute Middle School: Evanston, IL), Alissa Berg (Evanston Skokie School District 65)

Sensemaking Equity Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning Through Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: Equity in Educational Systems

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Curriculum implementation provides an opportunity to uncover and confront persistent inequities in educational systems. Engage with us in an equity simulation to consider how policies and practices related to science curriculum implementation can either support or hinder equity goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Barriers to equity are not in learners, but rather in environments. When seeking to reach “all”, historical and current policies and practices need to be examined. Educational policies and practices that are seemingly neutral can contribute to persistent inequities for marginalized student groups.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Janna Mahfoud (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Equity Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NMLSTA Energy Engagement: Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Interactive activities and games to introduce students to energy sources and to learn the difference between renewables and nonrenewables. Participants will play Energy BINGO and Candy Collector from NEED's "Energy Games and Icebreakers" free curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave this session with activities to bring back to the classroom immediately. Students will be introduced to renewable and nonrenewable energy sources.

SPEAKERS:
Cori Nelson (Winfield School District 34: Winfield, IL)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Practices, Nature of Science, and Science in Society: Analyzing Historical Primary Sources from the Library of Congress

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
LOC Connecting Items
LOC Exploring Primary Sources Presentation
LOC Primary Source Overview Cross Cutting Concepts and Phenomena
LOC Primary Source Overview Nature of Science
LOC Universe Slices
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Practice hands-on strategies for engaging students with scientific notebooks, letters, photos, drawings and more! These free online resources elevate the stories behind scientific endeavor, highlighting scientific practices, the nature of science, and connections between science and society.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to access millions of free digitized primary sources and practice hands-on strategies for using them to promote critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of real-world scientific practices, the nature of science, and connections between science and society.

SPEAKERS:
Kelsey Beeghly (Einstein Fellow: Altamonte Springs, FL), Michael Apfeldorf (Library of Congress: Washington, DC)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

NSELA-Sponsored Session: Cultivating Three-Dimensional Expertise – The Impact of Teacher Leader Institutes

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Join us to explore how our science Teacher Leader Institutes empower educators to excel in subject matter knowledge, pedagogical skills, and leadership acumen. Discover the transformative impact of this initiative on educational capacity and professional growth.

TAKEAWAYS:
During the session, participants will discover how the Teacher Leader Institute was created using freely available resources and how it has been improved over time as new groups join and more professional development opportunities are introduced.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead (National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA): Downingtown, PA), Kammas Kersch (Chester County Intermediate Unit: Downingtown, PA)

Leadership Equity General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teaching about the properties of sound using engineering to build a guitar

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this session, participants will work on hands-on activities and build a guitar to learn about the properties of sound using the engineering design model and translanguaging for elementary grades.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to teach about the properties of sound for elementary grade level using an engineering activity and translanguaging (English/Spanish).

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

Engineering Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Meeting the Challenges of Teaching About Climate Change and its Impacts

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate-on-PBS-LearningMedia-resource-list.pdf
Eclipse 2024_Educators .pdf
Bonus Eclipse resources
Eclipse_Resource Document_022924.pdf
Bonus Eclipse resources
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Climate change and its impact involve the entire Earth system. Instruction should include not only natural systems, but also the stories of people–those most affected by the impacts, and who’s developing strategies for building resilience and mitigating the problem.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn strategies for building students’ climate literacy, meeting the challenges of teaching climate change, and providing students with hope through stories about diverse people building resilience to and mitigating climate change with free resources from PBS LearningMedia.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy Gifford (Monomoy Regional Middle School: Chatham, MA), Shawn Stevens (GBH Education: Brighton, MA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Strengthening Teacher Skillsets through Fostering Equity Driven STEM Mindsets: Key Learnings from TNTP's STEM Good to Great Pilot Program

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

TNTP’s equity-based STEM Good to Great model is a learning-by-doing experience that couples a culturally responsive framework with job-embedded development to make STEM thinking an integral part of the classroom. Hear from TNTP and our partner school on the program's impact on teaching and learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to lay the foundation for a sustainable and meaningful STEM culture through an equity-driven professional development and robust coaching model that honors four key resources crucial to improving student outcomes across K-12 classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda McCue (Senior Manager STEM), Camryn Lochner (Teacher: No City, No State), Nithya Vasudevan (TNTP)

Equity Mathematics STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Supporting Absent Students: Strategies to Keep Them Learning (and Your Sanity)

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Engaging students in phenomenon-based 3D science learning is challenging, and when students are absent it can feel impossible. In this session, participants will take away strategies for supporting absent students in staying engaged in learning when they miss classroom instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take away strategies for supporting absent students in staying engaged in learning when they miss classroom instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Delaney (OpenSciEd: San Carlos, CA)

Sensemaking Equity Preservice Science Education Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Revolutionizing Inclusive Science Education Through Extended Reality

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Discover a 360-degree VR intervention implemented in inclusive biology classrooms, showcasing significant score differences between students with and without disabilities. Gain insights into data analysis, limitations, practice implications, and future research plans.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with the six free resources used in the study and expectations to support their use in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Shalece Kohnke (Auburn University)

Equity General Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Recharge Yourself! From Striving to Thriving; Part 2: Stress Management

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212

Show Details

While it may seem like there’s nothing you can do about stress at work and home, there are steps you can take to relieve the pressure and regain control. Stress wreaks havoc on your emotional equilibrium, as well as your physical health. It narrows your ability to think clearly and function effectively.

TAKEAWAYS:
Tips on how to relieve pressure and regain control.

SPEAKERS:
Azra Chughtai (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Equity Leadership Hands-On Workshop

Kinematics With Fan Carts

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Attendees will collect and analyze uniform motion data from a dune buggy and nonuniform motion with a fan cart, identify dependent and independent variables, and create large graphs that can be easily interpreted by using adding machine tape.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: Observe that if Fnet = 0 N motion is uniform. Observe that if Fnet ≠ 0 N motion is non-uniform. Interpret graphs of position vs. time, velocity vs. time, and acceleration vs. time for uniform motion and nonuniform graphs that yield the Physics Kinematics Equations.

SPEAKERS:
Jan Mader (Retired Physics and Chemistry Teacher: Great Falls, MT)

Physics Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Environmental Lessons for a Just Society

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Environmental challenges are not experienced equally in our communities and around the world. Discover nuanced classroom activities to explore inequities in climate and pollution vulnerabilities, and to collaborate to solve authentic problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn interactive lessons to stimulate students’ thoughts and explorations around environmental justice issues, specifically those focusing on climate change and pollution.

SPEAKERS:
Katie Grams (Education Program Associate: Washington, DC)

Environmental Science Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Every Rock Has A Story: Inspiring & Diversifying the Geosciences Through the Stories of the Earth

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Educational Resources (Google Folder)
This folder includes helpful information and resources to aid teachers in navigating the Every Rock Has A Story resource and use it most effectively in your classroom or informal learning space
Every Rock Has A Story - Episode List
A searchable, sortable, Google Sheet including information about all 82 episodes of Every Rock Has A Story. Find the episode that is right to augment your lesson or curricular needs.
Every Rock Has A Story - General handout 2024.pdf
See all the episodes and all the diverse co-hosts from Every Rock Has A Story. Show your students. Want to hear from a particular co-host? Pick one and watch! Or, pick a rock or title that looks cool and find out!
Every Rock Has A Story - Teachers handout NSTA 2024.pdf
One stop guide to Every Rock Has A Story... what is it, what is it for, and how to use it.
Every Rock Has A Story - YouTube Channel
Every Rock Has A Story - YouTube Channel
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

"Every Rock Has A Story" is a free online YouTube series created by Prof. Ethan Baxter of Boston College. The stories of rocks—shared by diverse co-hosts—inspire children about the exciting and interconnected science of the Earth and Environment, and help kids see themselves as scientists.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use "Every Rock Has A Story" in your classroom or informal learning space to inspire wonder, curiosity, relevance, and excitement in ESS learning. See how the diverse co-hosts help to enhance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the geosciences for your students.

SPEAKERS:
Ethan Baxter (Boston College: Chestnut Hill, MA)

Earth & Space Science Equity Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Design Thinking and You!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Design Thinking Resources NSTA
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to "[email protected]"
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come join in the Design Thinking Process: Define, Empathize, Ideate, Prototype, Test, and Improve. This process helps students (and teachers) to brainstorm, understand others, and solve problems creatively and collaboratively in a K-5 science education!

TAKEAWAYS:
They will learn how we can put empathy in the design thinking process, so we can bridge the connection between our students and the community with STEM. We often see science at a global scale, but this will help bring back the focus at a local level.

SPEAKERS:
Tram Nguyen (5th Grade Science, Math, and Social Studies Teacher)

STEM Equity Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

USGS Field Journals: Nurturing Environmental Literacy

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Participates will engage in activities from the newly designed USGS field guides. The field guides are intended to be used in grades 3-5 to provide space that nurtures curiosity and creativity while realizing the interconnectedness of the natural world.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will walk away with brand-new field journals that can be used in their classrooms!

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Willsey (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow: Washington DC, DC)

General Science Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Assessing 3D Learning using the NSTA Student Work Analysis Protocol

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Assessing 3D Learning...Collection of Resources
Denver24: Assessing 3D Learning Using the NSTA Student Work Analysis Protocol Collection of Resources
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Learn how to use the NSTA Student Work Analysis tool and protocol to evaluate students’ three-dimensional learning. We’ll focus our discussions on what counts as evidence of students’ ownership of targeted elements of the three dimensions and how to use collected student data to inform instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to evaluate students’ three-dimensional learning using the NSTA Student Work Analysis tool and protocol.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Kristin Rademaker (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Zoe Evans (Bremen City Schools: Bremen, GA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Assessment General Science Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Engaging K-8 Students through Circular STEM: A Shift in STEM Education

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Flyer Handout with QR codes
This gives you access to the resources I mention in the presentation.
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Can STEM education prepare all students to be leaders in the transition to a circular economy? By using Circular STEM principles to design “out” waste, students can envision system-scale change. Starting with how things are designed allows current problems to become regenerative possibilities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover the core principles of Circular STEM design, and how it integrates into K-8th grade sequences aligned with NGSS. We provide illustrative sample lessons, showcase essential materials, and access cutting-edge research pertaining to circular design and its applications.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Watts (Educational Program Coordinator: PENDLETON, SC), Erin Rockenhaus (Circular STEM)

STEM Climate Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Justice-Centered Ambitious Science Teaching Practices Developed and Refined by Professional Learning Communities

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session 10 Materials: Justice-Centered Ambitious Science Teaching Practices Deve
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn about the Justice-Centered Ambitious Science Teaching framework and practices teachers have developed as part of professional learning communities to be responsive to students' cultures and communities, recognize and build upon expansive forms of student meaning-making, and committed to naming and disrupting injustice in society.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about teaching practices aimed at building a welcoming, joyful, and critical community, planning that is meaningful for youth and centers justice, elicits local stories and uses interpretive power, nurtures revisions of scientific thinking with diverse and local expertise, and uses science to advocate for justice.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Campbell (University of Connecticut: Storrs Mansfield, CT), Rachel Lauzier , April Luehmann , Hannah Cooke , Emily Lisy , Cathryn Tuttle

Sensemaking Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

CRISPR-Cas9: Exploring Genetic Medicine with HHMI BioInteractive Resources

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Dig deeper into CRISPR-Cas9 with a hands-on modeling activity and an online BioInteractive resource that demystify how this biotechnology expands the field of genetic medicine.

SPEAKERS:
Valerie May (Woodstock Academy: Woodstock, CT), Karen Lucci (Retired Educator: Morrisville, PA)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Fungus Among Us - Valley Fever

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Come learn and get hands-on experience on how to teach gel electrophoresis and DNA fingerprinting in a single classroom session. You will pour, load, and run a gel, capture gel image, analyze the results, and deduce a probable conclusion for a whale of a forensic mystery.

SPEAKERS:
Glenda Goh Denison (MiniOne Systems: No City, No State)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Do real hands-on CRISPR gene editing!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Bio-Rad Laboratories

Experience CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing experiments designed for your students' learning! In this hands-on workshop edit a chromosomal gene, complete with essential experimental controls, using the same cut-and-repair technology used in medicinal and agricultural applications.

SPEAKERS:
Damon Tighe (Bio-Rad Laboratories: Hercules, CA)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Genes Unraveled – Modeling Inheritance Mysteries

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Explore genetic wonders with your students and discover the intricacies of Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance through dynamic modeling and Punnett Square construction.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Hutson (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

New Teacher Workshop (New through 3 years of Teaching)

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 1

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Flinn Scientific

Let Flinn help you develop as a teacher. Whether this is your first-year teaching, or your first-year teaching science, this session will show you how to do science safely that will lead to better student outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Jillian Saddler (Flinn Scientific, Inc.: Batavia, IL)

Chemistry Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 8: Sea to Sky: Get to know NOAA’s online educational resources — and let us know what you think!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NOAA Sea to Sky Presentation
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

Join us for a demo of our database of 1,300+ educational resources from NOAA. We host ocean, coast, Great Lakes, weather, and climate resources. Tour our lesson plans and activities and ask us your questions. Learn more at noaa.gov/education/resources. This session is appropriate for K-16 educators.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Smith (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Silver Spring, MD), Bekkah Lampe (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD)

Environmental Science Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Celebrate with PEER Physics!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: PEER Physics

PEER Physics invites students into the joy of doing science. We engage teachers, raise rigor, and reignite joy through a community dedicated to the love of learning. Celebrate our 10 year anniversary! In this session, we’ll hear inspiring stories from PEER Physics teachers from around the country.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Quinty (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Physics Leadership Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Bring molecular genetics to your biology classroom with PTC tasting

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

PTC tasting is a classic way to link genotype and phenotype. Use PCR and gel electrophoresis to determine if students have taster or non-taster alleles for bitter perception. Learn about our all-new curriculum and see how easy it can be to bring molecular genetics to your class!

SPEAKERS:
Sebastian Kraves (miniPCR: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Graphs in Motion: Exploring Data Through Student Movement

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

While graphs are essential for organizing and making sense of data, students often struggle with scaling, axes and understanding variables. Come join this engaging session to see how we break down these concepts through movement and discover how students can have fun with motion sensors by capturing data and creating their own graph. Watch as understanding scales up when learning becomes a dynamic experience!

SPEAKERS:
Erick Archer (Texas Instruments: Dallas, TX)

General Science Physical Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Utilizing AI to Redefine Your Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Aauti School

Curious about how AI can help you provide timely feedback to your students? Have you wondered how AI can help you create engaging learning experiences?? Join us during this session to see how Aauti School can automate your grading process, generate rich content, and much more!

SPEAKERS:
Robyn Cook (Aauti School: Frisco, TX)

General Science Technology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

DIY Loudspeakers: make some noise!

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Arbor Scientific

In this fun, Make-and-Take workshop you will construct loudspeakers and hear them play your favorite songs. This session will also explore the physics behind the design and operation of the speakers, allowing you to confidently embed this content within your electromagnetism and STEM teaching

SPEAKERS:
Nichola Swann (PhD Physicist: saline, MI)

Physics Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

How Much Physics Can You Do with a Meter Stick?

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: PASCO

Rediscover the most versatile tool in your physics lab: the meter stick! Learn how to facilitate student investigations of rotation, torque, optics, and even Lenz's law using the PASCO Aluminum Meter Stick and accessories.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Guzules (PASCO Scientific: Roseville, CA)

Physics Engineering Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration: Teaching Common Biology Concepts with Alginate Beads

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Participants will make and use alginate beads containing algae and alginate beads containing yeast. They will learn how the beads can be used to model the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal Risko (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Biology Environmental Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER): Scientific Explanations to Increase Student Voice (Grades 3-8)

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) is an acclaimed and highly successful instructional strategy changing how students understand scientific concepts and write explanations for phenomena. Experience how CER supports multiple elements in your science and math classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Walters (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Bon Appétit: Explorations in Food Chemistry

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Knowledge is the food of the soul, and these real-world food chemistry experiments cover complex concepts using science that students can see and understand. Attendees will use Vernier Go Direct® pH and CO2 Gas Sensors to explore the differences between baking soda and baking powder.

SPEAKERS:
Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Chemistry General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Support 3D Teaching with Vernier Connections™

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

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Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Discover the newest STEM solution from Vernier, built to teach and engage students in 3D science! Vernier Connections is a web-based platform that equips teachers with hands-on lessons. We will feature a lesson demonstrating the design & structures that make Connections a must for the STEM classroom

SPEAKERS:
Lori Anderson (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

Technology General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Driving Questions Boards (DQB) with Lab-Aids and SEPUP

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

Use a DQB to make phenomena meaningfully connected to science content. Pro-tips and exemplary DQB walkthrough – an experienced trainer will guide development of a sample DQB, using a model lesson from our middle school program that looks at the effects of an introduced species on an ecosystem.

SPEAKERS:
Ed Miller (Selden Middle School: Centereach, NY)

Life Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Let’s Investigate Like Scientists and Engineers

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Discover new ways to help students think and work like scientists and engineers. Through a hands-on lesson, we will model instruction and resources that support 3-dimensional teaching & learning including teacher instructional slides, student friendly materials, simulations, & student investigations

SPEAKERS:
Hoover Herrera (Carolina Biological Supply Co.: Burlington, NC)

Sensemaking General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Start with WHY: Sensemaking in Instruction and Assessment

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: InnerOrbit

What does it mean to engage in 3-dimensional sensemaking in instruction AND assessment? Whether you’re getting started with the NGSS or seek to better understand sensemaking, join us as we dissect the nuances of one Performance Expectation’s 3 dimensions, through the lens of a lesson and assessment.

SPEAKERS:
David Jacob (Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Hghts, NY), Brendan Finch (InnerOrbit: No City, No State)

Assessment Leadership Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Enhancing Equitable Discussions Using Scientists Circles

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Learn how Scientists Circles support equitable and meaningful classroom discussions. Create opportunities in your lessons in which all students’ thinking, experiences, and ideas for further exploration can be leveraged for building a culture where students are positioned as knowers and thinkers.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Klaft (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT), Jen Gutierrez (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

STEM Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Using Problem Based Learning to up your NGSS game

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 506

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

One of the biggest shifts involved with the continued implementation of NGSS standards is the movement to incorporate more phenomena-based and problem-based learning. To help prepare students for their next steps in school, students need to be doing science and seeing how it fits into their lives.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Padilla (retired: Sterling, CO)

General Science Assessment Leadership Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Building Climate Science across OpenSciEd High School

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Explore the OpenSciEd approach to climate science across the 3-year sequence of HS biology, chemistry & physics. Learn how the curriculum integrates core disciplinary ideas across units to build students’ understanding by exploring the effects and equitable responses to the global climate crisis.

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate change is more than one topic that can be learned as a stand-alone idea. By building and integrating core ideas across units and disciplines, students can develop full, meaningful understandings of the causes, effects, impacts & responses to climate change in their communities and worldwide.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Buck Bracey (Senior Science Educator and Director of Design for Justice: Colorado Springs, CO), Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Clean Energy & Coding

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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Sponsoring Company: KidWind Project

In this workshop you will explore some activities which combine Microbits with wind, solar and hydropower.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Arquin (KidWind Project: Saint Paul, MN)

Computer Science Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Advocacy in Action: State Teams Elevating Educator Voice

Friday, March 22 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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The “Advocacy in Action” pathway will culminate with a panel discussion featuring three states that participated in a special communications and advocacy training program last year. They will share key takeaways form that training and describe specific actions they have each taken to improve their communications or to engage in local advocacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Guidance and concrete ideas for how you and your colleagues can learn from these states and launch your own advocacy efforts locally! Featuring an advocacy charge from NSTA leadership to all NSTA members.

SPEAKERS:
Autumn Rivera (Glenwood Springs Middle School: Glenwood Springs, CO), Julie Luft (University of Georgia: Athens, GA), Jonathan Frostad (Washington Science Teachers Association: No City, No State), Maggie Moore (Hononegah High School: Rockton, IL), Adam Ezring (Collaborative for Student Success: No City, No State)

Advocacy Presentation

Transforming Science Teaching and Learning Through Curriculum-Based Professional Learning: The Essentials; Leadership, Resources, Coherence

Friday, March 22 • 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Look across the Essentials of curriculum-based professional learning to figure out how leaders use them together to support teachers in making the shifts called for in NRC’s Framework for K-12 Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards.

TAKEAWAYS:
By attending to the Essentials of curriculum-based professional learning, leaders take a systems approach to supporting teachers in the instructional shifts called for by NRC’s Framework. These shifts promote three-dimensional phenomena/problem-driven science teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy Hopkins-Evans (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Hands-On Workshop

Environmental Empowerment Project: Equity Through Place-Based Learning

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Environmental Empowerment Project Place-based Education
Presentation including QR code access to curriculum discussed
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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The Environmental Empowerment Project is a grant-funded curriculum project. Each of the NGSS-aligned units in grades K-8 center locally relevant environmental issues and empower students to act on them. This presentation will describe how the units were developed and how to access them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Student and community voice in curriculum are essential to maintaining and motivating student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Eric CROMWELL (Baltimore County Public Schools Office of Science: Towson, MD)

Environmental Science Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Biofabrication in the Classroom: Project-Based Learning for Equitable Education

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BioFab Explorer
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Discover BioTrek, a free project-based learning program that introduces your students to regenerative science through advanced technologies, entrepreneurship and career pathways in the biofabrication industry. Learn how to bring this dynamic inquiry-driven experience to your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees gain insight into cutting-edge tissue engineering concepts and free NGSS-aligned curriculum. Learn how ARMI is shaping the industry and empowering the future workforce of biofabrication through BioTrek, a program that exposes students to exciting careers via transdisciplinary learning.

SPEAKERS:
Alanis Vicente (ARMI / BioFab: Manchester, NH), Gabrielle Mourousas (ARMI / BioFab: Manchester, NH)

STEM Biology Technical and Vocational Education Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Middle School Share-a-thon hosted by National STEM Scholar Program

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Come network with the National STEM Scholars, (a group of middle science school teachers) as we share our innovative, hands-on projects, materials, results, and curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover new ideas, lessons, and projects that you can use in your middle school classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Michele Mitnitsky (Dover High School: Dover, NH), Emily Harer (Global Arts Plus Upper, Upper Campus: St Paul, MN), Kandice Taylor (Brinkley Middle School: Jackson, MS), Sarah StCyr (WW Lewis Middle: No City, No State), Jenny McCall (Winburn Middle School, Fayette County Public Schools: No City, No State), Teresa Robertson (Middle Grades Teacher: Munfordville, KY), Patricia Huntington (Farb Middle School: San Diego, CA), James Frye (Science Teacher: LEITCHFIELD, KY), Laura Cummings (Teacher: Haleiwa, HI), Erin Hullinger (Teacher), Kerrie McDaniel (Western Kentucky University: Bowling Green, KY)

STEM General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Converstation in the Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Conversation in the Science Classroom.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Educators will explore the benefits of and research related to employing structed conversation in the science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn how to employ structured conversation in the science classroom to support all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Edreauanna Fowler (Teacher: Port Arthur, TX), Dennis Johnson (Teacher: Port Arthur, TX)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Microplastics Investigation: A Five-Day Pacing Guide

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Microplastics - A 5-Day Pacing Guide
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This hands-on workshop is designed to provide attendees an opportunity to learn and experience an emerging environmental phenomenon on microplastics in our environment. Attendees will learn filtration and microscopy techniques to investigation microplastics in surface waters.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will receive instructions and materials in incorporating a five-day microplastics investigation pacing guide that will engage students in not only exploration, observation, and investigation, but will include critical science skills such as data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

SPEAKERS:
Tracy Ostrom (University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley, CA)

Environmental Science Informal Education Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Expanding Science to STEM: Integrating Math and Engineering into Science

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
How to create a student-centered classroom, infographic
This is the handout from this session.
Sceince to STEM presentation
This is the presentation used for this session
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this workshop, explore what defines a STEM lesson and learn how to turn your Science class into STEM by adding relevant engineering and math activities to lessons. STEM activities will help maintain your students’ interest and give them a more wholistic understanding of the Science discipline.

TAKEAWAYS:
Enhance your 5E science lessons by learning how to add student-centered, collaborative math and engineering activities to them. In this workshop, we will transform common science activities in 3-5th grade by exploring and generating connections from the Science activities to math and engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Rama Sreekantham (Paragon Prep School: No City, No State)

STEM Engineering Mathematics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Say No to Silos: Integrating STEM and Language Arts

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will focus on the integration of STEM and Language Arts/Reading through standards-driven, inquiry-based units. Participants will have the opportunity to experience one lesson from a unit that demonstrates integration of robotics, engineering, mathematics, and language arts.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will demonstrate integration of STEM and Literacy through the use of robotics. Participants will be provided with an example of a unit based on a young adult book. They will be able to use the unit as provided and will be able to develop their own integrated lessons following the model.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Douglass (Washburn University: No City, No State)

STEM Literacy Robotics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Rev Up Your Engineering Integration with the Knowles Project Complexity Rubric

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How can engineering design invite student creativity and choice in a science classroom? Come learn about a teacher-developed tool for scaling student autonomy both up and down within engineering practices into your science class. Leave with new activity ideas and a new strategy for developing more.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this presentation, teachers will look at several examples of integrated-STEM instruction on a continuum of student-centricity and complexity. Teachers will use a Project Complexity Rubric to consider modifications to the examples and to their own engineering-oriented math and science instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Kylie Bertram (Science Teacher: Willingboro, NJ), Emily Berman (Global STEM Challenges Program)

Engineering Leadership STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Making it Fit: Reframing Learning Targets and Success Criteria to Crack the Code on Student Sensemaking

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learning targets and success criteria are meant to support our students, but they often give away meaningful opportunities for sensemaking. Come consider our process for embedding the 3Ds into our learning targets and success criteria to ensure administrative compliance AND student sensemaking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore how dimension-aligned sentence stems help to make science learning targets and success criteria more 3D and supportive of sensemaking. They will consider how the resulting targets and criteria support administration goals and improve teacher planning and practice.

SPEAKERS:
Martha Inouye (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Erin Arnold (Green River High School: , WY), Megan Allen (Teacher: Green River, WY), Shawna Mattson (Green River High School: Green River, WY), Richard Carroll (Teacher: Green River, WY), Ana Houseal (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY)

Sensemaking Earth & Space Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Forms of Energy & Energy Transformations Interactive Lessons

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Conduct energy transformation experiments using items encountered in everyday life. Motion, sound, thermal, radiant, electrical, and chemical energy transformations are studied using glow sticks, handwarmers, batteries, etc. Confidently teach energy forms & transformations!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about forms of energy and energy transformations by engaging in experiments just as their students would, to better understand visually what they are and how they occur.

SPEAKERS:
Vernon Kimball (NEED Facilitator: Manassas, VA)

General Science Chemistry Physics Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Beyond Lucy: Bringing Human Evolution Alive in the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this session, three author-educators will use 3D-printed fossils to introduce the topic of human origins, identify critical adaptations, and learn stories behind the fossils. Attendees will gain age-appropriate strategies tailored to diverse student populations (lower grades through high school).

TAKEAWAYS:
This session provides educators with skills and resources for teaching human evolution. Through a trifold approach, participants will increase confidence in teaching about human origins by exploring major milestones in human evolution and headline-grabbing discoveries. Bibliography provided.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Shreeve (Science Writer: Mill Valley, CA), John Mead (St. Mark's School of Texas: Allen, TX), Pamela Turner (Author: Oakland, CA)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Why Did the Acid Go To the Gym? To Become a Little Buffer!

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 7


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Why did the acid to go the gym_ To be a little buffer..pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session will explore acid base chemistry. Hands-on, data collection, simulations, and card sorts will be utilized to encourage participants to have fun with the complex chemistry topic of acid base chemistry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Acid base chemistry and buffers are difficult concepts for students to grasp. This session will help teachers create and modify traditional lecture activities to be student-centered, hands-on learning opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Chris Coker (Camden Fairview High School: Camden, AR), Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA)

Chemistry STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Understanding Mineral Properties through Nanoscience

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Have you ever wonder why minerals come in so many different shapes and color? Using nanoscience concepts, come experience how a mineral's internal atomic arrangement contribute to its properties through a fun hands-on activity involving simple materials without an electron microscope!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teaching abstract concepts, such as matter at the atomic scale, can be difficult to get across to our students. Learn to use common household objects to help our students make sense of mineral properties using nanoscience ideas.

SPEAKERS:
Yishan Lee (PS/MS 219)

Earth & Space Science General Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Data Puzzles: integrating authentic data and Ambitious Science Teaching practices to help students make sense of climate phenomena

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Come learn about Data Puzzles, a free resource co-designed by climate scientists and instructional specialists from the University of Colorado Boulder that combines authentic data with Ambitious Science Teaching instructional practices to help students make sense of phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore authentic, contemporary data through Data Puzzles resources that frame data analysis for use in middle and high school classrooms with the Ambitious Science Teaching framework and leave prepared to implement these 2-3 day sensemaking tasks in their own classrooms.

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

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Laying the Groundwork: An Introduction to Scientific Inquiry Unit

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Where do you start a new school year? How about an introductory unit that will engage your students in the basic tenets of Scientific Literacy? This workshop will engage participants in hands-on activities aimed at laying the foundation for Scientific Literacy through inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take away 5 activities that immerse students in Scientific Inquiry in ways that may not seem very "sciencey" but will build foundational skills in Scientific Literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Vanessa Ueltzen (Walther Christian Academy: Melrose Park, IL)

General Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NSTA PRESS: LAST Chance: Get Ready for the April 8 Total Solar Eclipse

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
3D astronomy for the solar eclipse PPT
Classroom activities to understand lunar phases and eclipses
NSTA Press books information
NSTA solar eclipse website URL
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The last total solar eclipse in the continental US for 21 years occurs in April. NSTA has assembled an abundance of resources for you to make the most of this teachable moment – from 3D learning materials, to safe viewing strategies, to ways to make it a school-wide experience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with links to 3D teaching strategies for students to understand the science behind eclipses, plus safe viewing strategies and ways to make the event a school-wide experience.

SPEAKERS:
Dennis Schatz (Institute for Learning Innovation: Beaverton, OR)

Earth & Space Science General Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

"Think Global, Act Local" Climate and Environmental Projects That Teach Skills, Agency, and Optimism

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Think Global Act Local Teaching Agency, Skills and Optimism
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn to use the Solutionary Framework to design instruction that engages students in solving real-world problems in their community. Empower young people to become climate solutionaries who explore complex problems and find solutions that do the most good for all stakeholders.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will use the four-part Solutionary Framework to expand their ability to design units that empower students to address the complex climate issues facing their generation.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Meltzer (Director of K-12 and Teacher Education: Surry, ME), Angela Whittaker (Teaching and Learning Facilitator)

Environmental Science Climate Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

DISCOVERING THE VALUE OF A SELF-DRIVEN CHEMISTRY COURSE THROUGH THE EYES OF A DISASTER

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation 2024.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

A high school senior, her teacher, and her mother will discuss the execution and benefits of a third-year chemistry class that was driven by a local disaster.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain perspective on using real-life occurrences to help drive student engagement, scientific inquiry, and course content.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Miller (Educator: Columbiana, OH), Karagin Miller (Student), Veronica Kotel (Crestview High School: Columbiana, OH)

Chemistry Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teaching and Assessment Strategies for Asking Questions and Modeling

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Teaching and assessing science skills can be challenging for educators. Come to this workshop if you want to dive into conversations about what success looks like for asking questions, and developing and using models. Strategies for teaching and rubrics for science skills will be provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with strategies for teaching and assessing science skills.

SPEAKERS:
Leah Ward (Science Teacher: Pleasant View, UT), Allison Halling (Teacher), Becky McKinney (Weber High School: Pleasant View, UT)

Assessment Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Integrating Anthropology, Geography, and Environmental Concepts for Teaching about Water Equity in High School Courses

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Colorado Water Citizen Guides
You can open each publication and read them online for free and use them with students.
Professional Development Workshops with Wild Rose Education
Details on upcoming climate change, rivers and watersheds professional learning with strong environmental and climate justice woven throughout.
Slides for Session
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Hands-on workshop highlights considerations of water use and equity. Uses anthropology, geosciences, and environmental sustainability principles to discuss water equity and incorporating these concepts and disciplines into science education. Bring a laptop/tablet to fully participate.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will investigate the ethnohistoric context of water ownership, access and use in their regions, and practice how to unpack the complex topic of water equity and incorporate various aspects into activities that address the learning objectives of their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Sharon Bywater-Reyes (Associate Professor of Geoscience: Greeley, CO), Sarah Johnson (Wild Rose Education: No City, No State), Chelsie Romulo (Associate Professor of Geography, GIS, and Sustainability: Greeley, CO)

Environmental Science Equity General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

NMLSTA: Navigating Watershed Stewardship: Empowering Teachers and Students

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_ Navigating Watershed Stewardship (March 2024).pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Dive into the world of watershed stewardship! This session will provide a clear roadmap and lesson plan for bringing this experience to your classroom. Together, we'll inspire the next generation of environmental leaders and make a positive impact on our world, one watershed at a time.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation is designed to inspire and equip teachers to embark on exciting watershed stewardship projects with students. By the end of this presentation, teachers will be ready to embark on a watershed stewardship journey, fostering environmental stewardship and scientific curiosity.

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Reading History to Engineering Parachutes Includes Lots of Science

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

This parachute STEM lesson is introduced by reading some history using the book, “Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot” by Margot Theis Raven. Discussing problems and how engineers and scientists work to solve them assists students in learning about engineering and the Design Process as well as physics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Reading, problem-solving, engineering design, physical science, and math are used by groups of fourth graders to build and test parachutes in this STEM lesson. Students work in groups of three and preliminary designs are drawn, put together, and tested.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Cunningham (Purdue University: West Lafayette, IN)

STEM Mathematics Physics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Bringing Social Emotional Learning to Science Class

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
XSTEM SEL Lesson Index (March 2024)
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Social Emotional Learning is a proven strategy to improve student learning outcomes, reduce negative behaviors such as bullying, and create positive classroom communities. But what does this look like in science class? Come learn how to use free lesson plans to incorporate SEL into your class!

TAKEAWAYS:
You will walk away with a library of free, ready-to-use SEL lessons to teach skills such as self-awareness, relationship skills, positive decision-making, and more while introducing students to a variety of STEM professions!

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Noffsinger (STEM Magnet Lab School: Northglenn, CO)

General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Henrietta Lacks: Cervical Cancer and the HPV Perspective

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom G

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In this session, participants will engage with the NGSS-aligned Henrietta Lacks: Cervical Cancer and the HPV Perspective unit, interconnecting Henrietta Lacks’ life and experiences with our current understanding of science and society.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to use classroom-ready, standards-aligned materials connecting science and society. Learning Objectives include: 1.) Discuss the history and legacy of Henrietta Lacks ; 2.) Understand the causes of cervical cancer and the role of HPV; and 3.) Assess the pros and cons of the HPV Vaccine.

SPEAKERS:
Beth Tuck (Education & Community Involvement Branch Chief: Bethesda, MD), Rosann Wise (National Human Genome Research Institute/National Institutes of Health: Bethesda, MD)

Equity Advocacy Biology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Empower Scientific Inquiry with Primary Sources

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will provide strategies on Teaching with Primary Sources in the science curriculum to promote student a.) inquiry and discourse b.) critical thinking and analysis and c.) understanding of scientific history.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in teaching strategies that exemplify how analyzing primary sources can support critical thinking and the scientific method of observation, hypothesizing, and analysis.

SPEAKERS:
Dat Le (Arlington Public Schools: Arlington, VA)

Biology Environmental Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

"When I am going to use this?" Resources that you can use to make topics that students see as irrelevant more meaningful for students

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

There are many topics included in required course content that student view as irrelevant. Come learn about ways to make these topics more meaningful for students and then leave with access to a digital library of some high-quality instructional materials that you can use to teach them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Meaningful phenomena and authentic problems can make topics not only more meaningful for students but can also make instruction more rigorous and equitable.

SPEAKERS:
Todd Hutner (The University of Alabama: Austin, TX)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A writing center led by science teachers? Why it works and how to implement it in your school!

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
writing center and science literacy resource folder
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Using a Peer-assisted-learning model, you can learn how to establish a writing center at your school to support science literacy and foster student leadership. Doing so can also emotionally support students and build student self-confidence while communicating in multiple ways.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be provided an approach for developing a writing center at their schools with research outlining the necessity of science literacy and for science teachers to support and teach literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Brooke Whitworth (Clemson University: Clemson, SC), Ashley Hunter (Clemson University: Clemson, SC), Althea Roy (Clemson University: Clemson, SC)

Literacy Advocacy Informal Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Unlocking Deeper Thinking: Questioning Strategies That Foster Learning Rather Than Knowing

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 2

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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This session explores techniques for creating learning environments that foster deep-level thinking and support students with applying ideas to new contexts. Participants will explore questioning strategies and teacher moves that can build classroom cultures that value learning above knowing.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with teacher moves and questioning strategies to support students with thinking more deeply and critically about disciplinary core ideas. Attendees will experience what it looks like to take the role of a facilitator rather than a lecturer.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Berk (Arcadia High School: Phoenix, AZ), Kali Hines (High School Science Teacher: Holyoke, CO)

Physics General Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

For the Love of Forensics: Exploring Funky Fingerprints

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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We know STEM is a crucial component of society; however, everyone doesn't have the gift of time to spread the joy of STEM. Join us as we engage in a CSI-themed lesson, and collaboratively brainstorm ways to intentionally embed STEM connections and thinking routines, regardless of bell schedules!

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this lesson, educators will be able to outline creative and innovative ways to embed STEM thinking and disciplines into their lessons, regardless of the time allocated within their schedules.

SPEAKERS:
Jailyn Jenkins (Manager of Resident Development, Innovation, Coaching: , CO)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching systems thinking through making games about life science topics

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Teachers are introduced to systems thinking. In pairs, they create a systems diagram for a chosen topic, and play and critique student computer games for systems representations. They storyboard a game, focusing on reality-the system to represent, meaning-the teaching goal, and play-what players do.

TAKEAWAYS:
Systems thinking is a critical component of science literacy. Participants discover how creating systems diagrams and designing a game supports student learning of systems thinking. They receive tips for integrating systems thinking and game design in their units and leave with a teaching guide.

SPEAKERS:
Gillian Puttick (TERC: Cambridge, MA)

Life Science Sensemaking Technology Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

The Chemistry and Statistics of the U.S. Penny

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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The various metals and alloys used in the minting of the US penny over the years will provide for rich explorations. We will share activities that combine some very basic lab activities conducted by some of our chemistry classes with detailed mathematical modeling done by the students in statistics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will use real data to develop mathematical models and learn how to test our hypothesis by performing an experiment and analyzing the results, combining chemical analysis with statistical sampling for a cross-curricular approach.

SPEAKERS:
Karlheinz Haas (Science/Math Instructor, Retired: Tequesta, FL)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Leveraging Technology to Prevent Teacher Burnout: Strategies from a HS Physics and Chemistry Teacher

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In my first year teaching I worked 16 hours a day, swamped with planning and grading. Despite my best intentions, neglecting my own needs had a negative impact on my teaching. I now leverage technology to work smarter not harder, reducing my workload while improving my students’ learning experience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to reduce your workload whilst maximizing students’ benefit. Reduce grading workload using my three rules for grading: automate it, delegate it, and simplify it! Save time lesson planning using my 3 favorite tools: the 5-minute lesson plan, video examples, and Google suite.

SPEAKERS:
Abigail Vega (Physics & Chemistry Teacher: , CA)

Physics Assessment Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Making Informal Formal: The Benefits of Museums, Science Centers, & Out of School Programs Besides Field Trips

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Come learn about ways that museums, science centers, and out of school time providers can help you improve your students’ learning beyond visiting for field trips or joining the program.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about resources and opportunities that museums, science centers, and out-of-school time providers, such as Science Olympiad, offer classroom teachers to expand their students’ knowledge, borrow classroom resources, or develop themselves.

SPEAKERS:
John Loehr (Science Olympiad: Oakbrook Terrace, IL)

STEM General Science Informal Education Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using Digital Tools to Promote Inclusive Citizenship

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Participate in activities using news to connect with students. Attendees engage with digital materials that promote environment awareness and civic knowledge preparing students to be engaged citizens. These free materials focus on media literacy, primary source analysis, and civic awareness.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leave with new digital tools and strategies to build student’s confidence and skills. Empower students to be involved citizens if they are passionate about a topic and know who can help them affect change.

SPEAKERS:
Victoria Pasquantonio (PBS NewsHour: Arlington, VA), Elizabeth Osborn (Indiana University Bloomington: Bloomington, IN)

Advocacy Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Effectively Engage Students in the SEP Asking Questions with the Question Formulation Technique to Improve Driving Questions

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Denver 2024_ Resource Collection_Effectively Engage Students in the SEP Asking Questions with the Question Formulation Technique to Improve Driving Questions.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will engage in an effective instructional strategy, the Question Formulation Technique (QFT), to help students develop questions for a Driving Question Board (DQB) about the causes of a phenomenon from an OpenSciEd Lesson.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will experience the QFT within a small group structure using an adapted version of the Questioning Form from the Illinois Storylining Group, an OpenSciEd lesson, and question stems that help support students with engaging in the Science and Engineering Practice of Asking Questions.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Garelli (Arizona Science Teachers Association)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Students Simulating Phenomena Without Coding or Writing Equations: A More Equitable Approach to Modeling

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Dive into systems modeling with SageModeler, a free web-based tool for engaging students in systems thinking and computational thinking while modeling. SageModeler makes it possible for a wide range of students to create simulatable models as they test their ideas against real-world observations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain the skills to get started using SageModeler as a tool for modeling systems, and brainstorm strategies for integrating systems thinking in their curricula.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Gospodarek (Gorham Middle School: Gorham, ME), Daniel Damelin (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Technology General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Coral Reef Ecosystems and Us: Explore Free NOAA Resources About These Fragile Wonders

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NOAA-corals-NSTA-denver-2024-1.pdf
Slides for corals presentation from NOAA. If you would like an accessible version of the presentation, please contact [email protected].
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Incorporate coral reefs into your existing curriculum – biology, chemistry, climate studies, art, and more – using lesson plans, demos, activities, and multimedia from NOAA. This session is appropriate for 3rd grade through college educators and informal educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn what corals are, why they are important, and how to fit coral reefs ecosystems into your curriculum using free NOAA resources.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Smith (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Silver Spring, MD), Bekkah Lampe (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD)

Environmental Science Climate Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Finding Signals in the Noise: Making Sense of Messy Data

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Crab Measuring Lesson Data Variability assessment.docx
Describing Data Sentence Stems
Gallery walk thought-catcher crab measurement.docx
Green Crab measurement protocol.pdf
Measures of Center Invention Directions
Measures of Spread Invention Directions
Messy Data Slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Ready, set, measure! Come join us as we share activities and tools for supporting students’ invention of data visualizations, measures of central tendency, and variability within the context of a statewide citizen science project focused on climate-related impacts to local ecosystems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in a learning sequence designed to guide students through the invention of data displays and core ideas in statistics. This framework can be adapted to support students of all ages and abilities in making sense of data across multiple content areas and learning contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Lacey Todd (Mountain Valley Middle School: Mexico, ME), Kyle Beeton (Lisbon School Department: Lisbon, ME), Monica Wright (Bath Middle School: Bath, ME), Amanda Sommi (Durham Community School: Durham, ME)

Sensemaking Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Climate Change Story Telling in the Schoolyard

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 5


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Budburst for NSTA.pdf
Phenology Resources.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Engage students in climate science and nature exploration using Budburst, a community science project, to collect data on plants near you. Address the NGSS through real science and empower your students to investigate climate change impacts on local ecosystems (Adaptable for all grades).

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn to engage students in local plant phenomena and real-world climate change science using the Budburst resources; gain strategies to create a phenology trail near your school, which students can use to connect with nature while collecting data on seasonal change in plants.

SPEAKERS:
Katelin Gaeth (Denver Botanic Gardens: No City, No State), Julie Reiske (Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs: Denver, CO), Julie Reiske (Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs: Denver, CO)

Life Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

You Belong! Unlock the Power of Invention Education for All

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Innovative workshop designed to help break down barriers to innovation with free educational resources, hands-on activities, and lesson plans celebrating our Inventor Trading Cards. Empower students of all backgrounds and differing abilities to see themselves as inventors!

TAKEAWAYS:
Everyone is an inventor! All students and educators are problem solvers, inventors, and makers regardless of economic status or geographic location. Innovation and our economy thrive on diversity of thought and all voices and ideas are essential to solving the problems of today and tomorrow.

SPEAKERS:
Jorge Valdes (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA), Reginald Duncan (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA)

STEM Engineering Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Explore Before Explain: Helping Elementary Teachers Embrace 3D Science

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
For Participants Explore Before Explain Helping Elementary Teachers Embrace 3D Science (NSTA 2024).pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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The idea of teaching 3D science can be intimidating to an elementary classroom teacher. But a well-designed and thoughtful curriculum process can ensure that elementary teachers learn to love science as much as their students. Attendees will discover tools to improve science learning in schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn new tools for the selection and implementation of new curriculum. This includes designing professional learning and walkthrough documents that support teachers' continued learning and collaboration.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Jackson (Director of Learning: Northbrook, IL), Kris Raitzer (Assistant Superintendent: Northbrook, IL)

Leadership Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Asset-Based 3D Assessment Using Ambitious Science Teaching (AST) to Drive Equitable Teaching and Learning

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
AST Principles for Asset-based Assessment
IMPACT PL Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

3D performance assessments, in concert with Ambitious Teaching Principles, can engage students in working with their ideas to advance their thinking. We will share assessment artifacts and analytic and reflective routines that can be introduced into PLCs to develop asset-based assessment practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Artifacts from the implementation of 3D performance assessments can offer rich insights into students’ ideas, and ambitious teaching principles can serve as powerful tools for leveraging students’ assets and advancing their 3D thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Jill Wertheim (WestEd: San Francisco, CA)

Assessment Equity Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Effective Assessment CONSTRUCTion for All Students

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Effective Assessment CONSTRUCTion for All Students
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

We share the newest results of a study on effective multiple-choice questions in STEM education. We examined science educators’ revisions to help reduce problems such as gender/racial/ethnic bias and difficulty that are often present in test questions, while including common misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Evaluate assessment questions that you use to assess students’ sensemaking of elements outlined in the NGSS DCIs. Are the questions free of bias, not too difficult, or indicative of overall student performance? Do they include common misconceptions that students hold? Learn what works, and what doesn’t.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Sadler (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA), Cynthia Crockett (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA)

Assessment Physical Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Building a Comprehensive Vocabulary Program

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation resources
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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Words are the currency of education. Teachers and students use words to share ideas, ask questions, and demonstrate learning. Selecting vocabulary is challenging. Learn how to use a research-based Vocabulary Planning Document to ensure vocabulary selection is focused, intentional, and systematic.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will use a research-based Vocabulary Planning Document (Graves 2006, 2016) to identify critical academic vocabulary and word-learning strategies associated with specific Disciplinary Core Ideas. This process ensures that lesson vocabulary selection is intentional, focused, and systematic.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Jackson (Texas State University: San Marcos, TX)

Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Ignite Curiosity….. Elevate Engagement

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will model how to create purposeful, scaffolded, problem-based learning experiences. Participants will engage in experiences that model how to use storylines based on student questions to drive learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will model how to create purposeful, scaffolded, problem-based learning experiences that move students from asking questions to constructing explanations of natural phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Zipporah Miller (Educational Consultant: Bowie, MD)

Life Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Distracted Driving Dangers – Where Biology and Physics Meet the Road

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Complete a distracted driving hands-on activity and discover award-winning videos and more inquiry-based activities from IIHS’s free Crash Science in the Classroom program that illustrates the vital connections between biology, physics, mathematics, medicine, engineering, and teen crash safety.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will measure their reaction time and complete a distracted driving simulation using a series of 4 activities simulating the 4 major types of driving distractions. Participants will also learn how to access detailed lesson plans, teacher tips videos, student lab sheets, and answer keys.

SPEAKERS:
Griff Jones (University of Florida: No City, No State)

Biology Physics STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Engaging Young Scientists Through Fairy Tales

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA FairyTales Denver.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Make the literacy connection to science with fairy tales. Join us as we explore activities that integrate multiple content areas with an emphasis on writing across the curriculum. We will even engineer a house for a pig.

TAKEAWAYS:
This workshop has been designed to show educators: -how to become advocates of literacy for elementary science and engineering -to provide connections between science and literacy and -to learn strategies for actively engaging all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Amber Dobbs (Ruth Patrick Science Education Center: Aiken, SC), John Hutchens (Ruth Patrick Science Education Center: Aiken, SC)

General Science Literacy STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

At 14,000 Feet, It Pays To Be Warm-Blooded.....Or DOES It?

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

How much blood do you have in your body? Why do you need a four-chambered heart? Why do you need to eat more in the winter? Why don't you see very many cold-blooded animals at high altitudes in Colorado? Join us for this session and discover the answers to life's pressing physiological questions!

TAKEAWAYS:
Being "warm-blooded" brings both good news and bad news for an animal. In this session, attendees will calculate their blood volume, why a 4-chambered heart is needed to move all that blood around, and how the circulatory system is the key to unlock all of these physiological phenomena!

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Lukens (Retired Science Teacher: Sioux Falls, SD)

Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

DataWISE: A Tool for Critically Analyzing Data-based Claims

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 3

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Looking for a new tool to help students accurately evaluate science-related media? Join NCSE to explore this technique that allows students to examine the worth of the media content, inspect data legitimacy, and make sense of graphical analysis, all while evaluating the emotions the media elicits.

TAKEAWAYS:
The goal of this session is for participants to move past functional data literacy to critical data literacy. Students will learn to evaluate data-based claims for various types of bias, intent, and misleading data representations, in addition to basic strategies for understanding data.

SPEAKERS:
Wendy Johnson (National Center for Science Education: Oakland, CA), Lin Andrews (National Center for Science Education: Oakland, CA)

Literacy General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

CSSS— Leadership For Increasingly Diverse Schools: Book Study Presentation

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Reflections of a book study of Leadership for Increasingly Diverse Schools. Presentation is about how the book study is focused on race, poverty, disabilities, LGBTQ, gender, multilingual learners, religion, family, and community advocacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be given an equity audit tool to use in their district to see where there may be areas of inequities to focus on. Users of the tool can create action steps to increase a more diverse school community. Attendees will be given resources and strategies to help support them.

SPEAKERS:
Tonyea Mead (Science Education Associate: Dover, DE)

Leadership Advocacy Equity Presentation

Access for Every Student: Scaffolding for Whole Group, Small Group, and Individual Instruction

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 6

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Looking for ideas to ensure sensemaking access for all students? Participants will immerse in science lessons to explore numerous scaffolding strategies and ideas. The facilitator and participants will model how to allow every student to engage in rigorous science tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn strategies for scaffolding instruction that allows students access to rigorous science tasks in whole group, small group, and individually. They will leave with ideas for planning/implementing equitable sensemaking so that every student in their classroom can engage.

SPEAKERS:
Anthony Goad (Hamilton County Schools: Chattanooga, TN)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Empowering Tomorrow's Scientists: Scientific Communication using MS Sway and Canva Infographics

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 4


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Sway Example
Demonstration of Sway as the presentation tool
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Scientific communication through various media is a crucial skill. We discuss the importance of equitable access for science education and tools for advocating for educational equity. This is a practical session on creating scientific infographics and MS Sway website design for teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants form groups to work on a project combining elements of scientific communication, green chemistry, equity in education, and sustainability. Each group creates an infographic, a website mock-up, or a PowerPoint presentation on a relevant topic.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Juhl (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs, CO), Tisha Mendiola (University of Colorado Colorado Springs: No City, No State)

Technology Preservice Science Education Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Connecting STEM and CTE Through Project-Based Learning

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Down To Earth NSTA Presentation.pdf
Down To Earth NSTA Presentation.pptx
Down to Earth Planning Sheet (1) (1).pdf
Down to Earth Planning Sheet.pdf
Science Friday ISS Stories To Share.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

STEM has the most impact when it’s place-based, real-world, and hands-on. We’ll connect Career and Technical Education with project-based learning as students take innovation from the International Space Station and bring it down to Earth to solve problems in their own communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will provide a roadmap for project-based learning using science and engineering processes to enhance communities while building student STEM identities and exploring potential career pathways. Participants will try a sample activity and receive planning tools to develop their own.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Roberts (Science Friday: New York, NY)

STEM Earth & Space Science Technical and Vocational Education Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Decreasing Entropy: Simple Engineering to Teach Science Concepts

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_Engineering4Sci_Metlay-Schmidt_22Mar24.pdf
Decreasing Entropy: Simple Engineering to Teach Science Concepts Suzanne T. Metlay, Ph.D and Stan M. Schmidt, Ph.D. Western Governors University School of Education
NSTA_Engineering4Sci_Metlay-Schmidt_22Mar24.pptx
Decreasing Entropy: Simple Engineering to Teach Science Concepts Suzanne T. Metlay, Ph.D and Stan M. Schmidt, Ph.D. Western Governors University School of Education
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Transform trash into a teaching tool with this straightforward approach to innovation and engineering. This session will address NGSS science and engineering practices, apply knowledge in a real-world context, and help make sense of abstract concepts with hands-on application.

TAKEAWAYS:
Engineering is not scary! Participants will use instructor-provided materials and instructions to practice problem-solving with everyday objects and zero budget. Consider how to use this approach to teach science concepts underlying each engineering solution.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Metlay (Western Governors University: Salt Lake City, UT)

STEM Preservice Science Education Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using NASA Data to Understand the Impacts of Sea Level Rise

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Granite


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Graphing Sea Level Trends Lesson
JPL & NASA Online Resources
NASA JPL Climate Lessons
This page contains links to a variety of climate-related lessons for the classroom and projects for students.
NASA JPL Education Resources
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Engage in a lesson from NASA JPL that examines sea level rise over time, the causes of sea level rise, and its connection to greenhouse gases and climate change. Use the data to forecast future impacts to Earth systems and human and animal populations. Bring a spreadsheet-enabled device.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how NASA monitors sea level rise and other Earth vital signs, participate in a graphing data lesson they can use with their students, and learn about Earth system interconnections and a plethora of classroom climate science resources.

SPEAKERS:
Ota Lutz (NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory: Pasadena, CA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

CAST: Digital STEM Explore Boards: Gold Mining Resources to Extend STEM Learning Beyond the Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA - Digital STEM Explore Pages
Please reach out with feedback or with any questions! [email protected]
NSTA - Digital STEM Explore Pages
Thanks so much for exploring with me! I truly love feedback! And PLEASE don't hesitate to reach out to collaborate or if you have any questions: [email protected]
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A behind-the-scenes look at the foundation to building, creating, and sustaining digital resources that are safe and accessible to all K-5 learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants in this session will be given access to a host of K-5 friendly digital STEM Resources, examples of STEM Explore Boards, as well as time to play around and ask questions, so they have the tools and capacity to create their own resources.

SPEAKERS:
Kristina Stem (Erie Elementary: Erie, CO)

STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Using Photographs and Data Stories to Support Data Science in STEM

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us as we explore how students’ photographs can be used to support inclusive data science storytelling for all STEM learners. Participants will take part in hands-on data collection activities that foster reflection and dialogue about the pedagogical choices that will work for their context.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will develop techniques to generate datasets and data stories from images to deepen student understanding of how data science is reshaping how we analyze the world around us. Participants will also experience how UDL can create accessible dynamic data investigations for all students.

SPEAKERS:
Leticia Perez (WestEd: Alameda, CA)

STEM Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Universe in the Classroom: Exploring the Constellations with a Classroom-Sized Model

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore constellation motion using a classroom-sized model of the universe. In this sensemaking experience, you will collect data about the constellations and write an explanation of the phenomenon. Participants will receive digital materials to implement this lesson in their own classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, you will experience a sensemaking lesson exploring a classroom-sized model of the universe and use data to explain the motion of the constellations across the sky! Take home the digital lesson and materials to modify this lesson and implement this lesson in your own classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Devan Jones (Student: , SC), Meredith Schwendemann (Clemson University)

Earth & Space Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

NSF Research Experience for Teachers: Connecting Smart Environments to Cybersecurity and Student Leadership

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall A

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

How do we purposefully increase student interest and connection with computer science and the online world? This session will share the personal experience and curriculum developed following a biology teacher's foray into a computer science-centric research experience for teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
From research, to writing curriculum, to implementation, this session will share the reflections and curriculum developed from participating in a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Teachers. Attendees will receive access to the curriculum and ideas for finding similar experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Steve Gewinner (Computer Science Teacher), Tara Bonebrake (The Summit Preparatory School: Springfield, MO)

Computer Science STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Helping Urban Educators Navigate the Rich Landscape of Teaching Resources.

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Members of NSTA’s Urban Advisory Panel share ideas about leveraging community partnerships to obtain resources, curriculum, and learning activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Simple, easy, and inexpensive methods for urban teachers to create an NGSS-aligned science curriculum or lesson, even in a district without extra resources or outdoor space. We can help you partner with local museums, universities, historical societies, and other community sources.

SPEAKERS:
Wendy Jackson (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Latanya Brandon (SUNY New Paltz: New Paltz, NY), Adrine Williams (Jackson State University: Jackson, MS), Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY), Selene Verhofstad (Dobie High School: Houston, TX), Brad Rhew (Guilford County Schools: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Equity Presentation

Science Teacher Education: Strategies and Lessons Learned from the Louisiana Collaborative

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Preparing and supporting teacher candidates with coherent and engaging learning experiences requires the collaborative efforts of different sectors of the education system. We will discuss the strategies and resources developed and implemented to ensure K-5 science teachers are classroom-ready.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gain concrete strategies and resources to consider a similar collaborative process within your regional and local context.

SPEAKERS:
Tana Luther (Louisiana Dept. of Education: Baton Rouge, LA), Susan Gomez Zwiep (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Nancy Hopkins-Evans (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Leadership Equity Preservice Science Education Presentation

Project-Based Learning in the Science Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Come to this session to learn how to incorporate project and problem-based learning into your NGSS and three-dimensional science classroom. Real projects will be shared that are linked to relevant and engaging phenomena, and provide students with choice and agency.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to implement project- and problem-based learning into their science class, while maintaining an NGSS or three-dimensional science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Allison Bogart (Stonecreek Junior High: No City, No State)

General Science Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

The Matter-Energy-Forces Triangle: A Common Approach to Make Sense of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Earth Science in OpenSciEd

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Centennial Ballroom D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Explore a unifying framework used in OpenSciEd for making connections between matter, energy, and forces across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. Dig into this tool in free NGSS-aligned units to explain phenomena and consider how it could be applied to other phenomena in your context.

TAKEAWAYS:
The Framework calls for “a common use of language about energy and matter across the disciplines in science instruction.” The MEF triangle uses cues and prompts to draw attention to interactions between matter, energy, and forces to help students make sense of complex phenomena across domains.

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Physics Biology Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Sensemaking Strategies for Culturally Responsive STEM Teaching

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Sensemaking in Culturally Responsive STEM Teaching
Handout packed with resources
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learn how to utilize the SCORES Model principles of Safety, Connection, and Open-Dialogue to build a classroom culture of inclusion including tips for student grouping, to facilitate communication, and increase student participation. Equip yourself to nurture a diverse STEM community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Utilize the SCORES Model principles: Safety, Connection, & Open-Dialogue, to craft a positive classroom culture, refine student grouping to promote equitable talk, and increase student engagement and intrinsic motivation through proximity and connection.

SPEAKERS:
Mandy Heal (Mesa Public Schools: Mesa, AZ), Jamie Rapkiewcz (Mesa Public Schools: Mesa, AZ)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Engaging All Students in the Science of Sustainable Food Systems

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Agate

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

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To ensure a resilient future, we must engage students with phenomena and problems found in food systems and agriculture. This session explores how food and agriculture connect to students’ lives and presents a highly relevant and authentic science context immersed in the Three Dimensions of NGSS.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will see successful examples of authentic phenomena and problems found within food and agricultural systems that are relevant to all students. We will demonstrate how all three dimensions of the NGSS are used to make sense of these real-world phenomena and problems.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Beierle (Vivayic, Inc.: No City, No State)

General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teacher moves to support community sensemaking

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teacher Moves for Classroom Community Sensemaking
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Fostering student discourse provides a challenge for many teachers who are uncertain what to do when students share ideas that are not the expected answer. We'll explore the many teacher moves that support student sense-making for deeper science understandings.

TAKEAWAYS:
During this workshop, participants will wear the student-hat as they experience community sensemaking where their peers are intellectual resources. We will be modeling these moves in the context of phenomenon-based, 3D science teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Peason (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY), Ananda Weigand-Sheerer (teacher leader: Rochester, NY), Michael Occhino (The Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development: Rochester, NY), Kimberly Fluet (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY)

STEM Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Metamorphism of the Rock Cycle Lesson: 3-Dimensional Teaching Linking the Formation of Rocks to Plate Tectonic Settings

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Rocks Tectonics info and links
Slides from NSTA with links to activities & models
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Participants will get hands-on access to a free online curriculum that uses a computational plate tectonics model, called the TecRocks Explorer, and real-world data to explore the connections between tectonic settings, conditions, and processes, and rock formation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Free online curriculum that teaches the rock cycle linked to tectonic settings and processes

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Seevers (Teacher: Evergreen, CO)

Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Building Data Fluency: Infusing Statistics into Science with PhET Simulations and CODAP Tools

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Capitol Ballroom 1

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Explore the nexus between science and statistics using PhET simulations and CODAP tools. Delve into experimental design, uncertainty, data metrics, and the “Projectile Motion: Data Lab” simulation. Sneak a peek into PhET’s latest work and gain ready-to-implement lesson ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will acquire strategies and resources to seamlessly integrate experimental design with sources of uncertainty and statistics into their physics lessons, fostering data fluency and analytical thinking in students using PhET simulations and CODAP.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Perkins (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Matthew Blackman (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Physics Mathematics Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Stations and Storylines in Science Education

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA - Intro to Senses Station Activity (Science 6) updated.docx
NSTA Presentation.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Participants will explore hands-on station activities by making observations and asking wonder questions. We will expand on observations and questions to build a storyline that can be used to investigate a 'big picture' concept in Science. Examples and strategies will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with a greater understanding of how to set up inquiry stations in their classroom, as well as build a storyline with their class. Participants will have a concrete example to take back to their school.

SPEAKERS:
Jeremy Smith (Anglophone School District - West: Fredericton, NB), Peter Trusiak (Instructional Coach - Science K-12)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Leading with Learning: Building Powerful PLCs with NSTA Professional Learning Units

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Leading with Learning_ Building Powerful PLCs with NSTA Professional Learning Units.pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Upgrade your science teaching! NSTA's bite-sized PLUs fit any schedule and will deepen your understanding of three-dimensional teaching and boost student learning. Earn credit, conquer challenges, and unlock equitable classrooms - all on your terms!

TAKEAWAYS:
Lead your professional learning community’s learning using NSTA PLUs.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Evans (Bremen City Schools: Bremen, GA), Kristin Rademaker (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Michelle Phillips (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Preservice Science Education Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Effective Techniques to Evaluate Climate Change Information for Accuracy and Validity

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Fact or Phony?.pdf
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Addressing climate change can be challenging. Students are given tools for evaluating information then provided a series of myths about climate change. Using reputable data, they dispel the myths with accurate information and use multiple explanations to understand common misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students are provided with a checklist to determine if information is accurate on a fictional web page. Through small group discussions, students share their perceptions of accurate data and what it means, then challenged to decide if this information is valid in helping to understand global warming

SPEAKERS:
Brett Thomsen (Science Department Head: Chimacum, WA), Laura Tucker (Consultant: Port Townsend, WA)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Help Your Students Meaningfully Care about the Living World! Teach Ecological Caring Practices

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session 11 Materials (Google Drive): Help Your Students Meaningfully Care about
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

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How can science learning experiences help students develop ecological caring approaches to the living world? Come explore educational approaches to multispecies justice with us! Expanding how students connect to and care for the living world around them is vital at this time of climate crisis.

TAKEAWAYS:
People’s relationships to nature are culturally and historically rooted and are embedded in approaches to science teaching and learning. Science can be used to guide ecological caring responses and support the thriving of species.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Nancy Price (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Environmental Science Climate Science Equity Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Bringing Back the Macromolecule Lab Without Crazy Prep

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 504

STRAND: No Strand

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Sponsoring Company: MiniOne Systems

Teach macromolecules without the crazy prep! In this micro-scaled lab activity, students test for starch, glucose, protein, lipids and DNA, without the need for large volumes of reagents, cleaning test tubes, or boiling reagents. Then students apply their knowledge and test various unknown samples.

SPEAKERS:
Whitney Hagins (Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

STEM Bins® with Brooke Brown: Engineering Through Play

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: hand2mind

Discover how to effectively use STEM Bins® as a foundational, developmentally appropriate form of engineering for elementary students. Learn simple ways to implement STEM Bins® for early finishers, enrichment, morning work, centers, makerspaces, and literacy and math extensions.

SPEAKERS:
Brooke Brown (Roosevelt Elementary School: Norman, OK)

STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Exhibitor Workshop

Investigate Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration with Algae Beads

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 507

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Bio-Rad Laboratories

Discover the role of Scenedesmus obliquus in biotechnology, from biofuels to wastewater treatment and microplastics detection. This hands-on workshop includes a powerful teaching lab for photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and allows students to engage in structured and open inquiry.

SPEAKERS:
Damon Tighe (Bio-Rad Laboratories: Hercules, CA)

Life Science Biology STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Project-Based Assessment Made Easy

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Propello

PBAs can not only assess multiple standards at once, but help students build valuable communication and presentation skills. Learn how to easily incorporate this powerful learning tool into your classroom practice.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Thayne (Lead Program Manager, Science: Murfreesboro, TN), Julie Waid (Propello: Austin, TX)

Assessment General Science Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

DNA Unplugged -- Using Multiple Physical Models of DNA to Teach Structure and Function

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Explore DNA and RNA with three different physical models. Discover strategies to help students learn about nucleotide structure, base-pairing, DNA directionality, and even Epigenetics!

SPEAKERS:
Mark Arnholt (3D Molecular Designs: No City, No State), Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Physical models to visualize and explore volcanoes, glaciers, and plate deformation

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Earthscopes Free Education Resources (PDF)
Find_EarthScope_on_Social_Media_pdf
List of Models in Session (pdf)
Models session presentation (PDF)
Session Presentation
Sign_up_for_Earthscopes_Educator_Newsletter_pdf
Show Details

Sponsoring Company: EarthScope Consortium

Use simple and inexpensive models to engage your students to explore how ground deformation from plate tectonic and volcanic motions, and rapid glacial melting leads to earthquakes, eruptions, and sea level change.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Hubenthal (IRIS | Earthscope Consortium: Washington, DC), Shelley Olds (EarthScope Consortium: Washington, DC)

Earth & Space Science Informal Education Physics Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 9: How to Teach Climate Change In Almost Any Classroom or Grade

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation slides CLEAN website
The PDF file includes the slides from the presentation and the link is for the CLEAN website.
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

This workshop will introduce teachers of all grade levels to the CLEAN portal which was designed to help teachers be effective when teaching climate and energy topics, climate system, and how humans can take action to reduce climate change and its impacts. CLEAN is funded by NOAA, NSF, NASA and DOE.

SPEAKERS:
Kathryn Boyd (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO), Patrick Chandler (CIRES Education & Outreach: Boulder, CO), Alicia Christensen (Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences: Boulder, CO)

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Bring CRISPR/Cas to your class: three hands-on activities

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

Come practice hands-on, authentic CRISPR/Cas learning activities. From using Cas9 to target DNA in a test tube, to knocking out a gene in bacteria, our labs will put real CRISPR/Cas in your students’ hands. Free educational resources like CRISPR/Cas paper models will also be demonstrated.

SPEAKERS:
Sebastian Kraves (miniPCR: Cambridge, MA)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Lean Labs = Successful Students

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Texas Instruments

Lab preparations can be challenging, and in the hustle of setup and procedures, our education goals may sometimes get overshadowed. Join us to explore strategies for a more streamlined and efficient approach to labs, reducing stress while enriching the outcomes for your students. Let’s lean into the idea of lean practices and discover how they can positively impact the learning journey!

SPEAKERS:
Erick Archer (Texas Instruments: Dallas, TX)

General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

More than a Score: Using Driving Questions Boards to Assess Student Understanding

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Discover the transformative power of Driving Questions Boards in assessing student understanding. This session explores innovative strategies beyond traditional scoring, offering educators dynamic tools for capturing the depth of student learning.

SPEAKERS:
Shawna Jensen (Stile Education: Portland, OR)

General Science Assessment Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Effective Intervention Strategies: Let’s Hook Students into Learning (Grades 3-8)

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Let’s explore several intervention strategies to help struggling students in STEM. Move beyond differentiation and scaffolding. Come learn other proven intervention techniques to help students. Let’s modify our traditional outreach to connect with students so that they gain greater understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Campana (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

OpenSciEd Middle School from Carolina

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Come experience a model lesson from OpenSciEd for Middle School and see how the new Carolina Certified Edition makes these high-quality instructional materials even better! Leave with classroom resources.

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

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Energize Your Class! Active Investigations into Human Physiology

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Get students on the move with real-world kinesthetic experiments. Attendees will participate in activities like measuring grip strength, balance, and EKG/EMG responses using Vernier technology. Take home creative ideas to actively engage students in learning about organ system functions.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen McDaniel (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), Nüsret Hisim (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM Life Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Engage Your Physics Students with Vernier Video Analysis

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Vernier Science Education

Take motion studies to the next level! Use updated Vernier Video Analysis® tools to capture position, velocity, and acceleration data on student devices. Foster a deeper understanding of physics through learner-driven experiments using data from sample and student-recorded videos.

SPEAKERS:
Josh Ence (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR), David Carter (Vernier Science Education: Beaverton, OR)

STEM Computer Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Creating great stories and portfolios using ArcGIS StoryMaps

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Esri

- StoryMaps allow students to combine text, photos, videos, audio, and maps into a coherent story for communicating research or findings of a study. Join the Esri education team as we explore creating storymaps. StoryMaps are a part of the ArcGIS School Bundle, free for K12 instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Faby Carrera (Esri: Redlands, CA)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Increasing Student Discourse While Prospecting for Mineral Ore

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Lab-Aids

How do we engage students to ask questions and develop evidence-based explanations? In this hands-on activity from the Lab-Aids EDC Earth Science program, discourse occurs authentically as you role-play a geologist testing various site extractions for molybdenum, a valuable mineral.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Parker (Dublin Coffman High School: Dublin, OH)

Earth & Space Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Featured Creatures

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Carolina Biological Supply Co.

Add excitement to your class with live organisms! Explore how organisms find food and interact. Discuss how these two hands-on activities can be applied to younger students: How creatures find food, and to older students: Social behavior and inter-species interactions.

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Nixon (Chemistry Teacher: Boone, NC)

Life Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

NGSS Common Assessments: Systems for Development and Implementation to Increase Teacher Advocacy

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: InnerOrbit

In the transition to 3D common assessments, the most important factor to implementation is teacher advocacy and buy-in. Hear how K-12 science curriculum specialists at Harford County, MD leveraged InnerOrbit’s assessments and professional learning to design, refine, refine NGSS common assessments.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Cooke (Customer Success Manager), Amy Ryan (Harford County Public Schools: Forest Hill, MD), Karen Meekins (Harford County Public Schools: Aberdeen, MD), Brendan Finch (InnerOrbit: No City, No State)

Assessment Leadership Sensemaking Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Encouraging Equitable Participation During a Discussion in the OpenSciEd HS Classroom

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

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Sponsoring Company: Activate Learning

Classroom communities make sense of what’s being investigated through discussions; it’s key to ensuring all students’ ideas are shared and valued. This session focuses discussion types used to help draw out student ideas, negotiate and refine them, and support communicating in scientific ways.

SPEAKERS:
Jodi Bahr (Activate Learning: Greenwich, CT)

General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

From CRISPR to 23 and Me: The Revolution in Human Genetics

Friday, March 22 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 506


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Case Studies
Individual Case Studies relating to the Presentation.
CRISPR-presentation slides
slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

Techniques such as CRISPR, mitochondrial transfer, and mRNA therapeutics have opened up new frontiers for genetic manipulation, bringing with them new possibilities that can energize the biology teaching. We will examine how these powerful techniques work.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller (Brown University: Providence, RI)

Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Evening at Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science

Friday, March 22 • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science -

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

NSTA’s Informal Science Committee invites you to explore two of Denver’s most exciting informal science venues! This event is Friday, March 22 from 5:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. and is FREE for conference attendees and family members with an NSTA conference badge. Registration is required https://www.nsta.org/national-conference-science-education-denver-2024-special-events

TAKEAWAYS:
Formal and informal science educators alike will have the opportunity to network and learn while they enjoy exploring the Zoo and Museum.

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

Meet Me in the Middle: Meet and Greet

Friday, March 22 • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Denver - Mineral Hall F

Show Details

Join middle level educators and enthusiasts for a social hour. Meet old friends and make new ones! NMLSTA officers and board members will be there to answer questions you may have about the organization.

General Science Informal Education Networking Opportunity

ESPRESS-O Yourself @ NSTA’s Morning Coffee Chats

Saturday, March 23 • 6:40 AM - 7:40 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Blue Bear Cafe (Front Lobby)

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Grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and join us for an informal get-together with your peers. Each day of the conference will feature a morning coffee chat with opportunities to share ideas and experiences, expand your network, and connect with colleagues and friends from around the country.

Early Morning Exercise and Activities

Sunrise Yoga

Saturday, March 23 • 6:40 AM - 7:40 AM

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center - Crestone B (3rd Floor)

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Calling all yoga enthusiasts! Regardless of whether you’re a newbie or veteran, join yoga teacher, Azra Chughtai, RYT, for a warm-up with breathwork; hatha yoga (gentle stretching exercises to wake up the body); and, of course, meditation for relaxation and de-stressing. Beginner friendly!

TAKEAWAYS:
Recharge: Energizing and Stress Relief.

SPEAKERS:
Azra Chughtai (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Early Morning Exercise and Activities

A Problem-Solving Experiment

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
A Problem Solving Experiment Final Manuscript 12-17-21.pdf
A Problem Solving Experiment PPT PDF
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This presentation will introduce a problem-solving experiment using Beer's Law to find the concentration of tartrazine in a high school chemistry class.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session's takeaway is a fun and novel lab that attendees can implement into their own chemistry class.

SPEAKERS:
Kevin Mason (University of Wisconsin-Stout: Menomonie, WI), Gregory Matthias (University of Wisconsin-Stout: Menomonie, WI)

Chemistry Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teaching the Engineering Design Process Through Urban Gardening

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

The goal of this project is to use engineering design principles to teach ecology and sustainability through active student involvement in an urban garden.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students learn the engineering design process and apply it directly in practice through the creation of an urban garden.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Weissman (The Ramaz School: New York, NY)

General Science Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Science Coaching For Excellence

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Science Coaching for Excellence Presentation
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

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Are you a science coach or teacher leader? Come learn some "tricks of the trade" from science teachers turned coaches. Come put some tools in your tool box and learn some techniques to help your coaching skills and improve your relationships with teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will provide instructional coaches, department chairs, teacher leaders, and administrators with tools to help science teachers upgrade their practices for the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Newburger (Tappan Zee High School: Orangeburg, NY), Samantha Levine (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY)

Leadership General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Building a Better Tomorrow Using Mapping Literacy

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slideshow
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

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What is climate resilience? Using open source data demographics, specifically FEMA and EPA mapping tools (RAPT, NRI, and EJ Screen), attendees will learn to connect climate change issues to local communities, exploring the differential impact of climate change on communities to encourage advocacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
By employing EPA and FEMA's open-source GIS mapping tools (RAPT, NRI, EJ Screen), attendees can identify climate change impacts on local vulnerable populations. Educators will also gain strategies for fostering classroom discussions on solutions and advocacy.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Luna (North Babylon High School: No City, No State), Tamanna Shahid (Eleanor Roosevelt High School: New York, NY)

Climate Science Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Lessons Learned to Effectively Support Teachers to Enhance Their Pedagogy Focus on Integrating Three Dimensions of the Next Generation Science Standards

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

We will share insights from experienced K-12 teachers about effective ways to best teach the complex NGSS. The multi-year professional learning focused on vertical progressions of concepts K-12, student engagement in the SEPs and CCCs, and pedagogical strategies to teach the three dimensions.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will offer ideas about how experienced teachers can continue to deepen pedagogical approaches for teaching the NGSS. The complexity of the standards may require substantial shifts for some teachers, but approaches such as foregrounding/backgrounding the dimensions can support planning and instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Ingrid Carter (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Hold a Successful Formal Debate in your Classroom by Having Students Construct Logical Arguments and Debate Issues Pertinent to a Science Curriculum

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Debate in the Classroom.pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

This session will detail how to select a debate topic and how to structure a successful debate in an elementary classroom. Presenter will provide specific examples of exactly how to plan a debate and how to organize research, teams, and the debate itself.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to structure a formal debate in my classroom that will teach students valuable research and leadership skills.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

Leadership Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Projects in P-2? Yes!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://padlet.com/gesherclass/projectsprek
Padlet of resources for Porjects in P-2
Slides Projects in P-2.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Projects in the P-2 band are a wonderful way to include all student voices and are very indicative of science understandings. See ways of creating a project, and what to do with the projects that get "left behind."

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with project ideas and criteria for choosing workable class projects, as well as research citations supporting such work to use and share in their specific contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Lowry (Aleph Academy: Reno, NV)

General Science Engineering Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Get Started with PBLs That Work

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Participants will learn how to utilize PLC work to design and implement PBLs across subjects in a middle school setting. Participants will learn how to effectively score student's work, strategies for grouping, ideas for obtaining and organizing materials, and how to include community partners.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, participates will learn how to design and deliver PBLs in the middle school science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Heather Carpenter (Arlington Middle School: Arlington, TN), Latisha King (Arlington Middle Scool: Arlington, TN, TN)

General Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using a Scanning Electron Microscope in Secondary Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

When students use a scanning electron microscope, they are engaged in STEM and empowered to explore the microscopic world around them.

TAKEAWAYS:
It is possible (and exciting) to have a scanning electron microscope at your school! Using a SEM in high school fosters hands-on learning, develops STEM skills, encourages real-world applications, involves the challenge of independent research, provides career readiness, and engages the community.

SPEAKERS:
Krista Wilks (W. F. West High School: Chehalis, WA)

Technology Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Veo, Veo, Radio! A Suite of Spanish and English Educator Guides and Activities About Radio Waves and Wireless Radio Communications

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The radio spectrum is invisible, yet it enables our cell phones, contactless payment, and air travel. Learn approaches to facilitate diverse youth, families, and museum visitors using hands-on activities, mobile apps, and guides in Spanish and English from the NSF Making Waves with Radio project.

TAKEAWAYS:
Hands-on activity using everyday materials, conversation prompts, and mobile apps together can engage youth and families in playful experimentation to learn about the science and technology of radio waves and wireless radio communications. Get free educator guides and lessons in Spanish and English.

SPEAKERS:
Sherry Hsi (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Informal Education General Science Physics STEM Presentation

What to Expect during the Colorado Science Standards Revision in 2025

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

This session provides K-12 Colorado educators information about the Science Standards Review and Revision process beginning in the Spring of 2025 and concluding in June 2026. In addition to the background on the five stages of the process, educators will learn how they can apply to participate.

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this session, participants will describe the five main stages of the Standards Review and Revision process and identify opportunities for educators to participate in the process.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Agoos (Colorado Department of Education: Denver, CO)

Leadership Equity General Science Presentation

Teaching Science Outdoors: Sparking Wonder in Nature

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Presenter will share the value in teaching science in nature in early childhood, using their personal experience teaching science to kindergarten students in their school garden. Presenter will share the "why" behind teaching science outdoors in early childhood, as well as the "how".

TAKEAWAYS:
Young children learn through hands-on experiences. Providing opportunities for them to learn about nature within nature is very important and sparks their curiosity.

SPEAKERS:
Sheba Michel (Community Roots Charter School: Brooklyn, NY)

General Science Biology Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

AI Tools for Differentiating Science Lessons

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 704


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA AI TOOLS.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session will provide science teachers with resources on how to integrate AI tools into their curriculum for personalized and differentiated instruction, including assessing students' progress and adapting lessons to meet diverse learning needs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to use AI for personalized instruction, assess student progress, and efficiently adapt lessons for diverse learning needs.

SPEAKERS:
Tamu Crisden (Master Teacher), Demetrice Smith-Mutegi (Old Dominion University: Norfolk, VA)

General Science Equity Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Exploring the Effect of Collaborative Practices Among Science Teachers on Student Test Scores in a Rural School District

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Teachers in many rural districts around the country operate as singletons and very rarely have the opportunity to collaborate with teachers of the same subject area. The presenter will discuss the steps she took that led to significant growth as indicated by state test scores.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the strategies that are necessary to support teachers in rural school districts, which in turn, supports all learners.

SPEAKERS:
LATASHA LAMPKIN (District Science Coach: , GA)

Preservice Science Education Assessment Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Conservation Classroom at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Smithsonians National Zoo - Conservation Classroom slides
URL Conservation Classroom at Smithsonian's National Zoo
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Connect K-5 students with nature by integrating STEAM resources from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo into your classroom. Conservation Classroom is a free collection of videos, programs, and activities that invite students to wonder, engage, act, and connect with animals, science, and sustainability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about (and how to use) a free suite of Smithsonian environmental science materials available for K-5 classrooms that encourages inquiry, connects students with nature, fosters empathy for animals, encourages sustainable actions, and introduces students to STEAM careers.

SPEAKERS:
Kaden Borseth (Learning Programs Specalist: Washington, DC)

Environmental Science Biology Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Awakening the Human Spirit in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

In science classrooms, we often focus on the "subject of study" without addressing the other two "subjects" in the room: the teacher and student. Awakening the spirits of the educator and students in the classroom leads to a stronger sense of belonging and respect, & greater lesson effectiveness.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn two foundational models of human awareness and behavior, then create interpersonal intentions that will provide a higher level of effectiveness and enjoyment for themselves and students in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Mick Scott (CS and Engineering Teacher / Former K-12 STEM Director / Former department chair / Life Coach)

Leadership Literacy Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

SCST Presents: What Happened to Writing Lab Reports? The Demise of the College Science Lab Report Assignment

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Palmer et al., Life science instructors who don't assign lab reports
This is a link to my presentation
Science writing activities
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Many students struggle to become effective science communicators through writing. Our research study reveals why some life science instructors are no longer assigning traditional lab reports. Strategies to help your students with science writing are provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
A surprisingly large number of college faculty have stopped assigning traditional lab reports in introductory life science courses. Our research study reveals several barriers, some of which are quite surprising. We provide a list of classroom-ready strategies to improve students’ science writing.

SPEAKERS:
Timothy Slater (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Kristy Palmer (Ph.D. Candidate)

Life Science General Science Literacy Postsecondary Presentation

STEP UP Careers in Physics & Growing Your Physics Program

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZJR9uzZOO4CD1D2b-Fi87fSBLwj0MMnn/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115028217837925271668&rtpof=true&sd=true
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

STEP UP is a national community that designs lessons to inspire women to pursue physics in college. Learn about our Careers in Physics lesson, including tools you can use to match students’ interests with physics-related careers and increase enrollment in the physics classes your school offers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about and practice using STEP UP’s Careers in Physics online career matching tool and options for using it in their classroom. Participants will also learn ways to increase interest and enrollment in high school physics programs.

SPEAKERS:
Kori Bowns-Kamphuis (Lindblom Math and Science Academy: Chicago, IL)

Equity Leadership Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

VCU: Dive into lessons that highlight the role Bivalves Play in Sustaining Watershed Ecosystems

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

We’ll share 11 free online lessons that engage students in the importance oysters and mussels play in watersheds via virtual tours and field studies. This NOAA funded Meaningful Watershed Education Experience effort has students investigate, collaborate and debate solutions to authentic problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers gain awareness of and access to OER support curriculum developed across a 3-year grant aligned with the 3 dimensions of NGSS and NOAA’s meaningful watershed educational experience framework. The lessons, part of a larger project, were piloted across 3 school districts (urban and rural).

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Edmondson (James Branch Cabell Libr: Richmond, VA), Al Byers (AB Advising: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Show What You Know: Practical Summative Assessments for the Hands-On Learner

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Show What You Know: Performance Based Summative Assessments
The benefits of performance based summative assessments in the classroom.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

In an era where science educators are encouraged to do more hands-on learning, benefiting students that learn by doing, we still test using traditional styles. Take a look into the benefits of practical style summative tests to help this student population.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to structure summative tests for kinesthetic learners, rather than the standard "pen and paper" style tests.

SPEAKERS:
Ryan Fernandes (Wayne County Schools Career Center: No City, No State)

Assessment General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Effects of Online Professional Development for Future Science Teachers of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

This study aims to enhance the understanding of future science teachers in the field of transportation and to create an innovative teaching approach that integrates the diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds of students into the instruction of transportation engineering.

TAKEAWAYS:
This study aims to enhance the understanding of future science teachers in the field of transportation and to create an innovative teaching approach that integrates the diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds of students into the instruction of transportation engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Jiyoon Yoon (The University of Texas at Arlington: Arlington, TX)

Engineering STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Promoting Sustainability Awareness at a Title One School in the Alabama Black Belt Region

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Combating the loud noises of systemic oppression often faced by students of color in the Alabama Black Belt entails creating space for them to rely on their cultures, their lived experiences, and their talents to address environmental problems that disproportionately affect their communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to make the concept of sustainability culturally relevant to their historically marginalized student groups living in impoverished areas.

SPEAKERS:
Eshwaa Godfrey (Selma High School: Selma, AL), Venecia Eaton (Selma High School: Selma, AL), Mashika Tempero (Selma High School: Selma, AL)

Climate Science Advocacy Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

VCU: Advancing Computer Science Education in Virginia

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

We’ll share a free collection of lessons and a tool for culturally-relevant lessons in CS. A VA Department of Education grant supporting 3 school districts led by VCU School of Ed in collaboration with Capital One, Bank of America, and Carmax have students share solutions to authentic CS challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers gain awareness and access to OER support curriculum and a culturally responsive eval tool in CS. They will learn how local corporate partnerships enhance learning with student examples to PBL authentic challenges. Effort includes hundreds of students from seven schools across central VA.

SPEAKERS:
Al Byers (AB Advising: No City, No State)

Computer Science STEM Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

17 Great Ways to Connect the World to NGSS

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NsDfnZ_907LtCgfTGZjFDREHFymzmJF1?usp=sharing
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session will share a methodology that teaches WITH the UN Sustainable Development Goals and not just about them. We will share how you can connect the NGSS to the SDGs around some of the most pressing challenges we face in society. Examples will be shared across grade levels 3-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to create student solutionaries in the classroom using the tools of the UN Sustainable Goals and NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Brosnick (SUNY Buffalo State College: Buffalo, NY), Paula Ferneza (Erie 2 Chautauqua Cattaraugus BOCES: No City, No State), Lauren Nelson (Westfield Academy & Central School: No City, No State), Michael Jabot (SUNY Fredonia: Fredonia, NY)

Sensemaking Climate Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

ASTE: Use Place-Based Science Instruction to Connect Online Students with Their Local Environment

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Place-based science instruction leverages students’ previous experiences, illuminates their natural world, and provides opportunities for students to learn beyond the confines of their computers. We share strategies for online course development to optimize active learning and local landscape.

TAKEAWAYS:
Place-based online science instruction promotes active learning, supports student investigations in their local environments, and builds a community of online learners as students share their experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Athena Nagel (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS), Renee Clary (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science General Science Postsecondary Presentation

Bringing Nature’s Benefits to the Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bringing Nature to the Classroom
A PowerPoint presentation from Natural Inquirer, a cooperator with the USDA Forest Service, exploring free education products about the health benefits of nature and bringing science instruction to the outdoors.
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Bringing the classroom outdoors can help students learn about the work of science and can also connect students to the benefits of nature itself. Attendees will explore and receive free Natural Inquirer products that encourage students to connect with the outdoors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Natural Inquirer products, created in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, introduce students to natural resource science and connect students with the outdoors. A new series of free resources also explores the impact of nature on human health. Attendees will receive copies of all materials.

SPEAKERS:
Bradi McDonald (Education Assistant: Athens, GA), Nissa McKinney (FIND Outdoors/Forest Service Cooperator: No City, No State)

Environmental Science General Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Postcards from the Past: Integrating Environmental and Cultural History of the Gulf of Mexico Using Art

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Postcards from the Past is a classroom-based program in which students explore anthropogenic change by adopting a radiocarbon-dated clam and investigating how different human cultures used coastal areas during their clam’s lifetime, expressing their understanding as a postcard-themed art project.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will conduct a geochronology classroom activity, explore art collage techniques, and learn how to bring the environmental and cultural history of the northern Gulf of Mexico into their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
JoAnn Moody (Dauphin Island Sea Lab: Dauphin Island, AL), Tina Miller-Way (Dauphin Island Sea Lab: Dauphin Island, AL)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Preparing Pre-Service Teachers Through Research to Teach Science and Engineering Practices and Nature of Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session describes a program funded by an NSF grant that gives pre-service science teachers the opportunity to spend a summer working in a science research laboratory gaining hands-on research experience as they apply the NGSS SEPs, CCCs, and Nature of Science standards.

TAKEAWAYS:
Effective implementation of the NGSS requires science content knowledge as well as knowing how to incorporate SEPs, CCCs, and NOS into instruction. An NSF-sponsored grant supports pre-service teachers as they employ the NGSS during a summer research placement with a research team.

SPEAKERS:
Linda Padwa (Stony Brook University, SUNY: Stony Brook, NY)

Preservice Science Education STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Planting the Seed: Building Capacity of Environmental Literacy in Institutes of Higher Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Institutes of Higher Education are integral in developing pre-service teachers environmental literacy (ELit). The HEEL fellowship focuses on building faculty capacity of ELit application to teacher education. This presentation will share curriculum examples, self-reported reflections, and artifacts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Recommendations for environmental literacy practices, curriculum, and resources for fostering environmental literacy in Higher Education faculty and pre-service teacher education.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Environmental Science Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

SCST Presents: Identifying and Surmounting Community College Institutional Barriers to Maximizing Applied Learning using Horses in Modern Agricultural Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Animals the OER.pptx
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Horses allow infinite applied learning experiences in equine education but owning them is challenging. Learn about the challenges schools are facing and strategies to overcome those challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Financial, liability, and curricular obstacles prevent schools from using horses for applied learning in modern agricultural education at community colleges. Strategic partnerships and robust procedures can help institutions justify owning horses.

SPEAKERS:
Timothy Slater (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Lindsey Freeman (Director Agriculture & Equine: , WY)

Technical and Vocational Education Advocacy Equity Postsecondary Presentation

Resources from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Outreach specialists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Boulder, CO, will discuss what NOAA does and what resources are available for teachers. We will walk through our in-person opportunities, online information, videos, and student activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is a Federal agency anchored by Science, Service, and Stewardship. Our Outreach specialists are passionate about bringing NOAA science to classrooms across the United States.

SPEAKERS:
Carolyn Szoke (Science Communicator: Boulder, CO)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Modeling as a Unifying Practice in the Middle School Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
Supporting Materials
Links to resources shown in this project.
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Modeling is central in national standards. However, the practice of modeling—the process of building and refining models to answer questions—remains difficult to support. Hear outcomes from a 3-year project aimed at implementing modeling as a unifying practice in middle school science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will consider instructional choices, talk moves, and classroom structures that support student construction and revision of models. Examples of student models and support for modeling will illustrate how cycles of inquiry were productively implemented throughout the school year.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Sommi (Durham Community School: Durham, ME)

General Science Environmental Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Getting At What Students Know Without Grading Taking Over Your Life

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Getting At What Students Know Without Grading Taking Over Your Life - NSTA National Conference 2024.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Want to know what the students actually know without spending all your time grading their responses? Adjust your assessment questions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to adapt "typical" assessment questions into more meaningful questions in order to better get at what students understand, without the endless hours of grading.

SPEAKERS:
Meredith Diehl (Northview High School: Sylvania, OH)

Assessment Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Creating Three-Dimensional Instructional Sequences for Florida’s NGSSS

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Unlocking Scientific Literacy: Explore Storylines in Science Education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover how storylines enrich science education, fostering deep understanding and engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Holman (District Science Coach: , FL)

Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Connecting Science to Diverse Community: 20 Years of Journey Through The Universe on Hawaiʻi Island

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://noirlab.edu/public/education/journey-through-the-universe/
NSTA Journey Presentation.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Hawai‘i Island’s leading astronomy education program Journey Through the Universe is marking two decades of bringing astronomy down to Earth and into Hawaiʻi classrooms. Join the International Gemini Observatory/NSF’s NOIRLab as we share our approach to building community partnerships.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will take away a variety of strategies and resources from the Journey Through the Universe Program to help establish and build partnerships with their local astronomical organizations.

SPEAKERS:
Robert Sparks (NSF's NOIRLab), Emily Peavy (Gemini Observatory/NSF's NOIRLab: No City, No State)

STEM Earth & Space Science Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Evidence-Based, Anxiety-Reducing Strategies for Teaching Students About Climate Change

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

When learning about climate change, students may experience significant anxiety regarding potential impacts in their community. This session will highlight emotion-management techniques and evidence-based strategies that can help reduce anxiety while learning about climate change and it’s impacts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Effective emotion-management techniques that can help facilitate students’ learning about climate change, including evidence-based strategies for reducing anxiety, and emphasizing the importance of learning action-based strategies for students to impact their community.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Donna Pincus (Director, Child and Adolescent Fear and Anxiety Treatment Program at the Center for Anxiety and Rela: No City, No State), John Guiney (NOAA/NWS Eastern Region: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Ignite Your Teaching Journey: Expert Insights on Creating a Professional Development Plan

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

As educators, we have the power to inspire, shape, and influence young minds. To do that effectively we must continuously learn and grow. We will explore how to design your own professional development plan, become an expert in your field, and find joy through discovering your passions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will set goals and identify opportunities for growth. We will share workshops, courses, and fellowship opportunities to enhance teaching skills and personal growth.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Thompson (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship: No City, No State), Samantha Willsey (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow: Washington DC, DC)

Leadership General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Understanding the Ways Physical, Audio and E-books Affect Reading Comprehension: A Qualitative Case Study

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

A qualitative study to determine how students learn best through text - physical books, audio books, and e-books. We tested comprehension, conducted interviews, and created journals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to understand how to determine which type of reading media will work best for their students. Attendees will see how they can test their students and how to draw conclusions to find the best fit for their classroom and individual needs.

SPEAKERS:
Kaylyn Hoth (Pre-Service Teacher: No City, No State), Mikayla Prusha (Wartburg College Pre-Service Teacher: No City, No State)

Literacy Informal Education Technology Presentation

Integrating Case Studies and Hands-On Activities into our High School Science Teaching

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The primary reasons students choose to end their science education are they don’t find science interesting or they think it is too difficult. A proposed solution: integrating more case studies and hands-on activities into our science teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn where to find case studies and hands-on activities for their discipline, and how to effectively use them in a high school science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Kling (West Morris Central High School: Chester, NJ)

Environmental Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Unlocking the Power of STEM Identity in K-12 Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Join us to learn how to Create a Positive STEM Identity for Students! Give students the power to be confident, curious, and capable in STEM using the lens of flight to generate passionate pursuits. Discover practical strategies to promote a growth mindset, creativity, and increase student agency.

TAKEAWAYS:
Unlock students' STEM IDENTITY with hands-on strategies that inspire confidence, curiosity, and STEM skills. Learn how aviation and aeronautics can promote a growth mindset and create real-life engineering scenarios and career connections. Get free resources and actionable steps at this session.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Davis (Air Camp USA, Inc.: Dayton, OH)

STEM Advocacy Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Science in The News

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Tired of hearing: Why are we learning this? When will we ever use this? This session will discuss how to use news articles to teach reading comprehension and increase science literacy in secondary students of all levels. Also, connect 3D Lessons and Science and Engineering Practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with multiple ways of implementing science in the news into their classrooms. Science will become dynamic and applicable.

SPEAKERS:
Misty Heredia (UTRGV: No City, No State)

Literacy General Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Incorporate Coding in STEM Classes with Both Plugged and Unplugged Activities

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
UnpluggedActivities.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Join us as we explore how to introduce coding concepts with online (plugged), offline (unplugged), and hybrid coding activities into the STEM experience. We will investigate several free resources available to you online. You will leave this workshop ready to code with your students. (BYOD)

TAKEAWAYS:
Whether it happens online, offline, or in a hybrid teaching environment, coding is a game-changer. It’s also tons of fun.

SPEAKERS:
John Hutchens (Ruth Patrick Science Education Center: Aiken, SC), Amber Dobbs (Ruth Patrick Science Education Center: Aiken, SC)

Computer Science STEM Technology Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Connecting With Nature Through Outdoor Classrooms In Urban Areas

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides
Available as PowerPoint and as Google Slides.
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

We will discuss the strategies we have developed with elementary teachers in high-need urban districts for the use of gardens in outdoor classrooms and present the lessons that have been used in two high-need school districts with under-served student populations and English language learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers who attend will learn strategies to engage their students with the DCIs of the Life and Earth Sciences with easily grown gardens at their schools.

SPEAKERS:
Sara Feit (Research Scientist - Project Manager: Boston, MA), Peter Garik (Boston University: Boston, MA)

Environmental Science Equity General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Text-to-Investigation: Expanding the Making Connections Strategy to Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Literacy has used “Text to…” connections to help students make authentic connections. A rationale for expanding this strategy and examples of expanded “text to…” connections for science and math will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore how to expand a common literacy strategy of “text to...” connections when using picture books in the elementary science classroom.

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

Literacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

CSSS: Advocating for High-Quality Instructional Materials: An Opportunity for Collaboration

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CSSS_NSTA_Advocating for High Quality Instructional Materials_ An Opportunity for Collaboration (1).pdf
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

EdReports will share case studies of state partnerships and discuss how to use local priorities to drive the instructional materials adoption process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to engage with their state and district to develop local priorities and establish an instructional vision, utilizing EdReports reviews of instructional materials, to make informed adoption decisions based on local context.

SPEAKERS:
Shannon Wachowski (EdReports.org: Fort Collins, CO)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NSTA Townhall

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Learn about the latest developments from NSTA, including changes in governance, volunteer opportunities, and new services and resources. There will also be an opportunity for you to provide feedback to NSTA leadership.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about ways that NSTA can help their professional journey and will provide feedback to the association.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Conerly (Marion County Schools: Columbia, MS), Elizabeth Mulkerrin (Science Olympiad: No City, No State), Julie Luft (University of Georgia: Athens, GA), Erika Shugart (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Leadership Advocacy General Science Presentation

Success in K-12 STEM Interest Through Participation in Field-Based Science Institution Programs

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

To bring awareness to K-12 education communities and how to utilize programs at Field-Based Science Institutions, whereas, STEM-based education opportunities could be provided in order to increase change in STEM education.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, the attendees will become familiar with the significance of heightened STEM interest via programs that support STEM education classrooms through student’s participation in FBSI programs such as zoos, museums, and botanicals.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Michael Williams (Chicago State University: Chicago, IL)

Advocacy General Science STEM Presentation

CAST: Exploring the Life Cycle of Monarchs as a Biology Anchoring Phenomenon in Colorado

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Join this session where we explore the use of raising monarch butterflies as an anchoring phenomenon to delve into the characteristics of life, local ecosystems, conservation, and citizen science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave this session with resources to engage students in a long-term project that fosters curiosity in local ecosystems and inspires a call for action, along with two assessment measures. Student work samples will be available for attendees.

SPEAKERS:
Aja Mattise-Lorenzen (High School Science Teacher: Fort Collins, CO), Dr. Yajaira Fuentes-Tauber (Rocky Mountain High School: No City, No State)

Biology Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Ramps and Pathways: Early Childhood Future Innovators in STEM

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Within these years of early childhood education, teachers and their young learners need high-quality STEM materials to explore what is in the world, and how it works. Ramps & Pathways give children endless possibilities to design and create…come learn how!

TAKEAWAYS:
By preparing the next generation of STEM educators, we are preparing them to support innovation in their classroom with their own students. This session will focus on how to use Ramps and Pathways as a tool to support your young engineers in an active and engaging session!

SPEAKERS:
Allison Barness (Assistant Professor)

STEM Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

EC - Meet and Greet with NSTA's Early Childhood - Elementary Science Teaching Committee

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

NSTA's Early Childhood - Elementary Science Committee welcomes educators seeking science and STEM teaching resources for our youngest learners. Discover teaching support, network with peers, and explore leadership opportunities with NSTA membership. All EC and elementary teachers are welcome!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about NSTA's leadership opportunities, committees, and resources available to early childhood and elementary educators.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Parks (Stetson University: Deland, FL), Simone Nance (University of Southern Indiana: Evansville, IN), Annette Venegas (Kent School District: Kent, WA), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA), Jenn Brown-Whale (Howard County Public School System: Ellicott City, MD), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

Leadership General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Pedagogy is a superpower

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Pedagogy is a word we hear but rarely engage with. This session will outline how pedagogy is a teacher’s superpower and how it can make learning most meaningful for learners. It will enable teachers to be agents of change, empower them and re-establish their relationship with curricula.

TAKEAWAYS:
The relationship between curricula and pedagogy is complex – this session will mean you have the opportunity (and challenge!) to be more aware of the power in your hands as 'teacher' by immersing yourself in pedagogical thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Leigh Hoath (Leeds Trinity University: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Anchored Inquiry Learning: Designing Meaningful Instruction to Make Sense of Authentic Phenomena

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Experience how the new BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning (AIL) instructional model creates learning experiences that motivate students with significant, real-world phenomena and problems! Learn how AIL anchors cycles of inquiry and sensemaking, culminating in student explanations/design solutions!

TAKEAWAYS:
The research-based BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model succeeds the 5Es and leverages authentic phenomena/problems to anchor cycles of inquiry and sensemaking. This approach provides instructional coherence from students’ perspective, equitable access, and motivation for ALL learners.

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Gay (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Nancy Hopkins-Evans (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Sensemaking Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Informal Science Education Share-a-Thon

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Every Rock Has A Story - Teachers handout NSTA 2024.pdf
Every Rock Has A Story handout 2024.pdf
Flyer_NSTA Informal Science Committee.png
Nathan - environmental benefits of alternative proteins.pdf
Nathan - public health and alternative proteins.pdf
Nathan - student engagement and alternative proteins.pdf
NIST - Professional Research Experience Program (PREP).pdf
NIST - Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF).pdf
NIST- Summer High School Intern Program (SHIP).pdf
NIST- Summer Institute for MS Science Teachers.pdf
NSTA Slideshow Omaha Zoo.pptx
Phenology Resources.pdf
Seed Ball Recipe-- Omaha Zoo.pdf
Shedd Aquarium - Sea Curious Video Series.pdf
Shedd Aquarium - Stay Home with Shedd Video Series.pdf
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Come and connect! Engage with informal science educators from museums, zoos, afterschool, media, non-profits and more. Discover resources, programs, organizations, and opportunities for science educators - formal and informal alike!

TAKEAWAYS:
You'll network with informal educational organizations from across the country, discuss best practices, and discover free, hands-on activities for your organization or classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Max Metz (Shedd Aquarium: Chicago, IL), Rosie Arnold (Lincoln Park Zoo: No City, No State), Lindsay Milner (Mad Science Group Inc.: Montreal, QC)

Informal Education General Science STEM Share-a-thon Presentation

Digital Electronic Notebooks: It's Like a Regular Notebook... but Better

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
eNotebook presentation links
These are links to the resources used in the presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

I have been utilizing electronic notebooks with students in a variety of ways. I will share examples and what I’ve found useful and problematic about different platforms, and what I hope to add in the future. I will give you resource copies and contact info to collaborate on future improvements.

TAKEAWAYS:
Electronic notebooks are a better approach for students to record what they are learning and doing. They have all the abilities of traditional notebooks plus many additional features: from animation and linked videos, to manipulatable pictures, to cross-platform aspects like graphs and much more.

SPEAKERS:
Matthew Kuehl (Grand Rapids High School: , MN), Joshua Dumas (Biology Teacher: Medford, MN)

STEM Engineering Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Discovering NSTA’s Engineering Instructional Materials

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Discovering NSTA’s Engineering Instructional Materials Collection
A collection of resources for Discovering NSTA’s Engineering Instructional Materials
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The NGSS calls for the integration of engineering design into K-12 science classrooms. In this session, participants will be introduced to NSTA Instructional materials that provide opportunities for students to design solutions and enact the science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Problem-driven, three-dimensional lessons and units provide students opportunities to actively try to figure out how to design solutions to problems (sensemaking).

SPEAKERS:
Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Engineering STEM Presentation

360° Dinosaur Ridge Tour for Every Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Dinosaur Ridge is an outdoor fossil and geology wonder near Denver, Colorado. Home of the nation’s #1 Dinosaur Tracksite and a dozen points of geological interest, we bring an online, 360° tour for your students to explore.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teaching physical science in classrooms can be tough without real-world examples to show students. Dinosaur Ridge is a site that specializes in this and life sciences using cross-cutting systems, patterns, concepts, and scientific knowledge.

SPEAKERS:
Erin LaCount (Education Programs Director: Morrison, CO)

Physical Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Supporting All Students in Making Sense of Phenomena By Building All of Their Intellectual Resources

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Session 12 Materials (Google Drive): Supporting All Students in Making Sense of
STT11.pdf
STT16.pdf
STT47.pdf
Three principles toward more equitable.pdf
Show Details

Students bring amazing intellectual resources to make sense of science phenomena based on their personal and community experiences—including language, perspectives, gestures, and knowledge, interests, and values. Come learn how to notice and leverage those intellectual gifts in your teaching!

TAKEAWAYS:
Culturally responsive education supports student sensemaking and learning in science. Inclusive science strategies help teachers learn to see and leverage students’ diverse sense-making resources. These methods help us create and adapt curriculum that is equitable and centered on justice.

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

Sensemaking Equity STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

CSI Wildlife: Track Elephant Poaching with BioInteractive's DNA Profiling Resources

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

How can we use forensics to track elephant poaching? Join us as we explore BioInteractive resources related to elephant poaching, species conservation, and DNA profiling.

SPEAKERS:
Diana Siliezar-Shields (Barrington High School: Barrington, IL), Jennifer Barnes (Gwinnett Online Campus: Lawrenceville, GA)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

"What's The Question(s)?"

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Propello

Want to get students asking more inquiry-based questions in class? We'll showcase easy tips and techniques to facilitate student questioning that guides lessons, builds engagement, and creates powerful learning experiences

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Thayne (Lead Program Manager, Science: Murfreesboro, TN), Julie Waid (Propello: Austin, TX)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Metacognition in the Science Classroom: Why Reflection is Important

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Kognity

Join Kognity as we explore the importance of having students share initial ideas, investigate, sense make, and reflect on their learning journey. We will discuss how to teach students the skills of reflection and revision while illuminating mindsets shifts in and out of the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Gabriella Holm (Kognity: Stockholm, Sweden)

Sensemaking General Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Equitable Groupwork in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Knowles Teacher Initiative

Equalize learning experiences for all students during group work by improving collaboration and increasing participation. Consider the areas of complex instruction, actionable norms, curriculum, and student status in the designing and implementation of science group tasks.

SPEAKERS:
Takumi Sato, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ), Laura Shafer, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ), Rosiane Lesperance, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: No City, No State)

Equity Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

More than just earthquakes! Geophysics contributes to the science of climate change, space weather, glaciers, volcanoes, and much more!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 606


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Earthscopes_Free_Education_Resources-NSTA2024.pdf
Find_EarthScope_on_Social_Media-NSTA2024.pdf
Presentation_Part1_Geophyics_applications_NSTA2024.pdf
Presentation_Part1_Geophyics_applications_pptx
Part 1 of the presentation
Presentation_Part2_Geophyics_applications_NSTA2024.pdf
Presentation_Part2_Geophyics_applications_pptx
Part 2 of the presentation
Sign_up_for_Earthscopes_Educator_Newsletter.pdf
Show Details

Sponsoring Company: EarthScope Consortium

Learn how geophysical instruments help to measure the changes in our environment such as landslides and river evolution using freely available lidar, measure volcanic deformation, space weather, climate change, and more! We will share and demonstrate FREE activities you can use in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Shelley Olds (EarthScope Consortium: Washington, DC)

Earth & Space Science Informal Education Physics Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 10: Exploring the Hazardscape - A Teacher's Guide to Connecting Students to Their “Backyard” and Beyond

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 505

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

From land to sea, join the National Earth Science Teachers Association and discover inventive ways to leverage NOAA assets in your teaching. Explore locally-focused education strategies, fostering hands-on lessons that enable students to make personal connections to natural and unnatural hazards.

SPEAKERS:
Natalie Macke (Pascack Hills High School: Montvale, NJ), Peggy Steffen (Curriculum Writer: West Liberty, IA), Missy Holzer (Chatham High School: Chatham, LA), Bruce Moravchik (NOAA National Ocean Service: Silver Spring, MD)

General Science Climate Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

From Zeros to Heroes: The Superpowers of Standards-Based Grading

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Join our heroic mission to revolutionize grading! Discover how standards-based grading can empower and accurately assess students, turning challenges into triumphs of learning.

SPEAKERS:
Mel Horton (Oregon Science Education Lead: Portland, OR)

General Science Assessment Equity Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER): Scientific Explanations to Increase Student Voice (Grades K-2)

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) is an acclaimed and highly successful instructional strategy changing how students understand scientific concepts and write explanations for phenomena. Experience how CER supports multiple elements in your science and math classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Walters (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Exhibitor Workshop

Making powerful maps with professional or student-collected data

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Esri

Join Esri as we demonstrate how to build powerful maps using ArcGIS Online. We will use scientific data from the Living Atlas and data created during the workshop using Survey123 – and map it all. Analysis tools will be demonstrated. ArcGIS Online is free from Esri for K12 instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Faby Carrera (Esri: Redlands, CA)

Earth & Space Science Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Unique Microscope Tips and techniques to help with current curriculum

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Accu-Scope Inc.

ACCU-SCOPE would like to offer a professional class instructing teachers the best techniques for acquiring images on items that are part of their curriculum. These classes will discuss mitosis slides, contrast methods for seeing live water organisms, polarizers, phase contrast, photosynthesis, etc.

SPEAKERS:
Jeremy LeBlanc (Accu-Scope: Commack, NY)

General Science Biology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

An Ocean of Opportunity: Engaging Students in Ocean & Environmental Sustainability

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: EarthEcho International

Join EarthEcho International as we explore environmental and climate resources that inspire young leaders to take action. Session participants will have access to FREE E-STEM resources focused on the blue economy, community science, water quality testing, and biodiversity restoration.

SPEAKERS:
Kasey Gaylord-Opalewski (EarthEcho International: Washington, DC)

STEM Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

From Atoms to Oceans: Modeling the Properties of Water

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Dive deep into water's secrets! Harness 3D models to unravel states of matter, polar covalent bonding, solubility, and beyond in an immersive journey.

SPEAKERS:
Mark Arnholt (3D Molecular Designs: No City, No State)

Biology Physical Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Climate Change with the Whole Student in Mind

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Change with the Whole Student in Mind Presentation
Climate Change with the Whole Student in Mind Resources
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learning about climate change can be overwhelming and trigger emotional responses at all ages. This session focuses on how to prepare students and families as topics, such as extreme weather, arise in your classroom and how to tailor your resources and approach to empower all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about teaching moves for before, during and after a lesson or unit on climate change, including tips for teaching language and questioning.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Townsend (Subject to Climate: Dover, DE)

Climate Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Living by Chemistry: A Phenomenon-Based Curriculum for High School Students

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: BFW Publishers

Capture high school chemistry students’ interest by inviting them into a phenomenon-based curriculum! Perform a periodic table card sort and learn how to build an understanding of whether it is possible to turn a copper penny into gold—presented by Living by Chemistry author, Dr. Angelica Stacy.

SPEAKERS:
Angelica Stacy (University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley, CA)

Chemistry Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

SAT: Hands-on Weather, Climate, and Earth Systems Science with the UCAR Center for Science Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

The UCAR Center for Science Education engages all learners to explore and understand our changing world by connecting them to science at the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research. Come learn about fun ways for you and your preK-12 students to connect with and explore Earth systems science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with ideas and resources for hands-on weather, climate, and Earth systems science activities and programs they can use in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Mays (Science Education Specialist: UCAR SciEd, CO), Katie Wolfson (School & Public Programs Manager: Boulder, CO)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Share-a-thon Presentation

The Little Shop of Physics

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

The Little Shop of Physics at Colorado State University has always been a hands-on program, something that sets it apart from other science engagement programs. We teach that science is something anyone can do, anywhere, with anything!

TAKEAWAYS:
Come explore our hands-on experiments built out of everyday objects. Then ask us how to start a similar program or maker space at your school or institution!

SPEAKERS:
Cherie Bornhorst (Teacher in Residence: Fort Collins, CO)

Physics General Science STEM Share-a-thon Presentation

Discover STEM Education Resources!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Looking to pinpoint free supplemental interdisciplinary learning resources? Find real-world connections, internships, PD opportunities, classroom tools & swag; help students see themselves with diverse career role models, & more at the NIST Educational STEM Resource (NEST-R) registry session!

TAKEAWAYS:
Quickly find content that brings STEM curriculum to life, sparks interest, & keeps students engaged with NEST-R, a free, publicly available website! Real-world applications on topics like the metric system, engineering, and physics help students make sense of the interdisciplinary nature of science.

SPEAKERS:
Cara O'Malley (Academic Program Manager: Boulder, CO)

STEM General Science Informal Education Share-a-thon Presentation

SAT: It’s always Science Friday! Hands-on activities based on science news.

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
HYB Flyer.pdf
Science Friday AI in Education Resources.pdf
Science Friday AI Stories To Share.pdf
Science Friday ISS Stories To Share.pdf
Solar Eclipse Guide - Spanish
Solar Eclipse Viewing Guide
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Science Friday, your trusted source for news and entertaining stories about science, is more than a radio show. SciFri also creates exciting, free STEM activities developed by educators like you that make cutting-edge science accessible to everyone. Discover why every day is Science Friday!

TAKEAWAYS:
Stop by the Science Friday table to explore demo activities and grab free resources. While you’re here, sign up to receive free materials for our “Hack Your Brain” escape room and register for our Down to Earth program with the ISS. Plus, learn to make engaging audiograms to share with learners.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Roberts (Science Friday: New York, NY)

STEM Informal Education Share-a-thon Presentation

Engineering with Paper - Amazing Projects with Simple Supplies

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Learn how to create easy inexpensive science and engineering activities using just paper, tape and scissors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Fun engaging projects can be made with inexpensive easily accessible supplies

SPEAKERS:
Godwyn Morris (Dazzling Discoveries / Skill Mill NYC: New York, NY)

Informal Education Engineering STEM Share-a-thon Presentation

eCYBERMISSION - 6th-9th Grade STEM Competition

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

eCYBERMISSION’s virtual STEM competition for 6th-9th graders promotes self-discovery as teams compete for awards while also supporting teachers with a wealth of resources. eCYBERMISSION's table will provide details regarding the competition along with a fun interactive activity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Throughout the competition, students and teachers are provided access to eCYBERMISSION staff, standards-aligned resources, grant opportunities and much more.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Kutsch (National Science Teaching Association, eCYBERMISSION)

STEM Informal Education Share-a-thon Presentation

Food as climate justice: Teaching the science, policy, and promise of alternative proteins

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Some actions have obvious environmental footprints–water use from long showers is self-evident. The distance between food production and consumption hides the full climate impact. We will put food choices into perspective by visualizing the relative climate impacts of animal and alternative protein.

TAKEAWAYS:
Incorporating alternative protein science into existing course material offers a means for educators to link science and technology with students’ values-driven interests. Given the cross-cutting nature of the material, these lessons can be applied to all levels!

SPEAKERS:
Nathan Ahlgrim (Good Food Institute: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Advocacy Climate Science Share-a-thon Presentation

Lincoln Park Zoo at Informal Science Share-a-Thon

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn about Lincoln Park Zoo's resources that support student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Lincoln Park Zoo resources are available to teachers across the country.

SPEAKERS:
Rosie Arnold (Lincoln Park Zoo: No City, No State)

Informal Education Biology Share-a-thon Presentation

Informal Science Session: Hands-on Activities from the Exploratorium

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

The Exploratorium, located in San Francisco, CA, is a hands-on science museum. If you can't visit the museum in person, join us at NSTA Denver to explore a few of our hundreds of online hands-on science activities, known as Science Snacks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will discover a wealth of online resources available through the Exploratorium Teacher Institute.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Muller (Exploratorium: San Francsicso, CA)

STEM General Science Share-a-thon Presentation

NSTA's journal Connected Science Learning: Bridging the Gap Between In- and Out-of-School STEM Learning

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Connected Science Learning Info
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Connected Science Learning (CSL) is one of five journals produced by NSTA and is the perfect place for informal science educators to publish their work or serve as a peer reviewer. Attendees will learn about the journal's author guidelines and peer review process from the journal's field editor.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about NSTA's journal Connected Science Learning and how it is a great resource for the informal science educators – especially those that collaborate with schools and teachers. Information about writing and peer reviewing for CSL will be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Beth Murphy (Science from Scientists: Bedford, MA)

Informal Education General Science STEM Share-a-thon Presentation

Shedd Aquarium Free Grab-and-Go Teacher Resources

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Shedd Aquarium - Sea Curious Video Series.pdf
Shedd Aquarium - Stay Home with Shedd Video Series.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

To leverage the resources developed by the Shedd Aquarium team, this Share-a-Thon Table will offer free, grab-and-go resources for teachers: Sea Curious K-2 Lesson Plans, Stay Home with Shedd 3-5 Lesson Plans, Outdoor Learning Framework 6-12, and hands-on activities creating corals/mussels.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will be able to leverage informal education resources from aquariums connected to NGSS and Amplify Science to bring authentic stories and examples to their theoretical classroom phenomena.

Share-a-thon Presentation

Wild About Science!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Connect with Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium to uncover how educators are bringing science to life for all students. At OHDZA, we know learning continues beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom. Join us to gain meaningful ways to connect students to the world around them!

TAKEAWAYS:
Meet with Omaha's Zoo and Aquarium education team to see how HQIM are used in our Zoo Academies, Zoo After-School Programs, Zoo Outreaches, and Citizen Science Programs. Take away innovative ideas using HQIM to build stronger instruction, deeper engagement, and higher achievements.

Share-a-thon Presentation

Cultivating Curiosity with Denver Botanic Gardens

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn about all the ways that Denver Botanic Gardens connects K-12 students with nature and take back free resources and strategies to use in your classrooms. We will highlight virtual programs, STEM career exploration resources, and free worksheets and curricula around climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn about educational opportunities with Denver Botanic Gardens and Budburst, a project of Chicago Botanic Gardens. Take back free resources on STEM career exploration, climate change, citizen science, pollinators and more.

Share-a-thon Presentation

Learning with Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Did you know Colorado Parks and Widlife (CPW) manages 42 state parks along with the management of over 960 wildlife species in the state! Come chat with us about resources and learning experiences for K-12 classrooms to explore our state's natural resources to enhance standards based curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
CPW has a wide range of K-12 classroom resources including an award winning classroom video series, standards aligned activities and curriculum units, to opportunties to connect directly with staff through field trips and guest speaker engagements.

Share-a-thon Presentation

Materials That Impact and Change Our World

Saturday, March 23 • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 2

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Come and explore ways to integrate materials science across your science curriculum with the University of Wisconsin Materials Research Science and Engineering Center. Take sample science kits and access to plans and resources to support students exploration of the materials that improve our lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
Create sample kits to take to your classrooms, access virtual resources and talk with MRSEC staff about the awesomeness of materials science!

Share-a-thon Presentation

METRICS: Maximizing Engagement Through Regular Immersion in Computer Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session will be an immersive look at how our five year EIR grant has developed processes for professional development, delivery of Project Based Units, supporting student STE{A}M Labs and tethering students to the fields of STEM and Computer Science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Build your own pathway to develop techies {thinkers} and tinkerers in your space.

SPEAKERS:
Ch'Loris Clemons (John Kerr Elementary School: Winchester, VA), Karan Johnstone (Winchester Public Schools: Winchester, VA), Katherine Mathias (John Kerr Elementary School: Winchester, VA)

Computer Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Science Concept Development Though Reading and Application Ideas

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The purpose of this presentation is to familiarize educators with how science nonfiction reading was incorporated in a new online science course for undergraduate teacher candidates. The scientific reading implemented the development of different levels in comprehension to gauge the learner.

TAKEAWAYS:
Gauge the learner to deeper thinking and application in the scientific concepts with big ideas. The goal is to use the scientific reading with the learner in furthering scientific thought to be more progressive and engaging.

SPEAKERS:
Abha Singh (Western Illinois University: Macomb, IL)

General Science Preservice Science Education STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Solve the Environmental Mystery: The “Wicked” Problem of Phosphate in Clean Water, Food Systems, and Climate Change

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

What killed the fish in the river? Solve this mystery by analyzing well water data to identify the source of phosphate pollution in the environment. Use clues and data to examine the role of phosphate in the environment and learn how phosphate contributes to eutrophication. Copies will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be able to describe the role of phosphate in our food systems and the critical need to reduce and recover phosphate from the environment. Participants will apply analytical skills to determine the source of phosphate pollution contributing to a fish kill.

SPEAKERS:
M. Gail Jones (North Carolina State University: Raleigh, NC), Madeline Stallard (North Carolina State University), Amber Meeks (North Carolina State University: Raleigh, NC)

Environmental Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Fueling Success for Students and your Science Classroom—Win Up to $20K!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Participants will learn about the K-12 Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge teacher competition, and the two Shell USA, Inc. sponsored teacher awards. Participants will learn how to nominate and apply for the programs that are sponsored by Shell USA, Inc.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to nominate and apply for the programs that are sponsored by Shell USA, Inc. Participants will be able to collaborate with previous winners and judges on key elements to include in a strong application.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

STEM Equity General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

An Introduction to ML-PBL — Free Project-Based Learning Resources for Elementary Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Get a brief introduction to free OER-integrated science curricular units for Grades 3-5 and see how well the features of Project-Based Learning provide the tools and routines to support sensemaking. Learn more about the research behind the resources, and resources available to support implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will get a detailed description of the free resources, look at how PBL works, hear examples from the Multiple Literacies in Project-Based Learning (ML-PBL) Research and Development Project. They will learn how to access the free resources for later review, and connect with free support.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired)

Sensemaking General Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Community Engagement Through Science Nights

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Community Engagement Through Science Nights Presentation
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Want more of a school—home connection? Want to get more community involvement in your science program? Come hear how we plan, promote, and run a variety of science-themed community events in our district.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with several ideas for community science events and helpful hints on how to plan and promote these events.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Newburger (Tappan Zee High School: Orangeburg, NY), Samantha Levine (South Orangetown Central School District: Blauvelt, NY)

STEM Earth & Space Science Informal Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Integrate to Alleviate: Contextualizing Comprehension in Elementary

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Integrate to Alleviate Presentation Slides
Integrate to Alleviate Presentation Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Elevate science and literacy in your elementary classroom through practical integration strategies. Utilizing a lesson template and science trade books to design a plan to stimulate knowledge building allows you to engage, equip, and empower your students by contextualizing their comprehension.

TAKEAWAYS:
INTEGRATING science and literacy ALLEVIATES challenges (time constraints, disconnected learning, low engagement). This presentation includes evidence-based research, practical insights, and hands-on application to empower educators with knowledge and practical tools to contextualize comprehension.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Westhafer (West Jackson Elementary School: Hoschton, GA)

Literacy General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Free To Be Me: Genetics Unit

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
FTBM GENETICS UNIT.pptx
Denver, 2024 "Free to be Me" Genetics Unit Presentation
Genetics PBL, Part 1.docx
Planning Matrix
Genetics PBL, Part 2.docx
Planning Matrix
Genetics PBL, Part 3.docx
Planning Matrix
MTHS_Biology_Cafe.docx
MENU Strategy used with Genetics PBL, Part 3
Team Trivia Game Challenge.pdf
Genetics PBL Culminating Activity
Trivia Game Rubric.pdf
Scoring Rubric for Team Trivia Game
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This session will feature a mini-PBL on genetics as implemented in the classroom and featured in the West Virginia Science Teachers Association publication.

TAKEAWAYS:
As students learn the key concepts of genetics, they make the connection to their own lives and how they are unique and designed to survive and thrive. This unit will give teachers another instructional method for delivery of the content (DEI association).

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Eades-Gill (Midland Trail High School: Hico, WV)

Biology Advocacy STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Flipped Classroom and Literacy in Life Science Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Benefits of Flipped Classroom models to foster Student-Centered Learning in Middle and Upper School Life Sciences courses. Learn about tools, strategies, implementations, and resources to use when creating a course using Flipped Classroom models. Use literacy skills as enrichments tools.

TAKEAWAYS:
The use of both a Flipped Classroom model and Literacy tools to foster a more robust Student-Centered learrning.

SPEAKERS:
Fernando Azcona (Upper School STEM Teacher: Sarasota, FL)

Life Science Biology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Equity in STEM Mentorship Program

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

To engage and retain more students in STEM courses and to improve diversity in STEM among underrepresented groups, The Governor’s School for Science and Technology has developed a mentorship program available to all students. The program was implemented by establishing community partnerships.

TAKEAWAYS:
The presenters will share how The Governor’s School establishes community partnerships, develops the research course curriculum, provides faculty advisors, and showcases the students’ research.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Vobrak (Research Instructor/Mentorship Coordinator: No City, No State)

STEM Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Establishing an Apiary, Social Media, Curriculum Integration, and How to Run a Business on Campus

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Krantz NSTA
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

What could possibly make an experience working with 100,000+ stinging insects even better? Let's document it and put it on social media! In this session, you will learn how a small liberal arts college has made a commitment to pollinator education, curriculum integration, and experiential learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Innovation is change that unlocks new value; simple to say, yet very hard to do. Establishing an apiary, a new company, embracing entrepreneurship, and developing curriculum represent innovation and the future of higher education. It requires that we push creative boundaries and take risks.

SPEAKERS:
Patrick Krantz (Westminster College: New Wilmington, PA)

Environmental Science Literacy Technology Postsecondary Presentation

Exploring Monarch Butterflies in Science and Art

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Integrating Insects and Art 2024.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This quick session will introduce insects to a class designed for both Science and Art.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to use STEAM to teach advocacy for monarch butterflies.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

Environmental Science Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Egg Wars: Where Eggs Collide and Legends are Made (The Next Generation of Egg Drop)

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Egg Wars Design Process Student Packet
Egg Wars Explanation Handout
Egg Wars Parent Communication
Egg Wars Presentation
Egg Wars Project Inspection Sheet
Egg Wars Rubric and Timeline
Post Egg Wars Reflection
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Tired of the same old Egg Drop Experiment? Meet Egg Wars where engineering meets demolition! Students design devices to protect their egg while trying to destroy their opponent's in this physics-based engineering battle. Devices swing on a pendulum into each other for big impact and even bigger fun!

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to bring the excitement of Egg Wars to your classroom! Attendees will receive: documents outlining project criteria and constraints, a sample timeline for the project, a materials list, instructions for building an Egg Wars pendulum, and student examples.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Lucht (Middle School Science Teacher: , IL), Leora Kurtz (8th Grade Science Teacher: Northbrook, IL)

Physics Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

AI Unleashed: Transforming Science Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
AI presentation
AI presentation
AI Survey
Dear Teacher, Before coming to our presentation feel free to fill out the survey attached. Thank you for participating in this survey. Your insights into the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the classroom are invaluable. Please take a few moments to answer the following questions honestly and to the best of your ability. Thank You Diane Ripollone and Kathy Biernat
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Dive into the future of science education! Join "AI Unleashed" and discover innovative ways to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into your classroom. Leave with practical knowledge of AI tools and strategies to create dynamic, data-informed lessons to prepare students for a tech-driven future.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will see how AI tools can provide personalized and engaging learning, helping students develop critical thinking, problem-solving and data literacy skills essential for the 21st century. Teachers will gain practical knowledge of AI tools and strategies to create dynamic lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Diane Ripollone (Cardinal Gibbons High School: Raleigh, NC), Kathy Biernat (Zanilu Educational Services, LLC: No City, No State)

General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Wetland Wonderland: An Interactive Museum Created Out of the Louisiana Wetlands

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wetland Wonderland: an Interactive Museum
STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Explore the wetlands through a student-designed and engineered model created cooperatively between science and art. Structures were designed and created by students using recycled boxes, paper, and plastic, then detailed with paper mâché and paint. Upon completion, the school was allowed a tour/exploration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use the engineering design process to assist students in creating a life-sized model to share their knowledge on the importance of balance in a biome. Students can, even during a pandemic, become ambassadors for the environment.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Sevin (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

STEM Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Using Artificial Intelligence to Support K-5 Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learn how to embed future-ready skills through the science and engineering practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
During this session, teachers will learn how to use artificial intelligence and machine learning to actively engage students in the science and engineering practices.

SPEAKERS:
Brandon McKinney (Gwinnett County Public Schools: No City, No State), Kristin Luthi (Gwinnett County Public Schools: Suwanee, GA)

Technology Robotics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Old Dog, New Tricks

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Abbrev. DENVER1 (1).pptx
If you have/use Canva, this links to the Canva presentation
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

By learning new skills and continuously gaining knowledge, teaching and learning can be easier than ever!! After 25+ years in the classroom, I will share a toolbox full of shortcuts & techniques to make the planning & implementation of your content more efficient and effective.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will take away an abundance of ideas that will maximize time and minimize effort in planning and implementing activities and lessons. The presented ideas will make the classroom more teacher-facilitated, focusing on student-driven learning.

SPEAKERS:
Tracy Rodgers (Northside High School: Northport, AL)

Informal Education General Science Presentation

Development of NGSS Alternate Standards for Students with Severe Cognitive Disabilities

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Development Process Visual
Example EEAlt Standard
Presentation Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Students with exceptionalities experience barriers to mastering the breadth and depth of the NGSS. This session explains the process used to reduce the depth, breadth, and complexity of the NGSS into K-12 alternate standards for students with severe cognitive disabilities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how the developmental process of the NGSS PEs was mirrored, yet altered, to develop alternate standards that incorporated the three dimensions described in the Framework and the NGSS at a reduced depth, breadth, and complexity.

SPEAKERS:
Joyce Depenbusch (Atlas DLM), Christy Glore (ATLAS at University of Kansas: No City, No State)

General Science Assessment Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Revamping Agricultural Science in Urban Africa

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This paper explores sustainable urban agriculture in Lagos, Nigeria, addressing 21st-century demands through innovative methods for city-based agricultural science education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover how sustainable urban agriculture education in Lagos can empower students to tackle 21st-century agricultural challenges.

SPEAKERS:
Adetola Salau (University at Buffalo, SUNY: Buffalo, NY)

Environmental Science Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Schoolyard Superheroes

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eDQ6-bi_GNzxbSpoArvLnS8HMF70cHZm/view?usp=drive_link
Outdoor Games.docx
Superheros Presentation
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Learn tips and tricks used as a naturalist to take students outside, including helping reluctant students enjoy time spent in nature. Using easy to find creatures found in almost every schoolyard to teach concepts that can be tricky to make connections with inside in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover easy preparations to see animals in their natural habitat while teaching about adaptations, habitat, and life cycles, as well as food chains and food webs. Learn activities, songs, and games that can be taught indoors or out to connect our natural ecosystem to classroom concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Dorn (Greenacres Foundation: Cincinnati, OH)

Environmental Science Informal Education Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Managing Student Incivility in a Post-Pandemic World

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Covid Incivility.pptx
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Since COVID-19 hit, students seem to have lost the valuable social skills of empathy and effective communication needed for success in college. This session broadly outlines student incivility and provides action-oriented strategies to build more effective and equitable learning environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Strategies exist to meet students where they are in a post-pandemic world, to help students develop the soft skills required for academic success. Strategize how to get students out of a competitive and isolated "survival mode" and help them join a learning community in academia.

SPEAKERS:
Timothy Slater (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Michelle Mason (Graduate Researcher: No City, No State)

Equity Postsecondary Presentation

Fostering Environmental Awareness and Social Justice Through Climate Fiction Text (Cli-Fi)

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Through collaborative teacher education teams, lesson plans were developed to promote the integration of social justice and environmental awareness to the secondary science through Cli-fi. Curriculum examples of the YAL text Haven Jacobs Saves the Planet will be shared in this session.

TAKEAWAYS:
Recommended practices and resources for fostering environmental awareness and social justice through Cli-fi.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Environmental Science Literacy Postsecondary Presentation

Encouraging Students to “Be the Change”: Cultivating Curiosity and Agency with a Social Problems-Focused Research Project

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

A Social Problem and STEM Research Project guides students through the scientific process while encouraging students to see themselves as agents of change. Students take an interdisciplinary approach to understanding their topic, which helps build an intellectual community in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will receive examples and instructions for the Social Problems and STEM Research Project, and resources on how to guide students in finding a problem and STEM applications. They will have time to brainstorm how they can incorporate social problem topics into their teachings.

SPEAKERS:
Selene Willis (The Ingenuity Project: Baltimore, MD), Nicole Rosen (The Ingenuity Project: Baltimore, MD)

General Science Advocacy STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

VCU: Investigating Freshwater Mussels Ability to Sustain Watershed Ecosystems

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

We’ll share a set of lessons that engage students in the importance of mussels in watersheds via a dynamic simulation, PEWI (People in Ecosystems Watershed Integration), from Iowa State University. This NOAA-funded Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience effort has students investigate, collaborate, and debate solutions to authentic problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers gain awareness of and access to OER support curriculum developed across a 3-year grant aligned with the 3 dimensions of NGSS and NOAA’s meaningful watershed educational experience framework. The lessons developed around PEWI and mussels were piloted across 3 diverse school districts.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Edmondson (James Branch Cabell Libr: Richmond, VA), Al Byers (AB Advising: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Life Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NMLSTA - Science Plus: Creating a Cross-Curricular Unit

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learn about a successful cross-curricular model creating an opportunity for students to explore the science, history, and culture of their community. Add math skills, physical education, and poetry, too. This collaboration brings staff together to create a unique student learning opportunity.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about a successful all-school science-led, cross-curricular week highlighting the school's local environment, history, and culture with the opportunity to brainstorm how to create a similar activity for their own schools.

SPEAKERS:
Alison Seymour (Science Teacher: Winchester, 0)

General Science Climate Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teaching Organized for Access and Success

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Can classrooms and labs be more engaging with more frequent use of materials while not being more stressful? Identify factors that reduce the frequency of meaningful hands-on learning. Embed organizational strategies into lesson delivery. All students can access procedures and retain concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will consider how non-verbal instructional cues impact students' active engagement and participation in procedures. With specific strategies, teachers can increase academic vocabulary, student independence, and concept retention.

SPEAKERS:
C Walsh (Teacher: Brooklyn, NY)

Informal Education Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

ASTE: Simplifying STEM: Four Equitable Practices to Inspire Meaningful Learning

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

In response to calls for integrated STEM education that builds all students’ agency and sense of belonging, teachers and leaders are being encouraged more and more to consider how to equitably implement integrated STEM education for all—both in the science classroom and beyond.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through active discussion and dissection of classroom examples, attendees will learn about research-based best practices in STEM education, knowledge of the equity-based conceptual framework, and practical teaching ideas to empower their students with meaningful STEM learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Kristin Cook (Bellarmine University: Louisville, KY), Christa Jackson (Saint Louis University: Saint Louis, MO), Thomas Roberts (Bowling Green State University: Bowling Green, OH)

STEM Equity Preservice Science Education Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Student-Led School Gardens

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 204


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Student Led School Gardening.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Using student questions and related books, you will lead your students to planting, maintaining, and harvesting your school garden. The school garden offers a place to enrich teaching efforts with powerful hands-on experiences that make learning come alive.

TAKEAWAYS:
School gardens are a fantastic way to transition from a more traditional classroom to an outdoor, experiential learning opportunity centered on student engagement and critical thinking. A school garden can be integrated into many subjects such as math, science, health, literacy, and social studies.

SPEAKERS:
Rhonda Gadino (Topeka Public Schools: No City, No State)

Life Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Exploring Equity and Inclusion in STEM Careers

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Exploring Equity and Diversity in Science Careers with the Forest Service
A PowerPoint presentation from the Natural Inquirer, a cooperator with the USDA Forest Service, detailing several free resources that explore diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM careers for students in grades K-12 and beyond.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Who do students picture when they picture people in STEM careers? Do they picture themselves? Representation matters in engaging all learners in science. Attendees will explore and receive free Natural Inquirer products that introduce students to diverse people and fields in the Forest Service.

TAKEAWAYS:
Natural Inquirer products, created in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, help educators demonstrate that science is a human endeavor. Educators will be able to show their students that scientists are people from all cultures and backgrounds. Attendees will receive copies of all materials.

SPEAKERS:
Bradi McDonald (Education Assistant: Athens, GA), Nissa McKinney (FIND Outdoors/Forest Service Cooperator: No City, No State)

STEM Environmental Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

TikTok as a microlearning tool: Explore its potential in Earth science education with EarthScope

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EarthScope - TikTok for Microlearning
EarthScopes Free Educational Resources
Find EarthScope on Social Media
Sign up for EarthScopes Educator Newsletter
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

TikTok videos provide microlearning opportunities for students, introducing Earth science topics in a concise, bite-sized format. We will explore instructional strategies to enable students to consume and create TikToks to further their understanding of and engagement with Earth science topics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to navigate the educational science content landscape on TikTok, to use as a learning resource for students, as well as how to engage their own students in creating educational TikTok videos as part of their curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Zawacki (EarthScope Consortium: Washington, DC)

Earth & Space Science General Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Wild About Worksheets? Probably Not...

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wild About Worksheets Probably Not...NSTA National Conference 2024...NSTA National Conference 2024.docx
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Worksheets are easy, but can be so boring. What if we take the worksheet and make it into something meaningful and more interactive?

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be provided examples of how worksheets have been "spiced up," so to speak, and used to supplement the learning process.

SPEAKERS:
Meredith Diehl (Northview High School: Sylvania, OH)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Everyday Actions for Encouraging Physics Class Community

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Everyday Actions presentation
Everyday Actions for Encouraging Physics Class Community presentation by Bree Barnett Dreyfuss, STEP UP
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

The Everyday Actions Guide includes a self-reflection for teachers and suggestions for actions in and out of the classroom to foster a strong physics class community. Come learn about strategies to help all students, especially those historically left out of physics, see themselves as “physics people.”

TAKEAWAYS:
The STEP UP Curriculum includes two NGSS-aligned lessons proven to encourage women and other marginalized groups to consider pursuing physics. The Everyday Actions Guide is filled with suggestions for encouraging all students to pursue physics and improve their physics identity throughout the year.

SPEAKERS:
Bree Barnett Dreyfuss (Physics teacher, Science Department Chair; STEP UP Ambassador Program Coordinator: Pleasanton, CA)

Physics Equity Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teachers as Public Health Educators: Professional Development Supporting Leadership and Agency

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Pacific Alliance Against COVID-19 curricula provided teachers with historical contexts and student inquiry lessons to mitigate COVID-19. Major findings: teachers seek roles as public health educators and PD to address mental health, disinformation, and reduce impacts on vulnerable NH-PI populations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teacher leaders can provide timely, trusted information during times of uncertainty. Professional development providing current COVID-19 information, istudent-centered inquiry lessons, and access to networks of community partners supported teacher leadership and agency as public health educators.

SPEAKERS:
Pauline Chinn (University of Hawaii at Manoa: Honolulu, HI)

Leadership Biology Equity Postsecondary Presentation

K-12 STEAM Garden-based Learning Resources: Integrated, Online, and FREE

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This USDA funded project involves environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable beef production. Project leaders and teachers have developed a STEAM garden-based learning curriculum and supporting resources that foster scientific ways of thinking and encourage environmental stewardship.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore the free resources that integrate social and emotional learning through the 3-H learning model. We build students’ science capital through STEAM lessons, children’s literature, outreach booths, resource sheets, citizen science projects, and STEM career videos.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Vela (Assistant Professor: Price, UT), Rita Hagevik (The University of North Carolina at Pembroke: LAURINBURG, NC), Tain Curtis (Teacher: , UT), Kathy Trundle (Utah STate University: No City, No State)

Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Blended Learning for Effective Differentiation

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
A Student Centered Model of Blended Learning
Video from Modern Classroom Project
Google Slides
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Differentiation is a buzz word in education, but how can teachers effectively differentiate while keeping all students engaged? Blended, mastery-based instruction allows the classroom to become student-led and flexibly paced within each unit of instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to effectively differentiate instruction and provide individualized attention to struggling learners while keeping students engaged and managing classroom behavior.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Richardson (Educator: North Charleston, SC), Kathryn Allen (Florence Unified School District: Florence, AZ), Laura Martin-Lauzer (Ashley Ridge High School)

General Science Biology Chemistry Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Empowering Students as Advocates for School-Based Sustainability

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Teaching about environmental problems can be demotivating if students are not given the opportunity to contribute to solutions. Come to this session to learn about a project-based unit that fosters critical hope and empowers students to become advocates for sustainability in their community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to implement a unit that positions students as changemakers and advocates for sustainability at their school. They will walk away with a unit outline, scaffolds, and examples of student work.

SPEAKERS:
Brianna Balke (Blackstone Academy Charter School: Pawtucket, RI)

Environmental Science Climate Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

NARST-Sponsored — Enrich Your Online Classroom and Promote Students’ Critical Thinking with Scientific Caricatures!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Scientific caricatures (SCs) serve as unique instructional and assessment tools to engage students in online classrooms and promote critical thinking. Learn how to incorporate SCs in YOUR classrooms! Resources provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
In online science classrooms, scientific caricatures (SCs) offer an innovative and creative assessment tool for students to imaginatively apply science content, optimize their critical thinking skills, and engage their online peers.

SPEAKERS:
Renee Clary (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS)

General Science Earth & Space Science Life Science Postsecondary Presentation

Ocean Acidification: Investigating the Changes in Oceanic pH & Dissolved Inorganic Carbon Concentrations Resulting from Increased Atmospheric CO2

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Students often find it perplexing that elevated atmospheric CO2 reduces carbonate ion concentrations in the ocean as they learn that increasing the concentration of reactants enhances product formation. Join this session to explore the underlying processes using an interactive computer model.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will utilize an interactive computer model to investigate how three interconnected reactions influence oceanic pH and dissolved inorganic carbon dynamic as atmospheric CO2 level changes. They will also receive ready-to-use classroom activity materials and tips for implementation.

SPEAKERS:
Lin Xiang (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY)

Chemistry Climate Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Disciplinary Literacy in Elementary Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation Disciplinary Literacy in Science
SEP Progression Task
Word Wall Cards
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

See how Baltimore City Schools is using student questions to drive student learning and supports Disciplinary Literacy. Participants will explore strategies such as interactive word walls, and DQBs to support student questioning, discourse, differentiation, and ML students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Be more intentional of when and what strategies to employ to support Disciplinary Literacy and Multi-Lingual students.

SPEAKERS:
Sage Caspersson (Elementary Science Specialist: Baltimore, MD), Melissa Devlin (Educational Specialist: , MD), Kevin Garner, Ed.D. (Baltimore City Public Schools: Baltimore, MD)

Literacy General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Physics of Blood Spatter

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

This session is a cross-curricular project between forensic science and AP physics. These teachers have worked together to solve the age old question – when do we need that in real life? Hello, real world application! Here the session merges multi-level learners and teaches them to apply physics.

TAKEAWAYS:
1.) Cross-curricular projects help strengthen student engagement and increases learning, 2.) The activity will be shared with participants for immediate use and implementation in the classroom upon their return from NSTA 3.) Developing ideas with other content areas keeps the original content “fresh.”

SPEAKERS:
Tessah Zepeda (Los Fresnos CISD: Los Fresnos, TX), Misty Heredia (UTRGV: No City, No State)

Technical and Vocational Education Physics STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science Assessment-AS-Learning: Engaging Students in Meaningful Performance Assessment Tasks

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
All Science Assessment AS Learning Resources
All Science Assessment AS Learning Resources
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

This short session will chronicle the journey of developing and enhancing NGSS-aligned Performance Assessment Tasks that complement effective science instruction and engage students in high-quality phenomenon-based lessons and assessment AS learning!

TAKEAWAYS:
The key takeaways will include: 1. Tips and tricks for writing novel performance assessment tasks that fit right into regular science classes. 2. Tips and tricks for enhancing/modifying existing assessment tasks. 3. Samples of modified assessment tasks for both Biology & Physical Science.

SPEAKERS:
Marissa Murdock (Dekalb County School District: No City, No State)

Assessment Life Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Cultivating a Connection with Nature Through Students' Botanical Histories

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This session will emphasize the power of connecting with nature through the sharing of instructional modules. These modules have been thoughtfully designed to foster relationships between herbaria and high school students with the primary objective of underscoring the significance of plants.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants in this session will gain a deep appreciation for nature's wonders and the vital role plants play in our ecosystem. By exploring our free instructional modules, they will discover innovative ways to connect high school students with the natural world.

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Moore (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)

Environmental Science Biology Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Preparing A&P Students for College

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Are you teaching a high school Anatomy and Physiology course? Do you want to prepare your students for their college A&P course? This session is for you! Learn about the standards and common assessment practices collegiate instructors use. This session will focus on lab instruction and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn how to prepare your students for their collegiate A&P experience.

SPEAKERS:
Sophia Sophia E Garcia (Instructor of Biology: , TX)

Technical and Vocational Education Biology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Unsung Heroes in Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
UnsungHeroesinScience_slides
Google slides with embedded hyperlinks of the session so you can implement what you learned.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Do you want your students to see themselves as scientists? Learn about an innovative approach to promoting equity in your classroom by having students research scientists and researchers in your field to discover unsung heroes in science!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how one science teacher modified a national project and competition to reach students in her marine science classes and help build a set of women and people of color who have contributed to our understanding of the world around us.

SPEAKERS:
Tami Lunsford (Newark Charter School: Newark, DE)

Equity Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Integrating Socio-Scientific Issues into Engineering Design Processes for Middle and High School Students

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The study aimed to explore potential benefits of infusing socio-scientific issues (SSIs) into engineering design for middle & high schoolers. This approach enhances their scientific knowledge and bolsters creative, critical problem-solving skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
By embedding socio-scientific issues (SSIs) into the engineering design process, science teachers can help students develop deeper socio-scientific reasoning skills. This innovative approach sharpens students' scientific knowledge and broadens their creative problem-solving capabilities.

SPEAKERS:
Hai Nguyen (University of Missouri: Columbia, MO)

STEM General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

CAST: DEI in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
DEI Curriculum Audit Tool
This tool aims for educators, community stakeholders, administrators, and curriculum directors to audit a potential curriculum for the presence or absence of diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) in its development. It will assist the members of the auditing community by giving a framework for assessing a curriculum for DEI. This tool can be used in multiple disciplines.
Presentation
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Curious as to what DEI is and how to include it in the classroom? Want to help your students feel supported and included? DEI in the science classroom is about using scientifically accurate and inclusive language to support all of our students in the classroom and in life.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using inclusive and scientifically accurate language will help support all students in the classroom to not only learn but to learn in a safe and supportive environment.

SPEAKERS:
Joanne McGuire (Science teacher: , CO)

Equity Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Popsicles & Balloons & Bandaids, Oh My! Using non-fiction picture books to support your early elementary science classroom.

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Science and literacy go hand in hand in the early elementary classroom. In this session we will use non-fiction picture books to help our students understand scientific and STEM concepts, teach them to connect to the texts, and teach them how to apply these connections to their everyday lives.

TAKEAWAYS:
As elementary teachers, we love to implement literature into our teaching. In this session, attendees will be given several student-approved non-fiction picture book ideas and lessons they can take back with them to encourage problem-solving, creativity, and relationships in their science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Hunt (First Grade Teacher: Eustis, FL)

Literacy General Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Roundtable

Explore Before Explain: Helping Elementary Teachers Embrace 3D Science

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
For Participants (NSTA Roundable 2024) Explore Before Explain Helping Elementary Teachers Embrace 3D Science.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The idea of teaching 3D science can be intimidating to an elementary classroom teacher. But there are ways to ensure elementary generalists love teaching science as much as their students love learning it. Join this roundtable session to discuss how to grow confident teachers of science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to select and implement new curriculum as well as robust professional development to support 3D science learning in their elementary schools.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Jackson (Director of Learning: Northbrook, IL), Kris Raitzer (Assistant Superintendent: Northbrook, IL)

Leadership Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Roundtable

Life on a Sustainable Planet: Sensemaking in Elementary Climate Science Lesson Plans

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: Life on a Sustainable Planet: Sensemaking in Elem Climate Science
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session will introduce participants to NSTA’s Elementary climate science lessons designed using our Sensemaking approach. Investigating engaging and relevant climate phenomena drives student learning and inspires them to examine critical climate issues in their own communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate phenomenon-driven, three-dimensional lessons and units provide students with opportunities to actively try to figure out how the world works or design solutions to problems (sensemaking).

SPEAKERS:
Emily Mathews (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Climate Science General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Promoting Science Appreciation with #ScienceSaves

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

ScienceSaves (www.sciencesaves.org) promotes the fact that science makes life healthier and easier. Our FREE lessons teach graphing, data analysis, engineering practices, etc. They include teacher notes, standards, rubrics, and lesson plans. Check out our $15,000 scholarship for high school seniors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Too often, our students view science as a cold, calculated endeavor. We have lessons that show how a diverse array of scientists have given humanity amazing innovations, like open-heart surgery, CRISPR, and seatbelts. Our goal is for students to see themselves as future scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Bertha Vazquez (G. W. Carver Middle School: Miami, FL)

Advocacy Engineering STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Connect Our Youngest Readers to Nature through Giverny Storybooks!

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Giverny books feature engaging stories and illustrations that teach our youngest readers scientific principles and science-related attitudes. Explore with us how Giverny books connect 4–8-year-old readers with nature through life cycles, seasonal changes, sustainability, and more! Free resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Award-winning Giverny books provide quality science instruction and promote scientific habits of mind for the youngest 4-8-year-old readers. The books invite children to observe and connect to the natural world around them.

SPEAKERS:
Athena Nagel (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS), Renee Clary (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS)

General Science Earth & Space Science Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Architects of STEM Collaborations

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Architects of STEM Collaborations immerse cross sectors to develop a conduit for ALL students to be successful. An established STEM collaboration hub helps ALL students/teachers bridge the cultural and opportunity gaps within our National STEM Ecosystem.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to develop research education blueprints that incorporate culturally responsive externships outside the classroom. Help students gain access to a global "collaboration hub" and pathways for rewarding/productive STEM careers.

SPEAKERS:
Doug Baltz (Seaholm High School: Birmingham, MI)

STEM Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

SciREN the Scientific Research and Education Network : Bringing Collegiate STEM Research to your K-12 Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Learn about the collaboration of university and industry-based researchers with K-12 educators in creating science learning opportunities through community centered STEM lessons and activities that highlight local STEM research.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how the SciREN project supports a collaborative relationship between K-12 Teachers and STEM researchers by providing a platform for researchers to translate their local research into K-12 lesson plans under the guidance of K-12 teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Joni Lakin (University of Alabama at Birmingham: No City, No State), Komanci Love (Northside High School: Northport, AL)

STEM Engineering General Science Presentation

Meet and Greet with Sam Agoos Science Content Specialist from Colorado Department of Education

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

In this session, you can drop in to meet Sam Agoos the Science Content Specialist for the Colorado Department of Education. This time will provide opportunities for networking as well as space for important conversations regarding the status of three dimensional learning in your school or district.

TAKEAWAYS:
Build relationships with Sam Agoos the science content specialist at the Colorado Department of Education.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Agoos (Colorado Department of Education: Denver, CO)

Leadership General Science Presentation

The Science of Racism

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session is for all educators hoping to get their foot in the door for incorporating equity into the classroom through a scientific lens. This a chance to engage in discourse with other educators around overcoming barriers and preparing a ready-to-implement lesson for when they return home!

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn how to engage with and educate around the historic weaponization of science. They will be able to build a lesson around this topic and create a dialogue geared toward middle school aged scholars.

SPEAKERS:
Andi Twiss (New Millennium Academy: Minneapolis, MN)

Equity Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Open Sci Ed making thinking visible

Saturday, March 23 • 8:45 AM - 9:15 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Letting every child have a voice in their learning and understanding of the world and how it works.

TAKEAWAYS:
Examples and strategies of ways to make each scholar voice be heard and the ideas become impactful to all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberly Fluet (Associate Director of Science Education Outreach: Rochester, NY), Ananda Weigand-Sheerer (teacher leader: Rochester, NY)

Advocacy Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Preservice Teacher Session: Building a Foundation for Advocacy-Focused, Equitable Science Teaching and Learning

Saturday, March 23 • 9:10 AM - 10:10 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Join our interactive roundtable of preservice, beginning, and veteran science teachers to discuss their experiences with planning and implementing interdisciplinary, advocacy-focused science lessons. We will be sharing tips, resources, and exemplar lesson plans. Hear their stories and ask questions!

TAKEAWAYS:
Science teachers attending this session will gain research-based instructional practices that will enable them to cultivate an advocacy-focused, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for their students by integrating social justice science issues into their science curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Morgan Glann (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Jaclyn Murray (Mercer University: Macon, GA), Lauren Rupe (Student: , MI), Jim McDonald (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Andrea Henrie (Vanderbilt University: Nashville, TN), Charlotte Graham (Vanderbilt University), Helena Spigner (Pre-Service Teacher: Nashville, TN), Emma Patrus (Student), Cesar Palacios (Undergraduate Student: Nashville, TN), Jenna Cahn (Preservice Educator), Emma Bishop (Pre-service Teacher), Eli Vincent (Student: , MI), Erika Reeves (Bodies STEM Early College Experience Teacher: Columbus, OH), SOPHIA JEONG (The Ohio State University: Columbus, OH)

Preservice Science Education Advocacy Equity Postsecondary Presentation

Choosing the Right Community Science Project for Your School

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Choosing the Right Community Science Project for Your School Presentation
To view my presentation, you'll make a copy for yourself!
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Community science is becoming an increasingly important aspect of science. There are limitless opportunities for schools to use. But where do you start in figuring out what they would like to do? Participants will hear about how Mann Magnet Middle School Arkansas found their opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with the tools to help them evaluate what type of community/citizen science they want, and can participate in, at their schools.

SPEAKERS:
Jackie Scott (Mann Magnet Middle School: Little Rock, AR)

Environmental Science General Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Integrating WIDA ELD Standards in the HS Biology Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Incorporating WIDA ELD Standards in the High School Biology Classroom
Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

We integrated WIDA ELD science standards into our 9th-grade biology curriculum using an APA-style lab report framework, making it adaptable for teachers. ChatGPT accelerated alignment work with iterative prompts. Our process and products will be presented for consideration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Each section of the APA lab report (Introduction, Materials and Methods, Results, and Discussion) features unique language functions and features described in the WIDA ELD standards. By focusing on one section per quarter, we can cover all standards through a predictable and transferable structure.

SPEAKERS:
Velvet Karg (Round Lake High School: Round Lake, IL), Bryan Rolfsen (Round Lake High School: Round Lake, IL)

Biology Equity Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

From Disengaged to Empowered: Transforming Science Education Through Competency-Based Learning

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Competency Based Education (CBE)
From Disengaged to Empowered: Transforming Science Education through Competency-Based Learning
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Competency-based education at Mount Vernon revolutionized science learning through personalized, mastery-driven paths. Hear how CBE engaged and empowered students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave inspired to reimagine science instruction through competency-based models that empower student-driven mastery.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Lariscy (The Mount Vernon School: Atlanta, GA)

STEM Equity General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Immersive STEM Lab Challenges That Transform Your Whole Space: The Who Did It? Black Light Challenge and the Mad Scientist Escape Room

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

These immersive STEM lab challenges will engage students by allowing them to explore through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic stimuli. Each student grouping will navigate with their team members to collect evidence and clues to piece together the narrative of each scenario.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to design immersive lessons that go beyond the design process based on multiple STEM skills utilized throughout the school year. These lessons will optimize student engagement and enhance their problem-solving skills.

SPEAKERS:
Brielle Carabetta (Millstone Township Elementary School: Millstone Township, NJ)

STEM General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Frozen Worlds Unveiled: A Journey from Classroom to Climate Change

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Frozen Worlds Unveiled.pptx
PowerPoint for Presentation
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Experience an interdisciplinary lesson challenging students to achieve an understanding of climate change by improving their comprehension about the polar areas at the North and South Poles. Data sets and a hands-on experiment will be shared as well as strategies for inclusive, anti-bias teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with a lesson that will help their students understand the polar regions and glaciers. The lesson is from an AMS workshop that was hosted for teachers during the summer. Teachers will learn about the workshop and COLDEX. Data sets and a hands-on experiment will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Diane Ripollone (Cardinal Gibbons High School: Raleigh, NC)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Activated Carbon Materials to Remove Lead in Arizona Water, A NanoEnvironmental Engineering Research

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Denver 2024- ASU Denise and Kim.pptx
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Activated carbon filters are an effective tool in water purification for residential use. Through this experience, students are able to better understand that lead gets into their water through lead service lines, pipes, plumbing fixtures, and faucets and contaminates water.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through this research, students can detect lead in their water by using cost-effective testing strips and remove it by activated carbon materials.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Alvin De Lara (Teacher: , AZ)

Environmental Science STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Incorporating Citizen Science into the Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
The Importance of Citizen Science.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

This session will explain what citizen science is and help to identify projects for your students in your local community. Learn how to find ideas, inspire curiosity among your students, and collect real-time data that can be used to support ongoing science initiatives.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with the ability to implement real research collection in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Langley (Science Educator: Tulsa, OK)

General Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Starting the Year Off with a Bang!

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 708


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Beginning of the Year Presentation (1).pptx
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The first few weeks of school set the tone for the rest of the year, and what better way to begin than to inspire your students through fun scientific activities?

TAKEAWAYS:
Come learn some amazing activities for the first few weeks of school to inspire wonder and curiousity in your students.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Bean (8th Grade Science Teacher: Chicago, IL)

General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Playful Explorations to Develop Elementary Students’ Appreciation of the Natural World

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Let's read some awesome books and pair them with opportunities to build structured playful experiences fostering an appreciation of our natural world. The session shares a collection of environmentally-themed children’s books and activities, and includes an annotated list of trade books, grades K-3.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn the value of using the Outstanding Science Trade Books to create engaging, standards-based, playful activities to develop an appreciation of the natural world.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Parks (Stetson University: Deland, FL)

General Science Earth & Space Science Life Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Don’t Believe Everything You Believe

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

By 2025, it’s estimated that 463 exabytes of data will be created daily; that’s like 212,765,957 DVDs/day! How can our students know if the information they receive is credible? Generation Skeptics teaches the necessary skills with lessons and guest speakers. (www.generationskeptics.org)

TAKEAWAYS:
Generation Skeptics arms educators with free resources to instill skepticism in students. Recognizing the proliferation of misinformation, GenSkeps seeks to equip the next generation with the enduring principles of the scientific method and the importance of substantiating claims with evidence.

SPEAKERS:
Bertha Vazquez (G. W. Carver Middle School: Miami, FL)

Literacy Sensemaking STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Empowering Multilingual Learners and High-Needs Students Through Science Notebooks

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Explore how science notebooks can empower Multilingual Learners and high-needs students, offering differentiation and creativity in science education.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will take with you the ideas behind embracing flexible science notebooks to foster creativity and promoting inclusivity in science education K-12.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Warren (Norwood Public Schools: Norwood, MA)

General Science Equity Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Brain-Based Learning for Elementary Students

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Brain-Based Mindfulness for Young Learners 2024.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

What do young learners know about how the brain works? Brain-based research and mindfulness can have a profound impact on young learners. Foster a growth mindset in your young students. Presenter will share research and curriculum guides to plan a similar unit in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
How can brain-based research help me understand and teach the development of a growth mindset?

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Kurson (Collegiate School: New York, NY)

General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Do You Know How To Glow?

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Creating a Circuit.docx
Do You Know How to Glow.pptx
Electric Energy Notes PPT.pptx
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1FxaiYhBMfHbuKoJQgzZNk-Llwj_DVdEAVB6iqAwwO6Y/edit?usp=sharing
Will It Light.docx
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

With a few simple materials, light up your student’s creativity with this fun and engaging STEAM activity. Students will create colorful greeting cards that have real working lights. You can then fill your classroom with these cards of joy!

TAKEAWAYS:
This activity uses science to explore electrical currents moving through a wire. Students can take it up a notch by including multiple LEDs, and two switches! Light up one object, two objects, or light three at the same time.

SPEAKERS:
Pepper Thiels (Teacher: , LA)

STEM Physical Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

SCST Presents: Encompassing Diverse Identities Through History of Science and Stories of Geoheritage

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

The Story Behind the Story engaged college students of diverse identities with an often-untold history of mineral exploration/exploitation, and connected them with professional societies to help broaden participation. Join us to explore what worked—and what challenges remain.

TAKEAWAYS:
In an interactive session, participants discuss the effectiveness of the history of science/geoheritage to broaden participation—and explore avenues of how college science instructors can facilitate diversity in the sciences.

SPEAKERS:
Renee Clary (Mississippi State University: Mississippi State, MS)

Equity Earth & Space Science General Science Postsecondary Presentation

Making Sense of the Colorado Academic Standards for Science

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session will provide K-12 Colorado science teachers support with aligning classroom instruction to the Colorado Academic Standards for Science by unpacking the components of the standards and providing free, evidence-based instructional resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this session, participants will recognize the three dimensions of the Evidence Outcome Statements outlined in the Colorado Academic Standards for Science and leave with evidence-based instructional resources to support them in aligning their science instruction with the standards.

SPEAKERS:
Samantha Agoos (Colorado Department of Education: Denver, CO)

Equity General Science Leadership Presentation

Investigating Soil in Nature

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Soil Activities.docx
Soil Presentation
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Soil is a natural resource that provides the foundation for producing our food, shelter, and provides the foundation on which to build our buildings and cities. Learn what is under our feet by comparing soils in different habitats and examining the past environment in which they formed.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore soil using simple tests and easy-to-find tools that allows us to examine soil structure, unique soil characteristics, and test for the stability of soil. Learn activities, songs, and games that can be taught indoors or outdoors to connect our natural ecosystem to classroom topics.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Dorn (Greenacres Foundation: Cincinnati, OH)

Informal Education Earth & Space Science Environmental Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Investigating the Influence of Professional Learning Groups on Culture-Based Physics Curricula

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Physics educators utilize culturally-based teaching methods. We spotlight professional communities of physics instructors emphasizing (1) strong teacher identity, (2) effective curriculum design, and (3) student comprehension assessment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Physics educators emphasize culturally-based teaching, focusing on teacher identity, curriculum design, and student understanding. They lean towards culturally relevant pedagogy, facing challenges in fostering critical thinking and student autonomy.

SPEAKERS:
Clausell Mathis (Assistant Professor: , MI)

Physics Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Supporting Elementary Pre-Service Teachers in STEM: Engagement & Retention in Formal Teacher Preparation Programs & Informal Science Spaces

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

This project shows how informal science spaces provide opportunities for pre-service teachers to build their knowledge in STEM disciplines, develop their STEM teaching skills, and take on leadership roles. A set of best practices will be shared with specific examples and lessons learned.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore the affordances of partnerships between university programs and informal science spaces through a model of engagement consisting of: distributed expertise, agency, learning and growth, transformational leadership, community engagement, creating change-makers, and longevity.

SPEAKERS:
Carmen Vanderhoof (Penn State: University Park, PA)

Preservice Science Education Informal Education STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Leading from the Classroom: Ways to Influence Science Education and Still Teach

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 709

Show Details

Come learn about ways that you can help advance the field of Science Education and improve your teaching through the many different leadership opportunities that exist which also allow you to stay in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how participation in teacher advisory committees supporting museums and science centers, or other organizations such as Science Olympiad, NSTA, and NSELA can allow them to improve their teaching and be Science Education leaders while remaining in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Joshua Smith (Phenomenon Science Education: Amherst, MA), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: No City, No State), Roy Arezzo (Retired Science Teacher: , NY), Tim Lundt (Science Teacher: Woodland Park, CO), Shari Brady (Kaleideum: Winston-Salem, NC), John Loehr (Science Olympiad: Oakbrook Terrace, IL)

Leadership Informal Education STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Student Role-Play Experiences in Sustaining Watershed Ecosystems

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 706

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

We’ll share free online role-play modules for oysters & mussels. Students imbue roles of watermen, environmentalists, scientists, & regulators. They research roles & identify issues to debate & agree upon solutions to threatened & invasive species (mussels) & commercialism vs conservation (oysters).

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers gain awareness of and access to OER support curriculum and student exemplars developed across a 3-year grant aligned with the 3 dimensions of NGSS and NOAA’s meaningful watershed educational experience framework. The modules were piloted across 3 diverse school districts (urban and rural).

SPEAKERS:
Al Byers (AB Advising: No City, No State)

Environmental Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Gender, Equity, & Science Writing: Improving Differences in Life Science Majors’ Attitudes Toward Writing Lab Reports

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 601


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Palmer et al., Gender, equity and lab reports
Here is the link to my presentation
Science writing activities
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Important differences exist in attitudes toward writing lab reports for undergraduate life science majors who identify as female and male. We use survey data to determine how to help students improve upon the lab report. Action-oriented science writing strategies will be provided to help students.

TAKEAWAYS:
For those interested in gender differences, equity, and post-secondary science writing, this session provides an overview of perceptions and attitudes of writing lab reports for life science majors identifying as female and those identifying as male.

SPEAKERS:
Timothy Slater (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Kristy Palmer (Ph.D. Candidate)

Equity Biology Life Science Postsecondary Presentation

Culturally Inclusive Teaching in the Garden

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Culturally relevant practices in the school garden.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

To validate and celebrate the interests and experiences of our students, we will delve deep into the significance of culture as it relates to food and gardens, and also as it relates to the diverse populations with whom we work. We will explore ways to celebrate and center culture through gardening.

TAKEAWAYS:
By their nature, gardens embody diversity. Garden education is increasingly recognized as an interdisciplinary approach that integrates academic goals, health and wellness, place-based education, and community connections and relationships.

SPEAKERS:
Rhonda Gadino (Topeka Public Schools: No City, No State)

Life Science Environmental Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

How a State Science Leadership Organization Grew Into a Community of Belonging, Support, and Resilience

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

By cultivating positive relationships among science educators and leaders, including the state department of education, district science leaders, college professors, and vendor partners, the SC Science Education Leadership Association has actively advocated for K-12 science in South Carolina.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn what makes SCSELA a successful state science leadership organization and how to implement community-building practices within their own science leadership communities in order to grow a network that advocates for successful science education.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Sullivan (Richland School District Two: Columbia, SC), Edwin Emmer (Richland School District Two: Columbia, SC)

Leadership Advocacy Postsecondary Presentation

Bringing the Science of Solar Eclipses Into the Classroom: Design of a New York State Eclipse Weather Experiment

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

There will be two solar eclipses in New York, a partial and a total eclipse. We have designed an Eclipse Weather Experiment to record temperature, cloud coverage, and wind speed. We will launch a high-altitude balloon and the combined observations will elucidate eclipse-induced weather changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Construction of a high-altitude balloon is a very useful STEM activity as it requires engineering skills, knowledge of topics in physics and chemistry, and simulation of the equations of motion that will appeal to computer-oriented students.

SPEAKERS:
Matthew Yatsyla (Caroline G Atkinson Elem: Freeport, NY)

Earth & Space Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Making Connections: Building Bridges Between High School and College Biology

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation 3_17_24.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Join us to learn about a university-led program that sought to bridge the gap between high school and college-level biology. We will share the concepts where our students struggle–at both the high school and first-year college level–and explore best practices to support their learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to build partnerships between universities and high schools to support the final tier of vertical articulation for our students. We will also share the content and study skill gaps that persist from high school through college, and specific strategies to address them.

SPEAKERS:
Kyle Houser (Coordinator, STEM Student Success: No City, No State), Cathlene Leary-Elderkin (National Board of Medical Examiners: Philadelphia, PA), Drue Stapleton (Associate Professor: lawrenceville, NJ)

Biology Equity Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

SCST Presents: Improving College Student Success by Managing Power Dynamics in Academia

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Education research reveals that advanced undergraduate and graduate students often feel a lack of agency when working under faculty advisors. More effective mentoring practices can demonstrate positive effects on student success. Best practices and expectation management principles are provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
Data gathered from current graduate students and experienced advisors is presented. The strengths and weaknesses of graduate education are highlighted and recommendations for improvement are provided. Participants will be better equipped to build more productive relationships with diverse students.

SPEAKERS:
Timothy Slater (University of Wyoming: Laramie, WY), Michelle Mason (Graduate Researcher: No City, No State)

Advocacy Equity Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

Space for Space Leadership

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Are you looking for specific Space Science Professional Learning or want to be an ambassador for space science? Come learn about current outreach programs to apply for Space Education Ambassador programs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will have access to a variety of Professional Learning programs in Space Science and ways to connect with other Space Education Educators. Participants will also learn about strategies for Leadership in Aerospace Education.

SPEAKERS:
Heidi Ragsdale (STEM Professional Development: Grand Junction, CO)

Earth & Space Science Leadership STEM Presentation

What is the NAGT TED Earth Sciences Teacher Leader Award?

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_NAGT ESTL Award_Metlay_23Mar24.pdf
NAGT Earth Sciences Teacher Leader Award Suzanne T. Metlay Western Governors University
NSTA_NAGT ESTL Award_Metlay_23Mar24.pptx
NAGT Earth Sciences Teacher Leader Award Suzanne T. Metlay Western Governors University
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

NAGT's Teacher Education Division developed 10 leadership criteria to encourage K-12 educators as teacher leaders. This competitive annual award honors teachers who satisfy at least 7 criteria. Each qualified nominee receives a certificate of recognition, but only 1 nominee earns the annual award.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to (self-)nominate a candidate for the NAGT TED Earth Sciences Teacher Leader Award. We will consider the leadership criteria, nominating committee concerns, and monetary value of the award.

SPEAKERS:
Suzanne Metlay (Western Governors University: Salt Lake City, UT)

Leadership Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Engineering District Science Leaders

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Engineering District Science Leaders- How-To Guide.docx
NSTA Denver 2024 - Slide Deck.pptx
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Loyola University Chicago is partnering with Chicago Public Schools to use an engineering design approach to create an innovative system for science teacher career development.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn the key factors and lessons learned from 6 years of implementing a PL system designed to both advance teachers' science instructional practice while also explicitly enhancing their capacity to serve as district science teacher leaders.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Cherry (Loyola University Chicago: Chicago, IL), Sarah Stults (Loyola University Chicago: Chicago, IL)

Leadership General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Feedback Automation with Autocrat

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Are you looking for a way to simplify your workload of grading and providing feedback on CER writing tasks? Look no further than Autocrat! This Google Sheets extension can shorten your grading and feedback process from weeks to minutes!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with templates of resources from the presentation that will enable them to carry out their own automated feedback process using Autocrat.

SPEAKERS:
Morgan Cook (Chemistry Teacher: No City, No State)

Technology Assessment Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Data-Driven Ecosystems: Student Research

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Community Mapping orientation cards.pdf
Data-Driven Ecosystems_ Student Research Key Takeaways.docx
The slide deck is not uploaded, but this document lists the pathways to make this kind of authentic research project which includes many resources that were used.
Green Crab Trap Data Recording Form for Field Work
https://findings.gmri.org/journal/
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Experience a grade 6-8 science project engaging students in science inquiry including field work, data analysis, and submission of research papers to a peer-reviewed student journal. See how students improve data literacy and scientific communication skills by investigating relevant questions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Student work generated during an inquiry investigation focused on understanding broader questions related to changing climate illustrates how to support students in all aspects of the scientific process including field protocols, authentic questions, data analysis, and rigorous scientific writing.

SPEAKERS:
Monica Wright (Bath Middle School: Bath, ME)

Life Science Climate Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Patterns Physics: Engineering a 50 Year Energy Plan

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Explore an NGSS-aligned 3D learning journey merging physics, earth science & engineering via inquiry & projects. Delve into a storyline based on creating a Sustainable Energy Plan, engaging in hands-on activities like building speakers, engineering wind turbines, and modeling solar cells.

TAKEAWAYS:
At the end of the workshop, the entire year of Patterns Physics resources will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Bradford Hill (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR), Matt McCollum (Mountainside High School: Beaverton, OR)

Physics Earth & Space Science Engineering Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science for all: Strategies for our Emergent Bilingual Students

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 106


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Science For All_ .pptx
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Science for all. As the population we serve changes, our practices should change with it. It is important that we know who our Emergent Bilingual students are, what problems they face and what are some things we can do to better support them.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will take away specific and intentional strategies to support their Emergent Bilingual students such as language objectives, structured discourse, and effective vocabulary integration.

SPEAKERS:
Carminia Moreno (Fort Worth ISD: No City, No State)

Advocacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Nature Study: Where Science Comes to Life!

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

How can we ignite scientific learning in our elementary students? Leveraging school campuses as inspiration, we will describe integrated science lessons that harmoniously blend 3D Learning and the 5E Learning Cycle, and foster deeper scientific investigations of local outdoor learning environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use their school campus as an outdoor learning environment to examine natural phenomena and create meaningful and safe 3D/5E elementary science lessons aligned to standards.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen Saxen (: Dayton, OH), Michelle Fleming (Wright State University: Dayton, OH)

General Science Equity Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Building physics classroom culture: How to have difficult conversations

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Difficult Conversations
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Participants will gain tools for reducing marginalization in the physics classroom. This session begins with STEP UP’s Women in Physics curriculum and ends with resources and strategies for having difficult but necessary conversations about equity and inclusion.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain resources and strategies for having DEI–related conversations in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Praisy Poluan (STEM Teacher & Education Researcher: , CA)

Physics Equity Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Analog Teach with a Digital Reach

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

How can we combine soft skills with science? Learn how to incorporate 21st century career and post-secondary options into your science content lessons!

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover more ways to expose your students to the REAL WORLD relevance of science after graduation.

SPEAKERS:
Aliyah Johnson (Alpharetta High School: Alpharetta, GA)

Advocacy Informal Education Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Progress to the Periodic Table: Playing Periodic Table Battleship to Increase Periodic Table Fluency and Create Peer-to-Peer Relationships

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 712


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Periodic Table Battlesheet
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

A periodic table battle ship game that I created with Google Sheets allows students to play a game that enables students to use the periodic table as a playing field. Students communicate with each other, building their understanding, fluency, sportsmanship, and positive classroom community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the benefits of the game and be able to participate in game play with another attendee. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RhRi_x4IAZwGNfor-JkiU-B5kisb1Wqm7OXtTQTsoRQ/edit?usp=sharing

SPEAKERS:
Peter Kelly (Brandywine Springs School)

Chemistry Computer Science Equity Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

EarthX: Advancing Earth Science Instruction Across High School Life and Physical Science

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EarthX NSTA 2024 Session
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

EarthX is a collaboration of stakeholders supporting the implementation of Earth Science and local phenomena into Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. EarthX is developing, testing, and refining embedded, BOY, and unit assessments that will provide near-real-time feedback to teachers and students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about our research and have the opportunity to see embedded formative assessments and use the UC Berkeley BASS system (AI).

SPEAKERS:
Alan Berkowitz (Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Millbrook, NY), Angela Hood (Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Millbrook, NY), Edmund Mitzel Jr (Baltimore City Public Schools: Baltimore, MD), Kevin Garner, Ed.D. (Baltimore City Public Schools: Baltimore, MD)

Assessment Earth & Space Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

AI—Anne's Insights

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
AI--Anne's Insights....NSTA 2024 Denver
Show Details

New technology can be overwhelming. In this session, ways to incorporate AI in your classroom will be shared. From help in developing content materials, to management tasks, to actual student use, AI can be a valuable tool for both teacher & student when application is modeled appropriately.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with a list of artificial intelligence resources and hopefully the confidence to try something new.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Fritz (Science Teacher: Eustis, FL)

Technology General Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Coding in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA_2024_Coding_in_Science.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Coding may not be a necessary skill for every science, but learning to code can benefit students in all areas. With modern coding languages and environments, it is easy to demonstrate the benefit of computational thinking in basic sciences without much coding background for teachers or students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Easy-to-learn coding tools are now available that allow novice teachers or students to quickly model or demonstrate a wide variety of science-based concepts. This deepens student understanding and appreciation of the scientific idea.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Wong (Mercy Academy: Louisville, KY)

STEM General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Science for All: Navigating a Fluid Classroom Culture

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join the classroom culture conversation in this session as we discuss strategies for promoting inclusivity in the science classroom through adaptability, community building circles, responsiveness, and collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore welcoming routines, as well as content and non-content prompts used in community building circles that foster a positive and safe environment. Sample newsletters will be available to share ideas for collaboration among the learning community that support inclusive science education.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Yajaira Fuentes-Tauber (Rocky Mountain High School: No City, No State)

Equity General Science Leadership Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Mountain Gorillas, Bwindi Youth Guardians, and STEAM Conservation Projects

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CTPH Ushers in new STEM project for young people
Newsletter description of youth STEAM conservation project launch in February 2023
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bDXWqHYYyNCQ8Uw99QYxxST3jRPD9oSt/view?usp=sharing
Slide selection from presentation, and how to get more information and resources
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Teams of youth living next to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of mountain gorillas, are becoming solutionaries with their STEAM conservation projects that help the forest, the gorillas and other wildlife, and people. This program is with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, NatGeo Explorer.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand that these solutions-based STEAM conservation projects are designed by youth to create systemic and beneficial change for people, the environment, and non-human animals. The projects are empowering many marginalized youth with knowledge, life skills, and confidence.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Arndt (Global GreenSTEM: Franktown, CO)

Equity Environmental Science STEM Presentation

Life on a Sustainable Planet: Sensemaking in Secondary Climate Science Lesson Plans

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Learn How to Teach Climate Science with NSTA's Sensemaking Approach Collection
Materials for Learn How to Teach Climate Science with NSTA's Sensemaking Approach
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session will introduce participants to NSTA’s Secondary climate science lessons designed using our Sensemaking approach. Investigating engaging and relevant climate phenomena drives student learning and inspires them to examine critical climate issues in their own communities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate phenomenon-driven, three-dimensional lessons, and units provide students with opportunities to actively try to figure out how the world works or design solutions to problems (sensemaking).

SPEAKERS:
NSTA Online Advisors (Teachers), Holly Hereau (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Climate Science Biology Earth & Space Science Hands-On Workshop

Engaging Labs & Teaching Tips - Helping All Students Love Physics (even if they don’t love math)

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

My first years of teaching Physics at Title 1 schools in Memphis were challenging. Many of my students were very behind, especially in math. However, I developed 3 strategies to make learning physics engaging and accessible.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will come away from this session with a list of labs and strategies that they can immediately implement in their classrooms to make physics more accessible and engaging, especially for their lower-level learners.

SPEAKERS:
Jack Replinger (FormerTeacher / Founder: , WA)

Physics Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

The History, Tools, and Potential of Climate Education and Advocacy

Saturday, March 23 • 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

We will highlight the importance of climate education and present educators with strategies and resources to develop climate literacy and advocacy in their classrooms. We aim to inspire and support educators to increase climate education in their classrooms this year.

TAKEAWAYS:
The need for climate education is urgent, and plenty of resources and strategies exist to make implementation possible today.

SPEAKERS:
Bryce Coon (EARTHDAY.ORG: Washington, DC)

Climate Science Advocacy Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teacher Voices -- Keynote Panel "Identity, Community, Connection"

Saturday, March 23 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 1

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

We’ve all experienced the power of immersion. Learning in these moments, fostering a deep connection to the community and world around us, can have a profound impact on students. Join us for this Teacher Voices Keynote Panel

TAKEAWAYS:
Moderated by Dr Stephen Pruitt, featuring Julia Navarro, Charles Hayes, and Khamphet Pease

SPEAKERS:
Stephen Pruitt (Southern Regional Education Board: Atlanta, GA), Julia Navarro (Wheeling High School: Wheeling, IL), Khamphet Pease (Teacher), Charles Hayes (Highland Oaks Elementary School: Memphis, TN)

Leadership Equity Grades 6 - 8 Keynote Address

The Dinosaur Apocalypse: One Outdoor Educator's Guide to the Frontiers of Colorado, Science, and Education

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1C

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Presented by an author of more than thirty peer-reviewed regional and international journal papers on the topic, this presentation tells the world-renowned story of Colorado's rocks through the rocks themselves and the people who have studied the K/Pg boundary.

TAKEAWAYS:
Although scientific revolutions or advancement often occur through new discoveries and technology, some major revolutions occur simply because of changes in the way that we perceive the world around us—demonstrated through a virtual hike across a world-famous K/Pg boundary outcrop.

SPEAKERS:
Keith Berry (Hoehne Re-3 School District: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Biology Climate Science Presentation

Science & STEM in the Sub-Arctic

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

STEM approaches and outreach are incredibly unique in one of North America’s largest geographical school divisions. Explore Sub-Arctic STEM with hands-on activities, resources to implement into your classroom, and continued global STEM opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will acquire both inspiration and practical ideas to implement into the classroom with no delay. Participants will be engaged in approaches to Science that are unique to the North, and adaptable to any classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jacqueline Monteith (Frontier School Division: Winnipeg, MB)

General Science STEM Hands-On Workshop

Teachers' Experience of Implementing Elementary Science Curriculum After Participation in Development

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

The presentation will review the findings and implications of a qualitative dissertation research study of elementary teachers who developed and implemented a standards-based science curriculum and how that experience plays out in teachers' classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
How does building and district leadership help or hinder the science curriculum implementation process?

SPEAKERS:
David Jacob (Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES: Yorktown Hghts, NY)

Leadership Equity Sensemaking Postsecondary Presentation

Meeting in the Middle

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1d7CfHT3EkHWxjRzsrwknFC6EGsuBU4nRyXu_pB94nWo/edit?usp=sharing
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

In this session, you will learn about how Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago Public Schools have created spaces for teachers, informal science educators, and researchers to come together to increase student understanding of the natural world in ways that support both formal and informal curricula.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn methods for more robust collaboration between school districts and informal science partners that will increase student critical thinking and science literacy to make informed decisions about their communities and the environment.

SPEAKERS:
Rosie Arnold (Lincoln Park Zoo: No City, No State), Laura Decker (Chicago Public Schools: Chicago, IL)

Leadership Informal Education Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Breaking Down Silos in STEM through STEM Immersion in Informal Learning Spaces

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

This session presents a replicable model used by a university professor, school system leaders, and industry leaders to blur the lines of STEM learning into informal spaces enabling students from marginalized populations to see themselves (STEM identity) as future STEM participants.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using a replicable and intentional model of collaboration can positively impact STEM identities of educators and youth, while also creating a K-12 pipeline into the STEM industry.

SPEAKERS:
Taylor Lamon (Saban Center Education Specialist), Melisa Fowler (The University of Alabama: Tuscaloosa, AL)

STEM Advocacy Informal Education Presentation

Preservice Teacher Session: What to Expect as a Novice Science Teacher – A Guide to Student Teaching and Your First 3 Years

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Join our panel of preservice and novice teachers as they share internship and early teaching experiences. Ask questions and gain valuable insights!

TAKEAWAYS:
Preservice teachers can be better prepared to student teach and begin their first jobs by hearing stories from, and asking questions of, preservice and new teachers who have just experienced interning, or their first years of teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez (NSTA: Arlington, VA), SOPHIA JEONG (The Ohio State University: Columbus, OH), Laura Robertson (East Tennessee State University: Johnson City, TN), Erika Reeves (Bodies STEM Early College Experience Teacher: Columbus, OH), Jaclyn Murray (Mercer University: Macon, GA), Kelsea Gray (Teacher: Dublin, OH)

Preservice Science Education Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

Meet the Committee - NSTA's Informal Science Division

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Meet the Informal Science Committee - session slides
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

We invite educators from both formal and informal science learning environments to come and engage with the Informal Science committee. Learn how the committee can support you, and connect with professionals from museums, zoos, aquaria, out-of-school-time programs, and more!

TAKEAWAYS:
Meet the Informal Science Committee, and find out how to connect with them in their work to support informal educators, expand the role of informal learning institutions, and strengthen the bonds between formal and informal science learning.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Hays (Denver Zoo: Denver, CO), Lindsay Milner (Mad Science Group Inc.: Montreal, QC)

Informal Education General Science Leadership Hands-On Workshop

Clean Energy and Workforce Development - Getting Students Engaged Early

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Tools for Student Clean Energy Engagement.pptx
It is important to engage students early to meet our nation's clean energy goals. Here are some tools created by NREL, NEED, KidWind, BEF to help get the next generation clean energy workforce engaged and motivated to be part of this important objective!
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

To achieve a clean energy future, the industry needs new, diverse talent to fill jobs across many different occupations, spur innovation, and build a better world. Let's discuss ways this can be achieved and how the Department of Energy and its national labs can best inspire the next generation.

TAKEAWAYS:
The goal would be to seek feedback from participants, share tools and resources to support challenges to meeting our nation's clean energy workforce needs, and solicit input into future work efforts to attract those that want to build a better world.

SPEAKERS:
Iain Sterry (STEM Engagement and Training Manager: Portland, OR), Michael Arquin (KidWind Project: Saint Paul, MN), Arielle Cardinal (Senior Project Manager - Water Power Program: Golden, CO), Kimberly Swan (The NEED Project: Manassas, VA), Elise DeGeorge (Project Leader: LA CRESCENTA, CA)

STEM Engineering Postsecondary Presentation

Pollinator’s Favorite Flower/Food: A 3-H Model Framed Lesson

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

A lesson framed by the 3-H model to provide students a personal connection to make sense of a pollinator’s needs through role play, art, and science content for a variety of foods. Students investigate generalist, specialist, and mutualism using the phenomenon of pollinator and flower relationships.

TAKEAWAYS:
Flowers and pollinators are tightly linked to each other’s survival. Students will want to protect a variety of flowers as sources of food for pollinators and connect pollinator's needs for variety of flowers to their needs for a variety of foods, learning about generalists, specialists, mutualism.

SPEAKERS:
Aurora Hughes Villa (Utah State University: No City, No State), Michelle Parslow (Student)

Sensemaking Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

SCST Presents: High Structure Course Design for STEM Disciplines

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Website for more info
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

High structure course design, which includes pre-class content acquisition and assessment, in-class active learning, and after-class review and assessment, has been shown to improve student outcomes, reduce achievement gaps, and increase belonging.

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1.) Explain what high structure course design is and the benefits of applying it to STEM courses, and 2.) Begin to apply the principles of high structure course design to their own courses.

SPEAKERS:
Justin Shaffer (Colorado School of Mines: No City, No State)

STEM Assessment Postsecondary Presentation

Extreme Living: Making Sense of Changing Weather Patterns and Designing Solutions

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This interactive presentation provides teachers with a ready-to-use middle school science unit. The Unit connects students' current weather experiences to Earth's weather systems. Next, students learn and apply their knowledge of thermal energy to a school building engineering design project.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to teach and assess a dynamic 3D unit addressing Physical Science and Earth Space Science Next Generation Science Standards. Teachers will leave with editable access to all Unit materials. Teachers will get time and guidance on how to adapt the Unit to their classroom and student needs.

SPEAKERS:
Kat Chamberlain (Ridgetop Middle School: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Engineering Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Changing How Teachers Learn: A New PD Model

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Teacher PD typically includes 1-2 weeks of intensive summer instruction, but implementation is often months later. How effective is this model and is there a better way? We will share our research from a PD model that is based on pedagogical techniques used in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
This paper will share the logistics of our PD model, challenges, findings from our current research, and implications for future PD in K-16.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Matsler (University of Texas Arlington: No City, No State)

Advocacy Leadership STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Weaving the Weather

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Weaving the Weather Slides
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Discover how you can model weather and climate data on a classroom loom. Riffing on the temperature blanket trend, we will discuss how a floor loom can be used to create data visualization models. You will create your own personal loom and weave one month’s weather data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with strategies to model weather and climate, as well a variety of other data, in their classrooms. They will get resources to make their own floor loom for a classroom as well as smaller personal looms.

SPEAKERS:
Katrina Heimbach (Msad 55: Hiram, ME)

Sensemaking Earth & Space Science General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

A Phenomenal Approach to Notebooking: Putting the Interaction into Interactive Notebooks

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Jennifer Weibert Materials.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Make student thinking come to life with notebooks! Increase the rigor of student work—learn new strategies for organizing content and how to use templates for any science class. Take home many current NGSS classroom examples to get you started.

TAKEAWAYS:
1.) The how and why of science notebooks; 2.) Engaging ALL students in science; and 3.) Templates scaffold student learning for success.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Weibert (Fresno County Office of Education: Fresno, CA)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Biophilia Effects in Secondary Science Classrooms on Retention, Academic Achievement and Student Motivation

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slideshow for presentation
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Biophilia a term coined by Edward O. Wilson stating humans innately want to interact and be surrounded by living things. Biophilia is positively correlated to productivity, happiness, and longevity. We examined the effects of biophilia on secondary science classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students completed an online dissection and a natural dissection with two specimens: an earthworm and an Egyptian star cluster flower. When students were involved in the natural dissection (Biophilia lesson) they had higher student motivation compared to performing an online dissection.

SPEAKERS:
Keli Potter (Preservice: No City, No State), Annie Dietz (Wartburg College: Waverly, IA)

Biology Informal Education STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

How To Use NOAA Data: A Guide For Educators

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NOAA Data A guide for educators
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Learn how to access and explore NOAA’s data-rich resources, lesson plans, and visualization tools to build data literacy and proficiency in scientific data analysis. This session is appropriate for 6th grade through college educators and informal educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
What types of data are available from NOAA and how to find and use NOAA data in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Smith (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Silver Spring, MD), Bekkah Lampe (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD)

Environmental Science Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Adapting the GRID Method to Successfully Teach Middle School Science at a Title 1 School

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Presentation Life Science GRID.pptx
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

How to challenge every student regardless of the level of background knowledge through the use of the GRID method, teacher check, and mini lessons. These strategies and methods are successful with all levels of students (elementary to high school) and can cover all types of science.

TAKEAWAYS:
The one main takeaway from this presentation will be how to use teacher checks. Teacher checks are a quick way to question every student after assignments to assess their knowledge of the non-negotiable content standards and address any issues before summative assessments.

SPEAKERS:
Jen Zelei (Finland Middle School: Columbus, OH), Christine Pegg (South-Western City Schools: Columbus, OH)

Life Science Biology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Implementing New Jersey's First in the Nation Climate Change Education Standards: Progress Towards Full Implementation and Key Takeaways

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA March 2024.pptx
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

In 2020, New Jersey adopted the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Climate Change Education, interdisciplinary standards that were the first of their kind in our nation. Join us to learn more about their implementation and current expansion efforts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees at this workshop will gain insight into the development and implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Climate Change Education. We’ll share high leverage resources and programs that may be used to support similar efforts across the country.

SPEAKERS:
Ross Gary (New Jersey Department of Education: No City, No State), Sarah Sterling-Laldee (New Jersey Department of Education: No City, No State)

Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Coaching For Equity: Instructional Coaching as a Way to Address Systemic Inequity in Science Classrooms

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Instructional coaching is a way to build reflective practices in teachers to drive instructional change. The relational nature of coaching techniques allows the coach to provide specific, context-based suggestions that could be used to address inequitable structures in classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Individuals who work with teachers can make specific and intentional moves to help science teachers reflect on and challenge structures of power, narratives, and values of science, and what science participation looks like from within specific classroom structures.

SPEAKERS:
Jeff Spencer (Illinois Regional Office of Education: Chicago, IL)

Leadership Equity General Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Locating Earthquake Epicenters Online

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Earthquake Location Tool Suite
Earthscopes_Free_Education_Resources-NSTA2024_pdf
Find_EarthScope_on_Social_Media-NSTA2024_pdf
Session Presentation
Sign_up_for_Earthscopes_Educator_Newsletter_pdf
Show Details

Explore our new web-based interactive earthquake lab! Engage your students in learning and practicing earthquake location and analysis techniques with real seismic data! Bring a laptop/ipad!

TAKEAWAYS:
Analyze and interpret data to help explain how patterns in seismic data allow earthquakes to be located. Construct an explanation of how models of Earth structure are used to calculate earthquake locations. Investigate how different methods can be applied using an online toolkit.

SPEAKERS:
Shelley Olds (EarthScope Consortium: Washington, DC), Michael Hubenthal (IRIS | Earthscope Consortium: Washington, DC)

Earth & Space Science Physical Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Science Unveiled: Case Study Exploration in Secondary and Post-Secondary Education

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Costa Rica Grant Video
Costa Rica Grant Trip in 2015
Savegre Case Study Handout
Savegre Case Study Presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Take part in a punctuated case study led by four preservice students on how to utilize, modify, and adapt case materials in the classroom. Hear from the author about how her experiences in Costa Rica led to the writing of a published case study (NCCSTS/ NSTA) of Costa Rican sustainability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees in this session will take part in a punctuated case study and be provided instruction on how to write, utilize, and adapt case studies to fit in the secondary or lower-level postsecondary classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Madison Lockhart (Olivet Nazarene University: No City, No State), Emily Blucker (Student: No City, No State), Matthew Aude (Olivet Nazarene University: Bourbonnais, IL), Haley Lloyd (Olivet Nazarene University: No City, No State), Aggie Veld (Olivet Nazarene University: Bourbonnais, IL)

Environmental Science Climate Science Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

STEM Kits: A Scientific Research and K-12 Education Collaboration

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Cutting-edge research happening on the CSU campus not only gets out into the world, but the students are the ones to bring it to life for themselves as they become researchers using the inquiry-based STEM kit lending library.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers and scientific researchers will come away from this session with ideas on how to develop hands-on, inquiry-based activities based on cutting-edge research that allow students to become research scientists for a day or two in a classroom setting.

SPEAKERS:
Courtney Butler (Assistant Director, Natural Sciences Education & Outreach Center: Fort Collins, CO)

STEM Equity Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Exciting, Hands-On Solar System Modeling You Will Remember Using Fractions, Proportions, & Decimals

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

10 unique and unusual science-based examples of solar system modeling that use simple materials with all these interactive activities stress the use of decimals, fractions, and proportions in a scalable, adaptable, and fun exploration of the planets, including Pluto and the Asteroid Belt.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience the solar system in new ways through activities addressing hands-on size comparisons, geologic age, light distance, object ratios, density, gravity, and travel time. Each model uses inexpensive and effective materials that are easily recreated and shared.

SPEAKERS:
Martin Horejsi (University of Montana: Missoula, MT)

Earth & Space Science General Science Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Societal Challenges as Phenomena in 3D Units to Develop Student Agency

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come experience how leveraging complex culturally relevant societal challenges as phenomena in 3D teaching and learning supports student motivation and engagement. Learn how the BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model develops student agency within and beyond the classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
The research-based BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model succeeds the 5Es and leverages complex societal issues as anchoring phenomena/problems, culminating tasks, and performance assessments in 3D units of instruction to motivate students and develop agency in addressing these issues.

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Gay (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Sensemaking Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Pandemics! How Did Changes in Human Ecology and Evolution Fuel the Emergence of New Diseases?

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Viruses such as COVID and HIV that infect multiple species evolve by interacting with all members of their infectious ecosystem. The term "zoonosis" appears in virtually no state standards, but it describes most infectious diseases that challenge medicine and global public health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Evolution, ecology, and human activity, including social and economic factors, drive the emergence and spread of new diseases. Controlling pandemics requires scientific literacy to enable citizens and public officials to make wise decisions in personal behavior and public policy.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Levine (Science Writer and Producer: Concord, MA)

Biology Climate Science Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Are You Manipulating Me? Using Manipulatives to Extend Student Understanding

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Are You Manipulating Me_ Using Manipulatives to Extend Student Understanding-NSTA National Conference 2024.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Are you looking for a way to help students practice key ideas, but are tired of worksheets. Try using manipulatives instead!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn and practice ways to utilize hexagonal learning and other strategies utilizing manipulatives.

SPEAKERS:
Meredith Diehl (Northview High School: Sylvania, OH)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring STEM Self-Efficacy & Identity in Teacher Preparation Programs: Examination of a STEM Methods Course & Impacts on Future Teachers' Growth

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA2024_STEM Self-Efficacy.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will share the results from a 15-week study that explored how an innovative STEM methods course impacted teacher candidates’ personal and professional growth as future STEM educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave the session with a framework for developing innovative STEM methods courses to prepare future teachers to effectively integrate inquiry-based STEM instruction in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Cramer (The University of Alabama: Tuscaloosa, AL), Jennifer Ponder (The University of Alabama at Birmingham: Birmingham, AL)

Preservice Science Education Computer Science STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Research Experiences for Teachers: Key to Developing Students’ Scientific Practices.

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this session, teachers will share their experience as participants in a summer research program and how they transferred that opportunity into classroom activities to develop scientific practices in their students.

TAKEAWAYS:
The panel will share their experience as participants in a summer research program and will describe the design and implementation of classroom activities that promote the development of scientific practices.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Beltrán-Morales (Francisco Gaztambide Vega High School/ Puerto Rico Department of Education), Cruz Vázquez Enchautegui (Biology Teacher), Mabel Rodriguez Espinosa (High School Teacher: Humacao, PR), Angela Del Toro (Science Teacher: Hormigueros, PR), Michelle Borrero (University of Puerto Rico - Rio Piedras Campus: San Juan, PR)

Biology General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Roundtable

Design a Frog: Using Maker Education for Community Science

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Design a Frog Pics.pdf
Design a Frog Reference Presentation.pdf
Teacher Presentation for Design a.Frog
Design a Frog.pptx
Design-a-Frog-Handout-v3.pdf
Design a Frog Worksheet/Handout
Frog Call Explorer
Scratch Interactive Poster to accompany Design a Frog
Investigate Biodiversity As You Design A Frog
Lesson plan and background information for "Investigate Biodiversity As You Design A Frog"
Pick a habitat for your frog. (2).pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Community Science includes learners in exciting real-world, hands-on research. In this activity, we take it one step further by adding a design activity after an exploration in nature. Participants will apply knowledge about habitats and adaptations to make a clay model of a new frog species.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will provide participants with everything they need to share this all-ages, all settings activity with learners. They’ll receive a presentation, a worksheet and student explainer, resources for citizen science projects to complement the activity, a lesson plan, and more.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Roberts (Science Friday: New York, NY)

STEM Environmental Science Informal Education Hands-On Workshop

Unlocking the Genetic Code: Visualizing Protein Synthesis and Mutations

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this session, participants will utilize activities that use model representation to help students understand processes like protein synthesis and genetic mutations. These complex biological processes engage students in the scientific practice of using and developing models.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will gain access to free resources to teach types of genetic mutations and simulate protein synthesis, with multiple versions of the student activity available. Attendees will practice using one of the student versions and consider how to embed this activity in their lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Aja Mattise-Lorenzen (High School Science Teacher: Fort Collins, CO), Dr. Yajaira Fuentes-Tauber (Rocky Mountain High School: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Using Mini-Grants to Increase the Level of STEM Education in Classrooms

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Presenters will share methods of designing, implementing, and integrating materials gained through mini-grants to establish new units, based upon NGSS standards, for classrooms in high-needs districts leading to an increase in the quality of instruction and success of students in STEM education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to structure and fund mini-grants as a tool to improve awareness and success of STEM in schools. Administrators and curriculum leaders will learn the methodology to provide the materials necessary to assist teachers with planning and execution of lessons based on these grants.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Lazowski (Sacred Heart University: Fairfield, CT), Bonnie Maur (Sacred Heart University: Fairfield, CT)

STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Supporting Novice Math & Science Teachers’ Self-Efficacy With Near-Peer Mentoring

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

We developed a near-peer mentoring program to empower math and science teacher candidates to connect with early career teachers. We will share our research findings in this session, and engage participants in a shared discussion of approaches to support teacher self-efficacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about the design of our near-peer mentoring program and have access to tools to facilitate the process. Discussion will help attendees develop near-peer mentoring in their induction or teacher education program, and how to expand and support their pool of near-peers.

SPEAKERS:
Dan Moore (Assistant professor of secondary education: Aurora, CO), Janelle Johnson (Metropolitan State University of Denver: Denver, CO)

Preservice Science Education Equity STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Explore, Design, and Reimagine STEM through the Department of Defense (DoD)

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

DoD STEM resources offer a variety of pathways to explore, design, and reimagine STEM in grades K-12. Albert Einstein Fellows will showcase a variety of DoD platforms for educators, parents, students, and community members to build a strong foothold for student success.

TAKEAWAYS:
DoD STEM resources can be used to connect students with STEM mentors, providing students with guidance and support as they explore their interests in STEM, and develop the skills they need to succeed in STEM careers. DoD initiatives strive to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Thompson (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship: No City, No State), Pamela Joslyn (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow: No City, No State)

STEM Literacy Technical and Vocational Education Presentation

Why Did You Become a Science Teacher? The Power of Storytelling.

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

“Those who can do; those who can’t teach.” Sorry, that quote does not resonate with my teaching story. Learn the power of storytelling and how it can help transform your class and school through building better student relationships, creating student voice, and increasing student engagement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn benefits and strategies for creating and telling stories in the science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jeremy Harden (Dallas ISD: Dallas, TX)

Advocacy General Science Leadership Hands-On Workshop

The Matter-Energy-Forces Triangle: Experiences of teachers using this framework to help their students make sense of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Earth Science with OpenSciEd materials.

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join this panel discussion that highlights the strategies that three science teachers use for adapting the Matter, Energy, and Forces framework, a tool integrated in OpenSciEd materials. This tool aims to support student sense making of disciplinary core ideas across multiple domains

TAKEAWAYS:
The Framework promotes the use of language about energy and matter across the disciplines in science instruction. There are productive instructional practices to use the MEF triangle to draw students' attention to interactions between matter, energy, and forces as they explore natural phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Joe Kremer (Denver Public Schools: No City, No State), Kathryn Fleegal (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO), Diego Rojas-Perilla (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Sensemaking Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Roundtable

Write From the Start: How to Get Published in NSTA Journals

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Have you read great articles in the NSTA journals that changed or added to the ways you and your students do science for the better? You could inspire other educators across the country in the same way by sharing your teaching ideas, activities, or lessons as an NSTA journal author!

TAKEAWAYS:
Instructions and tips on how to prepare and submit your manuscript for publication in NSTA's journals.

SPEAKERS:
Patty McGinnis (NSTA: No City, No State), Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn (National Science Teaching Association), Ann MacKenzie (Miami University: Oxford, OH), David Wojnowski (Georgia State University: Atlanta, GA), Beth Murphy (Science from Scientists: Bedford, MA), Peter Lindeman (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

General Science Literacy Preservice Science Education Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Teaching to the Neurodiverse Student: Improve Neurotypical Outcomes Along the Way

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA Conference SLanning Teaching to the Neurodiverse Student.pdf
Lecture PPT
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Using the Universal Design Principles, I propose to show educators specific examples of how they can improve learning for all our students with proactive changes to their courses and teaching styles. Student success ultimately falls on the student but can be aided significantly by inclusive teaching

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn the importance of broad application of Universal Design Principles and how it affects all learners.

SPEAKERS:
Shari Lanning (Colorado State University: Fort Collins, CO)

STEM Advocacy Postsecondary Presentation

Meeting the Challenges of Math & Computation with OpenSciEd High School

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

OpenSciEd HS engages students with complex, flexible, and purposeful mathematical thinking to meet the NGSS. We illustrate how NGSS practices 4 and 5 (analyzing data and math) are central and supported as students develop explanations, models, and solutions in chemistry and physics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leveraging data analysis and mathematical thinking in the context of meaningful phenomena and problems like food sovereignty, rather than frontloading rote math “skills,” helps students engage with these practices as sensemaking tools, deepening student understanding of both science and math.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Novak (Northwestern University: Evanston, IL), Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Mathematics General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Embracing Empathy: Applying Human-Centered Design Principles to Support the Implementation of NGSS

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Starting with empathy, we can create inclusive learning environments rooted in people’s needs. Learn how human-centered design principles can be applied to create meaningful, engaging, and effective learning experiences for educators and students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will experience practical human-centered design processes, methods, and tools used to deeply understand the people they are looking to serve and to continuously innovate solutions. Participants will leave this session equipped with strategies to design impactful learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Abby Tolley (Learning Analyst), Brian Beierle (Vivayic, Inc.: No City, No State)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Identifying the Range of Student Engagement in the Science Practices

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 708

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

By looking at student data we can identify whether students are engaging in science practices as well as their level of engagement. This is essential to inform our instruction and it takes practice. Teachers will develop a range of indicators of student engagement and identify supports students need.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will analyze student work to identify indicators of student engagement in the science practices. Together, teachers will develop a spectrum of student engagement. Teachers will then reflect on how this understanding supports them in scaffolding student engagement in the science practices.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Shafer, PhD (Knowles Teacher Initiative: Moorestown, NJ)

Sensemaking Life Science Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

The Science of Learning: Enhancing Science Instruction with Cognitive Psych Principles

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Cognitive science research provides substantial evidence for flexible and often counterintuitive cognitive strategies, including spacing, interleaving, and retrieval practice that boost student learning. Teachers will learn how to implement these techniques within their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to apply multiple practical, flexible, and research-based cognitive strategies, including retrieving information from memory, distributing practice across time, scaffolding, and mixing together different examples within their own classrooms to improve student learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Tullis (The University of Arizona: Tucson, AZ)

General Science Chemistry Physics Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

CAST: K-5 Curricular Adoption Process for Colorado: Piecing Together High-Quality Resources for a Comprehensive Curriculum

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1v12ZOayWgY91OGJ9c3BgXSok3tBxk7KA?usp=sharing
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

During this presentation, participants will hear from Cherry Creek Schools and their unique approach to providing high-quality curricular resources for their K-5 students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with a replicable process that can be utilized in their own district.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Rolater (pK-12 Science Performance Improvement Partner: Aurora, CO)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Track Stars: Step into the Future of Competitive Student-Led Data-Driven Pedagogy

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 704

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Track Stars is a transformative professional development session that not only empowers teachers with data-driven strategies but also harnesses the competitive spirit of students, ultimately leading to improved academic outcomes and a culture of excellence in secondary education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Track Stars is a dynamic professional development program tailored to secondary teachers, designed to equip them with practical data-tracking strategies that can revolutionize their classrooms into highly effective and competitive data-driven environments.

SPEAKERS:
ROBBIE KEUCHLER JR (Secondary Science Specialist: Orange Park, FL)

Assessment General Science Presentation

Nourish the Future with free classroom materials

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session will provide participants with four take-away lessons for their high school or middle school classes that provide relevant real-world application of the concepts required by NGSS and state standards by infusing agriculture into the biology classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Understanding where food comes from is an essential component of becoming an educated citizen in today's growing population and climate instability. This session will provide participants with four take-away lessons that provide relevant real-world applications of agriculture.

SPEAKERS:
Jane Hunt (Nourish the Future - Education Projects, LLC: Columbus, OH)

Biology Environmental Science General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Unlocking STEM Experiences with Science Near Me

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
10_Science Near Me Flyer_2 (1).pdf
Science Near Me Website
STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Explore Science Near Me, a free STEM database connecting you to citizen science, museum, festival, afterschool, and maker programs to bring back to your classroom! Those with their own events to share can discover new resources, partners, and connect with the public for additional promotion.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through engagement in a hands-on citizen science project featured on Science Near Me, attendees will contribute to real scientific research while also discovering relevant STEM content, experts, field trips, and potential partnership opportunities to enrich their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Brenda Britsch (National Girls Collaborative: Seattle, WA), Karen Peterson (National Girls Collaborative Project: Seattle, WA)

STEM General Science Informal Education Presentation

Pineapples in Plastic

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Interested in having a whole ecosystem within the walls of your classroom? How about growing food in a one-gallon recycled pickle jar? During this session we will learn how to use Aquaponics as a teaching tool in your pk-12 classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the immense benefits of having an aquaponic system in their classrooms. Specifically, research explaining how to grow pineapples in one-gallon systems.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Heithoff (Wartburg NSTA Vice President: No City, No State)

Life Science Biology Informal Education Presentation

How to get Your Math Department to Support Your Science Classes

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
How to get Your Math Department to Support Your Science Classes.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Do you wish your Math department was on the same page as your science classroom? In this session, you will participate in activities involving real-world data collection that can be engaging in both science and mathematics classrooms. There is no limit to what you can do with the S and M in STEM!

TAKEAWAYS:
Through simple real-time data collection, you can incorporate your science classroom with the mathematics classrooms in your school. Come learn how to build the community your school needs!

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA), Daniel Wilkie (STEM Teacher: Pelzer, SC)

STEM Chemistry General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teaching for Data Literacy Across K-12 Grades and Subjects

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Come participate in a discussion about teaching for data literacy to better understand strategies and goals to help students learn with and about data. Join a growing community of science educators and researchers seeking to prepare students for citizenship in an increasingly data-rich world.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain an up-to-date understanding of how to help students learn with and about data in the science classroom, while providing feedback on the development of a national, research-based learning progression framework for data literacy teaching and learning.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Miller (Research Associate)

STEM General Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Teaching Modules from QB@CC: Tools to Improve Biology Student’s Quantitative Skills

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
All QB@CC Modules
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Background Info
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Cards
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Final Facilitation Guide and Answer Key.docx
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Final Facilitation Guide and Answer Key
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Post-assessment Activity
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Pre-assessment Activity
Cell Sizes, Scales and Specialization - Student Handout
NSTA Presentation Slide Deck
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore a module that examines cellular biology content through a quantitatively focused lens! "Sizes, Scales, and Specialization" explores how cell size varies between cell types by having students conduct conversions between volume, density and mass. For undergraduates and upper level HS students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be ready to implement a 1 hour classroom activity to improve their student’s proficiency with scientific numbers and unit conversions by exploring the most common cell types in the body and their sizes.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Esquibel (Professor of Biology: Lansing, MI)

STEM Biology Mathematics Postsecondary Hands-On Workshop

Saving the Night with Citizen Science

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Provide students with the power of citizen science as they make observations and analyze data to increase awareness worldwide about the impact of light pollution using NSF’s NOIRLab’s Globe at Night program. Students engage with authentic data to propose local solutions to light pollution.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the impacts of light pollution and walk away with resources and strategies for implementing this interdisciplinary citizen science campaign as a PBL opportunity in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Robert Sparks (NSF's NOIRLab), Mark Newhouse (Manager, AZ Education & Engagement: Tucson, AZ), Emily Peavy (Gemini Observatory/NSF's NOIRLab: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Advocacy Environmental Science Hands-On Workshop

Strategies for Improving Writing in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Strategies for Improving Writing in the Science Classroom
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In Strategies for Improving Writing in the Science Classroom, participants will learn how to disaggregate science writing through explicit science writing instruction. They will experience strategies that support students with drawing models and writing in science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Writing in science is a specific genre of writing, therefore students need to be explicitly taught how to deconstruct and construct science writing/models.

SPEAKERS:
Evelyn Larose (Science Program Director and Educational Consultant), Alicia Wedderburn (Science Instructional Coach: , MA)

General Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

STEM Learning with Rocketry: Exploration Generation

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Denver24: STEM Learning with Rocketry: Exploration Generation Collection
Resources for the Denver conference session STEM Learning with Rocketry: Exploration Generation (3/23/24)
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

The Exploration Generation instructional materials (AIAA, Estes, NSTA) provide students equitable opportunities for STEM learning. Students’ interest and curiosity about rockets ignite learning as students develop and apply core ideas in science, engineering, and math using STEM practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
The excitement and curiosity generated by model rocket launches can be used to drive student learning about a variety of science, engineering, and math ideas.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Freyschlag (Estes Industries: Penrose, CO), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Sensemaking Physical Science STEM Hands-On Workshop

Building Inclusive Computer Science Programming for Young Learners

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Join Girls Who Code to learn how to build inclusive programs– equipping students with the confidence and skills they need to make a positive impact on their community and career. You’ll walk away with tangible tips and tools for how to incorporate coding, community-building activities, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to implement coding activities that encourage positive social-emotional development and engage learners from historically underrepresented groups in tech. Attendees will leave the session with best practices and guidance for building inclusive coding programs in their communities.

SPEAKERS:
Michaela Burger (Girls Who Code: New York, NY)

Computer Science Equity Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Engage, Inspire and Solve with Xplorlabs – How 6 teachers are inspiring the future of safety science with Xplorlabs.org

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Learn how 6 teachers translated cutting edge research into innovative classroom lessons that engage students and inspire them to solve real problems with science. From lithium-ion battery fires to growing concerns for e-waste, relevant phenomena are available (free) on Xplorlabs.org.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave this session aware of how 6 teachers (6-12th grade science, STEM and CTAE) used Xplorlabs.org safety-science phenomena to drive instruction, support student sensemaking and incorporate 3D practices.

SPEAKERS:
Ethan Schubert (Science Teacher: No City, No State), Megan O'Keeffe (senior content specialist: canton, GA)

STEM Sensemaking Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Adapting Instructional Materials to Focus on Climate Justice: A High School OpenSciEd Physics Example

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ACESSE-Resource-H-one-pager 25.pdf
ACESSE_ResourceE 25.pdf
C.3 Interest Summary 25.pdf
Lesson 5 adaptation tool 10.pdf
Session 13 Materials Folder (Google Drive): Adapting Instructional Materials to
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

We show how instructional materials can be adapted for local contexts—and how to elevate issues of climate justice and ethical responses to the climate crisis. Participants will learn about how a high school physics unit from OpenSciEd was adapted to attend to Indigenous land rights and sovereignty.

TAKEAWAYS:
In relation to science and engineering projects in society (e.g., associated with the energy transition, ecological restoration, urban development), teachers will learn how to engage students in exploring moral and ethical dimensions of trade-offs in project approaches.

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

Climate Science Equity Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Natural Selection in Humans with HHMI BioInteractive

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

Join us as we explore free BioInteractive classroom resources that use the prevalence of sickle cell disease as an example of natural selection in humans.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Moran-Johnson (Teacher), Cinthya Fernandez (Tec de Monterrey: Monterey, Mexico)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

From Code to Construction – Modeling DNA Replication Essentials

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Model how our DNA genome replicates – the first stage of the flow of genetic information and preserves genome integrity.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Hutson (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI), Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Strutting the Scientific Runway: Mastering NGSS Modeling

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 407

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Join us as we unravel the complexities of modeling under the NGSS framework. Dive into scientific modeling for classrooms, engage in collaborative learning, and discover how to integrate these methods to elevate science education.

SPEAKERS:
Hailey Vogel (Head of Teaching and Learning: Los Angeles, CA)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Power To Go: H2O Harnessing the Force of the Ocean

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 606

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Imagine Learning

Join world class designers and engineers as we dive in to explore hydroelectricity and the growing need to harness force and motion found in the ocean. Experience a simulated lesson, make a 3D model of a water turbine, and use it to investigate the relationship between force and motion.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Biadasz (Senior Product Marketing Manager: Scottsdale, AZ)

Physical Science Engineering Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

NOAA workshop 11: NOAA in Your Classroom: Mapping the Ocean with Sound

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 505


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Seafloor Mapping Theme Page
Web page with the lessons, materials, and videos to implement what you learn in the session
Show Details

Sponsoring Company: NOAA

How are scientists able to discover new ecosystems in the ocean? Come explore the use of sound to create 2D/3D map models of seafloor features and learn how scientists use these maps to help them identify ocean features. We’ll also share resources to make it easier to connect to ocean exploration.

SPEAKERS:
Tami Lunsford (Newark Charter School: Newark, DE)

Physical Science Earth & Space Science Technology Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Strategies to Support English Learners (ELs) in the Science Classroom (K-8)

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Engage in strategies to help your English Learners (EL) population make sense of science concepts and apply their science knowledge to real-world applications. We will explore a variety of strategies for differentiating instruction so that ELs can build their ability to communicate science concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Pam Richards (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Utilizing AI to Redefine Your Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 610/612

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Aauti School

Curious about how AI can help you provide timely feedback to your students? Have you wondered how AI can help you create engaging learning experiences?? Join us during this session to see how Aauti School can automate your grading process, generate rich content, and much more!

SPEAKERS:
Robyn Cook (Aauti School: Frisco, TX)

General Science Technology Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Sea Turtles and Climate Change: What's going on?

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 406

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Mosa Mack Science

One surprising threat facing the majestic sea turtle: over 90% of hatchlings are born female. Why is this so? Explore a lesson on how genetics, environment, & climate could be impacting the turtle species forever.

SPEAKERS:
Elisabeth Johnson (Mosa Mack Science: Fairfield, CT)

General Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Curriculum and climate change education - you have the answer!

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 601

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

This session will consider a key framework for integrating climate change education into primary school curricula. It will advocate for Coherence, Authenticity, Principled and Enriched as an approach to ensuring high quality learning for children and young people.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will leave with a clearer understanding of the role of curriculum and pedagogy in relation to children and young people being able to take action, self-regulate and engage with knowledge to address climate change education.

SPEAKERS:
Leigh Hoath (Leeds Trinity University: No City, No State)

Climate Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using the Evolving Minds curriculum to teach natural selection in third grade classrooms

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

3rd graders are fascinated by how organisms change over time. Teachers build a model of the natural selection mechanism that explains adaptation and speciation. They apply it to explore how urban anole lizards came to be different than forest anoles and how fossils provide evidence for speciation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand the mechanism of natural selection - how the proportion of traits in a population shift over time when the environment changes. They will learn how to adopt the free Evolving Minds curriculum, which addresses 3D learning through an inquiry-based approach.

SPEAKERS:
Gillian Puttick (TERC: Cambridge, MA)

Life Science Literacy Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Every student, every time

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We are middle school teachers at a title one school with the highest number of grade 6-8 L25 students of the 125 schools in our district. This session will focus on the strategies that we use daily to ensure we are teaching with rigor in a way that all students can learn!

TAKEAWAYS:
"Every student, every question, every time" is our school philosophy. We will share our tried and true strategies for distributed summarizing and effective questioning.

SPEAKERS:
Barbara Rebeor (Harns Marsh Middle School)

General Science Equity Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

E.A.R.T.H. lessons to understand the importance of our ocean.

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 711


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
EARTH NSTA Denver 2024.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Take away two or three ready-to-use lessons and an overview of the EARTH website to find additional lessons that fit your NGSS needs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be guided through lessons focused on our changing ocean. Participants will work through a lesson on ocean acidification as well as using the Global Ocean Biogeochemical floats. Information is available to adopt your own classroom float for free.

SPEAKERS:
Katie Lodes (St. Joseph's Academy: Saint Louis, MO)

Earth & Space Science Biology General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

PLAY with STEM Engineering Tomorrow: Free Labs Developed and Delivered by Engineers. Electric Vehicles Demo.

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Are you looking for an opportunity to bring free hands-on engineering experiences to your students? In this workshop, teachers will explore resources developed by Engineering Tomorrow (“ET”). The ET curriculum of virtual labs is developed by engineers and delivered by engineers. For each lab, ET pro

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to integrate engineering through STEM across all core content curriculum areas through a project-based learning approach.

SPEAKERS:
Constance Chiplock (Program Coordinator: Washington DC, DC)

STEM Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

See It To Imagine It: STEM Careers

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 404

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Nuclear Energy Education Initiative

This workshop will provide a one-stop-shop for Nuclear and other STEM Professionals, Industry Organizations, Parents, Teachers, Coaches, and Influencers to encourage 8th graders to pursue nuclear and STEM careers.

SPEAKERS:
Desiree Wolfgramm (Energy Northwest: Richland, WA), Mandi Brigman (Duke Energy: Charlotte, NC), Bobbi Jo Halvorson (Xcel Energy: Minneapolis, MN)

STEM Engineering Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Teacher Leadership Opportunities within the Federal Government

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 402

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Did you know the federal government offers numerous internships, fellowships, and institutes for teachers? Join us as Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) recipients share their own experiences working with federal agencies like NASA, NSF, and more.

STEM Leadership Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Introduce STEM and the Environment in your Classroom with Microplastics and Water Quality Toolkits

Saturday, March 23 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 405

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: Ocean Diagnostics x Water Rangers

Through a hands-on demonstrations of our easy-to-use water quality and microplastics educational toolkits and technology, you'll learn how to bring real-world problem-solving into the classroom, increase student engagement and empower the next generation of environmental problem solvers.

SPEAKERS:
Nikolas MacLean (Water Rangers: , Canada), Katherine Strom-Trudel (Ocean Diagnostics: Victoria, BC)

Environmental Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

Integrating Literacy and Science in Elementary Classrooms with Multiple Literacies in Project-Based Learning (ML-PBL)

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

ML-PBL teachers find ways to further integrate literacy and science throughout their day. ML-PBL's free OER project-based curriculum resources support students in applying their figuring out and critical thinking processes to all subject areas. Check it out!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be exposed to free resources and ideas for selecting resources for literacy lessons that allow students to continue to fine-tune and extend the ideas they are developing in science class. Handouts, links to resources and research findings, and examples of texts will be available.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Codere (CREATE for STEM Institute, Michigan State University, Retired)

Literacy General Science Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Spectroscopic Partnerships

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Poster.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Development and cultivation of a partnership between a high school and local university for the purposes of providing students with authentic experiences in a post-secondary laboratory. This includes student collection and analysis of Infrared Spectra, Mass Spectra, and Proton NMR Spectra.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how this partnership was developed and how the partnership has evolved over the past 18 years. Examples of student-collected data and interpretation of results will be presented to show the "final product."

SPEAKERS:
Jeromy Bentley (Naperville Central High School: Naperville, IL)

Chemistry Assessment STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Use NASA’s Universe of Learning (UoL) Integrated STEM Outreach Program and its Network of Informal Education Partners to Learn About the Universe

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://universe-of-learning.org/home
UoL NASA NSO Poster.pdf
STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

NASA’s Astrophysics UoL network of partnerships provide STEM educators programs ranging from exoplanet searches to image analysis of supernovas and galaxies, to implement programs specific to individual audiences, and provides a wide variety of supporting webinars, tutorials, activities, and investigations.

TAKEAWAYS:
NASA’s UoL team connects the public and learners to data, discoveries, and experts from NASA’s Astrophysics missions. The team of scientists, engineers, and educators have direct connections to these missions, and provide a range of projects and interactive activities for any educational setting.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Young (NASA/NSO/UoL Program Manager: Laughlin, NV)

Earth & Space Science Informal Education STEM Poster

Are Centicubes as Good as Dice for a Simulated Radioactive Decay Lesson?

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Radioactive decay is taught in high school (NGSS-HS-PS1-1); however, materials and experimental equipment can be expensive. We compare and contrast the performance of centicubes and dice to accurately model radioactive decay and half-life for in-class investigations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about alpha, beta, and gamma decay, as well as the advantages and limitations of using everyday materials (pennies, dice, carbonated beverages, centicubes, etc.) as simulation analogies to teach radioactivity and half-life.

SPEAKERS:
Alexandria Black (Undergraduate Student)

Physics Mathematics Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Poster

NMSU Noyce Capacity Building

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

The New Mexico State University (NMSU) and Dona Ana Community College (DACC) Noyce team collaborated to develop science and math bachelors degree programs that embed a minor in secondary education, along with an associates in STEM Education, to recruit STEM teachers for the teaching field.

TAKEAWAYS:
The team utilized the Noyce Capacity Building grant to prepare for a full proposal for the Noyce Track 1 Scholarship Program. Challenges and solutions will be presented to aid others in considering a Noyce proposal.

SPEAKERS:
Tracey Gorham Blanco (Northern New Mexico Inquiry Science Education Consortium, NMSU: Las Cruces, NM)

Preservice Science Education STEM Postsecondary Poster

Data Puzzles: integrating authentic data and Ambitious Science Teaching practices to help students make sense of climate phenomena

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Come learn about Data Puzzles, a free resource co-designed by climate scientists and instructional specialists from the University of Colorado Boulder that combine authentic data with Ambitious Science Teaching instructional practices to help students make sense of phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore authentic, contemporary data through Data Puzzles resources that frame data analysis for use in middle and high school classrooms with the Ambitious Science Teaching framework, and leave prepared to implement these 2-3 day sensemaking lesson sets in their own classrooms.

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

Climate Science Earth & Space Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Authentic Research Experience for Teachers at Long-Term Ecological Research Sites

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

In partnership with PD providers and scientists, we developed a "Data Literacy Using LTER Data" workshop series in which 9 teachers participated prior to a multi-week field research experience. A post-workshop survey showed 92% of teachers expected to integrate knowledge and practices they learned.

TAKEAWAYS:
Building partnerships to develop data literacy and research skills can influence teachers' abilities to use authentic data in their teaching practice.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Morrison (Oregon State University: Corvallis, OR)

STEM Environmental Science General Science Poster

Using Robotics to Cover NGSS Standards for Middle School.

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Thinking robotics is just for computer science and technology? In this session, explore how you can utilize robotics to teach forces and interactions, energy, and waves with an innovative approach using robots with sensors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how the concepts used in robotics and the engineering design process can help students understand the real-world application of concepts in a way that they can test and visualize the effects in their everyday lives. Sample lessons will be provided.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Birch (Sr Specialist Education and Workforce Development)

Physical Science Robotics STEM Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Free Astronomy Resources to Support the NGSS from Rubin Observatory

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Rubin Observatory resources support common astronomy topics for advanced middle school through college students. Short, accessible interactive investigations use authentic data in a three-dimensional learning design. Each comes with phenomena, assessments, videos, and more teacher support materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Rubin Observatory’s classroom-ready investigations can be completed within two hours, and come with options for adding introductory materials, assessments, and extension activities. Extensive teacher guides and a community of practice provide background content and ongoing implementation support.

SPEAKERS:
Ardis Herrold (Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Tucson, AZ)

Earth & Space Science Physics Technology Grades 9 - 12 Poster

NMLSTA: Early Career Teacher Network

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Learn how to become a member of a collaborative effort between NMLSTA and NSTA to support early-career, middle-level science teachers with access to resources and networking opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Early-career, middle-level science teachers will become aware of opportunities to connect in a nationwide professional learning community supported by resources and networking.

SPEAKERS:
Loris Chen (Science Education Consultant: Fair Lawn, NJ)

Advocacy Equity Grades 6 - 8 Poster

K-12 "A Few of My Favorite Things" from Presidential Awardees

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Top educators (PAEMST) share their FAVORITE resources for bringing best practices into the K-12 classroom. Teaching treasures will range from favorite lessons, to websites, grants, and other resources. This session includes grade-level specific sharing as well as resources for all educators.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about outstanding resources that are a favorite of the Presidential Awardees (PAEMST) and walk away with QR codes, websites, grant ideas, lesson plans, and more!

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Renfrew (Wade Institute for Science Education: Quincy, MA), DeLene Hoffner (eleSTEMary: Colorado Springs, CO)

General Science Leadership Poster

Adaptations for Working with Caenorhabditis Elegans (C. elegans) to Actively Engage High School Students in Inquiry-Driven Research Questions

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Providing hands-on laboratory activities to reinforce concepts and enhance learning are essential in engaging high school students in the STEM classroom, especially in high-needs schools. This work used Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) to develop a lab protocol and lesson plans conducive for high school students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how C. elegans can be an accessible model system to engage high school students in the STEM classroom. Key modifications for using C. elegans will be presented and discussed (that allow for adoption in high-needs classrooms with limited resources).

SPEAKERS:
Scott Gehler (Associate Professor of Biology: No City, No State)

Biology Life Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Modeling Unit Conversions Using Water Beads

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Water Bead Poster
Worksheet
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Modeling unit conversions through water beads makes an abstract concept of units into a concrete model. Students use different-sized cups and class averages to determine unit conversion factors. Students use these conversion factors to answer word problems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Unit conversions are an important skill to learn for a variety of fields of science. Modeling this abstract idea helps all students understand the importance of converting units in other contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Garcia (Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School)

Mathematics Physical Science Physics Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Exploring Geoscience-Related Careers and How They Address Real-World Issues

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Geoscience Career Explorer Poster
Learn about the AGI's new Career Explorer application, which is a resource to explore geoscience-related careers. Visit the link in the poster to explore!
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

There are numerous career opportunities within the geosciences and many others that are geoscience-related. The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) will share resources, including a new Career Explorer, that show students how geoscience-related careers can address the world’s greatest challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand the importance of discussing careers in ways that address current student concerns and priorities, especially with respect to challenges and opportunities in their communities. They will be introduced to strategies and resources to bring these discussions into schools.

SPEAKERS:
Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lauren Brase (American Geosciences Institute: , IL), Ed Robeck (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD)

Earth & Space Science Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Engaging K-8 Students through Circular STEM: A Shift in STEM Education

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Poster
Complete poster from my session
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Can STEM education prepare all students to be leaders in the transition to a circular economy? By using Circular Economy principles to design “out” waste, students can envision system-scale change. Starting with how things are designed allows current problems to become regenerative possibilities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover the core principles of Circular STEM design and how it integrates into K-8th grade sequences aligned with NGSS. We provide illustrative sample lessons, showcase essential materials, and access cutting-edge research pertaining to circular design and its applications.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Watts (Educational Program Coordinator: PENDLETON, SC), Erin Rockenhaus (Circular STEM)

STEM Climate Science Environmental Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Inspiring Future Generations to Become Equitable Science and Math Teachers Through Enriched Fieldwork and Multilingual Learner Pedagogy

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This project exposed science and math undergraduates to research-based learning strategies (e.g., real-life scenarios, peer-to-peer discussion, and STEM-related issues) and K-12 fieldwork with multilingual learners to bolster understanding of inclusive pedagogy and interest in STEM teaching careers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Exposing undergraduates to K-12 real-life experiences in multilingual learner classrooms, peer-to-peer discussion, research-based inclusive strategies, and current STEM-related issues increases interest in both equitable pedagogy and future careers in science and math high school teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Catherine Lussier (University of California, Riverside: Riverside, CA)

STEM Equity Preservice Science Education Poster

My NASA Data Resources

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

The My NASA Data website provides curated NASA Earth data for education. The website is organized by Earth system spheres and phenomena within each sphere. Content is also aligned to NGSS standards, and there is a data visualization and access tool. Site organization and content will be highlighted.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to access NGSS-aligned resources containing authentic NASA Earth data for your instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Rosalba Giarratano (Outreach Coordinator: East Elmhurst, NY), Angela Rizzi (NASA Langley Research Center/ADNET: No City, No State)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Collaboration and Science Communication Skills Support High School Project-Based Learning Using 3D Plant Modeling

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Danforth Plant Science Center Education Technology Program
Plant 3D modeling communication and collaboration poster
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We investigate the benefits of working in collaborative teams and practicing science communication among high school students using project-based learning to create 3D plant models, research the plants’ biology and importance, and present their results.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will be provided with lessons learned and best practices for high school STEAM project-based education using collaborative teams and science communication approaches.

SPEAKERS:
Tiffany Langewisch (Donald Danforth Plant Science Center: Saint Louis, MO)

STEM Biology Technology Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Supporting Pre-Service Teachers in Designing Phenomena-Based Mathematics Unit Plans

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This presentation discusses a framework that supports a universal design approach and highlights indigenous ways of thinking to mitigate environmental impacts. Based on the successful outcomes of a recent study, this presentation demonstrates how the framework may be put into practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to learn about the potential of a teaching framework, specifically in assisting pre-service teachers. By embracing cultural traditions while working together with progressive pedagogy, the intent is to develop relevancy, engagement, and motivation in mathematics.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Potes (Assistant Professor: Honolulu, HI)

Mathematics STEM Postsecondary Poster

ASTE: Higher Education Environmental Literacy (HEEL): Faculty Application to the Teacher Education Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Higher Education faculty were engaged in an ELit professional learning community focused on capacity building and ELit integration into the teacher education classroom. In this session, we will share the qualitative data (course artifacts, participant reflections) and details on the HEEL curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will share ideas for integration of environmental literacy in teacher education curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Chelsea McClure (Towson University & Morgan State University: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Environmental Science Leadership Postsecondary Poster

NMLSTA: A National Organization For Middle Level Educators

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Learn about the National Middle Level Science Teachers Association and what we offer to our members.

TAKEAWAYS:
NMLSTA is the only national organization dedicated to the support of middle-level educators—grades five through nine.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Schoeffler (Seton Catholic School: Hudson, OH), Mary Lou Lipscomb (National Middle Level Science Teachers Association: Naperville, IL)

Advocacy Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Poster

Eggceptional Bridges: 4th and 5th Grade Engineering Investigations

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Through a hands-on approach, students engaged in experiments, creating hypotheses and testing their theories with various materials. Fourth and fifth-grade students worked with teachers for over six months and explored material science and basic engineering.

TAKEAWAYS:
The ability to modify and adapt STEM lessons for all students. We successfully incorporated students with learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, interrupted formal schooling/newcomers to the country, and other English Language Learners.

SPEAKERS:
Colleen Cahill (Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District: No City, No State)

STEM Engineering Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Enhancing Family Engagement in Community Nature Programs

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Denver Zoo embarked on an initiative to enhance and expand opportunities for outdoor learning for students, their parents, and teachers. In this presentation, DZ will summarize successes/challenges, methodologies/results, and procedures for implementing nature play tactics in your school community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn strategies to increase learning through play in nature and parent/caregiver participation in their school community.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Murgia (Denver Zoo: Denver, CO)

Informal Education Sensemaking Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Composting with Cockroaches in Northeast Iowa K-12 Schools

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Blatticomposting Poster.pdf.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Do you and/or your students find composting to be dirty, smelly, and overall a bore? Welcome to the future of composting! Blatticomposting, a form of composting with cockroaches that are a non-evasive exotic species, Blaptica dubia, is a modern take on an age-old classroom classic.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about the fundamentals of cockroach composting that they could incorporate into their classroom instruction to integrate students in their own hands-on learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Holderness (Student: , IA), Alex Holden (Student: Waverly, IA)

Life Science Biology Environmental Science Poster

Going Virtual with the National Center for Atmospheric Research

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

Spark wonder, curiosity, and conversation in your classroom with free virtual field trips to the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Learn how we transform your students into cloud sleuths or hurricane tracking teams; exploring weather topics, Earth systems sciences, STEAM careers, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
This poster showcases the suite of free, award-winning virtual field trips focused on weather, climate science, and STEM careers at the UCAR Center for Science Education. Learn about what virtual programs UCAR offers and how we deliver high-quality, interactive lessons directly to your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Katie Wolfson (School & Public Programs Manager: Boulder, CO)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Poster

Learning Expedition Life Leadership: Curriculum and activities to support empowered 21st century citizens

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This poster will share connections between cybersecurity research and student leadership and was developed from an NSF Research Experience for Teachers. The premise empowers student leadership by cultivating cybersecurity awareness and digital citizenship for ethical engagement in the digital era.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will share and provide resources from a curriculum developed during an NSF summer Research Experience for Teachers. A QR code linking to the curriculum website will provide lesson ideas and support for potential implementation.

SPEAKERS:
Steve Gewinner (Computer Science Teacher), Tara Bonebrake (The Summit Preparatory School: Springfield, MO)

Computer Science Leadership STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Empowering Innovation: Navigating USPTO's Invention and Intellectual Property Educational Resources, Professional Development Programs, and EquipHQ

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Embark on a journey of empowering students through invention and intellectual property with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Our poster presentation invites you to explore the vast landscape of educational resources, dynamic professional development, and EquIP HQ.

TAKEAWAYS:
Elevate your expertise in how invention education engages students in real-world problem-solving and is a transdisciplinary approach to learning, meeting NGSS crosscutting concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Kathleen Lanman (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA), Kathy Hoppe (STEMisED, Inc: No City, No State)

STEM Engineering Poster

STEM Project-Based Learning Education: A New Mexico Case Study for Equity & Inclusion

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Map of NM Interviewees
STEM Project-based Learning Education: A New Mexico case study for equity and inclusion map
New Mexico Journal of Science article re STEM education
ABSTRACT This research was designed to understand and address STEM education solutions for both rural and urban school systems. The focus on mathematics achievement, project-based learning (PBL) student experiences, and high school counselor perspectives, coupled with STEM education organization personnel’s perceptions showcases the educational differences that underrepresented New Mexico (NM) students must work to overcome throughout their educational careers. The study identified and ana
New Mexico STEM equity inclusion poster
This is a pdf of my poster which is on display on 3.23.2024 at the NSTA poster session.
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

An overview of STEM Project-Based Learning (PBL) experiences in New Mexico via a qualitative study of high school counselors & STEM organization personnel voices. Data & results highlight opportunities for student, educator, administrator, & community growth in terms of methodology & policy.

TAKEAWAYS:
STEM PBL education helps students to develop skills in STEM & STEM-adjacent topics, engage in their communities, & broaden their career trajectories. It is appropriate & recommended for underrepresented minority students, classrooms, & educational campuses.

SPEAKERS:
Kim Scheerer (NM MESA)

Equity STEM Grades 9 - 12 Poster

STEM Kits: A Scientific Research and K-12 Education Collaboration

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Cutting-edge research happening on the Colorado State University-Fort Collins campus not only gets out into the world, but students are the ones bringing it to life for themselves as they become researchers using the inquiry-based STEM kit lending library.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers and scientific researchers will come away from this session with ideas on how to develop hands-on, inquiry-based activities highlighting cutting-edge research that allows students to become research scientists for a day or two in a classroom setting.

SPEAKERS:
Andrew Warnock (Director, Natural Sciences Education & Outreach Center: Fort Collins, CO)

STEM Equity Sensemaking Poster

Discover STEM Education Resources!

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Looking to pinpoint free supplemental interdisciplinary learning resources? Find real-world connections, internships, PD opportunities, classroom tools, & swag; help students see themselves with diverse career role models & more at the NIST Educational STEM Resource (NEST-R) registry poster session!

TAKEAWAYS:
Quickly find content that brings STEM curriculum to life, sparks interest, & keeps students engaged with NEST-R, a free, publicly available website! Real-world applications on topics like the metric system, engineering, and physics help students make sense of the interdisciplinary nature of science.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Benham (National Institute of Standards and Technology: Gaithersburg, MD), Cara O'Malley (Academic Program Manager: Boulder, CO)

STEM General Science Informal Education Poster

Infusing Computational Thinking and Engineering Design into the High School Biology Curriculum

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Wickline-2024-NSTA.pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We developed a new unit for high school biology courses where students design a robotic gripper that opens and closes based on their own muscle activity. This model of a bionic arm integrates life science content, computational thinking skills, and engineering design.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this interactive poster, participants will be able to engage with the technology and learn about the lessons and activities that our team has developed. We hope that this will inspire other educators to incorporate computational thinking and engineering design into their courses.

SPEAKERS:
Joshua Wickline (teacher: New York, NY)

Life Science Engineering Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Creating Three-Dimensional Instructional Sequences for Florida’s NGSSS

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join us to learn about the Five Tools and Processes for translating the NGSSS into instruction and classroom assessment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use the Five Tools and Processes to design three-dimensional instructional sequences that align with Florida's NGSSS, using the 5E model and phenomena-based storylines to engage students and promote deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Holman (District Science Coach: , FL)

Biology Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Keep It Simple: Teaching Students to Talk Science Without Jargon

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BIOL1123 Semester Project Overview.pdf
Davis Talk Science Without Jargon Poster.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Students may use science terms without fully grasping their meaning, which can interfere with conceptual understanding. I created a team project requiring students to explain a science concept using only simple English. Students expressed confidence and a sense of mastery after the project.

TAKEAWAYS:
This poster will provide a walkthrough of a team project in which students explain a science concept using only simple English. I will also present examples of student work.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Davis (Lecturer II: Denton, TX)

STEM Biology Sensemaking Postsecondary Poster

Beestingz Curriculum - Effective and Engaging teacher for Generation Z

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Beestingz Bee
This is one of the thousands of bees in the hive.
Varroa Destructor Mite
This is one of my bees that I was inspecting again, they were checked for varroa mites and the level was about 7 for 300. I was getting ready to treat and found this bee with a mite on it's side
STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

A high school curriculum that supports and encourages bee knowledge so teachers “Bringing Effective and Engaging Science Teaching into the Generation Z (Beestingz) Classroom using Apiculture.” teachers from 4 states have worked with the DOA and Dordt University to create free curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be exposed to the beta version of a Beekeeping curriculum that is engaging Generation Z with hands-on interactive lessons written by teachers that support student investigation, interaction, problem-solving, and design engineering concepts around real-world pollinators.

SPEAKERS:
Rise Jongeling (Sioux Falls School District: Sioux Falls, SD)

Biology Life Science Technical and Vocational Education Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Resilience in Early Second Career STEM Teachers and Early Career STEM Teachers

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

New teachers struggle with classroom management, a work-life balance, and a lack of support. In contrast, teachers benefited from professional and emotional support, improved their communication skills through teaching, and felt a sense of purpose in their teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
New teachers benefit from their own parental support and/or mentor support.

SPEAKERS:
Donald Selway (Science Teacher/ Middle School: , CA)

Preservice Science Education Advocacy Leadership Postsecondary Poster

Zero Barriers to Grade Level Science Instruction for Students with IEPs

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Zero Barriers to Science for Students with IEPs
Collaboration between Colorado Department of Education, Yuma Public Schools, and Denver Public Schools
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Engage with a strategic tool used to identify specific and systemic barriers that hinder students' with IEPs access to grade level science instruction in order to intentionally design high quality, standards-based science and engineering learning experiences and environment for ALL students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Research on equitable systems and instructional practices used to design tools to support moving toward system-wide goals for equity in science classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Eva Bridgeforth (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO), Tammy Law (Yuma Middle School: Yuma, CO), Elizabeth Johnston (Denver Public Schools: Denver, CO)

Equity Advocacy Leadership Poster

Using Science Fair Projects to Better Understand Practices of Science

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

A former national science fair judge provides insights on how good titles can improve the odds of winning at science fairs based on a research project conducted on a national science fair. The poster will describe what the parts of a "good" title are & how teachers can help your students create one.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn the components of a good project title (from a research project on science fairs) and how to help their students develop a good title for their own project.

SPEAKERS:
G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

Sensemaking General Science STEM Poster

Patient X-Ray Diagnosis Using Free Google AI Tool

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Lesson Showcase

Show Details

In this classroom lesson, students load X-Ray images into a Google AI site to create image recognition models. The models will then be trained to classify lung X-Ray results into various categories, producing patient diagnoses. Students also analyze the reliability of the AI model using statistics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teach students to build, test, and assess authentic AI image recognition models to diagnose patient lung disease using X-Ray images. Students then assess the model using statistical tools.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Burkart (Life Sciences Faculty: Avondale, AZ), Milton Johnson (Bioscience High School: Phoenix, AZ)

STEM Mathematics Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Air Scholars Program: A Framework for Empowering Future Generations to Address Climate Change

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

The AIR Scholars program, launched by AIR COMPANY and the Brooklyn Academy of Science & the Environment, educates high school students about climate change and solutions like CCUS. By combining technical education and environmental justice, it fosters awareness, advocacy, and empowerment.

TAKEAWAYS:
The AIR Scholars Program enhances high school education on climate change, emphasizing carbon capture and environmental justice. It reshapes career aspirations, fosters critical thinking, and offers deep insights into climate solutions and science literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Jesse John (teacher: Brooklyn, NY)

Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Poster

Harnessing AI: Revolutionizing Classroom Dynamics

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the vast potential of AI in education with a comprehensive poster session. Understand foundational AI principles, its benefits, challenges, and strategies for effective classroom integration, ensuring a future-ready teaching approach.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will gain a holistic understanding of AI's role in modern education, equipped with insights and best practices to seamlessly integrate AI-driven methodologies into their teaching repertoire.

SPEAKERS:
Selene Verhofstad (Dobie High School: Houston, TX), Faryal Shaukat (Dobie High School: Houston, TX)

Technology Assessment STEM Poster

Engaging Middle School Girls and Non-Binary Youth in Informal STEM Research and Education

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Our STEM research camp uses an inquiry-based curriculum to engage non-binary and female middle schoolers in authentic research. Campers develop and test hypotheses, increasing their self-efficacy. Further, our female and non-binary undergraduate counselors are empowered to see themselves as leaders.

TAKEAWAYS:
Ensuring that middle school girls and non-binary youth have role models like them while pursuing authentic research increases feelings of self-efficacy and belongingness in informal STEM education.

SPEAKERS:
Megan Patnott (Associate Professor and Department Chair, Department of Mathematics: Denver, CO), Bethany Lucas (Associate Professor: Denver, CO)

Equity Informal Education STEM Grades 6 - 8 Poster

CHEMISTRY, FICTION, and CRIME

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

To understand chemistry in crime fiction novels with examples of authors who had applied chemistry will be shown. How I use them in my fiction books will be presented.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about connection of chemistry and crime in literature. Examples of chemicals used to commit crimes will be presented.

SPEAKERS:
Bal Barot (Lake Michigan College: Benton Harbor, MI)

Chemistry Literacy Sensemaking Poster

Party in the Dark---Celebrating Eclipses in Style

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Eclipse Party in the Dark
Eclipse Party in the Dark---Denver 2024
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/10dndY0cT-FkpdXvgEc7AjsBBDoMD2F8oB9vXtU5bM8w/edit?usp=sharing
Show Details

In this session, ideas on how to celebrate eclipses with students will be shared. From live viewing to lunar cookies, to building constellations students experienced activities that examined the Sun-Earth-Moon relationship. Time will be given at the end to share other ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with the resources and confidence to organize multi-age events for their school demonstrating science concepts that occur in their everyday life. Session participants will be given an outline of helpful resources, tools, and ideas they can use to manage their own events.

SPEAKERS:
Anne Fritz (Science Teacher: Eustis, FL)

Earth & Space Science General Science Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

Computer Science and Social Emotional Learning Meet

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Cultivating Partnerships

Show Details

Getting up to speed on the new standards and related NGSS is a challenge. The solution we have been implementing is to see how different professionals with different skill sets see information from a variety of lenses. This approach produced fun activities, while developing social emotional skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
This poster will give attendees the tools to create a dynamic team to execute a sustainable project. It will specify ways individuals can use data to assess the community’s needs and to plan meaningful activities that are engaging and fun. It will highlight how we can pay attention to new standards.

SPEAKERS:
Vicky Condello (teacher: New Rohelle, NY), Michelle Memoli (Bilingual School Psychologist: New Rochelle, NY), Aimee Ferguson (Teacher: No City, No State)

Computer Science Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Poster

"Bracken Blocks" One block, so many possibilities!

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
BrackenBlocks.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Using blocks teachers will find ready to use activities that will include several integral science practices students need to succeed.

TAKEAWAYS:
Hands-on activities that will solidify otherwise stagnant concepts in introductory science practices.

SPEAKERS:
Chris Coker (Camden Fairview High School: Camden, AR)

General Science Mathematics Physical Science Poster

Stoic Philosophy in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Exhibit Hall, Poster Session Aisle

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Students today are more stressed and anxious than ever. A school of philosophy called Stoicism offers practical advice on how to interact with the world and come out stronger and more capable. This poster will share tenets of stoic philosophy and suggest ways to use this wisdom in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will obtain tools and strategies to improve their students' resilience, confidence, and outlook on life, as they take on the challenges of learning science.

SPEAKERS:
Ron Kinser (Senior School Science Teacher: No City, No State)

Informal Education General Science STEM Poster

ACEs in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1B


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
ACES Handout.pdf
ACES in the Science Classroom.pptx
Denver, 2024 ACES in the Science Classroom Presentation
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

DEI session focuses on ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) & how they affect children’s education. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how ACES affect behavior & learning, how educators can promote a safe classroom environment, & rehearse coping strategies for use in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
ACEs contribute to toxic stress that changes the brains of the affected. This interrupts quality health, behavior, and of most importance, learning. In order to maximize student achievement, educators must learn to recognize the effects of ACEs and how to foster resilience.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Eades-Gill (Midland Trail High School: Hico, WV)

Advocacy Equity Leadership Presentation

Using ChatGPT to Support Student Learning in a Chemistry Class

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1D

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Artificial Intelligence chatbots have upended teaching and learning. Negative aspects of their use have been raised, but there are positive ones too. Research into the performance of students and ChatGPT in a chemistry class will be shared and future directions discussed for student learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Chatbots are here to stay. Teachers and students need to know how to use them to support learning.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Clark (The Ohio State University: Columbus, OH)

Technology Chemistry Literacy Postsecondary Presentation

PRESS: Why K-2 Students' Ideas Matter

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 107/109

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

What does research tell us about children's ideas and why they matter? We will explore how young children's ideas can be the starting point for designing instruction that builds a bridge between the ideas young children bring to their learning and the science ideas they are learning

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use the NSTA K-2 formative assessment probes to uncover young learners' ideas that mirror research on common misconceptions and use their ideas to design instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Jason Harding (Teacher Educator), Page Keeley (NSTA Past President: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Assessment Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Building a Community in STEAM

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 FIRST Tech Challenge Qualifier
23-24 STEAM Course Catalogue
Creating and Activating Hope Strategies
Strategies referenced to Kids at Hope.
Dr. Gholdy Muhammed's Hill Pedagogies
Reference to Unearthing Joy, by Dr. Gholdy Muhammed
PA Smart Grant Logic Model
Robotics Celebration of Learning
STEAM One-Pager.docx
Terry Smith on Facebook
STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Leaders and advocates will critically review strategies for connecting with their community to build a program focused on supporting STEAM with emphasis on inclusive practices for design with equity at the forefront.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will take away strategies for engaging with their community to support their schools in developing and sustaining STEAM programming focused on equity.

SPEAKERS:
Terry Smith (M-PowerHouse of Greater Pittsburgh: No City, No State), Vincent Scotto (Pittsburgh Public Schools: Pittsburgh, PA)

Leadership Advocacy STEM Presentation

Energizing Your Achievement – Win Up To $10,000 – Shell-Sponsored Teacher Awards

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 106

Show Details

Calling all diverse and experienced K-12 educators that impact students and their community. Learn how to win up to $10K with Shell-sponsored teacher awards.

TAKEAWAYS:
Collaborate with past winners and judges to learn how to start your winning application for the Shell Teaching Awards. We'll walk through the application step-by-step, and you'll be able to begin your application or nomination form live. These awards are applicable to K-12 science educators.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

STEM Equity Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Hosting a Successful Science Fair

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 709


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Conference Presentation (1).pptx
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Hosting a STEM Science Fair promotes engagement with the scientific method and CER. It allows students to investigate areas of science that interest them. Learn the logistics of hosting a science fair at your school and the benefits it can bring to your building.

TAKEAWAYS:
Hosting a Science Fair allows students to be active scientists as they study, experiment, and share their knowledge of an in-depth topic of their interest.

SPEAKERS:
Stacie Hopple (8th grade science teacher: New Lexington, OH)

STEM General Science Leadership Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

NEED Tools for STEM in the Classroom and After School

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 403

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Using NEED (National Energy Education Development) Project resources and tools for engaging STEM lessons that engage and energize students during school day and after school instruction. Presenter is a public school educator with two decades of classroom and after school experience using NEED.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use the NEED website to find resources to meet their individual teaching needs. Engaging lessons that are well-tested with students will be highlighted and shared in hopes that educators walk away with more useful tools that can be used to excite students about STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Audrey Hughes (Clarke Middle School: Athens, GA)

STEM General Science Technical and Vocational Education Grades 6 - 8 Roundtable

Get The Facts Out — Teacher Recruitment Resources

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 1F

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

College and university faculty who recruit STEM teacher candidates: This session is for you!

TAKEAWAYS:
There is a STEM teacher shortage. Students are interested! College and university faculty can help!!

SPEAKERS:
Jia Wern Hue (Research Associate: Golden, CO)

Advocacy Leadership Preservice Science Education Postsecondary Presentation

Unlock the Magic of Informal STEM Education through Fun & Creative Outreach Events

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

STEM experiences are not limited to the school day. Learn about fun & creative STEM outreach events, and get motivated to roll up your sleeves to work on planning a STEM event for your organization!

TAKEAWAYS:
STEM outreach events can be a way to engage students and families in equitable STEM learning to encourage and support all learners. This session will provide information on successful STEM outreach events & how to design your own!

SPEAKERS:
Kelly Moore (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Leslie Suters (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN), Jennifer Meadows (Tennessee Tech: Cookeville, TN)

STEM Informal Education Preservice Science Education Hands-On Workshop

Make Assessment More Educative by Providing Students With the Feedback They Need to Learn

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2B

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

In this session, teachers and administrators will gain information about using formative assessments to make instructional shifts to meet students' learning needs. The intended audience is teachers and administrators for science, math, and engineering courses in grades 3-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
The importance of exit tickets: Assessments are only useful when used to guide further instruction. Often times, assessments are used to evaluate what students don’t know. How can teachers make daily adjustments to meet the needs of students? Make student learning visible to make adjustments.

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

STEM Leadership Sensemaking Hands-On Workshop

Using current issues to deliver ALL Biology content in an Introductory non-majors Biology class

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 604


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Handout of presentation - 2 slides per page
Handout of Presentation - 6 slides per page
More Information about Issues in Biology
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Rather than simply use an interesting news story or issue to "hook" students, I use a current issue to drive the Biology content covered in that lecture. By carefully choosing issues across all parts of Biology, I cover all content normally included in an introductory Biology class.

TAKEAWAYS:
I will provide specific guidance to transform the delivery of content to align with current, relevant issues. This includes individual variations that can either include or exclude physiology, and cover more, or less, content in specific areas of Biology.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Sawey (Senior Instructor)

Biology General Science Postsecondary Roundtable

Integrating Literacy and STEM into YOUR Elementary Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 301

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Use children's literature to teach the engineering design process and bring STEM into your K-5 classrooms!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain a better understanding of the engineering design process while integrating it with literacy into their elementary classrooms. They will gain knowledge of appropriate texts, strategies, and design challenge ideas.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa DeBruin (K-5 STEM Teacher: No City, No State), Elizabeth Nelson (Barrington 220 School District: Barrington, IL)

STEM Literacy Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

NASA Camp Guides: Overview and Activity Demonstrations

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
2024 NSTA Presentation NASA Camp Guides Chambers Dotson Laurence.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Participants will receive a hands-on introduction to several of Next Gen STEM’s newly developed camp and formal activity guides. Guides covered: Artemis Camp Experience, First Woman Camp Guide, Earth Observation Camp Experience, and the Lunar Surface Exploration educator’s guide.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will receive tips and gain experience conducting hands-on activities from the four NASA guides. Participants will also receive an overview of Next Gen STEM and instruction on how to engage further with NASA and other educators through NASA CONNECTS and ENGAGES.

SPEAKERS:
Lynn Dotson (NASA Office of STEM Engagement-GoH: Kennedy Space Center, FL), Wendi Laurence (Education Specialist: Park City, UT)

Earth & Space Science Informal Education STEM Hands-On Workshop

Preservice Teacher Session: Maintaining An NSTA Preservice Student Chapter

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4F


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Maintaining an NSTA Student Chapter.pptx
Our slides from the presentation.
STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

A discussion on how the CMU preservice student NSTA chapter maintains the organization at the university level, focusing on how they are involved in promoting STEM sensemaking in schools, fundraising for their organization, and providing professional development opportunities to preservice teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about the ideas, strategies, and resources the CMU preservice chapter uses to maintain the chapter. The executive board members will touch on community science events, fundraising, and the professional development opportunities that allow us to be a successful organization.

SPEAKERS:
Eli Vincent (Student: , MI), Jim McDonald (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI), Emma Patrus (Student), Lauren Rupe (Student: , MI), Morgan Glann (Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI)

Preservice Science Education Leadership Sensemaking Postsecondary Presentation

Bohr to Quantum

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2A

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Bohr’s model works well to help students visualize compounds, but ending with Bohr cuts the story short. This session will use a paper model to deepen the teacher’s knowledge base and result in students having a richer and more accurate portrayal of the atom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Free resource available to use in the classroom which models the current model of the atom.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Matsler (University of Texas Arlington: No City, No State)

Chemistry Physical Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

A Better Way to Take Notes! Visually Processing Science Content with Sketchnotes

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Jennifer Weibert Materials.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Students love sketchnoting in science! Come learn how visual notetaking leads to deep processing and retention of content. Editable templates will be provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
How to greatly increase student processing using templates and sketching.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Weibert (Fresno County Office of Education: Fresno, CA)

Sensemaking General Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Going Beyond Data Analysis into Asking and Answering Questions Through Data Exploration.

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2D

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Infuse your classroom with data by learning to use CODAP, a free web-based data exploration tool designed to support students in learning how to answer questions with data. CODAP’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface will move your students beyond spreadsheets into the realm of data inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
CODAP moves the focus away from cumbersome graph wizards and allows students to enter a state of flow in exploring the story a dataset has to tell. CODAP was designed with students in mind, and supports sensemaking with data in unique ways not possible with other tools.

SPEAKERS:
Angela Gospodarek (Gorham Middle School: Gorham, ME), Daniel Damelin (The Concord Consortium: Concord, MA)

Technology General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

ASTE: Two-Eyed Seeing Place-Consciousness

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA 2024 Conference_Denver.pptx
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This workshop provides background information on place-conscious design and the two-eyed seeing framework. The culturally diverse knowledge of Native American communities and their desire to improve environmental conditions help facilitate three-dimensional teaching and learning with a diverse lens.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain insight into place-conscious design and two-eyed seeing frameworks and their application within Native American communities.

SPEAKERS:
Elaine Westbrook (Montana State University Billings: Billings, MT)

Equity Environmental Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

The National Girls Collaborative Project: Building educators’ capacity to engage and inspire girls in STEM

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
5 Ways to Counter STEM Stereotypes.pdf
Exemplary Practices in Collaboration
NGCP Website
NGCP-TheStateofGirlsinSTEM-March2024.pdf
NGCPNSTAPresentDenver2024.pdf
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

This session will provide an overview of the National Girls Collaborative Project, a robust network of educators and other professionals, our high-quality, research-based resources and professional development focused on engaging and inspiring girls in STEM, and how to connect with our network.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the National Girls Collaborative Project, our research-based resources, and professional development opportunities focused on building educators’ capacity to engage and inspire girls in STEM, and how to connect and collaborate with our robust network.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Peterson (National Girls Collaborative Project: Seattle, WA), Brenda Britsch (National Girls Collaborative: Seattle, WA)

Equity Informal Education Presentation

Invention Education: STEM With A Purpose

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2E

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Kids are natural inventors and problem solvers. We all know the importance of all students seeing themselves as mathematicians and scientists. Explore a free K-12 resource to teach our young inventors how and why to protect their intellectual property through the power of invention education.

TAKEAWAYS:
The purpose of this session is to introduce teachers to EquIP HQ and other free tools and resources from the US Patent and Trademark Office to help your students develop essential critical thinking and research skills, as well as creativity and problem-solving through invention education.

SPEAKERS:
Reginald Duncan (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA)

STEM Engineering Technology Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

Using the genome-to-phenome construct to change students' acceptance of the theory of evolution

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2G

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

An activity designed to explore the genome-phenome relationship will be conducted by participants. Concepts such as transcription, translation, and gene expression will be developed using Potato Head™ toys.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to integrate the genome-to-phenome construct in classroom activities, will be informed on how through a professional development (PD) teachers were able to design activities to teach the theory of evolution, as well as the success of the PD on changing students’ acceptance.

SPEAKERS:
Sandra Beltrán-Morales (Francisco Gaztambide Vega High School/ Puerto Rico Department of Education), Ángel Pérez-Vega (UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO / CSMER)

Biology Life Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

STEM Strategies that Excite and Engage Curious Students

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 2H

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This session provides an overview of strategies, including technology tools, that can be used to engage students with a variety of classroom STEM topics across grades 6-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave inspired to use at least 2-3 new engagement strategies in their own classroom setting.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Moskalik (NSTA: No City, No State)

STEM General Science Informal Education Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Power Up with Gamification

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3A

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Countless studies have found that teachers are struggling to support students in maintaining focus, finding self-worth and being intrinsically creative learners. Gamification provides the building blocks for engagement, community, healthy competition, and self motivation, and works with any grade level and any subject. With gamification, students can use their creativity in learning choices and earn incentives based around curricular and extracurricular themes. Student examples from a sixth grade science classroom include review challenges that emphasize content and game elements. Participants in this session will gain the initial building blocks to create their own game for their classrooms that is manageable and can be enhanced over time. Activities will include defining gamification and creating their own game theme. During the session, the participant will participate in a game challenge by using a choice board to explore and expand the strategies and methods of gamification.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will begin the journey of gamifying their classroom right away. They will also leave with resources to use to continue their gamification journey.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Simmons (Klahowya Secondary School: Silverdale, WA)

Informal Education Technology Hands-On Workshop

Teaching in a Virtual Reality World: Unraveling the Benefits and Roadblocks of Integrating VR in Education

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Virtual Reality has recently emerged as an impactful tool in education, revolutionizing the way we deliver content. This session aims to explore the multifaceted landscape of using VR as a teaching tool, and give participants the opportunity to be the learner and experience virtual reality.

TAKEAWAYS:
Practical insights for implementing virtual reality in a way that is effective and equitable.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Dunn (Virtual Engagement Coordinator: Denver, CO)

Technology Informal Education STEM Hands-On Workshop

New STEM Teacher Professional Development Resources for PhET Interactive Simulations

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

PhET Interactive Simulations are open education resources that support science education. Engage with PhET’s 100+ simulations and research-based active learning pedagogies while learning about PhET’s professional development Virtual Workshops that you can embed into teacher education programs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn (1) how to access PhET’s full range of teacher resources, including the PhET Virtual Workshop, (2) how to facilitate effective teacher professional development programs for online and virtual contexts, and (3) how simulations can be an on-ramp to use evidence-based pedagogies.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Perkins (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Briana Clarke (Park Day School: Oakland, CA), Rebecca Vieyra (PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

STEM Mathematics Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Student Research: How To Initiate and Carry Out a Science Research Program at Your School

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3E


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Authentic Science Research in the Secondary School Classroom_NSTA_2024.pdf
STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Have you ever wanted to start a science research program and get your students involved in authentic scientific research? Learn how to initiate and run a science research program at your school, including the benefits, methods, and challenges involved.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to initiate and operate a program of student scientific research at your school. Discussion of choosing research topics, timetables, challenges, and possible venues of the presentations of the students' final results will be covered.

SPEAKERS:
Olivia Kuper (North Greene High School: Greeneville, TN), Thomas Rutherford (East Tennessee State University, King University: Johnson City, TN)

STEM Literacy Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Preservice Teachers' Assessment of Science Knowledge (PT-ASK): Results from a Nationwide Study

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 707


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Preservice Teachers Assessment of Science Knowledge (PT-ASK) Study Results
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

We will share the latest findings from a multi-year study to identify the most promising features of undergraduate teacher preparation programs that contribute to improved training of preservice science teachers, and experiences that optimize overall STEM knowledge and students’ misconceptions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the latest on what factors impact preservice teachers’ interest in teaching, the status of teacher education programs, and what are the strong and weak STEM content knowledge areas of preservice science teachers, including prevalence of learning about students’ misconceptions.

SPEAKERS:
Philip Sadler (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA), Cynthia Crockett (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian: Cambridge, MA)

Preservice Science Education Assessment STEM Postsecondary Presentation

Nature-Inspired Invention: Fostering Creativity, Invention, and Intellectual Property Education in STEM Education

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 702

STRAND: Connecting with Nature

Show Details

Explore innovative ways to engage students in the world of science and technology through nature-inspired inventions, intellectual property, and engineering. Experience a USPTO lesson that will foster a sense of wonder and curiosity in students while promoting creativity and critical thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Time-tested biological systems inspire inventions that solve complex human problems. Learn how to implement case-based lessons that integrate inquiry, biological concepts, and nature-inspired invention while teaching students about protecting their intellectual property.

SPEAKERS:
Kathleen Lanman (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: Alexandria, VA), Kathy Hoppe (STEMisED, Inc: No City, No State)

STEM Biology Engineering Hands-On Workshop

Click2Engineering: Increasing Engineering Engagement for All

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4B

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Join the Click2Engineering.org team for an introduction to this free website for informal STEM educators. Engage in a ready-to-teach engineering activity and learn about the Ten Practices for an Engineering Mindset, as well as best practices for teaching engineering to elementary-age youth.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, attendees will be briefly introduced to the website and it’s resources, and will then engage in a hands-on, authentic engineering activity focusing on one of the ten Practices for an Engineering Mindset (e.g., using a systematic design process).

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Swanson (University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Lincoln, NE)

Engineering Informal Education Hands-On Workshop

Developing Science Instruction Through Video Lab Creation: Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 710


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation
Process Guide for Video Lab Creation
QR codes
QR codes for video labs and student facing documents
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Participants will learn about and experience how we created student-focused digital video science labs. We will share how we modified existing labs by identifying phenomena, developing mini-storylines with student materials, and creating/editing videos.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to develop storyboards along with how to video/edit their associated three-dimensional sensemaking interactive labs.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Sanches (Saratoga Middle/High School: Saratoga, WY), Lesley Urasky (Saratoga Middle/High School: Saratoga, WY)

Assessment Sensemaking Technology Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

NARST-Sponsored: Hands-On, Pre-Service Science Teachers!

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 706


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Learning scenario 1_To reduce noise at school
Learning scenario 2_To reduce noise at school
Learning scenario 3_To reduce noise at school
Learning scenario From the soil to the glass
Learning scenario Geologist for a day
Learning scenario Who killed the fishes
Presentation
Video "Let´s reduce noise at school!"
Let´s reduce noise at school is the issue students are going to solve following all sequence of activities in this learning scenario
Video Fragile Water Layer
Water and life in our planet under threat.
Video Water Thin Layer - Video from Efe Hellman
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In this workshop, participants will put hands-on experiments and learning scenarios used in a research study that focused on the contribution of non-formal activities to a pre-service science teacher education program about the nature of science, inquiry-based science learning, and STEM learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
All participants explore hands-on STEM experiments (e.g. planets’ orbit) with daily materials and inquiry-based learning scenarios (e.g. how to eliminate noise). In groups, they discuss and propose a new one. All materials will be available to participants, including some extra learning scenarios.

SPEAKERS:
Isabel Borges (Institute of Education University of Lisbon: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Informal Education STEM Postsecondary Hands-On Workshop

Modeling Gas Laws with Graphs, Particle Diagrams, and Proportional Thinking

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3H


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Gas Laws Folder
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Learn to use pressure sensors, simulations, computer graphing, and whiteboards to have students model and understand the particle behavior of gases. Also, teach gas law problem-solving using proportional thinking to make the numbers make sense physically!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will use various representations of particle behavior to explain Gas Laws and mathematically model the relationships, using pressure sensors and simulations. They will learn to calculate using proportional thinking, leading to a verbal description of WHY variables change as they do.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberlee Freudenberg (Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory: San Francisco, CA)

Chemistry Physical Science Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

BioScann Stress Case: A novel approach that integrates data-based decision making and career exploration for high school science classrooms

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3C


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Tufts Center for Science Education BioScann Workshop
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore BioScann, a digital case-based approach that builds student STEM career awareness and graph interpretation skills in the context of real-world science. Materials are FREE, and were created by partnership with Boston area teachers and the Center for Science Education at Tufts Medical School.

TAKEAWAYS:
Come experience our new neuroscience-based Stress Case, set in the context of designing a public health campaign to promote a stress-reducing intervention. To make group decisions, we will take on roles of STEM professionals, as we analyze career-specific data. You will also get access to BioScann!

SPEAKERS:
Valerie Solon (Researcher: , MA), Katherine Malanson (Tufts University School of Medicine: No City, No State), Denise Puopolo (East Boston High School: East Boston, MA), Jasmine Juo (Brookline High School: Brookline, MA), Berri Jacque (Tufts University School of Medicine: Boston, MA)

Biology General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Selecting Phenomena to Motivate Student Sensemaking

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 111/113

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Come see how you can make a shift to storylines in your classroom where students make sense of phenomena and see how this motivates them to engage in science and engineering practices, learn disciplinary core ideas, and crosscutting concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Having students make sense of phenomena leads to greater engagement and deeper understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Willard (Discovery Education: Silver Spring, MD)

General Science Leadership Sensemaking Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Science Teacher Superheroes- Teacher Leaders Facilitating Improvement

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4D


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Science Teacher Superheros_Denver 24.pdf
STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Teacher leaders are the superheroes of education. In this session participants will investigate the Domain IV of the Teacher Leader Model Standards. In this deep dive, facilitating improvement in science instruction and student learning will be addressed.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through participant dialogue, each attendee will walk away with a list of methods or practices found to be successful in the science classroom, as well as, ways to collaborate and support colleagues.

SPEAKERS:
Jenne VandePanne (Michigan Technological University/Newaygo Public Schools: Newaygo, MI), Jessica Wagenmaker (Holton Middle School: Holton, MI)

Leadership Assessment General Science Postsecondary Hands-On Workshop

It's All Fun and Games in High School Chemistry

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3G


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
It's All Fun & Games in High School Chemistry resources
each folder contains the game, cards, board, rules, student worksheet, teacher answer key, hints and suggestions
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Come play device-free comprehensive unit review games that are designed to provide an opportunity for all chemistry students to problem solve and think critically while working together as a team in a growth-mindset environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with device-free game materials and proven strategies that encourage collaboration and communication while increasing students' application of concepts in 14 units of the high school chemistry curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Hessling (New Trier High School, Winnetka Campus: Winnetka, IL), Elaine Kollar (New Trier High School, Winnetka Campus: Winnetka, IL), Tracy Smith (New Trier High School, Winnetka Campus: Winnetka, IL)

Chemistry Physical Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Teacher Leadership in the 21st Century: How Science Teachers Are Leading The Education Reform Movement Without Leaving The Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 3C

STRAND: Leadership and Advocacy

Show Details

Meet a group of science teachers using their power as master practitioners to advance science education through community engagement & strategic partnerships with government & business that raise money to promote science awareness, develop STEM programs for urban youth & train teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to harness their unrealized power as experts in classroom science to grow beyond the classroom and become leaders, advocates, and ambassadors of science education at the local, state, and national levels.

SPEAKERS:
Yishan Lee (PS/MS 219), Dianna Gobler (Westhampton Beach High School: Westhampton Beach, NY), Lawrence Perretto (STEM Leadership Center: Rye, NY)

Advocacy Equity Presentation

Blending In: A STEAM Approach to Biomimetic Camouflage

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 207


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Workshop Slides: Fostering STEAM Camouflage Design
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the forms and functions of color in the living world to design your own camouflage pattern in an activity that leverages research-backed STEAM practices to support identity and mindset in diverse learners. Leave with an NGSS-aligned biology activity that can be modified for various ages.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn equity-focused strategies for integrating art and biology in instruction, including those that support STEAM-linked identities in learners, and foster a growth-oriented STEAM mindset.

SPEAKERS:
Laura Carsten Conner (University of Alaska Fairbanks: Fairbanks, AK), Perrin Teal Sullivan (University of Alaska Fairbanks: Fairbanks, AK)

Biology Equity STEM Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

CAST: Colorado Headwaters : A Sampling of CIRES Lessons on Drought, Water and Climate Change

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 103/105

STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

Join us to experience lessons created with and for CO teachers on water and climate, and to learn from a co-author of the 5th National Climate Assessment. Participants will visit the headwaters of the CO River in a VR tour, analyze data to explore megadroughts, and play a Drought Resiliency game!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore innovative resources (e.g., VR tours, games, data analysis) that combine place-based instructional practices with contemporary research on climate change and its impact on water availability in Colorado, and leave prepared to implement these resources in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Daniela Pennycook (Communication Specialist and Program Integrator: Boulder, CO), Jonathan Griffith (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, VT), Katya Schloesser (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

Environmental Science Climate Science Earth & Space Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Questions and Crosscutting Concepts in OpenSciEd High School: How can we support students in asking good questions?

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 102/104

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

OpenSciEd High School units consider all student sensemaking to be three-dimensional - including the questions that drive the unit. Explore examples from biology, chemistry, and physics show how targeted anchor lessons help students ask productive questions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Instruction can be designed so that crosscutting concepts are both a tool for student sensemaking as well as a desirable outcome. In particular, crosscutting concepts can help students ask questions that will be productive throughout a storylines unit.

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Noll (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Kate Henson (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO)

General Science Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

The Benefits of Immersive, Place-Based Professional Learning for Teachers

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3D

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Immersing educators in a locally relevant context is a powerful way to foster professional learning, modify curriculum, and boost student engagement. This session will present successful examples of immersive professional learning that have impacted hundreds of educators across the country.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the benefits of immersive professional learning and how it can bring the sensemaking process to life. We will provide example phenomena that fully engage the three dimensions of the NGSS approach and are explored in daily practice by researchers and scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Beierle (Vivayic, Inc.: No City, No State)

General Science STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Interpreting Graphs with Confidence and Ease!

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 304

STRAND: Instruction and Assessment: Implementing Standards

Show Details

Attendees will collect and analyze uniform motion data from a dune buggy, identify dependent and independent variables, and create large graphs that can be easily interpreted by using adding machine tape.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: Develop the relationship between a uniform motion car and a displacement vs. time graph. Compare a uniform motion graph to a nonuniform graph. Learn how graphs form the basis for equations students will learn in other STEM classes.

SPEAKERS:
Jan Mader (Retired Physics and Chemistry Teacher: Great Falls, MT)

Mathematics General Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Gauging and Assessing Student Feedback to Open Educational Resource (OER) Integration in College Courses

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Mile High Ballroom 4A


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA - 2024 (Sadeghian).pptx
PowerPoint slides for presentation
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Open Educational Resources (OERs) significantly enhance educational equity. Yet, what do the students themselves think about OERs? In this presentation, we analyze and discuss data from student feedback/surveys regarding their experiences with OERs to make improvements where necessary.

TAKEAWAYS:
In summary, the data show that students are mostly grateful for the opportunity to not have to pay for any additional classroom materials after tuition. OER quality varies, and any shortcomings do not go unnoticed by students. However, the zero-cost aspect outweighs any downsides of specific OERs.

SPEAKERS:
Cyrus Sadeghian (Prince George's Community College: Largo, MD)

STEM Assessment Equity Postsecondary Presentation

Using the Case Study Approach to Support Different Learning Outcomes: Two Ways to Use a Case Study in Biology

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 703

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Research has demonstrated that various case-based learning approaches support various depths of learning. Using a single case study on Huntington’s Disease, participants will observe how case implementation in either a case-based method or a case lecture supports learning depth.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn implementation of two types of case-based learning (CBL): a case-based method and a case-based lecture. Participants will learn the structure of each type of CBL, and how a subtle difference in CBL can support depth of learning while comparing the two types of CBL in biology.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Krall (University of Kentucky: Lexington, KY), Katherine Sharp (Missouri University of Science and Technology: Rolla, MO)

Sensemaking Biology Postsecondary Presentation

3D Insect & Adaptation: Engaging Middle School Students through Arts Integration

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 401

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

STEAM focused lesson plans integrating garden-based learning and the arts. In this hands-on workshop, learn how creative inquiry, working in 3D and color can reinforce sensemaking of science cross-cutting concepts. Participants will receive Middle School arts integration lesson materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in teacher-tested STEAM art-making lessons connected to garden-based learning that can be implemented into the middle school classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Tain Curtis (Teacher: , UT), Aurora Hughes Villa (Utah State University: No City, No State)

Sensemaking Environmental Science Life Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

TikTok in the Classroom: Using Social Media to Teach Science

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom 3F

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Looking for a new way to engage your students in scientific thinking? This workshop will introduce educators to the world of social media and how it can be leveraged to get students thinking and acting like scientists. Join us for this session hosted by some Emmy-nominated teachers!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with an understanding of how to utilize social media apps to help engage students in scientific thinking in their classroom, all while building positive relationships.

SPEAKERS:
Curtis Martin (Teacher), Courtney Ologbosele (Teacher)

General Science STEM Technology Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Science as a Rich Context for Content Integration

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 205

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Science instruction creates rich opportunities to integrate other content areas— particularly ELA or math. Explore a process for designing integration opportunities that allow both domains to support each other. Bring a science lesson plan or use a shared example to try the process together.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will try out a process built upon foundational practices identified in science education and integration research to analyze a science lesson plan for moments of student sensemaking and opportunities for content integration.

SPEAKERS:
Janna Mahfoud (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Amy Belcastro (Science Educator/Grad Student)

General Science Literacy Mathematics Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Presentation

Science Kits Deliver Teacher Agency: An Action Research Project Between a Teacher Education Program & Local Rural Schools

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 502


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
NSTA Handout.pdf
STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

This study aims to provide opportunities to collaborate with rural science teachers in a mutually beneficial partnership in order to build agency in rural teachers, students, and preservice teachers in rural classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will collaborate with presenters in order for all to better understand the challenges and opportunities for providing high-quality, engaging science instruction to students in rural areas.

SPEAKERS:
Gwinn North (Tarleton State University: No City, No State)

Preservice Science Education Postsecondary Roundtable

Machine Learning & AI literacy through scientific inquiry: a natural fit

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 603


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Presentation Slides
Teacher Guide and Materials linked on slide 35
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

We present an out-of-school-time curriculum where machine learning is taught through hands-on scientific inquiry. We highlight one day of instruction where Artificial Neural Networks are introduced through digital interactives and kinesthetic activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students can see themselves as those who use and understand the value and application of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence when those fields are embedded in a natural history curriculum focused on scientific inquiry and how science is practiced.

SPEAKERS:
Juanita Martin (Life Science Educator/ Educational Psychology Doctoral Student: , NY), Devin D'Agostino (American Museum of Natural History: New York, NY), Sofia Schembari (Life Science Educator: New York, NY), Mark Weckel (Director; Youth Programming: New York, NY)

Informal Education STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

They've Been Taught It, Why Can't They Use It? Developing Strategies for Deeper Learning, Application, and Retention

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 607

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

If you've ever "taught it" but the students didn't "get it," this is the session for you! In this session, we will walk through the iterative process that brought me to a new understanding of how students retain information and I will share techniques for you to explore now and in your classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
The tools discussed will provide examples applicable to any subject matter. By the end of the session, you should have 1 or 2 strategies/lesson ideas to implement immediately and hopefully a plethora of ideas to flesh out and develop on your own.

SPEAKERS:
Cory Gavitt (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs, CO)

STEM Sensemaking Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Using Reading Strategies to Create Access to Science Text

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 203


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Using Reading Strategies to Create Access to Science Text
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

In Using Reading Strategies to Create Access to Science Text, participants will identify the three text types (written, visual, and symbolic) in science classrooms. Discuss what makes a text complex or enabling. Experience strategies for analyzing text in science (ex: slow reveal graphs, Identify an

TAKEAWAYS:
We can utilize reading strategies to analyze science text.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Wedderburn (Science Instructional Coach: , MA), Evelyn Larose (Science Program Director and Educational Consultant)

General Science Literacy Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Reach New Heights - Incorporate Drones & Coding

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 705


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1oVOJRjVM2jVZKGA3hFbJcMRxJZzF1kVE?usp=drive_link
Reach New Heights - NSTA.pdf
Google Drive Folder - Reach New Heights Incorporate Coding & Drones Includes DoD STEM Resources REC Foundation Aerial Drone Resources
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Participants will see and experience an "Eclipse" This workshop will immerse participants in the various missions of the REC Foundation's Aerial Drone Competition structure. Guided by a DoD STEM Ambassador and learn tools and strategies to try in your own classrooms even without drones.

TAKEAWAYS:
Experience an "Eclipse" of your teaching methods. The interdiciplinary nature of Aerial Drone Competitions help inspire and motivate all students while encouraging participation in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Gretchen Greer (Teacher)

STEM Robotics Technology Hands-On Workshop

Students to Stewards: Student-Centered Climate Change Instruction

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 201


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
_ Students to Stewards Session Presentation Slides
NSTA Collection for this session
Storyline Design Tool Set v2.3
This will force you to make a copy. You may also access this document from https://www.nextgenstorylines.org/tools
STRAND: Climate Science and Environmental Justice

Show Details

How can we help students build climate change understanding and keep them hopeful about their future? Using place-based education students see themselves as active and knowledgeable members of their communities who have agency in identifying local climate-related problems and developing solutions

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will build an understanding of how placed-based education creates student agency to drive learning.

SPEAKERS:
NSTA Online Advisors (Teachers), Holly Hereau (NSTA: Arlington, VA), Patrice Scinta (NSTA: Arlington, VA)

Climate Science Biology Earth & Space Science Grades 9 - 12 Hands-On Workshop

Visibility Value: BIPOC Belonging with B.E.S.T.

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 302

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Education research emphasizes the importance of representation; however, this session takes a broader perspective. Join us as we share insights from PEBC’s inaugural BEST Conference, an effort to expand beyond young learners and explore belonging that centers educators and professionals.

TAKEAWAYS:
By the end of the session, participants will have a greater understanding of the purpose behind PEBC's BEST Conference, and pragmatic strategies to employ with the BIPOC educators and professionals that they support.

SPEAKERS:
Jailyn Jenkins (Manager of Resident Development, Innovation, Coaching: , CO)

Advocacy Equity Leadership Postsecondary Presentation

Civilization Exists by Geologic Consent: How Geologic Events Have Shaped Human History

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 101

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Dr. Michael Wysession, NGSS co-author and geophysics professor, will explore fascinating Earth and space science (ESS) storylines of how geologic events such as volcanoes, earthquakes, and climate change have shaped the rise and fall of civilizations and altered human history.

TAKEAWAYS:
The usual and sometimes bizarre history of human impacts from geological events make for engaging phenomena and storylines that can be used to help students understand not only Earth and space science but also NGSS performance expectations in life science and physical science.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Wysession (Washington University in St. Louis: Saint Louis, MO)

Earth & Space Science Climate Science Environmental Science Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Drop-In Consultation with STEM Teaching Tools Team about Equitable Science Instruction and Climate Learning

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 108/110


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Ed Tool_1_Centering Environmental and Climate Justice in Education
Climate Ed Tool_2_Leveraging Environmental Justice to Unlock the Potential of Ed
Climate Ed Tool_3_It_s Not Only About the Content - People, Culture, and Process
Climate Ed Tool_4_Teaching for Climate Justice and Student Action
Climate Ed Tool_5_(W)holistic Science Pedagogy and Climate Justice
Climate Ed Tool_6_Using Theatrical Performance to Promote Climate Justice
Climate Resource Hub
STEM-Teaching-Tool-12-Teaching-Climate-Change-K-12.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-44-Teaching-Controversial-Science-Topics.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-57-Place-Based-Science-Education.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-67-Justice-Centered-Phenomena.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-68-Teaching-Climate-Solutions.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-70-Intersectional-Environmental-Education.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-74-Community-Science-for-Equity.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-78-Navigating-Politics-Surrounding-Climate-Teaching.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-80-Reframing-Eco-Anxiety.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-82-Supporting-Observation-and-Should-We-Deliberations.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-84-Talk-Climate.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-87-Identifying-Local-Environmental-Justice-Phenomena.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-90-Climate-Change-Learning-for-Action.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-93-Sustainable-Development-Goals.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-96-Connecting-Place-Understanding-How-Food-Energy-and-Water-Decision-Making-Affects-Thriving-of-Local-Regional-and-Global-Systems.pdf
STEM-Teaching-Tool-97-Climate-Justice-Learning.pdf
TalkClimateInfoGraphic.pdf
STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

This consultation session provides educators an opportunity to talk with others about persistent classroom tensions, lesson ideas, or teaching practices that could improve equitable science instruction or climate learning. Participants get to pose their own questions and pitch their own ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session is designed to support the goals of each participant. Consultations will likely focus on: equitable classroom teaching practices, how to better support student talk, how to identify consequential phenomena for lessons, and how to teach in response to the climate crisis.

SPEAKERS:
Tiffany Neill (Research Scientist: Oklahoma City, OK), Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Deb Morrison (Educator and Learning Scientist: Seattle, WA), Nancy Price (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Equity Climate Science STEM Grades PreK - 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hands-On Workshop

Exploring Habitat Fragmentation and Connectivity with HHMI BioInteractive

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Four Seasons Ballroom 4

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: HHMI BioInteractive

How do habitat fragments serve as ecological "islands?" Join us as we investigate strategies for connecting disconnected habitats using free BioInteractive resources.

SPEAKERS:
Perri Carr (V.R. Eaton High School: Haslet, TX), David Hong (Diamond Bar High School: Diamond Bar, CA)

Life Science Biology Grades 9 - 12 Postsecondary Exhibitor Workshop

From Code to Construction – Modeling Transcription and Translation Essentials

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 501

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: 3D Molecular Designs

Model how DNA is transcribed into mRNA and how mRNA is translated into a protein - the final stages of the flow of genetic information.

SPEAKERS:
Ruth Hutson (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI), Tim Herman (3D Molecular Designs: Milwaukee, WI)

Biology Life Science Sensemaking STEM Grades 6 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 Exhibitor Workshop

Let’s Engage Students through Phenomena-based Science Instruction (Grades 3-8)

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 303

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Sponsoring Company: STEMscopes by Accelerate Learning

Looking for ways to increase student ideas in the development of investigative phenomena? We will work in collaborative teams to develop a driving question board. Let’s discuss the types of phenomena and how they can be used effectively in the STEM classroom. Bring relevancy to students’ lives!

SPEAKERS:
Laurie Thompson (Accelerate Learning, Inc.: Houston, TX)

General Science Grades 3 - 5 Grades 6 - 8 Exhibitor Workshop

Demystifying Misconceptions: Strategies to Identify and Rectify Fallacies in the Science Classroom

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 210/212

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Delve into common science misconceptions, from the earth's core to the cosmos. Discover innovative tools to pinpoint and address these fallacies, transforming misconceptions into teachable moments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Equip educators with effective strategies to identify, understand, and address students' misconceptions, fostering a more accurate and in-depth grasp of scientific principles.

SPEAKERS:
Nathan Lang-Raad (Author, Speaker, Educator: , ME)

General Science Assessment STEM Grades 6 - 8 Presentation

NASA STEMonstrations: Engaging STEM Concepts in Low Earth Orbit

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 605

STRAND: Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

Show Details

Explore the evolution of the NASA Next Gen STEM STEMonstration product as an innovative strategy in developing STEM minds and allow participants to co-develop a learning module around a STEMonstration filmed by astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn how to integrate NASA STEMonstrations into their instruction and contribute to the development of future NASA education products and platforms.

SPEAKERS:
Seth Johnson (NASA Stennis Space Center: Stennis Space Center, MS), Matthew Pearce (NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies: New York, NY)

STEM Environmental Science Physical Science Grades 6 - 8 Hands-On Workshop

Race is Real, but Not Genetic!

Saturday, March 23 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Colorado Convention Center - 503


(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Race is Real, But Not Genetic_Google Slide Presentation
Slide presentation that includes the layout of this topic as a 5E, 3D NGSS lesson.
STRAND: Student Learning and Inclusion

Show Details

Most people have many misconceptions about ethnicity, race, genetics. This session focuses on the genetic similarities of humans, genotypic variation within Africa, the founder effect, and the subsequent reduction in genotypic variation outside of Africa; including lesson ideas for the HS Classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Abuse of public trust in science and the application of pseudoscientific methods by trusted figures has created the modern illusion that race has a scientific definition. HS biology students can apply understanding of genetics along with the nature of science to engage in argument based on evidence.

SPEAKERS:
Maria Powell (Henry M. Gunn High School: Palo Alto, CA)

Biology Equity Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

Closing Reception

Saturday, March 23 • 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM

Colorado Convention Center - Bluebird Ballroom Foyer

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Cap off NSTA Denver24 at the Closing Reception, 2:15-3:15 PM. Enjoy drinks, snacks, and a shot at fantastic prizes! Grab your drink tickets at the final concurrent session and be present to win big. Unforgettable moments await! Cheers to NSTA Denver24's grand finale!

STEM Grades 9 - 12 Presentation

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