High school students gain new insight into data visualization and science communication through an afterschool STEM leadership initiative. Participants conduct independent research projects using ArcGIS Pro and StoryMaps. Come see their work and learn about what we accomplished in the pilot year!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will see what the high school students accomplished with their independent research projects and StoryMaps. They will see examples of how we have utilized GIS and guided research to build or enhance student sensemaking and sense of place within local natural environments.

SPEAKERS:
Vanessa Van Heerden (Engagement Specialist: Baton Rouge, LA)

Connecting children's books and STEM is an easy way to increase student interest in STEM studies. In this session we will explore children's books and see how we can connect hands on STEM activities to broaden the learning. Ideas and activities that have been used in classrooms will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will receive a resource of over 30 books and their STEAM connection will be provided so teachers can use them in classrooms immediately. Additionally, lesson planning forms and Crowdsourcing tools will be shared to make planning for future lessons will be shared.

SPEAKERS:
Nancy Penchev (Scheck Hillel Community School: Hollywood, FL)

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the profound impact that audiobooks can have on literacy across diverse genres and educational settings. This breakout session discusses research findings and practical insights regarding the integration of audiobooks into classroom instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
This breakout session offers valuable perspectives for educators, researchers, and literacy advocates. This session will examine the potential of audiobooks to facilitate interdisciplinary learning, particularly in the realm of science education.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Robinson (4/5 Grade Educator: Bixby, OK)

There is no greater challenge then that of providing interesting and leveled reading choices. This is especially so when it comes to Science based non-fiction. A recent influx of titles and resources makes this task a bit easier.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be introduced to the benefits of the science centered library and given resources to help them build their own.

SPEAKERS:
Michele Bacon (McCaw STEAM Academy: Henderson, NV), William Hall, Jr. (McCaw STEAM Academy: Henderson, NV)

Discover how the ALL for Science curriculum framework seamlessly integrates hands-on science with science literacy as learners work as part of a science investigation team to elevate science competency and communication. Don’t miss this opportunity to revolutionize your science teaching!

TAKEAWAYS:
Immerse yourself in the ALL for Science curriculum framework, where structured science exploration meets specialized literacy as learners take on the roles of actual scientists engaged in an investigation.

SPEAKERS:
Jimmie Thomas (Baylor College of Medicine: Houston, TX)

Session will showcase literacy integration examples from ML-PBL Science Classrooms. Handouts will provide links to the FREE OER ML-PBL units of instruction, lesson overviews, and literacy integration affordances.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will peruse plans for integrating science and literacy, and for extending science ideas throughout the school day as shared by ML-PBL Elementary Teachers. Access FREE OER Elementary Science Units.

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