2024 New Orleans National Conference

November 6-9, 2024

Additional sessions will be added as they are accepted and confirmed over the next several weeks.
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FILTERS APPLIED:Hands-On Workshop, No Strand, Environmental Science

 

Rooms and times subject to change.
52 results
Save up to 50 sessions in your agenda.

Collecting and Analyzing Local Earth Science Data Using NASA Technology Through the AEROKATS and ROVER Education Network

Thursday, November 7 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 296


STRAND: Tech Tools

Show Details

The AREN Project provides NASA technology tools to educators, learners, and citizen scientists who want to collect local earth science data. Lesson plans and equipment are made available to investigate phenomena like the Urban Heat Island Effect, and how land use affects flooding.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will experience various methods of using remote sensing and in-situ measurement with common scientific tools and NASA-developed educational platforms. Participants will be invited to join upcoming virtual professional learning opportunities that provide training and materials at no cost.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Ogiemwonyi (Wayne RESA: Wayne, MI)

Catchment to Chaos: Unveiling the Environmental Consequences of Floods on Soil Health

Thursday, November 7 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 296


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

This workshop delves into the environmental consequences of flooding. Participants will explore resources and activities that highlight the chain reaction of events triggered by floods, including soil erosion, the spread of pollutants, and the effects of these on overall soil health.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore resources to understand that floods disrupt the delicate balance in soil impacting soil health and structure.

SPEAKERS:
Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD)

How Do We Study Paleoclimate? Using the Fossil Record to Track Changes in Earth’s Climate

Thursday, November 7 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 387



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Foram-Activity-Graph.pdf
Foram-Activity-Paleoclimate.docx
Foraminifera-Fossils-Left-Coiling.pptx
Foraminifera-Fossils-Right-Coiling.pptx
FORMATIVE-ASSESSMENT-Climate-Analysis-Using-Planktonic-Foraminifera (KEY).docx
FORMATIVE-ASSESSMENT-Climate-Analysis-Using-Planktonic-Foraminifera.docx
Introduction-to-Foraminifera.docx
Using the Fossil Record to Track Changes in Earth’s Climate Presentation.pptx

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

How do scientists study Earth’s historical climate? Are ice cores the only source of data? The fossil record can provide insight into cyclical changes in Earth’s climate. Teamwork, data analysis, and more scientific skills are used to analyze fossil data to study ocean temperature and level changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will receive hands-on activities that use fossil evidence which indicates changes in ocean temperatures and levels, showing fluctuations in Earth’s climate over time. Activities can be easily modified based on the needs of the teacher and grade level.

SPEAKERS:
Sabrina Ewald (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX)

From Classrooms to Communities: Educating a Generation of Climate Resilient Stewards

Thursday, November 7 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 297


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Our ecosystems are changing. We need to nurture climate-resilient learners through a transdisciplinary approach. By reconnecting with nature in urban areas we can leverage existing resources to discover new strategies for all educators that are not only actionable, but are inclusive.

TAKEAWAYS:
This interactive workshop emphasizes the importance of rebuilding relationships with nature in urban settings, and teaches strategies to leverage existing resources to build sustainable schools. It aims to provide educators with strategies to support students in addressing climate change.

SPEAKERS:
Kelleigh Huey (PAST Foundation: Columbus, OH), Jessa Goldner (Assistant Director of Student Experiences: Columbus, OH)

Encourage Curiosity, Spark Inquiry: Teach students to ask their own questions

Thursday, November 7 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 388



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

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

The Question Formulation Technique (QFT), created by the Right Question Institute, will be explored in a hands-on, multidisciplinary, teacher-to-teacher training session exploring “How can we work together on creating more opportunities for all students to ask their own questions?”

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will give educators a proven and novel instructional strategy, and teachers who participate in the session will understand the mechanics of the QFT strategy, have experience practicing the QFT strategy, and obtain concrete examples of how to use the QFT strategy in their classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Katy Connolly (Right Question Institute: Cambridge, MA), Maureen McGrail (University of Notre Dame: Notre Dame, IN)

BIG! Build It Green - a middle school energy unit with an architectural design emphasis

Thursday, November 7 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 274


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

This 60-minute workshop presents a new NSF-funded Middle School science storyline curriculum unit called Build it Green! (BIG!). BIG! addresses human impacts of energy systems through a green building engineering design process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Workshop participants will learn about our 14-lesson unit, the standards it addresses, and its unique use of digital tools, architectural design, and hands-on learning. Participants have a chance to engage with a new digital design tool that was made for BIG! using authentic architectural data.

SPEAKERS:
Caiden Webb (Graduate Student), Rebekah Snyder (University of Missouri: Columbia, MO)

Harnessing the Wind: Engaging Teachers in Renewable Energy Education

Thursday, November 7 • 2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 387



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Introduction to Wind Lab
Switch Classroom Introduction to Wind Lab Activity

STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Engage in hands-on learning! Explore wind energy's pros/cons and then design, and test windmills made with recycled materials. Take away a ready-to-use lesson adaptable for grades 4-12.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave equipped with a student-tested wind energy lesson, incorporating hands-on activities and collaborative learning, adaptable for grades 4-12, fostering a deeper understanding of renewable energy concepts aligned with NGSS standards.

SPEAKERS:
Lynn Kistler (Switch Classroom: No City, No State)

Foraging for Fish in a Melting Arctic: Seabirds as a Model for Monitoring Climate Change

Thursday, November 7 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 278



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Bird Band Activity Instructions (1).pdf
bird band student cards
CooperNSTA_NOLA.pdf
Slideshow
education materials
Data sets and other materials. Please contact us for more access!
Foraging_fish_lesson_final.pdf
Running relay to model arctic cod/pack ice
Polar Bear video
polar bear/nest box
Seabird scenarios.docx
Scenarios for the seabird math modeling with a deck of cards

STRAND: No Strand

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:
Explore an integrated curriculum for all ages centered on a 50-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)

Put It Back - Carbon Capture and Sequestration Engineering Design Challenge

Thursday, November 7 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 387



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
APES-FRQ-Carbon-storage.pdf
CO2-Fayette-Power-Plant-Activity.docx
Imbibition-Demo-Activity-Handout.docx
Put-It-Back-Workshop-Presentation (for teachers).pptx
Reservoir-in-a-Jar.docx
Texas-Tribune-2023-FayettePowerProject.pdf

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

What does it take to store CO2 underground? Discover how engineers determine where CO2 can be stored in subsurface geology by engaging in an engineering design challenge and learn how the energy industry is currently storing ‘captured’ carbon emissions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how the engineering design challenge can be integrated into AP Environmental Science, ESS, or Environmental Science courses and learn how it aligns with NGSS and APES standards. A document version and an online version are provided to attendees.

SPEAKERS:
Sabrina Ewald (The University of Texas at Austin: Austin, TX)

Long-term Reef Monitoring at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary

Thursday, November 7 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 294



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
FGBNMS Reef Monitoring Lesson

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Researchers at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary have been collecting data through repetitive photographs since the 1970's to evaluate the change in the ecosystem over time. Participants will identify habitat changes in reef monitoring images and infer potential causes of those changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Environmental monitoring is a challenging activity, especially underwater. This activity will introduce students to the methods used for evaluating underwater habitats and the kinds of information that can be learned from those efforts.

SPEAKERS:
Taylor Galaviz (Constituent Engagement Specialist: Galveston, TX), Sandra Metoyer (Environmental Institute of Houston at University of Houston Clear Lake: No City, No State)

EcoRise and the Science classroom!

Thursday, November 7 • 3:40 PM - 4:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 399


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

This session on how to use EcoRise tools and your classroom and how to teach students to write successful EcoAudit grants.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to use resources available from EcoRise and how to empower their students to write and receive a grant for an environmental issue in their area.

SPEAKERS:
Cecelia Gillam (Benjamin Franklin High School: No City, No State)

Engaging in Climate Science Education Through Connections to Everyday Life, Equity, and Justice

Friday, November 8 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 276



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Drive of slides and resources

STRAND: No Strand

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:
Deb Morrison (University of Washington), Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Listening to the Ocean - Soundscapes of Coral Reefs

Friday, November 8 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 399


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Attendees use acoustic data from marine soundscapes to assess the ecological dynamics, functions, and resilience of coral reef ecosystems. The activities incorporate concepts from physics, technology, and biology enabling learners to address conservation challenges using authentic data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Sounds can be analyzed by frequency and amplitude - measures that serve as a “fingerprint” of a sound’s source including species identification and behavior. Because ecosystem health is entwined with biodiversity, bioacoustic monitoring is especially effective in marine environments.

SPEAKERS:
Jocelyn Miller (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC)

Crossing Over: Incorporating Energy & Science in Language Arts

Friday, November 8 • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 280


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Introduce basic energy concepts early on with hands-on lessons delivered through songs, stories, games, & chants to teach energy buzz words and science concepts. Teach and learn while having fun!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to teach energy, efficiency, and conservation to young students through the guise of entertaining games and activities.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberly Swan (The NEED Project: Manassas, VA)

Customize a Climate Change Storyline Unit with locally relevant phenomena and solutions that connect with students’ interests and communities

Friday, November 8 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 272



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Climate Education Pathways Resources
Presentation slides

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Participants will engage with a unit on climate change designed to be localized. They will use tools to brainstorm local anchoring phenomena and ways to make the unit relevant for their students, community, and teaching context. All materials are freely available.

TAKEAWAYS:
Climate change units should help students understand the impacts they are experiencing and prepare them to participate in solutions. Localizing students’ climate learning is one way to do that. Storyline design tools and resources can support teachers in developing this kind of localized learning.

SPEAKERS:
Candice Guy-Gaytán (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Betty Stennett (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Audrey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Lindsey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO), Emily Harris (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Let it Grow, Let it Grow...

Friday, November 8 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 294



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Let It Grow.pptx

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

Participants will be able to examine several practical (and budget-friendly) models for classroom hydroponics and consider ways to adapt them to fit age-appropriate lesson plans to make this activity suitable for any learning stage.

TAKEAWAYS:
Everything you've ever wanted to know about hydroponics but were too afraid to ask! This session is designed for anyone looking to implement hydroponics into either the formal or informal learning environment, appropriate for all ages of learners.

SPEAKERS:
Caleb Bagby (Senior Director of Engineering, Technology, and Design: Chattanooga, TN), Jessica Dobrin (McCallie School: Chattanooga, TN)

Using Integrated (NGSS/CCSS) Project-Based Learning to Support Use of Literacy and (Age-appropriate) Understanding Climate Change in Early Elementary Science Classrooms

Friday, November 8 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 268


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

In this workshop participants experience modeling and literacy activities from integrated project based science 3-day unit that address life and earth science performance expectations for grade K-3. We explore strategies for supporting students in sharing experiences related to climate change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore teaching experiences and pedagogy ideas through discussion, and be ready to teach an integrated project-based 3 day lessons about climate change that use ELA practices to promote three dimensional learning in early elementary science.

SPEAKERS:
Ayca Fackler (University of Missouri: Columbia, MO)

Is there lead in my water? Transdisciplinary curriculum resources for real-world science learning.

Friday, November 8 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 296


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Join us for a hands-on workshop to learn how Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids free, standards-aligned curriculum materials support upper elementary, middle, and high school students learn about mitigating lead in water.

TAKEAWAYS:
Lead in water is a problem that disproportionally affects children and low-income communities of color. Come away with free standards-aligned, transdisciplinary curriculum materials that s help students in upper elementary, middle, and high school understand the problem and potential solutions.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Allen (Instructional Specialist: Research Triangle Park, NC), Dr. Whitney White (RTI International: Research Triangle Park, NC)

Mississippi Delta Dynamics: Empowering High School Teachers to Explore Solutions to Current Coastal-Deltaic Issues Impacting Gulf Region

Friday, November 8 • 9:20 AM - 10:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 389



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
https://tulane.box.com/s/c91ukmapo1rxaguhv2vk5m9rz87qzytq

STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Designed to empower teachers with knowledge and tools to address issues facing coastal communities in the Mississippi Delta, this immersive experience combines place-based exploration and the engineering design process to strategize solutions to foster resiliency and sustainability in the Gulf.

TAKEAWAYS:
This immersive experience combines place-based exploration and the engineering design process to strategize solutions, foster resiliency and sustainability, and empower teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Sanchez (Tulane University: New Orleans, LA), Erica Smith (Tulane University: New Orleans, LA)

STEM4Real: Empowering High School Seniors through Service Learning and Environmental Engagement

Friday, November 8 • 10:40 AM - 11:40 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 268


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

STEM4Real aims to reduce absenteeism by involving students in solving real-world environmental issues through multidisciplinary projects that elevate high school senior's passion projects with the community and align their vision to service learning and environmental issues that drive the learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Understanding that integrating service learning with environmental issues can significantly enhance student engagement and reduce absenteeism. By involving high school seniors in real-world projects that require civic engagement, educators can make learning more relevant and impactful.

SPEAKERS:
Neotha Williams (STEM4Real: No City, No State), Jennifer Munoz (STEM4Real: No City, No State)

What Questions Do You Have about Teaching about Climate Change?

Friday, November 8 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 276



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Drive with slides and resources

STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

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:
Our climate 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, and tons of background resources!

SPEAKERS:
Deb Morrison (University of Washington), Philip Bell (University of Washington: Seattle, WA), Kelsie Fowler (University of Washington: Seattle, WA)

Exploring Watersheds: A Hands-On Workshop for Grade 3-5 Educators

Friday, November 8 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 289



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Slides
Exploring Watersheds: A Hands-On Workshop for Grade 3-5 Educators

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

During this hands-on lesson exploring the significance of local watersheds, participants create a model of a watershed and explore its role in the water cycle. We will share insights with educators to help them integrate this lesson plan into their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
This workshop highlights the value of hand-on experience and adapting investigations to integrate sustainability principles to support teaching the NGSS. Leave with insights and strategies to adapt this investigation in your classroom to support sustainability education.

SPEAKERS:
Emily Rogers (SubjectToClimate: No City, No State)

Explore the Ocean, Weather, Climate Connections with Teek & Tom, NOAA’s New Animated Series and Lesson Plans.

Friday, November 8 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 296



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Teek and Tom Workshop

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

"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.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will sample the range of activities that incorporate graphing, data analysis, visualizations and sense-making to introduce Earth/atmosphere/climate connections on local and global scales.

SPEAKERS:
Peggy Steffen (Ready, Set, STEM: No City, No State)

Playing With STEM: Free Cross-Curricular Hands-On Labs for the Science and Math Classrooms

Friday, November 8 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 393


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Are you looking for an opportunity to bring free hands-on engineering experiences to your students? The labs available work for biology, environmental science and physical science classes with cross curricular application in math.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this workshop, teachers will don their student caps as an engineer guides us through Engineering Tomorrow’s most popular lab - Phototherapy! Teachers will have an opportunity to register for this free program during this workshop and leave with a goodie bag of supplies!

SPEAKERS:
Marissa Maggio (Stuyvesant High School: New York, NY)

Enrich your student's educational experience with case-based teaching

Friday, November 8 • 1:20 PM - 2:20 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 389



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Engaging Students in Case Study Teaching

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Case studies are powerful storytelling tools that captivate students and immerse them in learning scientific concepts in context. Discover how to leverage the case studies available through the NCCSTS that are freely accessible on the NSTA website and how to incorporate them into your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Case studies offer various types and teaching methods, from intimate debates and clicker cases to Problem-Based Learning and jigsaw. This session aims to demystify the world of case studies, guiding you through their various forms and how to use them to enhance student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
Kathy Hoppe (STEMisED, Inc)

The Next Time You See: The Integration of Children's Literature with Everyday Phenomena in the Natural World

Friday, November 8 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 270


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Led by members of NSTA Early Childhood-Elementary Committee, the session addresses the relationship between the NSTA book series and natural phenomena providing an interactive platform for educators to discover how this series of books can support & enhance SEPs in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore the integration of this series with science and engineering practices through cross-disciplinary connections and hands-on activities. Resources provided.

SPEAKERS:
Simone Nance (University of Southern Indiana: Evansville, IN), Jenn Brown-Whale (Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE): Baltimore, MD), Katie Morrison (University Child Development School: Seattle, WA), Jennifer Williams (Isidore Newman School: New Orleans, LA)

Shared Waters: a Free Classroom Ready Elementary Curriculum Exploring Watershed Health

Friday, November 8 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 289


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

The Shared Waters Curriculum is a watershed-focused, 10-lesson curriculum that explores watershed health and human impacts. It culminates with a student action project. The curriculum is classroom-ready for teachers, providing access to all lesson materials and a complete teacher's guide.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover how the Shared Waters curriculum enriches elementary education, fostering student-driven environmental action through hands-on watershed health lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Bill McConnell (Virginia Wesleyan University: Norfolk, VA), Nanette Marcum-Dietrich (Millersville University: Millersville, PA)

Natural Dye and Printmaking with Plants!

Friday, November 8 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 296



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Natural Dye PH Cards
Natural Dye Presentation.pptx
Natural Dye Zine

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

This is a two part workshop in which we will delve into the power of plants, our connection to the natural world, and build a culture of curiosity, while we generate questions that lead to larger scientific connections. Participants will learn the processes of naturally dyeing fabric, experiment with the PH levels of our dye to observe how it affects color, and ultimately produce a freshly dyed bandana. We will also explore the relationship between tannins found in plants and iron oxide by making botanical prints on fabrics. This is a way to transform textiles and get curious about compounds and chemical reactions. Participants will gain experience practicing and witnessing natural phenomena as a means of sensemaking together. Get curious and creative with us!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with the tools to facilitate two activities that weave together art, science, and the natural world. We will be working with food, PH levels, and chemical reactions to create printed and dyed textiles to take back to our communities and classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Mallory Schmackpfeffer (Shelburne Farms: Shelburne, VT), Hannah Corbin (Summer and Afterschool Program Coordinator: Shelburne, VT)

Exploring Extreme Heat with Understanding Global Change

Friday, November 8 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 399



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Materials and Resources Landing Page
This is a landing page with links to all the materials and resources shared during the workshop.
San Diego Science Project Website
Understanding Global Change Website

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Explore an extreme heat based phenomenon with the Understanding Global Change (UGC) framework’s modeling practices. Learn UGC practices and tools to help incorporate an Earth systems perspective into your curriculum and adapt existing resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Experience the nature and processes of science by constructing explanations about a global change phenomenon with the Understanding Global Change framework and explanatory modeling practices.

SPEAKERS:
Alec Barron (UC San Diego: No City, No State)

Get Your Students Outside to Learn Science! Why Ecological Caring Matters!

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 276



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Drive with slides and resources

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

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)

Louisiana Wetland Days: Standard Aligned Learning in a Place-Based Context

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 277


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Looking to get involved with community partners? Learn how school districts partner with Louisiana Sea Grant to co-create customized place-based explorations in community wetland areas where students apply scientific principles to locally relevant phenomena.

TAKEAWAYS:
Hear from formal and nonformal educators about how to co-create place-based learning experiences for students which enhance K-8 curriculums, explore hands on learning with a locally relevant context, and take away resources, tips for success, and lessons learned.

SPEAKERS:
Nathan Cotten (Terrebonne Parish School District: Houma, LA), Vanessa Van Heerden (Engagement Specialist: Baton Rouge, LA), Cheyenne Autin (Education and Outreach Coordinator | AmeriCorps: Baton Rouge, LA), Alvera McMillan (Louisiana Sea Grant)

Could a NOAA Education AI Chatbot support your science class planning? Let’s find out!

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 395


STRAND: Tech Tools

Show Details

NOAA's Science on a Sphere team will demo an AI chatbot using Large Language Models to enhance access. This chatbot recommends datasets based on teachers' needs, aligns them with goals, and suggests classroom applications. Discussion will address democratizing access vs. perpetuating disparities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Large Language Models are great tools to find correlations between large pools of content, thus its use as a virtual assistant could greatly improve access to large data and visualization content and while minimizing time and effort for this task.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Hackathorn (NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory: Boulder, CO), Juan Pablo Hurtado Padilla (NOAA Office of Education: Silver Spring, MD)

I Learned How Outside Can Teach Us: Harnessing the Schoolyard for Field-based Investigations into Stormwater Flooding

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 293


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Participants will engage in science and engineering practices to develop their understanding of why flooding frequently happens in some areas of New Orleans but not others. Then, they will learn strategies for leading their own students through conducting schoolyard investigations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with suggestions to support elementary students in modeling a complex environmental science phenomenon that’s relevant to their everyday lives, getting outside of the classroom to collect data, and using this data to revise their understanding of the phenomenon.

SPEAKERS:
Karen Marshall (International School of Louisiana: New Orleans, LA), Claire Anderson (Ripple Effect: No City, No State)

Using Urban Ecosystems as Classrooms: Empowering Teachers to Connect Students with Local Ecology

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 279



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

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Explore two museum-school partnership models that integrate best practices in outdoor and environmental education to connect urban K - 8 students to place-based learning through teacher professional development and direct student engagement both in the classroom and outdoors.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will dive deeper into the ways these programs allow schools to partner with cultural institutions, connecting them to resources and building teacher capacity through supported outdoor experiences, to connect K-8 students with the nature in their neighborhood and city.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Siska (Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: Chicago, IL)

Dumpster Dive with STEM

Friday, November 8 • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 397


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Connect the human impact of trash pollution to engineering design. Get your students thinking critically and creatively as they collaborate in real-world problem solving.

TAKEAWAYS:
Experience a project that enhances STEM skills in students such as collaboration, curiosity, and creativity.

SPEAKERS:
Stacy Thibodeaux (Southside High School: Youngsville, LA), Jessica Kohout (Educational Consultant: Ellicott City, MD)

ENVS Labs in 50 minutes or less

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 293


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Learn fun and rewarding labs that can be completed in 50 minutes or less. These labs can be adapted to many different learning levels including; SPED, ESL, and gifted.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will get a list of Environmental Science labs that can be completed in less than 50 minutes. Plus complete a hands on lab that brings a bit of competition into the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Melancon (Lafayette High School: Lafayette, LA)

The People Connection: Human Ecology Activities for the Biology Classroom

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 383


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Engage in inquiry-based, hands-on activities to explore ecosystem interdependence and the impacts of human activities on environmental health and sustainability. Develop 3D models and graphs and take part in lively simulations, all 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 biology classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Sheila Lumod (Edna Karr High School: No City, No State)

Multidisciplinary Lessons for a Sustainable Future

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 283


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Explore global, environmental challenges with hands-on lessons that build skills in science, math and social sciences, while applying learning to authentic problems. Engage in collaborative problem solving, simulation and 3D modeling related to Human Impacts on Earth’s Systems.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will come away with interdisciplinary strategies for addressing ecology topics in the middle school classroom, with an emphasis on 3D learning, data literacy and student inquiry. They will also be able to align the presented activities to NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Chantal Correll (Ascension Parish Schools: No City, No State)

Engaging All Ages With Deep-Sea Habitats and Restoration

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 386


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Connecting audiences to deep-sea habitats and the impacts humans can have on them is challenging. Creative hands-on activities, stunning videos, and talking to scientists at sea in real time brings an important ecosystem they may never see to them instead!

TAKEAWAYS:
After hands-on demonstrations of new, interactive educational materials and a viewing of highlights from livestream broadcasts, formal and informal educators and community leaders will leave the session with access to ready-to-use deep-sea activities for all ages, from “K to Gray".

SPEAKERS:
Sasha Francis (National Marine Sanctuary Foundation: Silver Spring, MD)

Nature's Classroom: Integrating Environmental Science and Literacy in Elementary Education

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 282


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Discover the seamless integration of science and literacy by fostering a love for nature and enhancing student learning. Gain practical strategies for engaging young learners and promoting environmental awareness in the classroom while incorporating nature studies and sustainability themes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will leave the session equipped with a toolkit of practical ideas, lessons, and resources to seamlessly integrate environmental science and literacy instruction, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and nurturing a lifelong passion for conservation.

SPEAKERS:
Alexis Tharpe (ODU Research Foundation TCEP: Norfolk, VA 23508, VA), Venicia Ferrell (Research Assistant Professor: Norfolk, VA)

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

Saturday, November 9 • 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 275



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Ice Core Records Student Worksheet Answer Key
Ice Core Student Handout
Ice Core Student Worksheet Answer Key

STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

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 (NSO/NASA: No City, No State)

STEM Microbe Mission: Using Hands-on Activities to Engage Students in Learning and Literacy

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 386



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
CER Student Sample response with Feedback and next steps.pdf
Feedback Form
Google Slides - STEM: Microbe Mission Using Hands-on Activities to Engage
All presenter documents are linked in the speaker notes
Sample CER response (1).pdf
Sample CER response.pdf
Sentence Stems for CER.pdf

STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Participants will use cell phone adapters and microscopes to capture photos/videos of microbes present in pond water, then Screen Mirror them via Apple TV. Participants will record observations of organisms, briefly research them, and develop a CER style writing to justify their identification.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about hands-on activities that engage students in science and research, and strategies to improve evidence-based writing in the science classroom including a CER checklist, scaffolding techniques for struggling writers, vocabulary banks, sentence frames, and peer feedback.

SPEAKERS:
Maureen Barclay (Captain Shreve High School: Shreveport, LA), Amy Douglas Kendrick (Jena High School: Jena, LA)

The ASSET Program (Advancing Secondary Science Education through Tetrahymena)

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 393


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

ASSET, an NIH SEPA funded program at WashU STL, offers modules that nurture students’ innate curiosity through hands-on exploration of biology using safe, easily manipulated model organism, Tetrahymena. Modules are paired with FREE lending materials designed to stimulate inquiry-based learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be introduced to ASSET and will conduct modified lab activities to see how ASSET can be used in the classroom to address topics like microscope use, cell parts and processes (phagocytosis & osmolarity), chemotaxis, and the effects of smoking, vaping, and alcohol on living cells.

SPEAKERS:
Courtney Hausner (Oakville Senior High: St. Louis, MO), Anne Deken (John Burroughs School: St. Louis, MO), Alexandra Forgerson (Instructional Specialist: University City, MO)

Conserving Biodiversity: A Mapping Design Challenge

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 383


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

This session will engage participants in authentic conservation decision-making practices using dynamic, interactive tools on the Half-Earth Project Map and Map of Life. The activities shared empower learners to evaluate biodiversity distribution, protected areas, and human impacts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Human activity adversely impacts biodiversity through habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, and climate change. However, data-driven tech tools help ensure conservation decisions protect areas with the highest biodiversity with equitable benefits to humans.

SPEAKERS:
Jocelyn Miller (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation: Durham, NC)

School Energy Efficiency Inspectors

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 283


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

Hands-on activities to help introduce students to the ways in which we use energy in buildings. Explore thermal energy transfer, electricity, lighting, and learn how to use the school as a living laboratory to conduct an educational energy audit with your students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn the difference between energy efficiency and energy conservation and be provided with free curriculum to help their students understand these concepts and be able to save energy at school and at home.

SPEAKERS:
Kimberly Swan (The NEED Project: Manassas, VA)

Using the NEW National Park Service (NPS) Guide on Volcanoes to Relate to Sustainability Issues

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 275


STRAND: Curriculum and Assessment

Show Details

Come explore volcano-related resources and hands-on activities developed by the American Geosciences Institute in collaboration with the National Park Service. The ways in which volcanoes relate to sustainability will also be explored.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will understand how the United Nations SDGs can provide a context for learning. Making connections between volcanic activity and the SDGs using hands-on, standards-aligned instruction can be an effective way to highlight how the sciences are used to address global issues.

SPEAKERS:
Sequoyah McGee (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, VA), Lindsay Mossa (American Geosciences Institute: Alexandria, MD)

Oil Spills Disasters and the Dangers They Pose

Saturday, November 9 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 273



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Oil Spill Cleanup Simulation By Joan Gillman.pdf
Here is the lesson plan I use when I conduct the oil spill cleanup simulation with my students.
Research Project on Worldwide Oil Spills- New.pdf
Here is a research project on oil spills from around the world.

STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Each year, over 150 oil and chemical spills occur in U.S. waters, and they can be devastating to our environment. We will examine where oil spills occur, look at the techniques scientists use to clean up oil spills, and participants will experience an oil spill cleanup simulation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Cleaning up an oil spill can be very challenging. For this workshop, participants will have the opportunity to work as a team to eliminate oil from a simulated oil spill. Sand, feathers, seashells, and vegetable oil will be used in this demonstration.

SPEAKERS:
Joan Gillman (The Browning School: New York, NY)

Build Local Connections & Global Perspective with Participatory Science (Bring your own device!)

Saturday, November 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 287


STRAND: STEM Haven

Show Details

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to help your students connect to nature through birds–an accessible animal in every season, explore biodiversity data, build science practices with eBird participatory science, and use tech and big data to help conservation efforts wherever you are.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be able to: use the Merlin Bird ID app to identify birds, submit data to eBird, and describe how participatory science helps students develop data literacy, deepen their understanding of biodiversity, uncover real-world patterns and trends, and support conservation efforts.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Licher (Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Ithaca, NY)

Ripples to Waves: High School Environmental Science Curriculum That Asks Why New Orleans is so Vulnerable to Flooding and What we Can do About it

Saturday, November 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 393


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

This workshop will introduce attendees to a localized OpenSciEd unit designed to help 9th graders understand why New Orleans floods so frequently from everyday rainstorms. We will engage in student hat to investigate one of the causes of this issue and reflect on implications for other classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use modeling to draw conclusions about complex environmental science ideas that are relevant to students’ everyday lives. They will leave with a unit storyline and ideas for how to apply these strategies in different contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Claire Anderson (Ripple Effect: No City, No State), Lindsey Mohan (BSCS Science Learning: Colorado Springs, CO)

Engaging All Students in the Science of Sustainable Food Systems

Saturday, November 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 386


STRAND: No Strand

Show Details

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 NGSS are used to make sense of these real-world phenomena and problems.

SPEAKERS:
Rick Henningfeld (Vivayic, Inc.: No City, No State), Craig Rebich (Relevant Classroom: No City, No State), Brian Beierle (Relevant Classroom, a Division of Vivayic, Inc.: No City, No State)

Planting Seeds of Global Citizenship in Elementary Students

Saturday, November 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 294


STRAND: Students and Sensemaking

Show Details

Do you want to develop a stronger sense of global citizenship in your students? Join us to explore practical place-based learning resources and activities you can immediately implement. Join like-minded teachers to explore nature journaling, literacy resources, observation skills, and more!

TAKEAWAYS:
Help your students develop a sense of community and plant the seeds of global citizenship. Attend the workshop and learn new ideas from the presenters and fellow attendees. Together we can create a community of teachers that will prepare our students for the challenges of our changing environment.

SPEAKERS:
Rachel Gisewhite (The University of Southern Mississippi: Long Beach, MS), Stacey Britton (University of West Georgia: Carrollton, GA), Ann Catherine Cox (Carrollton Elementary School: Carrollton, GA)

Biogeochemistry Bringing Research into the Classroom with STEM

Saturday, November 9 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - 281



(Only registered attendees may view session materials. Please login with your NSTA account to view.)
Biogeochemistry My Research in Greenland and How I Used it in My Classroom
This is the google slide of my presentation.
Biogeochemistry My Research in Greenland and How I Used it in My Classroom
This is the resource page for all the activities.
Biogeochemistry My Research in Greenland and How I Used it in My Classroom
Biogeochemistry Resource page updated

STRAND: Research to Practice

Show Details

Participants will be engaged with current research techniques using STEM to engaged students in real world problem solving.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take away strategies and techniques to use in their classroom to introduce students to how to collect, analyze and report out research.

SPEAKERS:
Judith Lucas-Odom (Chester High School: Chester, PA)

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