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Friday, March 6
 

8:00am CST

Science and the Disciplinary Literacy Essentials
Need more info about Michigan's Disciplinary Literacy Essentials in Science? Join us as we guide you through the DLEs for science and and dive into initial ideas about how you can talk with your administrator about the DLEs and begin to implement them in your work. 

Speakers
avatar for Mary Starr

Mary Starr

Exec. Director, MMSLN
avatar for James Emmerling

James Emmerling

Science Education Consultant, Oakland Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 6

8:00am CST

Designing Track Traps: Getting Students Outside while Tracking Down NGSS Engineering Standards
Come learn how to lead students in designing sand "track traps" to survey school grounds to see what animals visit your school overnight. This design practice meets the NGSS Science and Engineering Performance Expectations and gets students outside to experience the particularities of their own ecosystem.

Speakers
avatar for William Hodges

William Hodges

Holt High School
Biology/Zoology teacher, 28 years experience, MAEOE (Michigan Alliance of Environmental and Outdoor Educators) Vice president



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 204
  Bio

8:00am CST

Evolution: Embryology
Students analyze and interpret skeletal and embryological images to identify patterns of similarities and differences across species that look very different as mature animals. Students identify patterns of similarities throughout developmental time to infer evolutionary relationships not obvious in the mature animals. This activity provides an opportunity to assess student work related to MS-LS4-3.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
LK

Lisa Kelp

Lab Aids/SEPUP


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 104
  Bio

8:00am CST

This (taste) Bud's For You! The Bitter Truth Behind Being a Non-Taster in a Family of Bitter Tasters
Can your students determine how someone in a family of bitter tasters became a non-taster? Mendelian genetics to the rescue! Through Punnett square analysis, you will make your initial claims on what the pedigree for a non-taster could be. You will then pour, load, run and analyze gels for the evidence to support or update your claims.

Speakers
avatar for Joyce Zimmer

Joyce Zimmer

Teacher @ Greenville High School, MiniOne Systems


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 101
  Bio

8:00am CST

It's Melting!
Join us as we share a project-based unit where students have to use their chemistry knowledge and collaboration skills to provide a solution to help melt the ice at your local school. We will share how we prepare our students for collaboration and how through guided inquiry they investigate solutions to melt the ice at our school. We will provide insight on how to involve your local stakeholders and how students present their findings and make them public. Resources will be provided.

Speakers
avatar for Kristy Butler

Kristy Butler

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Education & Science
JC

Jason Colegrove

Forest Hills Central High School



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 5
  Chem

8:00am CST

Using Computational Thinking Practices to Create Better Problem Solvers!
Come explore how four computational thinking practices promote systems thinking and perseverance ALL subjects areas! Learn how to use these practices with students so that they become better problem solvers by noticing patterns, breaking down big problems, focusing on only important information, and ‘debugging’. We’ll share what we’ve learned so far in our research by being intentional about the use of computational thinking to deepen understanding of science concepts. Resources will be shared from the CT4EDU, NSF grant.


https://bit.ly/38s7wuW

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Ashley

Jessica Ashley

Science Consultant, Oakland Schools
avatar for Lisa Burke

Lisa Burke

3rd grade Teacher, Fisher Elementary School
avatar for Katie Stevenson

Katie Stevenson

4th Grade Teacher, Fisher Elementary


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Capitol 3

8:00am CST

Human Population: Where Its Been and Its likely Future
For centuries demographers have been closely monitoring the growth of the human population. But what about the impact on the planet? The question will be explored by those interested in the sustainability of ecosystems currently inhabited by 7.5 billion humans, and growing.

Speakers
LF

Larry Feldpausch

board of director, River Raisin Institute


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 8

8:00am CST

ALL Learners Succeed in Co-taught Classes
Come and hear about our journey of co-teaching Physics at Fraser High School. We will share the ups and downs we have experienced in the process of bringing back co-taught classes to our school. We will also share some ideas that you can bring back to your class next week to help differentiate the curriculum. We have found much success in our co-taught classes and hope to share why we believe co-taught classes are beneficial for ALL types of learners.

Speakers
KH

Kate Hojnacki

Fraser High School


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Regency 2
  Gen Sci

8:00am CST

Conference 101 - Fri AM
Conferences can be an overwhelming rush of presentations, conversations, and potential meetings. It can be tough to know where to focus your time. How do you figure out which sessions to attend? Should you skip the keynote to meet an important contact? How do I sign up for the field trip to the Cyclotron? When is the best time to hit the vendor area? Or avoid the lunch lines? What are some ways to bring back what I learn?

Speakers
avatar for Christie Morrison Thomas

Christie Morrison Thomas

Michigan State University


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Michigan 1

8:00am CST

Making the Most Out of Your First 5 Years Teaching
The first five years teaching are some of the hardest but best years of teaching career. In this session, learn more about how to make the most out of these years in and out of school, including advice for how to gain confidence and get involved in the educational community whether it is speaking at conferences or getting involved in the teacher social media community.

Check it out: bit.ly/FirstFiveMSTA

Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Physics Teacher, Avondale High School
Student-centered, inquiry-driven classrooms are central to my teaching philosophy. I focus on standards-based grading, NGSS practices, phenomenon, inquiry, flexible seating and flipped learning. I strive to help other teachers develop their skills and be the best they can be.I am... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Regency 1

8:00am CST

ONPAR Assessments for Middle School NGSS Aligned Curricula, including OpenSciEd and IQWST
Are you looking for assessments to use with your OER Middle School Curriculum? OnPar’s Multimedia interface is designed to be accessible to all students, providing rich, formative information for both students and teachers. Join us in this session to learn more!

Speakers
LM

Linda Malkin

ONPAR Outreach Specialist, University of Wisconsin


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

8:00am CST

Providing Secondary Teachers and Students with Comprehensive Skills and Strategies To Accomplish The Intended Vision Of The SEP and CCC
The SEP and CCC cards were developed for teachers to have a deeper understanding of the practices and concepts and also suggestions for how to implement them in classrooms. The cards are meant to be used for learning and planning purposes as well as during classroom lessons. Both sets of cards include elements from the grade band progression matrices. SEP cards include links to instructional resources and the CCC cards include sample questions teachers can use during classroom discussions. Link to cards: http://tinyurl.com/CCCSEPcards 

Speakers
avatar for Laura Chambless

Laura Chambless

K-5 Math/Science Consultant, St Clair RESA
I’m a mom of 2 adult children and a puppy, a wife, a friend, a co-worker, a coach. My husband says my job is my hobby!
avatar for Minna Turrell

Minna Turrell

Secondary Science Consultant, St Clair RESA
I am the Secondary Science/Math Consultant at St Clair RESA. Prior to taking this role I was a high school science teacher and competitive cheer coach. I am the current president of MSELA. I also review science curriculum for EdReports. I love science, my kids, and my rescue dogs... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 1

8:00am CST

Think! Energy
Come do hands-on energy activities tied to the new science standards to enrich your current energy unit and gain content knowledge. Walk away with several activities, talk/moves and driving questions to incorporate into your energy unit.

Speakers
TP

Tammi Phillippe

Program Administrator, National Energy Foundation
Utility sponsored energy efficiency in your classroom!
RR

Robin Reinarts

NATIONAL ENERGY FOUNDATION
National Energy Foundation is a nonprofit educational organzination whose mission is to cultivate and promote an energy literate society, providing Think! Energy programs across Michigan.


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Michigan 3
  Gen Sci

8:00am CST

Great Lakes Floor Map - Watersheds, River Systems, Environmental Science and More!
Discover a resource available to you to teach Great Lakes Literacy across subject lines. We will be actively engaging with the Great Lakes Floor Map, illustrating several ways to use it in the classroom, focusing on the concept of watershed. We will also look at an interactive map showing who in or near your community has a Great Lakes Floor Map available. *Teaching your content with a local context helps students engage with and retain information!

Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Nester

Chelsea Nester

Director, Grand Traverse Stewardship Initiative
Chelsea loves being immersed in her community and making long-term connections for the greatest good for people and place.  These loves make coordinating the GTSI a great job for her.  She connects teachers with community resources and the tools to implement student-led place-based... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 4

8:00am CST

Mi-STAR Information Session: What's New for 2020?
This session will relate the essential information any school or district needs in order to start or continue with Mi-STAR next school year. Join Mi-STAR staff and veteran teachers for an interactive information session to learn how to access the program in 2020 and to preview new curriculum units and other materials coming in 2020.

Speakers
avatar for Doug Oppliger

Doug Oppliger

Michigan Tech / Mi-STAR
Doug has spent the past 30 years teaching math, science, and engineering at all levels from the 6th grade to graduate school. He has been helping orchestrate the development the Mi-STAR curriculum and community since 2014.
ST

Stephanie Tubman

Michigan Technological University


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 7
  Int Sci

8:00am CST

If you can't see it...how do you know it's there?
If you can't see it, how do you know its there? In this session, participants will engage in a sample lessons from Interactions - a free-use, NGSS-aligned, physical science curricula for high school - and collect indirect evidence about something you cannot see, touch, smell, or hear. Emphasis is on supporting students in "figuring out" when there is no right or wrong answer - only the unknown. In this lesson, students make claims based on indirect evidence - just as Thompson and Rutherford did during their famous experiments resulting in more refined atomic models.

Speakers
IT

Israel Touitou

CREATE for STEM, Michigan State University
avatar for Angela Kolonich

Angela Kolonich

Director of Professional Learning, CREATE for STEM Institute at Michigan State Universtiy
I am a former teacher from J.W. Sexton High School in Lansing, MI where I taught science, engineering, and coached the robotics team. I received my PhD from MSU in 2017 and now work at the CREATE for STEM institute developing learning experiences for teachers focused on inclusive... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Governor's Room

8:00am CST

STEM Power Communities
How are you setting up your students for success? Are you pointing them the way to opportunities to see the standards in action? Are you helping them to see which organizations match with goals for learning? Do they understand how to apply the standards to real-world connections in their local communities? Are they challenged to make a strong connection with regional and global organizations, so they are empowered to live out our engineering plans with STEM education? Connect with some excellent organizations, educational groups, non-profits, and local community groups that will help you to rocket your students to the forefront of science in today's world. Your lessons will be richer and your students more motivated to apply and evaluate their own learning.

Speakers
avatar for Christine Kelly

Christine Kelly

MS Science Teacher, Allendale Middle School
Ask me how exciting it is to teach my students with real-world issues in outdoor and environmental science! Let's talk about the different opportunities in sustainability, science and education! After receiving my education from some of the best at MTU, CMU, WMU, and joining with... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 2

8:00am CST

Enhance Science Practices and Data Literacy Using HHMI BioInteractive Resources
Do you want to develop scientifically literate students? This session will utilize FREE resources from HHMI BioInteractive to model several instructional strategies to improve data literacy skills and enhance the implementation of the science practices. Using a scaffolded approach, you will investigate the “Asking Scientific Questions” activity, Biointeractive Data Points, and Science in the Classroom annotated papers to practice writing scientific questions, identifying key experimental design components, and writing evidence-based claims supported with statistical analysis. The session will focus on the NGSS science practices and the new AP Science practices.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Eberhard

Mark Eberhard

AP Biology & Biology Teachers, St. Clair High School
34 years in the classroomAmbassador for HHMI BiointeracitveWriting Team for College Board's Pre-AP Biology CourseFacilitator for BSCS/NABT Regional Biology Teacher AcademyBoard of Directors for Michigan Association of Biology Teachers (MABT)


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 201
  Bio

8:00am CST

The Opioid Epidemic: Exploring the Genetic Associations of Opioid Abuse
Opioid abuse is prevalent in the U.S. Students take on the role of researchers as they design an experiment utilizing a fast electrophoresis protocol of pre-amplified DNA samples that predicts addiction risks for opioid abuse, treatment, and implications to precision medicine based on a patient's genotype.

Speakers
avatar for Tamica Stubbs

Tamica Stubbs

Curriculum and Training Specialist, Bio-Rad Explorers
: The Bio-Rad Explorer program provides high quality biotech experiences for educators and students.


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 1

8:00am CST

TCI Bring Science Alive!: Preserving Frog and Bat Interactions with Engineering
Join TCI and participate in an engaging Bring Science Alive! investigation that has your students building a sound shield to protect frog-bat acoustic interactions from highway noises. Participants will experience this lesson from the student perspective as they define the engineering problem, develop possible solutions, and optimize the design solution like professional scientists and engineers.

Speakers
avatar for Matt Moorman

Matt Moorman

National Account Manager, TCI
Former Middle School Teacher and National Account Manager with Teachers' Curriculum Institute (TCI) . TCI recognizes that every student is unique and that all students benefit from learning in different ways. TCI uses a variety of proven instructional practices that allow students... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 202
  Env Sci

8:00am CST

Let's Go Outside: Taking science to the great outdoors!
Educators will have the opportunity to engage in and create lessons that will take their classrooms outdoors for hands-on, authentic science exploration. Tips, tricks and more for getting you and your students hooked on environmental education!

Speakers
BD

Becky Durling

Young Fives Teacher, Discovery Elementary, Williamston Community Schools
I currently teach Young Fives at Discovery Elementary in Williamston, MI, with over 15 years of experience in a variety of early childhood settings. I recently completed the requirements for my Environmental Education Certification through the Michigan Alliance for Environmental... Read More →
avatar for Natalie Elkins

Natalie Elkins

Education Specialist, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
I am a Certified Environmental Educator that provides professional development opportunities to formal and non-formal educators. My goal is to share hands-on, STEM, inquiry-based and field investigation ideas that are tied to Michigan Science Standards.



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 203
  Gen Sci

8:00am CST

Literacy Connections: Adding Rigor to Science Literacy with STEMscopes
Join us as we learn the power of using Science Literacy to engage students in reading, writing, and discourse about science through text, inquiry, and media in collaborative groups, leading to student mastery and high achievement. Build the rigor and engagement for all students.

Speakers
avatar for Maeve Green

Maeve Green

STEM Coach, STEMscopes / Accelerate Learning, Inc.


Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 4

8:00am CST

Hands-On With New Tools in Electricity and Magnetism

Get HANDS ON with new, engaging, and fun electricity and magnetism tools that help you teach! "Sniff out" unknown charges and make them visible with our E-Field Detector, demonstrate charging by induction, and even prove the inverse square dependence of Coulombs Law. See how to illustrate the Lorentz Force and the interconnection of electrical current and magnetic fields, and investigate the fundamentals of electricity by building various circuits – learning the concepts of voltage, resistance, and electrical current. Join us in this electrifying workshop to get inspired with new and COOL ideas for your classroom!


Speakers
avatar for Sebastian Jolta

Sebastian Jolta

Director of Sales and Marketing, Arbor Scientific
Arbor Scientific is a leading provider of Physics teaching equipment. We work with teachers to find the "Cool Stuff" and then provide lesson plans and teaching supplies.
avatar for Don Pata

Don Pata

Teacher, Grosse Pointe North High School
I have been teaching high school science for over 20 year. I like to talk about NGSS, advanced pedagogy, modeling instruction and healthy grading. I have 4 young children. In the summer I run modeling workshops across Michigan.



Friday March 6, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

9:00am CST

Eggstra! Extra!
K-5 Teachers will participate in lessons from the National Ag in the Classroom matrix. The lessons will focus on students being able to identify the basic needs of a growing chick during incubation. Activities include identifying and diagramming the parts of an egg and hatching eggs in class.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Blodgett

Michelle Blodgett

Manager, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom
Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom is a program funded by the Foundation for Agriculture at Michigan Farm Bureau that focuses on K-12 agriculture education.Contact email: mblodge@michfb.com



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 2

9:00am CST

Phenomena and the Web of Life
Pacific lionfish in the Atlantic Ocean? Why do we care? Explore the impact of invasive species on energy flow through food webs in the Atlantic Ocean and in your community by seamlessly blending hands-on investigations, leveled informational text, and scaffolded student notebooks. Discover how Delta Education’s new ScienceFLEX modules make phenomena-based science accessible to all. Leave with literacy strategies, lesson resources and digital tools to try with your diverse learners next week.

Speakers
DV

Deborah Vannatter

Science Education Consultant for Delta/School Specialty
Deborah Vannatter taught Gr 1-6 students and was Program Manager for the state-wide I-STEM Resource Network, supporting K-8 student-centered science. She served on advisory boards for NSTA, and her local Wessleman Woods Nature Preserve.


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Regency 2
  Bio

9:00am CST

Tools for Thinking (not Worksheets)
See how (free) Carbon TIME units scaffold students’ 3-dimensional performances including constructing explanations & engaging in arguments from evidence. Explore how Thinking Tools in these 6 phenomena-centered units are extended into NGSS-aligned genetics & evolution units, providing a coherent, yearlong High School Biology course addressing all Life Science Performance Expectations along with Earth & Space Science PEs.

Speakers
avatar for Emily Pohlonski

Emily Pohlonski

K-12 Science Coordinator / Science Teacher, Novi Community School District
avatar for Christie Morrison Thomas

Christie Morrison Thomas

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 3
  Bio

9:00am CST

What is a Species
In this activity from SEPUP high School biology program, participants learn about conditions that lead to speciation, including isolation due to temporal, geographical, and behavioral factors, and more. They then apply this knowledge to determine whether selected animal or plant pairs are in the early, mid, or late stages of speciation.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
SM

Shannon Mareski

Grand Blanc HS


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 104
  Bio

9:00am CST

Teach AP Computer Science or MS Computer Science with Code.org
Learn about the free curriculum resources for Computer Science Discoveries and AP Computer Science Principles through Code.org. The curriculum/resources are free and there free in-depth professional learning available. Participants will explore the lessons, receive an overview of the curriculum resources, and learn how they can take steps to teaching a computer science course. There is no prior computer science experience required.

Speakers
avatar for Larry Wyn

Larry Wyn

MiSTEM Network


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Michigan 2
  CS/Tech

9:00am CST

Classification Conundrum: Planets - Terrestrial, Gas Giant, Ice Giant, or Dwarf?
Why is Pluto not a planet? How are the different types of planets organized? What properties can be used to help identify these designation? A simple NGSS-correlated activity for MS teachers will be presented here. Materials provided to get you started.

Speakers
avatar for Cris L. DeWolf

Cris L. DeWolf

Chippewa Hills High School/MESTA



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 4
  Earth Sci

9:00am CST

How to Become a Certified Environmental Educator
Educators can earn credentials that let administrators and potential employers know they exhibit a certain level of knowledge and special skillset directly related to environmental education (EE). Discover the requirements for earning an environmental educator certification (EEC) through the Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE). The EEC closely follows state standards and national guidelines (www.maeoe.com).

Speakers

Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 204

9:00am CST

By Design: The Mi-STAR method for developing NGSS-aligned assessments
3D or not 3D? That is the question! Explore the NGSS vision for assessment and the Mi-STAR assessment development process! In order to better understand how to develop NGSS-aligned assessments, we will use Achieve’s non-negotiable criteria to evaluate Mi-STAR assessment tools. Whether you would like a better understanding of Mi-STAR assessment design, or would like to develop or modify your own assessment tools, this session will give you insight into the nature of NGSS-aligned assessment.

Speakers
BM

Barb McIntyre

Michigan Technological University
avatar for Chris Wojick

Chris Wojick

Senior Research Engineer, Michigan Technological University


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 7
  Gen Sci

9:00am CST

Does it make sense?
As we begin teaching toward the pedagogical shifts of the NGSS, we learn that our students have to make sense of the questions they have in order to figure out a phenomena. What does this actually look like when it happens in the classroom? What student performances should we be looking for? In this session, we will explore how to integrate the three-dimensions and how to identify moments of sense-making in grades K-12.

Speakers
avatar for Jeanane Charara

Jeanane Charara

Elementary Science Resource Teacher, Dearborn Public Schools
I am an Elementary Science Resource teacher for Dearborn Public Schools supporting the NGSS through professional development. I have a strong passion for elementary science and constantly look for ways to make science more accessible to all teachers and students. I also work for Achieve... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Renko

Melissa Renko

Secondary Science Resource Teacher, Dearborn Public Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Regency 1

9:00am CST

Google Class Room
Learn how to extend your science students by providing them with a learning using Google classroom. Teachers will learn how Google classroom can help encourage self guided and motivated learners through the use of instructional videos, online assessments and other digital tools.

Speakers
CH

Catherine Hamilton

Science Teacher, Southfield Public Schools: Stevenson Elementary



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 6

9:00am CST

I've Searched Everywhere. Found! A K-5 Science Curriculum
The Phenomenal Science curriculum includes 21 units that address all of the Michigan Science Standards for grades K-5. There are 3-4 units for each grade level that provide all that teachers need to facilitate three-dimensional science instruction. Each of the Phenomenal Science units include goals, evidence, a learning plan, instructional cycles, detailed lesson plans, handouts and sample anchor charts.

Speakers
avatar for Mike Fine

Mike Fine

Science/Continuous Improvement Consultant, Ottawa Area ISD
I am just starting my 34rd year as an educational professional! It has been a pleasure serving as a high school science teacher as well as a high school and middle school principal during this time. My role at the Ottawa Area ISD is to support districts in the implementation of our... Read More →
avatar for Bo Winkler

Bo Winkler

Independent Consultant
I am an independent education consultant who is appreciative of the wonder of nature, how things work and an advocate of life-long learning.



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

9:00am CST

It’s not just the curriculum! How to use district science leaders to support elementary science education.
How can districts select high-quality elementary science programming that ensures successful implementation? Learn how one district has taken a unique approach to K-5 science education. We will share strategies for selecting and implementing new curriculum. Learn about a dynamic instructional coaching model that allows teachers to receive embedded professional learning and classroom support. This session will be packed with resources to take back to your district, grade-level team, and classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Amy Bohm

Amy Bohm

STEM Instructional Coach, Lake Orion Community Schools
avatar for Andrea Brook

Andrea Brook

STEM Instructional Coach, Lake Orion Community School
Modeling Instruction, K-5 Science Instruction, Life Science
avatar for Pamela Moreman

Pamela Moreman

STEM Coach, Lake Orion Schools



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Michigan 3

9:00am CST

Keynote: Unlocking our potential: Leveraging crosscutting concepts as a path to science agency and identity
Too many students engage in years of science education, only to leave 12th grade thinking "I'm not a science person." Many important efforts to help engage diverse learners more deeply in scientific enterprises focus on choosing phenomena that connect to student interest and identity, or giving students a more active role in engaging in science through the practices--is this the whole story? In this session, we will explore how an often under-valued aspect of three-dimensional science teaching and learning--the crosscutting concepts--can be the missing link in supporting all learners develop agency and identity in science.

Speakers
avatar for Aneesha Badrinarayan

Aneesha Badrinarayan

Learning Policy Institute
Having started her career as a neuroscientist, Aneesha Badrinarayan has made it her job to understand learning—from cells and circuits to people and systems. Currently, she serves as senior advisor at the Learning Policy Institute. Previously, she was the director for Special Projects... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 5

9:00am CST

Teaching Science to Dyslexic Students
Teachers will learn what it is like to be a dyslexic student in a science class. An AP Science student will join in the presentation to share experiences and accommodations that are specific to science classes that have made him a successful science student.

Speakers
avatar for Cynthia Duncan

Cynthia Duncan

Biology Teacher and Instructional Leader, Father Gabriel Richard High School



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 2
  Gen Sci

9:00am CST

Using Anchoring Phenomena and Driving Question Boards to Spark Student Questioning
Learning is a fundamentally social endeavor. This session will model the collaborative “figuring out process” of students engaging in phenomena and asking questions. Through an IQWST investigation, we will examine students’ ways of talking so they are able to articulate, make sense, and evaluate each other’s ideas with confidence.

Speakers
avatar for Diane Wright

Diane Wright

Professional Development Facilitator, Activate Learning
Diane Wright has been an educator for over 40 years. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Education. She began her career in public education, teaching learning disabled and emotionally impaired middle school students. She then transitioned into teaching elementary and... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

9:00am CST

Read-Aloud Two Ways
When attending to science in elementary classrooms, read-alouds and analysis of text are two bridges toward integration. Walk away with prompts to facilitate the discussion of a text for two purposes: ELA and Science/Engineering Practices (SEPs). A non-fiction text will be used as an example.

Speakers
avatar for Wendi Vogel

Wendi Vogel

Region B Director, NSELA
I am a former middle school teacher turned Science Consultant for Kent County in the Grand Rapids area. I run the @NGSS_tweeps twitter account and have a passion for science education. I am also the Michigan-SELA President-Elect.


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 1

9:00am CST

DNA Forensics Solves the Murder Mystery of Dr. Ward
Hair, fingerprints, and DNA are left behind at the scene of a murder. How 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
avatar for Kathy Mirakovits

Kathy Mirakovits

Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Science! It is what motivates us to be the best teachers/instructors we can be. I have recently retired from high school science teaching, but in actuality have just shifted to teaching at the higher ed level. I am a part-time instructor at Kalamazoo Valley Community College and... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 101

9:00am CST

Health in Our Hands: Using 3-D Formative Assessments to Inform Student Learning and Support Teachers’ 3-D Practices
Come explore, experience and discuss embedded three-dimensional formative assessment tasks aligned with the middle school science unit “What Controls My Health?”. In this unit, students learn about the disciplinary core idea of gene-environment interaction and its effect on human health through the phenomenon of Type-2-diabetes. In our workshop, teachers will experience one of the lessons and associated assessment tasks in the unit as learners. Then together we’ll take a deep-dive into the process by which these tasks were created and how teachers might use the tasks, accompanying rubrics, and teachers’ own expertise to inform their teaching to support student learning.

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Booker

Ashley Booker

Instructor, Atherton Jr/Sr High School
Middle school science instructor at Atherton Jr/Sr High in Burton, MI. Doctoral student at the University of Michigan-Flint. My background is as a science researcher who fell in love with the classroom. I really enjoy designing and working with a curriculum that is active and engaging... Read More →
CM

Consuelo Morales

Research Associate, Michigan State University, CREATE for STEM
Consuelo Morales is a Research Associate with the CREATE for STEM Institute working on modeling and assessment projects. With a background in biological sciences. she has 9+ years’ experience working in secondary science education at the middle school, high school, and university... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 10:45am CST
Governor's Room

9:00am CST

Using Criteria, Constraints, and a Decision Matrix to Make Curriculum Decisions
Is your district evaluating curriculum programs and struggling to decide which to choose? How do you make a decision that everyone can agree on? Bring a team and learn how to brainstorm and define criteria and constraints, rank your criteria, and then use a decision matrix to mathematically arrive at a recommended solution for your curriculum choice. Double bonus: Your staff learns techniques for implementing NGSS engineering PEs in the process!

Speakers
avatar for Chris Geerer

Chris Geerer

Science Department Chair/Teacher, Parcells Middle School, Grosse Pointe Woods
Mi-STAR (Michigan Science Teaching and Assessment Reform) curriculum writer and pilot teacher. NGSS enthusiast. Equity and civility through science education!



Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 8

9:00am CST

MESTA Free & Inexpensive Rock Shop
Teachers, pick up free and inexpensive resource for all your Earth science related needs from rocks, mineral and fossils from Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association. Ideas and activities will be shared with teachers from other disciplines to showcase the interdisciplinary aspect of Earth Science and its ability to address topics in the NGSS Crosscutting Concepts and STEM applications. The session will be all day Friday and till noon on Saturday.

Speakers

Friday March 6, 2020 9:00am - 5:00pm CST
Rock Shop - Exhibit Hall

10:00am CST

What's New with Modeling Instruction
Buoyed by new support from the MiSTEM Network, Modeling in Michigan continues to refine our instructional frameworks and workshop design. Learn about our impact on schools and teaching. Find out about the summer 2020 workshops, our enhancement efforts around Modeling with MiSTAR, HS Physical Science, Chemistry and Biology. Also, learn about early efforts to Modelize High School Earth Science.

Speakers
avatar for Mike Gallagher

Mike Gallagher

Oakland MiSTEM Network Director, Oakland Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 1

10:00am CST

Cell Differentiation and Gene Expression
Students often have trouble conceptualizing how selective gene expression works. In this workshop, participants will use manipulatives to teach this concept and explain how it is connected to genetic engineering. Innovative activities are selected from the new Science and Global Issues: Biology program from SEPUP and LAB-AIDS. Activities focus on ways to integrate selective gene expression as a relevant and engaging sustainability issue.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
SM

Shannon Mareski

Grand Blanc HS


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 104
  Bio

10:00am CST

Making Your Own POGILs
Easily transform traditional lectures into student-centered notes that require inquiry, analysis, and conversation. Tips will be given on how to modify old lectures to create an environment where students are actively learning and engaging in scientific discourse. Biology lessons on the cell cycle and gene expression will be the focus, but the overall technique can be applied across science disciplines.

Speakers
avatar for Chandler Missig

Chandler Missig

Honors and AP Biology Teacher, L’Anse Creuse F.V. Pankow Center



Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 201

10:00am CST

Enhancements to particle models for explaining conductivity and related thermal phenomena.
Modeling with particles like the hard spheres of Dalton is a key component in chemistry teaching but fail to describe phenomena mechanisms that rely on quantum effects of electrons. Particles are especially powerful for explaining ideal gases, phase changes, and factors affecting reaction rate. Heat transfer is often described using particle collisions but both teachers and students will find that there are limitations when looking at phenomena involving conductivity and specific heat. This presentation will focus on dealing with model limitations in the classroom and transitioning to new models for understanding phenomena

Speakers
TG

Trevor Goff

Fordson High School
avatar for Scott Milam

Scott Milam

Plymouth High School
I teach IB Chemistry HL and Chemistry at Plymouth High School. I use modeling pedagogy and curriculum along with standards based grading.


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Michigan 2
  Chem

10:00am CST

Everything is Connected: Hands-on Human Ecology for Young Students
Using Population Education curriculum: 1. Participants will increase their understanding of basic human ecological concepts and best practices for introducing these concepts in their K-5 classrooms in an age-appropriate way. 2. Participants will come away with a rationale for why environmental education is a priority at all grade levels, how it is supported by research, and how environmental education is truly interdisciplinary, combining numeracy, literacy, science and social studies. 3. Participants will be able to design interdisciplinary, interactive lesson plans using Population Education curriculum on environmental themes that work for a variety of learning styles in a differentiated classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Amanda Syers

Amanda Syers

Program specialist, GVSU Center for Educational Partnerships


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 4
  Env Sci

10:00am CST

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish: Great Lakes Fish ID
Join DNR Aquatic Education Coordinator Tracy Page and Park Interpreter Jonathon Massung as they lead an entertaining and hands-on session to identify Great Lakes fish and aquatic invasive species. Their tips and tricks will strengthen your fish identification and you will learn some great activities and props to use in the classroom. Come to this session and get hooked on fun science!

Speakers
avatar for Tracy Page

Tracy Page

Aquatic Education Coordinator, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Marine biologist/Oceanographer turned educator. I strive to bring aquatic education to teachers and their classrooms around the state. I also administer the Salmon in the Classroom program for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 203

10:00am CST

Addressing English Language Learners in a Science Class
Participants will share and explore ways to address students with low level language skills in science classes. This session will explore both the challenges and some solutions in dealing with ELL's students. These practices should benefit all students and educators come away with tips to implement in their classrooms.

Speakers
avatar for Thomas Long

Thomas Long

Science Coach, Global Educational Excellence
I am a science coach for a K-12 charter school district that serves three high schools and five middle schools in the Detroit Metropolitan area. I am also the point person for GEE's robotics teams. Frontier Academy, Riverside West and Central Academy in Ann Arbor.



Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Regency 2

10:00am CST

Consensus Meetings in Science: Making Student Thinking Visible & Incorporating Student Voice
The session will focus on the what, why and how of implementing interactive conversation into science classrooms. Providing a fresh way of incorporating student voice heightens engagement and promotes the idea that learning is socially mediated. Consensus meetings
expose students to multiple ideas and expands their learning. A video example and consensus meeting reenactment will leave teachers prepared to launch this strategy in their own classrooms. This session will be similar to the 2019 conference session I presented.

Resources: https://sites.google.com/masonk12.net/consensusmeeting

Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Henfling

Tiffany Henfling

Teacher, Mason Middle School
I am a 7th grade science teacher. This is my 9th year teaching middle school science.


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 3
  Gen Sci

10:00am CST

Engineering the Future
Thinking of incorporating engineering into your school curriculum? Join us for a fun workshop that introduces you to the Boston Museum of Science engineering curricula, Engineering the Future. We will explore several projects and design a device for a mobile apparatus. Learn about how to implement a great Engineering Design Cycle that has applications in any discipline, but especially STEM.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Curts

Gary Curts

Activate Learning
For the past 18 years Gary Curts has worked with It's About Time's Professional Development Department as one of their Implementation Consultant/STEM Specialists and has been instrumental in helping support many teachers across the USA who have implemented that curricula or are focusing... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

10:00am CST

High School Science Networking Session
High School science teachers and leaders: Spend time doing a quick evaluation of your school using the 13 Implementation Indicators from NGSS. Then, network with other high school teachers and science leaders around topics such as course sequencing, available resources, and assessments. Walk away with contacts and ideas as you continue to implement the Michigan Science Standards.

Speakers
avatar for Wendi Vogel

Wendi Vogel

Region B Director, NSELA
I am a former middle school teacher turned Science Consultant for Kent County in the Grand Rapids area. I run the @NGSS_tweeps twitter account and have a passion for science education. I am also the Michigan-SELA President-Elect.


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 1

10:00am CST

Keynote: Building on Young Children’s Curiosity: Lessons from the SOLID Start (Science, Oral Language, and Literacy Development from the Start of School) Project
Children come to school curious and excited to make sense of the world around them. In support of this curiosity, the new Michigan Science Standards suggest that students should be engaged in rich sensemaking around science phenomena starting in Kindergarten. However, current and past educational policies have necessitated an early focus on literacy and math, which often leads to science being pushed out of elementary classrooms. In this talk, we argue for the importance of providing students with opportunities to build on their science curiosities from the start of school. Additionally, we will argue that a focus on science is critical for supporting students’ literacy learning AND that language and literacy are critical for supporting children’s scientific sense-making. When students have opportunities to work on making sense of science phenomena, they develop a need to obtain information from texts, to use new vocabulary, and to engage in new ways of talking about their ideas which supports both science and literacy goals in the early grades of school. We use lessons learned from our SOLID Start project (Science, Oral Language, and Literacy Development from the Start of School) to show how to engage in this type of integrated learning beginning in the early elementary grades.

Speakers
avatar for Amelia Gotwals

Amelia Gotwals

Michigan State University
Amelia Wenk Gotwals, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former middle school science teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum, instruction, and assessment in science in elementary and middle... Read More →
avatar for Tanya S. Wright

Tanya S. Wright

Assistant professor, Michigan State University
Tanya Wright, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former kindergarten teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum and instruction in language and literacy during the early childhood and elementary... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 5

10:00am CST

Making it Real... Cheap!
This session will include a variety of quick and engaging phenomena that can be done for little or no cost. We will include real world science investigations and hands on activities with cross-curricular components that can be implemented easily at multiple grade levels.

Speakers
DG

Darrick Gregory

Instructor, STARBASE- Battle Creek
JH

Julie Hahn

Parchment Middle School
JH

Jodi Heaney

Parchment Middle School


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Regency 1

10:00am CST

Nature Journaling: Blending Art and Science
There is beauty and wonder all around us. Learning how to keep a nature journal of your observations can help deepen your students connection to art, science, and place. We will be using nature journaling as an inspiring teaching tool for discovering phenomena.


Speakers
avatar for Misty Klotz

Misty Klotz

Community Outreach Assistant, Michigan
I started working as an environmental educator in 2002. Currently I am work with elementary students, and contribute to the KBS K-12 teacher professional development program. The K-12 partnership provides teachers in-depth exposure to research topics in environmental science and training... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 204
  Gen Sci

10:00am CST

The Great Escape
This is not your normal workshop session environment. Put your problem-solving and teamwork skills to the test to unlock the clues and solve the mystery to escape! Strategies and cooperation are critical to success in this challenge. Experience engaging inquiry activities and resources that can be used in the classroom in this lively and challenging Escape Room context! Walk away with resources to make this happen in your room.

Speakers

Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 2

10:00am CST

Reading, Writing, Reasoning: Using science informational texts to achieve reading and writing standards
This session will demonstrate strategies to incorporate science trade books into the ELA curriculum so that students will be able to attain reading and writing proficiency while learning science! 
Presentation slideshow link


Speakers
avatar for Kathy Agee

Kathy Agee

Science Program Coordinator, GVSU Regional Math/Science Center
I have taught science mainly at the middle school level, but also at the preschool, elementary, high school, and college level, along with teacher professional development. I have a B.S. and M.A. in biology/science education from Western Michigan University and I am a certified Master... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 3
  Int Sci

10:00am CST

NGSS aligned curriculum and teacher pedagogy at the high school level - a practical approach
With the adoption of the NGSS and with the official NGSS-aligned state testing (M-STEP) starting next school year, the need exists for both high quality curriculum alongside pedagogical support for teachers as they implement it.
In this session, teachers will be exposed to NGSS aligned curriculum that has been shown to promote student engagement and learning through rigorous cluster randomized design (via the CESE project). Emphasis will be placed on the combination of teacher pedagogy and talk moves, specialized curriculum and student collaborative work coming together.

Speakers
IT

Israel Touitou

CREATE for STEM, Michigan State University


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 202
  Phy Sci

10:00am CST

Increase Enrollment and Improve Achievement in AP Science
The New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning (NJCTL) is a non-profit, charitable organization founded by the New Jersey Education Association. Learn about our free, comprehensive Open Education Resource curricula designed to teach AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C, AP Chemistry and AP Biology. Everything you need to successfully teach these courses is available to you and your students. Learn more about these CollegeBoard approved resources, including how to effectively use them.

Speakers
avatar for Susan Olszewski

Susan Olszewski

Director, New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning
The mission of NJCTL, a nonprofit founded by NJEA, is to empower teachers to lead school improvement so that all children have access to a high-quality education.



Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Michigan 1
  Physics

10:00am CST

At Least 7 Sneaky Ways To Get Students Using Questioning Independently
Student discourse in science develops critical thinking. Our kiddos love sharing claims and, if we ask, provide evidence. But engaging each other by asking questions? Disagreeing with evidence? Wow, that’s hard for our elementary students! Don’t despair. Help is on the way. This presentation will give teachers practical strategies and tips to get those discussions flowing. Reproducibles? Strategy and tip sheets? You got it!

Speakers
CM

Cheryl Matas

retired teacher, Retired Teacher



Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Michigan 3

10:00am CST

Building Capacity with Teacher Leader Corps
A major cross-curricular goal within the Eastern Upper Peninsula STEM Region has focused on building capacity through teacher leadership. This work has resulted in the development of the Teacher Leader Corps (TLC), and currently there are TLC initiatives in science, math, and social studies. Beginning in the 2018-2019 school year, the EUP STEM Region supported the development of a Teacher Leader Corps (TLC) with the goal of building capacity around the implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This journey has led to a number of positive outcomes, and this session will tell that story while describing how the TLC model might work for you.

Speakers
avatar for Elisha Laninga

Elisha Laninga

3rd Grade Teacher, Three Lakes Academy
Hello! I am Elisha Laninga. I am a 3rd grade teacher in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. I have been a teacher for 10 years. I am very passionate about teaching science. I have been trained in NGSX and have made the transition to teaching that way. I am very excited to be... Read More →
avatar for Heather Luoto

Heather Luoto

Science Teacher, Engadine Schools
I am attending MSTA this year as a member of the Eastern Upper Peninsula ISD/STEM Integrated Learning Team Teacher Leader Corp. I am a YOOPER and teach 7-12 science in a small rural district. In the past I have been a Team Leader for a project-based online learning program in our... Read More →
avatar for Kevin St. Onge

Kevin St. Onge

Regional Director, MiSTEM Network, EUP STEM Region


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

10:00am CST

Emphasis on the E in STEM!
This session will share how teachers incorporate Innovative Vehicle Design (IVD) to provide engaging cross-curricular project-based learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. In partnership with the Square One Education Network, teachers offer multi-layered hands-on experiences that introduce students to the emerging world of connected and autonomous vehicle technology and wireless communication. Through vehicle engineering challenges students apply classroom lessons to a tangible project, developing critical thinking skills and improved problem solving. See how teachers incorporate electric go-karts, re-engineer RC vehicles, use underwater robots, and/or autonomous Power Wheels Jeeps to enhance learning. Session participants will use Arduino robotic platforms with various sensors to avoid obstacles and complete missions, and learn about Arduino applications across content areas, including custom data loggers, and science demonstration tools.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Beatty

Jason Beatty

Program Director, Square One Education Network
Square One is a Michigan-based STEM education non-profit, providing teacher PD, student STEM design challenges, and competitions including underwater ROVs, electric & autonomous vehicles, and Arduino robots.
avatar for Barb Land

Barb Land

Executive Director, Square One Education Network
Let's talk STEM! We're a nonprofit educational organization serving K12 teachers and students with hands on experiences focused on STEM education!


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

10:00am CST

Assessment Fixer-Upper: Learn to assess "knowledge in use" with Item Clusters
Participants will review example multi-dimensional Item Clusters and then become "fixer-uppers" to transform one-dimensional items into a multi-dimensional Item Cluster. We won't just add a coat of fresh paint to make assessments looks better; we will build a new foundation for how we assess "knowledge in use."

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Ashley

Jessica Ashley

Science Consultant, Oakland Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 6

10:00am CST

Do we REALLY know ourselves and our students? Ensuring "all students" really DOES mean "all students"
How often do you think about problems presented to students that may have racial bias, gender bias, or any other bias? Do you check your own biases? Does "ALL students" REALLY mean "ALL students?" Join me in exploring bias in ourselves and the content materials presented to students. Tools to interrupt thinking as well as to check for bias in materials will be shared.

Speakers
JG

Jill Griffin

Education Consultant, Michigan Department of Education
Dr. Griffin’s current work includes work with schools to close the achievement gap through the statewide African American Student Initiative (AASI).  The work through the AASI includes providing cultural proficiency leadership, training, and networking opportunities.  Much of... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 4

10:00am CST

Mi-STAR’s assessment tools for NGSS - how to make them work for you
Learn how to put NGSS assessment vision into practice in your classroom using Mi-STAR pre/post tests and embedded assessments! This session will show you how to: use Mi-STAR assessments to evaluate student proficiency in relation to NGSS performance expectations, prepare students for high-stakes testing, get in-depth information about students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities, and minimize the time spent scoring and grading student work. Discover practical tips and tricks to make Mi-STAR 3-D assessment work for you!

Speakers
BM

Barb McIntyre

Michigan Technological University
AP

Ashley Poole

Kalamazoo Public Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 7
  Gen Sci

10:00am CST

Spin Art, STEAM from Parts to Art
Experience a how to that covers multiple standards at the elementary, middle, and high school level. The chemistry of developing ink for medium by up-cycling old crayola markers to the deconstruction of dead computer towers for parts. See how students gain knowledge of chemical reactions, engineering skills by designing spin art tables using old computer parts, along with transfer of energy and the art it can create. Simple enough for upper el students or for more complexity, exploration for middle and high school students in design options. Students will address standards in physical sciences along with engineering and technology practices.

Speakers
avatar for Michele Bielby

Michele Bielby

STEM Coordinator, Swartz Creek Schools
I am the STEAM Coordinator for Swartz Creek Community Schools. As a result of developing a strong STEAM program at Dieck Elementary I now work with schools across our district to do the same. I also have developed a popular after school STEAM program and summer camp to replace the... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Swales

Kelly Swales

6th Grade Science Teacher, Swartz Creek Middle School, Swartz Creek Community Schools
I was a 4th-grade teacher for 16 years. I have a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Michigan, and Masters Plus 30 from Marygrove College and Fresno Pacific University. I have been teaching the NGSS standards for the past 7 years, and have spent many hours developing my own... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 2

10:00am CST

Field Trip - Michigan State University Museum
Join the excursion to the Michigan State University Museum to see the brand-new Science On a Sphere developed by NOAA! In the darkened museum gallery, four projectors illuminate a giant globe, seeming to float in front of you. Spectacular animations, showing geophysical, environmental, and cultural data are projected on the globe. See astronomical objects as if from outer space, climate data animations, and much more. Learn about how to integrate SOS into your teaching. Demonstrations and museum exploration time included. Transportation Bus service is provided and leaves at 10:00 AM from the Lansing Center.  Visit the website to learn more - (museum.msu.edu)

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the onsite field trip desk in the conference registration area.  Due to busing, space is limited.

Friday March 6, 2020 10:00am - 12:00pm CST
Field Trip - Bus from Lansing Center

11:00am CST

Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Shuffle
Students have major misconceptions about photosynthesis and cellular respiration, but this content is essential for understanding how matter and energy flows, both at the micro (cellular) and macro (ecosystem) levels. Using a computer simulation, a hands-on activity, and notebooking and discussion strategies, expose student thinking-all from SEPUP's Science and Global Issues: Biology program from LAB-AIDS.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
SM

Shannon Mareski

Grand Blanc HS


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 104
  Bio

11:00am CST

Show me the MOO-ney! Determine the Genetics of a CA$H-Cow
Agriculture, biology and business knowledge are all needed on the modern farm. In this hands-on workshop, use gel electrophoresis help a rancher choose the dairy cattle breeding pair that will give him the best return on investment. Determine the genetic profile of individual cattle and which pair will breed a Ca$h Cow!

Speakers
avatar for Joyce Zimmer

Joyce Zimmer

Teacher @ Greenville High School, MiniOne Systems


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 101

11:00am CST

The Walking Dead: Deer, Disease and Science
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is changing our Michigan landscape and there
are other numerous diseases that can affect Michigan’s wild birds and mammals. Discover how sick or dead wildlife are collected, tested and diagnosed by the DNR’s Wildlife Health Section. Learn how scientists perform a necropsy and what diagnostic tests are used. Some of the common wildlife diseases will be explored, highlighting zoonotic diseases, and we will discuss what scientists do with the information gained from wildlife health diagnostics.

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Frailey

Kevin Frailey

Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources
The Michigan DNR provides programs, materials, and professional development to Michigan educators.
avatar for Julie Melotti

Julie Melotti

Lab Tech, MI DNR



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 203

11:00am CST

The Island of Avogadro: Teaching the Factor-Label Method can be fun!
The factor-label method (also called dimensional analysis) is a critical tool that helps kids problem solve in a multitude of Chemistry situations, from basic measurement conversions to complex stoichiometry problems. This fun and unique activity has been used in Mr. Smith’s Chemistry class for the last 18 years to introduce measurement systems and the steps of the factor-label method with something completely unfamiliar. You students will show greater confidence with the math needed for conversions, density, molarity, and stoichiometry problems with a lesson they will never forget! Worksheets, labs, and even some hands-on activities will give you lots of ideas you can take back to your classroom and use right away. 



Speakers
avatar for Kendon Smith

Kendon Smith

Teacher, Columbia Central High School
I\\\\\\'ve spent the last 19 years teaching Chemistry and coaching soccer at Columbia Central High School. I have taught AP Chemistry, Physics, Computers, and even have a cool video class! I try to bring a lot of fun, random things into my Chemistry teaching, but really wish I did... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Michigan 3

11:00am CST

River Rewilding
Learn how to use local stream restoration projects as an opportunity to engage students in evaluating the impacts of humans on ecosystems and communities. This session will provide participants with a hands-on introduction to activities designed to teach students about the social, economic, historical, and biological impacts of humans on river systems using the Grand River Rapids Restoration as a case study. Participants will receive access to three full place-based curricular units aligned to NGSS, Social Studies, and ELA standards. Presenters will share how these units can be customized to local ecosystems.

Curriculum is available online at https://www.gvsu.edu/groundswell/lesson-plans-54.htm and on PBS Learning Media, where you can import directly into Google Classroom, at https://wgvu.pbslearningmedia.org/collection/river-re-wilding-evaluating-impacts-on-ecosystems-and-communities/

Follow along with our presentation to access all live links here: http://bit.ly/MSTA_River

Speakers
avatar for Eileen Boekestein

Eileen Boekestein

Environmental Education Coordinator, GVMC - Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds
Great Lakes and Grand River Watershed; School-Community Partnerships; Place-Based Stewardship Education
BP

Brenda Perry

Biology Teacher, Kent Innovation High
Brenda Perry is a Biology facilitator at Kent Innovation High, a project-based learning lab school on the campus of the Kent County Intermediate School District. As a classroom teacher, Brenda works with students to foster curiosity and a love of all things science; in doing so... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 204

11:00am CST

STEM-ulating Activities on Human Ecology
Human ecology concepts can be built using engaging, inquiry-based activities that also build mathematical skills, employ technology and engineering practices. Using the Population Education curriculum, the presenter will lead participants in hands-on technology, small-group problem solving, data analysis, online tool demonstration and discussion that cover a range of human ecology topics including human population and natural resource use trends, and their resulting impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, climate and the availability of fresh water. A variety of teaching techniques will be outlined for a truly inclusive classroom. Participants will receive Poulation Education lesson plans and background materials in an electronic format.

Speakers
avatar for Amanda Syers

Amanda Syers

Program specialist, GVSU Center for Educational Partnerships


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Michigan 1
  Env Sci

11:00am CST

A Focus on Modeling in the Phenomenon- based classroom
Developing and using models allows students to imagine the unseen, make predictions, ask questions, and develop further investigations. Experience the IQWST modeling process, evaluate student models, and connect them back to the Driving Question Board.

Speakers
avatar for Diane Wright

Diane Wright

Professional Development Facilitator, Activate Learning
Diane Wright has been an educator for over 40 years. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Education. She began her career in public education, teaching learning disabled and emotionally impaired middle school students. She then transitioned into teaching elementary and... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

11:00am CST

AP Biology PLC Sponsored by MABT
MABT established a PLC for AP Biology teachers and held our first workshop this past August. This session is intended to be a follow-up workshop to our first meeting. Now that many of us have had the opportunity to work the new CED and the new online resources we anticipate there will be much to discuss and share. In addition, we will identify areas of the greatest concern and set up a third workshop date for the spring or summer of 2020. If you did not make the first workshop in August, you are welcome to join MABT for this second meeting. All Michigan AP Biology teachers are encouraged to attend!

Speakers
avatar for Kristy Butler

Kristy Butler

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Education & Science
avatar for Heather Peterson

Heather Peterson

Biology/AP Biology/Botany Teacher, Sci O, Holt High School
I love teaching through a case study approach where students ask questions to drive the learning. I have taught biology for 28 years and AP Biology through this method and to first year biology students for 4 years. I have coached Science Olympiad for 28 years and I am also the Michigan... Read More →
avatar for Mark Eberhard

Mark Eberhard

AP Biology & Biology Teachers, St. Clair High School
34 years in the classroomAmbassador for HHMI BiointeracitveWriting Team for College Board's Pre-AP Biology CourseFacilitator for BSCS/NABT Regional Biology Teacher AcademyBoard of Directors for Michigan Association of Biology Teachers (MABT)
avatar for Patti Richardson

Patti Richardson

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Biology education, student centered learning


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 201
  Gen Sci

11:00am CST

Argument and Explanation in MS
Investigate core science phenomena in the context of fossil evidence and the history of life on Earth. Experience how students create models, construct explanations, and engage in argumentation from evidence in FOSS lessons. Explore how NGSS science and engineering practices complement and reinforce each other to enhance student learning. Leave with instructional strategies to support student sense making through scientific argumentation.

Speakers
DV

Deborah Vannatter

Science Education Consultant for Delta/School Specialty
Deborah Vannatter taught Gr 1-6 students and was Program Manager for the state-wide I-STEM Resource Network, supporting K-8 student-centered science. She served on advisory boards for NSTA, and her local Wessleman Woods Nature Preserve.


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 3
  Gen Sci

11:00am CST

Panel Discussion - Coherence, Flexibility, and Pathways to HS Proficiency
Join science education professionals from around the state in a Q&A session that will answer such questions as: How are districts responding to changes in NGSS and MMC? What successes or examples can we share and what challenges remain? How can we do more through integration?  What can we do about frequently under taught subjects such as earth science and engineering?

Panelists will include:
TJ Smolek (MDE), Rashell Bowerman (MDE), Aneesha Badrinaarian, Wendi Vogel (Kent ISD), Kristie Ford (DPSCD)

Speakers
avatar for Rich Bacolor

Rich Bacolor

curriuclum consultant, Michigan Science Education Leadership Association / Wayne RESA
Middle School science teacher for 20 years in South Redford, Mi. Currently Science Education Consultant serving 33 school districts in Wayne County. 3D Science Advocate for all students.


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 5

11:00am CST

Providing Elementary Teachers and Students with Comprehensive Skills and Strategies To Accomplish The Intended Vision Of The SEP and CCC
The SEP and CCC cards were developed for teachers to have a deeper understanding of the practices and concepts and also suggestions for how to implement them in classrooms. The cards are meant to be used for learning and planning purposes as well as during classroom lessons. Both sets of cards include elements from the grade band progression matrices. SEP cards include links to instructional resources and the CCC cards include sample questions teachers can use during classroom discussions.  
http://tinyurl.com/CCCSEPcards

Speakers
avatar for Laura Chambless

Laura Chambless

K-5 Math/Science Consultant, St Clair RESA
I’m a mom of 2 adult children and a puppy, a wife, a friend, a co-worker, a coach. My husband says my job is my hobby!
avatar for Minna Turrell

Minna Turrell

Secondary Science Consultant, St Clair RESA
I am the Secondary Science/Math Consultant at St Clair RESA. Prior to taking this role I was a high school science teacher and competitive cheer coach. I am the current president of MSELA. I also review science curriculum for EdReports. I love science, my kids, and my rescue dogs... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 1

11:00am CST

Science is for the Birds! - Using Literacy and Discourse to Solve Problems in Elementary Science
Get your students reading, writing and speaking science as they investigate and design solutions to real problems decimating bird populations across the country in this integrated, Project-based Learning unit. Access to free Create for STEM open-source, research-based curriculum materials for grades 3-5 will be shared.

Speakers
avatar for Sue Codere Kelly

Sue Codere Kelly

MSU CREATE for STEM, Michigan State University
The Multiple Literacies team is excited to share our work with our science education colleagues. Ask us for more information about the ML-PBL Grades 3 - 5 integrated science units being developed by a team of researchers at MSU and U Mich. We'll share Field Test findings and plans... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Governor's Room
  Gen Sci

11:00am CST

Success in the Changing Science Classroom
During this workshop, participants will collaboratively engage in a hands-on, inquiry-based activity, explore the instructional shifts required by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), discuss the characteristics of an NGSS aligned activity, and reflect on next steps for their schools and/or classrooms.

Speakers
LH

Laura Hagen

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Regency 1

11:00am CST

The Crosscutting Concepts as Suites of Questions Guiding Development of Explanations
Each of the NGSS Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs) can be turned into a suite of questions that can be used to guide students’ development of explanations of everyday phenomena. The questions give students a place to start when addressing a new topic and allow them to organize their growing understanding. When students use the questions repeatedly, they internalize them promoting student-guided learning. We will practice using the CCCs as questions to help us make sense of everyday phenomena and explore how to adapt the questions to a unit of your choosing.

Speakers
JP

Joyce Parker

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

11:00am CST

The Chemistry of Taste- Using Computational and Systems Thinking in Elementary Classrooms
Experience an elementary science Project-Based Learning (MLPBL) unit that explores the relationship between science and the culinary arts using computational thinking to develop recipes for new tastes. Access to free Create for STEM open-source, research-based curriculum materials for grades 3-5 will be shared.

Speakers

Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 202
  Int Sci

11:00am CST

Using Field Trips to Ignite Student Interest in STEM
This presentation will provide guidelines for educators to plan and conduct a field trip to an informal educational setting. It will outline how to support the curriculum to address required instructional standards and focus on how to utilize community resources to provide a place-based educational experience for k-12 learners.

Speakers
avatar for Amy Emmert

Amy Emmert

Director of Education, Belle Isle Conservancy
avatar for June Teisan

June Teisan

PAEMST - MI TOY - NBCT, Belle Isle Aquarium - Detroit
avatar for Sandra Yarema

Sandra Yarema

Assistant Professor, Clinical, Science Teacher Education, Wayne State University/Belle Isle Aquarium
I have been a science teacher for 35 years. I am currently a teacher educator and coordinator for the Science Education Program at WSU. I direct the SE MI regional Junior Science & Humanities symposium, a showcase for high school students' STEM research. I am the secretary for the... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Regency 2

11:00am CST

Integrating Computation in Science Across Michigan - Teacher Professional Development
"Integrating Computation in Science Across Michigan" (ICSAM), is a professional development series where teachers learn to write computer programs and teach computational modeling in their high school science classes (primarily physics). The professional development series consists of a five-day workshop held in the summer at Michigan State University's campus. This workshop emphasizes ways to provide equitable learning opportunities for students when engaging in computational modeling activities. Participating teachers will engage with a growing cohort of their peers (50+ participants over the past two years) that have successfully integrated computation into their courses. This informational presentation will preview computational learning activities, pedagogical strategies, and professional development opportunities offered through the ICSAM program at Michigan State University.

Speakers
avatar for Danny Caballero

Danny Caballero

Associate Professor, MSU
avatar for Daniel Weller

Daniel Weller

Research Associate, Michigan State University


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 2

11:00am CST

Healthy Grading: A Moral Imperative
If you are disenfranchised with your current grading and assessment strategies, this session is for you. If you would like to tailor your assessment and grading practices to student learning, this session is for you. If you are tired of using grades to penalize and punish your students, this session is for you.

Speakers
avatar for Don Pata

Don Pata

Teacher, Grosse Pointe North High School
I have been teaching high school science for over 20 year. I like to talk about NGSS, advanced pedagogy, modeling instruction and healthy grading. I have 4 young children. In the summer I run modeling workshops across Michigan.


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 1

11:00am CST

STEM, Makerspace and Tech for Elementary
You really missed out last year!!! Our session was right before lunch on Saturday! We tried to bribe you with food and snacks- we won over a few die-hards, but so many of you missed a great session ;-) This year we plan to revisit some of our favorite topics including STEM, makerspace and technology for younger elementary. We will bring some of our favorite gadgets and robots and demonstrate how you can easily incorporate science and STEM in your classroom. It’s always a lot of fun and hopefully, you’ll take away something that you are excited about using at your school. Take chances, make mistakes, get messy- Ms. Frizzle

Speakers
avatar for Diana Matthews

Diana Matthews

Elementary Science Teachers, Detroit Country Day School
We are passionate about makerspaces, elementary science, and design thinking!
LM

Lisa Morgan

Detroit Country Day School


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 3

11:00am CST

Think in Pictures: Like Temple Grandin
Grade 3-8 Teachers/Students will compare agriculture inventors and inventions by creating a timeline of important dates, explore cattle flight zones, and work as agriculture engineers to design a chute system that uses research of Dr.Temple Grandin.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Blodgett

Michelle Blodgett

Manager, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom
Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom is a program funded by the Foundation for Agriculture at Michigan Farm Bureau that focuses on K-12 agriculture education.Contact email: mblodge@michfb.com



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

11:00am CST

Zoo Exhibit Design Challenge Brings STEM to Life
Give your students a real world problem to solve using John Ball Zoo’s Exhibit Design Challenge. STEM comes to life, and all aspects are integrated into this lesson as students create a new design of an animal habitat. Lesson plan ideas include how best to incorporate language arts, math, and science concepts into an Exhibit Design Challenge. Specific programs available at John Ball Zoo will be shared, but materials given can be used and applied at any zoo.

Speakers


Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 8

11:00am CST

Field Trip - Michigan State University Cyclotron Lab
Explore a world-class rare isotope laboratory where nuclei are smashed into a target at nearly half the speed of light! Our tour includes demonstrations, an introduction to the goals and methods of nuclear science, and a walk behind the scenes where nuclei are accelerated, filtered and/or studied. The secrets we learn could help explain what happens in supernovae and the origins of elements that make up the human body.
Transportation Bus service is provided and leaves at 11:00 AM from the Lansing Center. Visit the website to learn more - https://www.nscl.msu.edu/public/tour/index.html

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the onsite field trip desk in the conference registration area. Due to busing, space is limited.



Friday March 6, 2020 11:00am - 1:30pm CST
Field Trip - Bus from Lansing Center

1:00pm CST

Biology Interactive Learning Logs
Learn how to implement interactive learning logs into your Biology classroom. Participants will be provided with techniques on how to set-up teacher and student notebooks, ideas on how to use them in class with 3 dimensional learning practices, ways to assess the notebooks, and walk away with materials to get you started.

Speakers
avatar for Lara Gusty

Lara Gusty

Science Teacher, Wayne Westland Community Schools
avatar for Stephanie Niedermeyer

Stephanie Niedermeyer

Science Teacher, Wayne Memorial High School


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Regency 1
  Bio

1:00pm CST

HHMI Bioactive Movie Matinee - From Antsto Grizzlies: A General Rule for Saving Biodiversity
Come see the movie presentation featuring the BioInteractive video HHMI Bioactive Movie Matinee From Ants to Grizzlies: A General Rule for Saving Biodiversity.This film explores the species-area relationship, a general ecological rule that describes how the number of species in a habitat changes with area, and shows how it has been applied to the conservation of protected areas. Habitats are shrinking and becoming more fragmented due to human activities, leading to the loss of many species. One tool that scientists are using to conserve Earth's remaining biodiversity is the species-area relationship. The film begins with the story of ant biologist E. O. Wilson, who observed and tested the species-area relationship on islands. It then shows how Wilson’s findings have been expanded and applied to "islands" on land, including habitat fragments in the Amazon rainforest and Rocky Mountains. These studies have revealed the importance of preserving and connecting protected areas for wildlife.  (Light snacks available... while they last, so plan to arrive early!)

Speakers
avatar for Mark Eberhard

Mark Eberhard

AP Biology & Biology Teachers, St. Clair High School
34 years in the classroomAmbassador for HHMI BiointeracitveWriting Team for College Board's Pre-AP Biology CourseFacilitator for BSCS/NABT Regional Biology Teacher AcademyBoard of Directors for Michigan Association of Biology Teachers (MABT)


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 6

1:00pm CST

How to Start Biology and Chemistry NGSS Units using Driving Question Boards to Investigate Phenomena
Let’s face it, it can be difficult to know how to start an effective unit using NGSS! In this session, you will learn how to successfully implement student-created Driving Question Boards to tackle engaging phenomena. Teachers will learn and practice an effective questioning protocol and leave with sample Phenomenon Unit Starter ideas for multiple introductory Biology and Chemistry units, as well as bridging new AP Biology units.

Speakers
avatar for Andrea McCune

Andrea McCune

Biology & AP Biology Teacher, Athens High School
avatar for Lauren Nacy

Lauren Nacy

Biology and Chemistry Teacher, Troy High School



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 201
  Bio

1:00pm CST

Mammal Mania
A Michigan Mammal trail will highlight critters and their sign. Participants will actively discover different predator/prey scenarios and using skulls, pelts, tracks and scat. Identification and observation are included in this problem solving scene. The program also includes a literary element as teachers will learn to get their students to highlight nature stations with wholesome limericks. For example: This session will be a blast, but it will all go much too fast. Mammal Mania helps you discover, your “inner” Nature lover, and I promise your enthusiasm to last.

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Frailey

Kevin Frailey

Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources
The Michigan DNR provides programs, materials, and professional development to Michigan educators.


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203

1:00pm CST

Trick or Treat! Discover What Color Our Candy Really Is Using Electropho-REESE's.
Come explore the phenomenon of candy colors, learn how molecular size and electrical charge affect a molecule’s migration, and use your understanding of colors to predict what happens when you use electrophoresis to separate colors from various hard-shell candies.

Speakers
avatar for Richard Chan

Richard Chan

MiniOne Systems
With decades of experience in the biotech industry, I recognized there is a tremendous need to inspire the next generaion of scientists via education. I founded MiniOne Systems to specifically design and supply lab equipment and lab kits so that educators can bring real-world, hands-on... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 101
  Bio

1:00pm CST

Seeing the Unseeable: Models That Really Work - Tetrahedrons and Magnetometers
We will build a model tetrahedron to illustrate molecular geometry, first using it as a Silicon tetrahedron (SiO4), which comprises 90% of the Earth's crust. We will then use the same model as a Methane tetrahedron (CH4), the simplest organic molecule. This technique of modeling tetrahedrons was introcuced by the AIMS Foundation in 1985.
Our next model, a magnetometer, was introduced by TOPS Learning System and later developed for Windows to the Universe in 1995 to illustrate the detection of magnetism in such varied uses as space science, oceanography, geology, environmental science, archeology, engineering, and other critical applications for STEM Education.
Together these models will ignite curiosity and build confidence in science learners as they begin to see and manipulate abstractions.

Speakers
avatar for David Mastie

David Mastie

Ann Arbor Public Schools (retired)


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 205

1:00pm CST

Chasing Windmills! - Using Energy, Engineering, and Explanations in Elementary Science Classrooms
Come explore elementary Project-Based Learning materials using engineering practices and scientific explanations to experience three-dimensional teaching where students figure out ideas about energy transfer. Participants who bring a quart milk carton can take home a windmill. Access to free Create for STEM open-source, research-based curriculum materials for grades 3-5 will be shared.

Speakers
avatar for Deborah Peek-Brown

Deborah Peek-Brown

Education Specialist, Michigan State University
K-12 Project-based Learning NGSSMSTA


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Governor's Room
  Gen Sci

1:00pm CST

Make Time for Science with Project-Based Learning
If we treat content areas as silos, we’ll simply never find time for Science. In this session, discover how to create authentic learning experiences that increase engagement, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and connect across all content areas. Be the teacher that transforms everyday lesson plans into memorable learning experiences without spending hours of prep time. Come with a willingness to try something new; leave with project ideas that engage students not only in learning, but in making their world a better place!

Speakers
avatar for Terra Tarango

Terra Tarango

Thursday Opening Keynote and Feature Speaker
Terra Tarango serves as Director of the Van Andel Institute for Education, overseeing innovative student programs, game-changing teacher professional development, and the implementation of Blue Apple projects where teachers inspire students to make the world a better place. She is... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Capitol 2
  Gen Sci

1:00pm CST

Panel Discussion - The Future of Science Teaching in Michigan
Join several science education professionals from around the state in a Q&A session that will answer such questions as: How do we support HS students to seek and enter science teacher prep programs?  How are teacher prep programs supporting shifts to MSS/NGSS? How can we support new teachers with mentorship and ongoing professional development.  

Panelists will include:
Darcy McMahaon (MDE), Kris Pachla (MiSTEM Network), Mark Olson (Oakland University), Jeremy Winsor, (Fulton Schools), David Stroupe (MSU)

Speakers
avatar for Rich Bacolor

Rich Bacolor

curriuclum consultant, Michigan Science Education Leadership Association / Wayne RESA
Middle School science teacher for 20 years in South Redford, Mi. Currently Science Education Consultant serving 33 school districts in Wayne County. 3D Science Advocate for all students.


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 5

1:00pm CST

Supporting K-2 Student Science Talk Through Purposeful Reflection on Teaching Practices
Science talk is important when helping young children make sense of science phenomena. The MI standards for language arts and science expect students to develop disciplinary oral language skills. In this session, K-2 teachers will learn about research and resources from the NSF-supported project, SOLID Start. We will share our research-based framework and related teaching practices that can be used to support students’ use of academically productive science talk. Teachers will learn how they can purposefully reflect on the quality of their teaching practices to support science talk in order to make plans for continued growth.

Speakers
avatar for Tanya S. Wright

Tanya S. Wright

Assistant professor, Michigan State University
Tanya Wright, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former kindergarten teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum and instruction in language and literacy during the early childhood and elementary... Read More →
avatar for Amelia Gotwals

Amelia Gotwals

Michigan State University
Amelia Wenk Gotwals, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former middle school science teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum, instruction, and assessment in science in elementary and middle... Read More →
EK

Eleanor Kenimer

Michigan State University


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Capitol 1

1:00pm CST

Who gets to be a Smart Science Student in your Classroom?
Have you ever wondered who gets to identify as a “smart science student” in your classroom? Identities – how we see ourselves – are socially constructed and classrooms are important spaces in which identities develop. Teachers play a big role in establishing classroom norms that support all students in seeing themselves as “smart science students.” Join us to explore how you can help make these identities compelling and accessible to all of your K-12 students.

Speakers
avatar for Christie Morrison Thomas

Christie Morrison Thomas

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 3

1:00pm CST

Why aren’t they talking? Tips and Strategies for More Productive Discourse in Science
Do you encounter challenges when you have your class engage in student-to-student discourse? Do you find it difficult to get students to participate? Do your discussions get derailed? Do you find success with class discussions, but wish it were better? This is the session for you.

Having a solid instructional framework for discourse and using appropriate talk moves are the foundation for good discussions, but they do not guarantee productive discourse. There are many other details that teachers must consider. This interactive session will give teachers tips and strategies to incorporate so that they may improve their classroom discourse experiences.

Speakers
avatar for Laura Ritter

Laura Ritter

Physics Teacher, Troy High School
I have been a science and math teacher for 15 years. My primary subject is physics and I specialize in discourse and student-centered instruction. I have co-led several summer Modeling Instruction workshops, but have pulled back in order to spend more time with my two young daughters... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 2

1:00pm CST

Energy: Hot Bulbs
Students apply their understanding of the concepts of energy transfer and transformation to compare the efficiencies of two different types of light bulbs. They do so by measuring the amount of thermal energy produced by the two bulbs, applying the law of conservation of energy, and calculating how much of the electrical energy supplied was converted into light energy.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
LK

Lisa Kelp

Lab Aids/SEPUP


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 104
  Phy Sci

1:00pm CST

Put On Your Engineering Glasses
This workshop will focus on how to integrate engineering concepts into your physics or physical science classroom using the acclaimed curriculum, Active Physics. We will do a fun take-home lab, and then implement strategies and directions for the students to analyze the lab with their “Engineering Glasses”. Come away completely invigorated and excited to infuse engineering concepts in your classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Curts

Gary Curts

Activate Learning
For the past 18 years Gary Curts has worked with It's About Time's Professional Development Department as one of their Implementation Consultant/STEM Specialists and has been instrumental in helping support many teachers across the USA who have implemented that curricula or are focusing... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 103

1:00pm CST

Creating Nature Makerspace Boxes
Nature Makerspace Boxes give students exciting opportunities to design, create and invent using nature as inspiration! We’ll share tips and tricks for creating Nature Makerspace Boxes using mostly loose nature items. Participants will get a sample Nature Makerspace Box to take with them thanks to a grant from the BOSCH Community Fund (limited to first 25 teachers).

Speakers
avatar for Ashlie Smith

Ashlie Smith

Supervisor at Farmington Hills Nature Center, Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE)
As a current member and past president of MAEOE, I am looking forward to presenting about Nature Makerspace Boxes. I am happy to discuss the connections between STEM and nature and bringing these ideas into your classroom!



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 204

1:00pm CST

Explore the Great Lakes: A learner-centered approach with PBS Learning Media and local public television
Great Lakes Now will debut its new curriculum to help you and your students have fun learning about the Great Lakes. With STEAM-based, blended learning experiences and interactive, digital, and hands-on activities, this collection of lessons introduces students to basic scientific and geographic concepts and uses PBS Learning Media resources.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Abud, Jr

Gary Abud, Jr

Educational Consultant, Saga Educators, Inc.
Gary Abud Jr. is an award-winning educator and double cornea transplant recipient who, since having his sight restored, was moved to use his teaching gifts to make science fun for kids. He lives with his family near Detroit and writes to inspire children, like his daughter, to love... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 102

1:00pm CST

Grant Writing 101: Find the Fund$ for STEM
Do you have Cartier dreams for your classroom but a dollar store budget? Get tips and tricks for grant writing that can help you craft proposals to fund robust science learning—for your students and for YOU!

Speakers
avatar for June Teisan

June Teisan

PAEMST - MI TOY - NBCT, Belle Isle Aquarium - Detroit


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Michigan 3

1:00pm CST

Improving hypothetical protein annotation as a bioinformatic project
Incomplete genome annotation obstructs our understanding of cell function. Proteins with hypothetical annotation result from either an outdated database or insufficient experimental evidence. This session leads attendees through a bioinformatics project using several open-access, web-based programs to predict which hypothetical proteins are good candidates for laboratory characterization. This project is successfully used for assignments at high school and undergraduate levels, and science fair projects in middle school. Results from student projects improve public database annotation and are welcomed paper publications and scientific conference presentations. For maximum benefit, bring an electronic device with internet access. Instructions, rubrics, and training videos provided.

Speakers
LH

Laura Harris

Davenport University


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Regency 2

1:00pm CST

TCI Bring Science Alive! How the Cookie Crumbles: The Human Impact on Earth's Systems
Join TCI in this interactive science investigation that has students mining chocolate chip cookies as they observe some effects farming and industry have on Earth's system. Participants will review the cause and effect relationships of farming and industry upon Earth's systems and complete activity from the point of view of a farmer, a miner, and two scientists.

Speakers
avatar for Matt Moorman

Matt Moorman

National Account Manager, TCI
Former Middle School Teacher and National Account Manager with Teachers' Curriculum Institute (TCI) . TCI recognizes that every student is unique and that all students benefit from learning in different ways. TCI uses a variety of proven instructional practices that allow students... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Capitol 3

1:00pm CST

Of the 3 R's, which R is most important.
A powerpoint will be shown with the latest information on recycling, why it's important, the progress we have made and the challenges we face.

Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Klein

Kathleen Klein

Waste Management


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 202

1:00pm CST

Instructional Change through Productive Talk Walk Throughs
Actionable Feedback is a critical component to learning and improvement. In this professional learning session instructional leaders and administrators will focus on the use of Productive Talk in classroom instruction. Participants will develop an instructional focus and implementation plan around Productive Talk for their building or district. They will make observations and collect data from a Science class using a Productive Talk walk through form. This data will then be used to plan for conversations with teachers in order to provide actionable feedback in support of students figuring out Science through discourse.

Speakers
avatar for Mary Burke

Mary Burke

Science Consultant, Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency
I am the Science Consultant for Kalamazoo RESA. Prior to being here at KRESA I was a middle school sience teacher for 21 years as well as an instructional specialist for Vicksburg Community Schools. My job is to support local districts, schools, and teachers through instructional... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Banquet 1

1:00pm CST

Mi-STAR Share-a-thon: NGSS Tips, Tricks, and Tools for the Classroom
Come to the Mi-STAR Share-a-thon to explore the nuts and bolts of NGSS pedagogy with other classroom teachers. Multiple teacher presenters will gather to share their resources on student talk and group work, nurturing student questions, making student thinking visible, and much more. The session will kick off with short introductions by the presenters followed by open time for attendees to talk with the presenters and explore their resources. Discover practical tips to take back to your NGSS classroom. Handouts provided.

Speakers
avatar for Megan Birdwell

Megan Birdwell

Middle School Teacher, St. Charles Community Schools
LB

Luke Bowman

Curriculum Developer, Mi-STAR
ST

Stephanie Tubman

Michigan Technological University


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Banquet 7

1:00pm CST

Understanding Light and Optics by Mark Davids
Over 90 per cent of our brainpower is dedicated to processing visual images. What is light? How are images formed? Join us to explore these mysteries. We will use pinhole cameras, glass and Fresnel lenses, lasers, and new, “crazy cool” lab materials to discover how to construct an effective, coherent model of image formation. Hand-outs of classroom activities for participants.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Davids

Mark Davids

Retired Teacher
Luckiest science teacher in Michigan. Taught at GP South HS for 34 years. Also presented to over 10,000 teachers at local, state, regional, and national workshops, seminars, conventions, and conferences. First teacher to bring Modeling in Physics workshops to MI.
avatar for Sebastian Jolta

Sebastian Jolta

Director of Sales and Marketing, Arbor Scientific
Arbor Scientific is a leading provider of Physics teaching equipment. We work with teachers to find the "Cool Stuff" and then provide lesson plans and teaching supplies.



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Banquet 8

1:00pm CST

Developing Little Engineers! Engineering Design in the K-5 Classroom
Robots that mimic cockroaches, working pinball machines, and more! Engineering Design in elementary classrooms can come alive when teachers focus on the Science and Engineering Practices with lesson design. In this active session, teachers engage in lessons that merge K-5 engineering with the Michigan Science Standards Disciplinary Core Ideas. This exciting session will inspire educators with hands-on activities, digital tools, active reading, dynamic discussion, and reflection on their own teaching practices. Teachers will leave armed with the ability to integrate phenomena-based science instruction around real-world problem solving into their classrooms.

Speakers
avatar for Tom Gantt

Tom Gantt

Manager, STEM Product Specialist, Amplify Education
As a National Board Certified Teacher, Tom Gantt brings the joy of science and teaching together with his unique past experiences. As a former lab scientist and science center educator, Tom combines his research background with 15 years of award-winning teaching of middle school and... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Capitol 4
  STEM Ed

1:00pm CST

Did You Know That all of the Graduation Requirements Can Be Met while Maintaining a STEM focus? Let's Talk About the MMC Flexibility!
The Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) graduation requirements are not meant to be a one-size fits all sequence of courses. Instead, the content of the MMC should be embedded into courses, experiences, CTE programs, STEM pathways, and other opportunities that allow students to gain the required proficiency in a personalized way. A student’s post-school goals should be the foundation for planning what their time in high school looks like; preparing each and every student for their “next”. This session will discuss in detail the MMC as well as the flexibility afforded in meeting the graduation requirements, including the personal curriculum modifications and the application to STEM.

Speakers
RB

Rashell Bowerman

Consultant, Michigan Department of Education
Rashell Bowerman is an Educational Consultant Specialist with the Michigan Department of Education. With an emphasis in the areas of instruction and intervention, her position allows her to support Michigan’s school districts as they strive to improve achievement for all students... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Banquet 4

1:00pm CST

STEM in the Preschool and Early Elementary Classroom
Participants will learn how to engage, support, and scaffold children’s natural inclination to question, explore, and problem solve, by using free or inexpensive materials. Teachers will participate in and be able to create fun and easy STEM activities while connecting to Michigan Science Standards.

Speakers
LF

Laura Franey

ECS, RESA
avatar for Lisa Ogiemwonyi

Lisa Ogiemwonyi

Wayne RESA



Friday March 6, 2020 1:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Michigan 2
  STEM Ed

1:30pm CST

Field Trip - Impressions 5 Science Center (SOLD OUT)
SOLD OUT!! - See additional information below

From Classroom to Museum - Science Opportunities Go beyond your school walls, and explore in depth field trip opportunities at Impression 5 Science Center. Learn about single-day field trips, partnership programming like Big Science Lesson, or outreach opportunities. Play a little, and take a sneak-peek in our exhibit shop! Explore how to fit the Michigan Science Standards with an impactful field trip. The museum is across from the Lansing Center and very walkable from the conference.

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the onsite field trip desk in the conference registration area.  This field trip is currently fully booked, but you can visit the field trip desk to see if there are cancellations.



Friday March 6, 2020 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Field Trip - Self Transportation

2:00pm CST

Growing Student Engagement with an Imaginary Garden
Have you ever wondered why certain pollinators visit some flowers and not others? In this presentation learn how to engage your students in the process of designing and creating a flower model that is intended to attract certain types of pollinators. Students will discover how flowers and pollinators are dependant on one another for survival. Watch as your students’ engagement and flower models bloom together!

Speakers
avatar for Britney Christensen

Britney Christensen

4th grade teacher, Whitehall District Schools
For a large part of my career, I've only thought of myself as an ELA person. However, I've realized my love of reading and writing has a positive impact on students experiencing science. With my elementary education background and a degree in special education, I am able to integrate... Read More →
avatar for Gabe Knowles

Gabe Knowles

4th Grade Teacher, Whitehall District Schools
I am an elementary teacher by trade and outdoor enthusiast with a background in science and mathematics. I also come equipped with over a decade of experience working for the National Park Service and United States Geological Survey in outreach education and environmental stewardship... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Michigan 1
  Bio

2:00pm CST

P51 Glow Labs to Investigate DNA Structure, Enzyme Activity and Synthetic Biology
Go beyond models when studying fundamental processes in biology. Investigate DNA structure hands-on and see it respond to changes in temperature, pH, and genetic sequence. Use fluorescence to measure enzyme activity through an inquiry approach. Then bring the central dogma of molecular biology to life with BioBits to directly visualize transcription and translation!



Speakers
avatar for Ally Huang

Ally Huang

BioBits Program Lead, miniPCR bio
We make tools for scientists. Whether you are holding a micropipette for the first time or defining the cutting edge of research, doing science requires high quality innovative solutions. From classrooms to the International Space Station, our team of molecular biologists, engineers... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 102

2:00pm CST

Who is Baby Whale’s Father? DNA Fingerprinting Solves the Mystery!
Learn how you can teach gel electrophoresis and DNA fingerprinting in a single classroom session with this hands-on genetics & conservation biology lab! You will pour, load, and run a gel– witnessing DNA separation in real time– and analyze the results to deduce a probable conclusion for a WHALE of a forensic mystery.

Speakers
avatar for Richard Chan

Richard Chan

MiniOne Systems
With decades of experience in the biotech industry, I recognized there is a tremendous need to inspire the next generaion of scientists via education. I founded MiniOne Systems to specifically design and supply lab equipment and lab kits so that educators can bring real-world, hands-on... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 101
  Bio

2:00pm CST

Chemistry to make Students React
Let’s explore how to make chemistry more student-centered and fun. We will focus on labs and ideas from Active Chemistry. We will also model several different meta-cognitive strategies to implement in your classroom. Lots of take-home handouts and gain ideas into the best ways to holistically assess your chemistry students understanding of key science concepts while incorporating core Math and ELA standards.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Curts

Gary Curts

Activate Learning
For the past 18 years Gary Curts has worked with It's About Time's Professional Development Department as one of their Implementation Consultant/STEM Specialists and has been instrumental in helping support many teachers across the USA who have implemented that curricula or are focusing... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 103
  Chem

2:00pm CST

Investigating Data on Great Lakes & Climate
Have students analyse data about physical factors and climate that affect the level of the Great Lakes. Data from a simple lake system will help students think about what factors might be involved. Then students will generate a model for lake change and participate in a structured investigation of some data, leading to a "claim - evidence - conclusion" statement and "if .. then.." prediction statement. Sources of data will be shared. This activity was developed to directly address several NGSS standards.

Speakers
DC

Dave Chapman

American Meteorological Society
AMS Education provides both K-12 teacher and undergraduate packages of professional development in weather, ocean and climate. Three on-line courses are available (course fee, but 3 grad credits free). Summer field experiences and new teacher certification program now available... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 204
  Earth Sci

2:00pm CST

Land, Water, and Human Interactions: Cutting Canyons and Building Deltas
Students take on the roles of civil engineers as they 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. This activity, from the new SEPUP Interactions middle level unit (NGSS middle level edition) addresses MS-ESS.A, MS-ETS1.A, and MS-ESS2.C.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
LK

Lisa Kelp

Lab Aids/SEPUP


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 104
  Earth Sci

2:00pm CST

Watershed Observational Walk: Teaching Science Outdoors
Take a Watershed Walk! 4th and 5th grade NGSS Performance Expectations ask students to think broadly about where water occurs on Earth and its power over time. Join the Teaching Science Outdoors: Urban Partnerships’ Team to go OUTSIDE and explore the Grand River watershed. We’ll build observation skills, connection and awareness of local water resources. Using phenomena - observable, measurable natural events - in the local schoolyard, provides relevance and engagement for students. TSO-UP works to share best practices for outdoor teaching that support your use of existing Michigan Science Standard-aligned curriculum in your schoolyard.

Speakers
avatar for Kara Haas

Kara Haas

KBS LTER K-12 Partnership Coordinator, Michigan State University
Hello! I'm currently the co-chair of the LTER Education and Outreach Committee. Come talk to me about teaching outdoors, place-based teaching and teacher professional development! karahaas.org karahaas@msu.edu
avatar for Roberta Howard Hunter

Roberta Howard Hunter

Research Associate, Michigan State University
I have over twenty years of experience in science and environmental education in informal settings and in classrooms. I am interested in educator environmental literacy and supporting teachers learning to teach outdoors.
EK

Eleanor Kenimer

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Capitol 1
  Earth Sci

2:00pm CST

NGSS Laboratories
The NGSS mandates moving away from canned or cookbook-style labs to activities in which students have to explore and figure out phenomena and engineering solutions. In this workshop, participants will compare traditional and NGSS- based labs as they discuss how to approach student-centered learning experiences.

Speakers
KJ

Kaitlyn Johnson

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Capitol 2

2:00pm CST

We Love to Hate Assessments - Let's Do Something About It!
Too often, science assessments are simply not worth students' or teachers time--at best, they are a nuisance to get past as painlessly as possible; at worst, they actively discourage interest and engagement in science. Three-dimensional science standards, like those in Michigan, provide an opportunity to reclaim assessments as empowering, supportive opportunities that measure what matters while building students up--all while aligning to state standards. In this session, we will discuss features of high-quality three-dimensional assessments, and explore strategies for developing these assessments in our own classrooms.

Speakers
avatar for Aneesha Badrinarayan

Aneesha Badrinarayan

Learning Policy Institute
Having started her career as a neuroscientist, Aneesha Badrinarayan has made it her job to understand learning—from cells and circuits to people and systems. Currently, she serves as senior advisor at the Learning Policy Institute. Previously, she was the director for Special Projects... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Banquet 2

2:00pm CST

Building Community Partnerships to Forge Equitable, Enriching STEM Teaching and Learning
Explore exemplary classroom cases for ideas of how to build community partnerships that integrate the arts and social studies with science and engineering learning, with a vision that honors equity and social justice teaching and learning practices.

Speakers
avatar for June Teisan

June Teisan

PAEMST - MI TOY - NBCT, Belle Isle Aquarium - Detroit


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Michigan 3

2:00pm CST

Guess Who’s Back, Back Again: The Benefits of Multiple Touchpoint STEM programs.
Data has shown that multiple touchpoints with students has increased their interest in STEM concepts and also improved their test scores over the years. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Leslie Science and Nature Center will discuss how this model of programming, which includes Field Trips, Outreach, and Distance Learning programs, has been used in schools and district-wide as well as share resources for teachers looking for ways to incorporate STEM into their curriculum.

Speakers
RP

Rebecca Petrone

Ann Arbor Hands On Museum
avatar for Andrea Reynolds

Andrea Reynolds

Senior Outreach Manager, Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum



Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Regency 1

2:00pm CST

STEM from Nature Aquatic Adventure
Mother Nature and STEM are the perfect fit. In this session activities from the Salmon in the Classroom curriculum, fully aligned with NGSS, will bring a fun spin to your classroom lessons that incorporate place based species and ecosystem topics. You need not be in the Salmon in a Classroom Program to participate in this session…but you may want to apply to the program soon after!

Speakers
avatar for Tracy Page

Tracy Page

Aquatic Education Coordinator, Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Marine biologist/Oceanographer turned educator. I strive to bring aquatic education to teachers and their classrooms around the state. I also administer the Salmon in the Classroom program for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 2:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203

2:00pm CST

Organism Engineering
Join us as we share how we are using natural selection, structure and function for students to engineer a new organism, using variations present to fit a new niche after a mass extinction type impact event. We will share our unit plan, as well as the previous unit that leads up to this three-dimensional assessment. Free resources provided!

Speakers
avatar for Kristy Butler

Kristy Butler

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Education & Science
avatar for Patti Richardson

Patti Richardson

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Biology education, student centered learning



Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 201
  Bio

2:00pm CST

Let’s Engage Students through Phenomena-based Science Instruction
Science is about explaining the phenomena that occur in the world around us. In this session, participants will experience how phenomena is used during instruction and learn how to develop their own anchor and investigative phenomena to drive their lessons.

Speakers
avatar for Maeve Green

Maeve Green

STEM Coach, STEMscopes / Accelerate Learning, Inc.


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 205

2:00pm CST

Engaging students in system thinking and computational thinking via computational modeling software
System models and computational thinking are being increasingly emphasized as important components in science education, as addressed in the Next Generation Science Standards. We will present a computational modeling software called SageModeler that allows students to construct their own models and engage in System thinking and Computational thinking. We will present the basic features of the software, allow a firsthand experience workshop with the software, and discuss strategies that support students in computational modeling.


Speakers
avatar for Emil Eidin

Emil Eidin

CREATE for STEM
Research associate at the CREATE for STEM institute at MSU. Taught college and high school chemistry in Israel for 8 years. Earned my Ph.D. at the Weizmann institute of science.
IT

Israel Touitou

CREATE for STEM, Michigan State University


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Governor's Room

2:00pm CST

Mission to Mars - Space Launch System Design Challenge
Preparing for deep space exploration and a potential journey to Mars requires a team of scientists and engineers who are prepared to evaluate and construct the materials needed to successfully launch and transport astronauts beyond the moon. NASA is currently working to land astronauts on the moon, again, in order to prepare for the future trips to Mars.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WjfTVvHidbRPXCRwF7nsqN5jdJBM8lTH?usp=sharing 

Speakers
avatar for Maranda Brunner

Maranda Brunner

7th Grade Teacher, East Lansing Public Schools
Middle school science teacher with a passion for STEM outreach and curriculum writing.
avatar for Janelle Orange

Janelle Orange

7th Grade Teacher, East Lansing Public Schools
Middle school science teacher with a strong background in engineering practices, STEM outreach, and curriculum writing.


Friday March 6, 2020 2:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 5
  STEM Ed

3:00pm CST

Conservation Project: Penguins
Penguins in Antarctica are facing many changes, their climate, feeding areas and nesting grounds are all fluctuating. “Journey” with Detroit Zoological Staff to the most southern part of the world to visit Palmer Station and participate in a long term study of the penguins who call Antarctica home. We will work together to check on the current health of the penguins, check population numbers, make some conclusions about impacts on the birds due to climate change and consider what we can do to ensure the penguins are here for future generations.

Speakers
avatar for Claire Lannoye-Hall

Claire Lannoye-Hall

Curator of Education, Detroit Zoological Society
avatar for Sandy Ling

Sandy Ling

Education Specialist, Detroit Zoological Society


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Regency 1
  Bio

3:00pm CST

Earth Science Downtown Field Trip
Guided tour of historic buildings in downtown Lansing and the geologic materials they are made from. Used in Integrated Science and Geology classes. Field trip could be modified for other urban areas and also include history as well as geology. Come take a walk with me and get some fresh air!

Speakers
avatar for Lu Anne Cuthbert

Lu Anne Cuthbert

faculty, Lansing Community College
Taught college for 40 years. Also some high school students. Many different courses over those years. Mostly Biology but I am now teaching Physical science.


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Capitol 3

3:00pm CST

Calling All Carbons
The element of carbon is critical to life on Earth. All living organisms contain different and essential carbon-based molecules. Several Earth processes work together to cycle carbon from one carbon reservoir to another and to keep the amount in each reservoir stable. Participants will model learn about and model different carbon transfer processes.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.
LK

Lisa Kelp

Lab Aids/SEPUP


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 104

3:00pm CST

Conservation Districts and Differentiating between Point Source and Nonpoint Source Pollution

Hear how Conservation Districts can engage the community in coupling on the ground conservation with educational opportunities. District staff will also be highlighting ways to illustrate the differences between point source and nonpoint source pollution and what farmers and federal agencies are currently doing to combat them.




Speakers
KH

Katie Hafner

Soil Conservationist, Clinton Conservation District
Soil and water conservation. Wildlife and forestry.


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203
  Env Sci

3:00pm CST

The Rise of the Revised MEECS
Join us in diving into the upcoming revisions to the Michigan Environmental Education Curriculum Support (MEECS) Water Quality and Ecosystems & Biodiversity Units. Through the demonstration of hands-on lessons, participants will be the first to experience the new place-based, next gen aligned materials. Participants will also have the opportunity to join the development process and be the first to receive the completed units.

Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle Likavec

Gabrielle Likavec

Co-Cooridinator, Central Michigan University
I am a newly converted environmental educator who is passionate about creating science and socially conscious students!


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 204
  Env Sci

3:00pm CST

Celebration of Astronomy's Great Debate
One of the greatest discoveries in modern science was realizing our true place in the Universe. On April 26, 1920, a century ago, a "great debate" took place between two astronomers, Harlow Shapley and Heber Curtis, that represented conflicting views, one supposing our Milky Way was the entirety of our known universe versus the galaxy being only one of many in a vastly larger realm. This is the story of a challenge which would soon include the efforts of Edwin Hubble. A fine classroom telescope and other door prizes await some fortunate attendees along with handouts.

Speakers
avatar for Norbert Vance

Norbert Vance

Lecturer/Technician/Observatory Director, EMU Physics & Astronomy


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 202

3:00pm CST

Get Outside with Science! Citizen Science and Opportunities for Authentic Learning
Outside? Scientists? Data? What do all these have in common? Explore ways to have students DO REAL SCIENCE by participating in Citizen Science opportunities. Learn how to link real-time opportunities for student learning to the environment around you. Live in an urban area - we have the resources for you too! Walk away with multiple tools that you can start using with students on Monday. So what are you waiting for? Get outside the classroom and outside your comfort zone to try science experiences that matter.

bit.ly/citscimsta

https://www.mystemakers.com/get-outside

Speakers
avatar for Linnea Gibson

Linnea Gibson

K-12 Science Consultant, COP ESD


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 1

3:00pm CST

Reading, Writing, Talking, and DOING Science: Literacy Strategies in the Elementary Classroom
Science is the gateway for real-world context for math and language skills development, resulting in greater student confidence and higher achievement. Participate in a new Activate Learning PRIME lesson that demonstrates the

Speakers
avatar for Diane Wright

Diane Wright

Professional Development Facilitator, Activate Learning
Diane Wright has been an educator for over 40 years. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Education. She began her career in public education, teaching learning disabled and emotionally impaired middle school students. She then transitioned into teaching elementary and... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Meeting Room 103

3:00pm CST

Teachers of Science are Agents of Change
Transform your science classroom into a think tank and laboratory for changing the world! You become an agent of change when you connect your students' science learning to solving relevant, real-world problems. Climate change, water pollution, invasive species, food production - all these issues will affect your students' lives in the future. By connecting NGSS-aligned knowledge with concern about environmental issues, your students can take action now to be part of the solution. Think beyond the test to empowering your students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions for the rest of their lives.

Speakers
JR

Jane Rice

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Michigan 3

3:00pm CST

The Beaver Island Institute Summer Professional Development
Over the past four summers, educators from across Michigan have gathered on Beaver Island at Central Michigan University’s Biological Station for a week-long workshop focused on interdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning. CMU’s Beaver Island Institute brings together science and ELA educators in a unique opportunity to explore, collaborate, and plan for the coming school year. Taking advantage of the island’s unique biodiversity, teachers participate in field activities promoting discussion, collaboration, and inquiry-based learning that incorporate standards from the NGSS. Presenters will share examples of teaching practices that they have implemented in their own classrooms as a result of participating in the institute.

Speakers
KM

Karyn McConachie

Eppler Junior High School



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 8

3:00pm CST

Engaging Kids and Community Through Project-based STEM
Join us for a session on successfully integrating project-based STEM education in your classroom and your community with high quality student experiences. The presenter has developed a culture of STEM for elementary through high school students using underwater remotely operated vehicles and radio-controlled race cars. These affordable projects emphasize problem-solving and innovation. Learn how to build relationships with the business community to offer real world relevant experiences to your students!

Speakers
avatar for Jacob Dohrmann

Jacob Dohrmann

Director/Teacher, Reese Public Schools
5th grade teacher, Reese Public SchoolsFounder of ROVE student group- k12 STEM Education clubReese Summer Migrant Program Director



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 6

3:00pm CST

Hello my name is...
Introduce your students to science careers through meaningful connections with industry professionals! Don’t be left with a boring adult standing behind a podium with a PowerPoint; use these resources to set up interactive careers presentations. Using agricultural careers as an example, learn engaging ways to host a career fair, set speakers up for success, take an industry facility tour, or set up a career panel to show students the many post-high school opportunities available in science-related fields!

Speakers
avatar for Amelia Miller

Amelia Miller

Education Specialist, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom
Amelia Miller is Michigan Farm Bureau‘s Promotion and Education Programs Specialist. Her passion for agriculture developed while playing in the grain alongside her grandfather at his grain elevator. She provides resources to farmers to help them tell their family farm story. She... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 4

3:00pm CST

Infusing Informal STEM Learning Opportunities into your Classroom
Are you eager to diversify your STEM curriculum? Attend this session to learn a multitude of ways to incorporate informal STEM learning opportunities for your K-12 students that align to your current curriculum. We will showcase actual examples from our own STEM programs and their impact on student learning. Best practices will be shared to empower you to create a culture of STEM in your classroom and beyond.

Speakers
avatar for Adrianne Cole

Adrianne Cole

Director, STEM@SVSU, Saginaw Valley State University
As the Director of STEM at Saginaw Valley State University, I bridge the gap between education and industry by connecting K-12 students and teachers with the incredible STEM opportunities at SVSU, as well as local businesses.
avatar for Dr. Betsy Diegel

Dr. Betsy Diegel

STEM Mobile Lab Coordinator, Saginaw Valley State University
My role involves K-6th grade STEM outreach via our STEM Mobile Research Laboratory. I also work with community partners to direct Camp Infinity and host STEM experiences at SVSU to have impact on STEM learning in our Great Lakes Bay Region.


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Regency 2

3:00pm CST

Let's MAKE Science Even More Amazing!
Everyone is a maker! Come explore how you can utilize FREE maker resources available to you from the Classroom Makers project. What will you make tomorrow with your students?

Speakers
avatar for John Phillips

John Phillips

Educational Technology Consultant, Berrien RESA
avatar for Ann Smart

Ann Smart

Educational Technology Consultant, Lenawee County ISD
Ann is the EdTech Consultant for the Lenawee ISD and REMC 19W Director. SHe also serves as a MACUL Board Member and acts as co-project manager for the REMC Classroom Maker project. Prior to her current position, she worked as an EdTech Consultant for Jackson County ISD, Instructional... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 3:45pm CST
Banquet 3

3:00pm CST

Field Trip - Preuss Pets (SOLD OUT)
SOLD OUT!!

Preuss Pets is not just any pet store! This family owned and run business is a destination spot and an experience you won’t want to miss. Carrying amphibians, reptiles, tropical birds and fish, and odd species of mammals they have experts in each area to help you. Rick Preuss is a nationally known expert on salt-water reef tanks, as well as fresh water tanks. The Preuss family can help with what makes a good classroom pet and what doesn’t. They also have information on grants for teachers who want classroom creatures. A van will transport attendees to and from the pet store. Visit their website to learn more about Preuss Pets! https://www.preusspets.com/store/

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the onsite field trip desk in the conference registration area. Due to busing, space is limited. This field trip is currently fully booked, but you can visit the field trip desk to see if there are cancellations.

Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Field Trip - Bus from Lansing Center

3:00pm CST

The Hunt for Huntington's Disease
Nathan and Jean are having twins! Nathan has Huntington's Disease in his family. You will construct a family pedigree, identify patterns in the pedigree to make predictions, analyze PCR products to help Nathan determine the chances the twins will inherit HD, and use gel electrophoresis to verify your predictions.

Speakers
MA

Mrs. Amanda J. Pratt

Teacher, Woodhaven High School


Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 101
  Bio

3:00pm CST

Safety for the Win
Many students expect the science classroom to be full of bubbling solutions and dramatic explosions. Searching “chemistry experiment” on YouTube results in videos of people handling flames with their bare hands, reactions with hazardous materials, and explosions and flames of all colors and sizes. However, events involving injuries during science demonstrations or lab activities are serious enough to attain media attention about twice a year. This workshop will demonstrate the RAMP method of risk assessment to enable participants to win the battle for student attention by equipping them with the tools to do exciting science activities in a safe manner.

Speakers
MW

Monique Wilhelm

University of Michigan-Flint



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 102

3:00pm CST

Student-Generated Questions to Lead Investigations: Students “Driving the Bus”
Are you tired of asking all of the questions?
Empower your students to ask good questions using the Question Formulation Technique. Learn how to get students to ask clarifying questions about data sets to increase their understanding. Implementing these techniques will motivate students to engage more deeply and take ownership of their learning. Teachers will experience the process using examples and investigations from the Mi-STAR curriculum. No prior Mi-STAR experience is necessary. Walk away with cross-disciplinary strategies to implement in your classroom when you return.

Speakers
avatar for Emily Gochis

Emily Gochis

Mi-STAR Coordinator of Professional Learning & Curriculum Associate, MiSTEM Director
I am the the Director of the Western U.P. STEM Network (MiSTEM Network Region 16) serving Houghton, Baraga, Keweenaw, Ontonagon and Gogebic counties of Michigan. I have been in the education field for 15 years, teaching environmental and outdoor education, high school science and... Read More →
avatar for Kim Smith Kolasa

Kim Smith Kolasa

STEM Education Consultant, Seaborg Math & Science Center - NMU
Research interests in plant biology education and transitioning classrooms to NGSSPersonal hobbies include yoga, outdoor recreation, global travel and art
JP

Jennifer Pera

Jeffers High School



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 7

3:00pm CST

Engineering in Middle School with Phenomenal Instruction
Egg drop and more! Learn how to take this activity, and other projects to the next level with phenomenal problem-based learning. Teachers engage in student-driven Engineering Internships that incorporate all aspects of the new Science & Engineering Practices from the Michigan Science Standards as well as Disciplinary Core Ideas from the domains of earth, life and physical sciences. This exciting session will inspire educators with hands-on activities, digital tools, active reading, dynamic discussion, and reflection on their own teaching practices. Teachers will leave armed with the ability to integrate phenomena-based science instruction around real-world problem solving into their classrooms.

Speakers
avatar for Tom Gantt

Tom Gantt

Manager, STEM Product Specialist, Amplify Education
As a National Board Certified Teacher, Tom Gantt brings the joy of science and teaching together with his unique past experiences. As a former lab scientist and science center educator, Tom combines his research background with 15 years of award-winning teaching of middle school and... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 3:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Capitol 4
  STEM Ed

4:00pm CST

Biology's Best with Plants!
Biology, Botany and AP Biology inquiry based units and lessons using PLANTS as the main focal point for labs and activities. Hands on modeling, labs, activities on Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Systems, Char of Life, Carbon Cycle, Genetics, Evolution Ecology and more! You can change these for non-plant examples but why would you NOT teach with plants more? Interactive, Engaging session from a veteran teacher you will not want to miss!

Speakers
avatar for Heather Peterson

Heather Peterson

Biology/AP Biology/Botany Teacher, Sci O, Holt High School
I love teaching through a case study approach where students ask questions to drive the learning. I have taught biology for 28 years and AP Biology through this method and to first year biology students for 4 years. I have coached Science Olympiad for 28 years and I am also the Michigan... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 201

4:00pm CST

Flying Wild and Ebird for Educators– Resources to incorporate bird migration and conservation into curricula.
Explore the resources available through Flying WILD and eBird to incorporate scientific inquiry, biology, environmental education and wildlife conservation into your lesson plans. Flying WILD is a supplementary program that offers activities and resources for educators to study birds. Flying WILD is part of Michigan Project WILD. eBird is a citizen science data base that tracks bird observations globally. eBird allows students to become scientists by making careful observations, following established protocol and collecting field observations. eBird provides critical information to the scientific community like the paper documenting the loss of 3 billion birds in North America since the 1970’s.

Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Dougherty

Kathleen Dougherty

Young Birders' Club Coodinator, Cornell K12 BirdSleuth Ambassador/Volunteer and Flying WILD Facilitator
Retired Education Specialist from Oakland County Parks. Board member of Oakland Audubon and serving as the volunteer coordinator for the young birders' club. Birdsleuth Education Ambassador.



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203

4:00pm CST

Keep Invasive Species Out of the Classroom
Wait, don't let that loose! Invasive species are a serious issue in Michigan and teachers are one potential source of them. Live organisms found in curriculum kits are often not native and if let loose into the wild, they can have dramatic environmental impacts! Most companies place the responsibility on the teacher to know if an organism is invasive. This presentation will cover invasive species identification, regulations, practices to prevent classroom introductions, and free materials from Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes program.

Speakers
avatar for Paige Filice

Paige Filice

Natural Resources Educator, Michigan State University Extension
Invasive species are sometimes sold to teachers. Stop by to learn about invasives and how you can prevent them in your classroom.



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Regency 2

4:00pm CST

Meet the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center and our Michigan Fisheries Education Initiative!
Have you heard of the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center? We're located near downtown Detroit, and we offer a hands-on learning experience all about Michigan's natural resources. Take a sneak peak at our exhibits, hear about our prek-12 program offerings, and get the scoop on our new grant-funded Michigan Fisheries Education Initiative, geared towards middle and high school students. We'll answer your questions and help you get your next field trip booked where we bring "Up North, Downtown!"

Follow these links to learn more about us!
Website: https://www.michigan.gov/oac
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiOutdoorAdventureCenter/
Newsletter: http://online.flipbuilder.com/wknk/lhks/mobile/index.html


Speakers
avatar for Natalie Cypher

Natalie Cypher

Educator, DNR Outdoor Adventure Center
I've worked as an Educator at the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center since we opened our doors in 2015. I appreciate the opportunity I have to connect students, teachers, and the public with Michigan's fantastic natural resources. In addition to teaching preK - 12 programs for students... Read More →
avatar for Katie Gillies

Katie Gillies

Educator, DNR



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 6
  Bio

4:00pm CST

Pro-Tips for (free) NGSS-Aligned Carbon TIME units
Glean pro-tips developed from 10+ years of NSF-supported research and practice shedding light on what’s happening in classrooms that are successfully engaging students in 3-dimensional science performances. We’ll share research snippets from the Carbon TIME (Transformations in Matter and Energy) project as well as our six phenomena-based units tracing matter & energy through carbon-transforming processes from combustion through photosynthesis to global climate change.

Speakers
avatar for Christie Morrison Thomas

Christie Morrison Thomas

Michigan State University



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Governor's Room

4:00pm CST

Favorite Demos do fit with NGSS!
In this session you will see traditional demonstrations and labs upscaled to incorporate science and engineering practices and cross-cutting concepts. We will discuss how to continue the ongoing alignment of the Michigan Science Standards in your chemistry classroom. Disclaimer: If you have been teaching for a while, you have seen it all...so you might not see anything new, but you will spend 45 minutes with two presenters who love teaching chemistry and hopefully some newer teachers who are very excited to start adding old tricks to their new bags!

Speakers
avatar for Mary Jordan McMaster

Mary Jordan McMaster

Chemistry Teacher, Allen Park High School
Currently teaching Advanced Placement Chemistry and Modeling Chemistry.



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 3
  Chem

4:00pm CST

Exploring Earth’s Systems
This workshop will take a “Systems” approach to teaching Earth Science. Using the EarthComm curriculum, we will explore Earth Science as an interplay between the geosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and anthroposphere. Lead students to understand the relationship between the different systems and the relevancy of the science they are learning.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Curts

Gary Curts

Activate Learning
For the past 18 years Gary Curts has worked with It's About Time's Professional Development Department as one of their Implementation Consultant/STEM Specialists and has been instrumental in helping support many teachers across the USA who have implemented that curricula or are focusing... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 103

4:00pm CST

A River Runs Through It
This session will focus on land use impacts on water quality and how a cross-curricular and place-based approach can have a tremendous impact on students and their community. Participants will examine a case study of how a small school in the Saginaw-Bay region is implementing place-based stewardship to increase science literacy of students, staff, and the community, using the Great Lakes Literacy Principles and the MI Environmental Literacy Plan. ALSO - how can we include our non-science teachers??? Attendees will get the how, what, when, where, why, and who.

Speakers
avatar for Samantha Lichtenwald

Samantha Lichtenwald

Biology and Environmental Science Teacher, Bay-Arenac Community High School
I lead alternative students in exploring various science-based opportunities, bringing awareness to how their actions directly/indirectly impact our environment and themselves. The majority of my curriculum is centered around Michigan and the Great Lakes. I am currently working... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 204

4:00pm CST

Using H2O Q
Learn how to put your H2O Q kit into use by integrating the H2O Q field experiments into the next generation classroom with hands-on activities and applications. Explore ways to use the data collected from across the state to engage your students in real-world, place-based problem solving.

Speakers
avatar for John Gordon

John Gordon

Central Michigan University Biological Station
CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island has opportunities for students and teachers. Explore this beautiful area while earning college credit or SCECH's.
DL

Dale Lecaptain

Central Michigan University


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 8
  Env Sci

4:00pm CST

My calculator can be a thermometer, pH sensor, and motion detector?
Come learn how your TI graphing calculator can be used to collect real-world data! By attaching Vernier sensors to your calculator, you can turn it into a fully functional data collection instrument capable of collecting thousands of data points per second! Once you have the data, you can analyze it easily on your CALCULATOR! Create beautiful graphs, tables and also display your data values in real-time!

Speakers
avatar for Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments

Education Technology Consultant, TI


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Regency 1

4:00pm CST

Open SciEd - An Open Education Resource Curriculum for Middle School
Michigan is an OpenSciEd development state! The Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network will help you learn more about these OER middle school science materials. This is the most important session you need if you are interested in learning more about OpenSciEd in your district! Learn about the units, materials, assessment, and most importantly, professional learning options! 

Speakers
avatar for Mary Starr

Mary Starr

Exec. Director, MMSLN
avatar for James Emmerling

James Emmerling

Science Education Consultant, Oakland Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 1
  Gen Sci

4:00pm CST

Putting the Pieces Together: Supporting Synthesis Discussions in K-2 Science Classrooms
Imagine that you facilitated an activity where students talked excitedly while they worked to figure out why toys move in different ways. They return to the rug for a discussion that you are hoping allows them to find patterns and connect to the phenomenon. But how do you move beyond their noticings? In this session, we will use a lesson from our freely available NGSS-aligned SOLID Start curriculum to model ways to support K-2 students in synthesizing within and across lesson activities. You will leave this session with resources and strategies to facilitate synthesis discussions among your students.

Speakers
avatar for Kirsten D. Edwards

Kirsten D. Edwards

Research Assistant, Michigan State University
I am a Ph.D. student at Michigan State University. Prior to coming to MSU, I was a middle school science and math teacher and did curriculum review and development work for elementary and middle school. My research interests are at the intersection of science and literacy. Specifically... Read More →
avatar for Amber Bismack

Amber Bismack

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Michigan State University
avatar for Tanya S. Wright

Tanya S. Wright

Assistant professor, Michigan State University
Tanya Wright, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former kindergarten teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum and instruction in language and literacy during the early childhood and elementary... Read More →
avatar for Amelia Gotwals

Amelia Gotwals

Michigan State University
Amelia Wenk Gotwals, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She is a former middle school science teacher whose research and teaching focus on curriculum, instruction, and assessment in science in elementary and middle... Read More →
JW

JoAnne West

Research Assistant, Michigan State University
I am a doctoral student and research assistant at MSU, where I work on the SOLID Start project writing K-2 NGSS aligned curriculum. I have been a Kindergarten through second grade teacher, reading specialist, and instructional coach.


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Michigan 2

4:00pm CST

Science Modeling, My trials and Tribulations and why I still believe in it.
As teachers, in a collaborative environment, we learn from each other and in a collaborative environment, students will learn from each other. Attendees will be introduced to Science modeling as a pedagogy hitting ideas of how it loans itself to collaboration. After a brief introduction, the session will dive deeper into my own experiences with middle school and high school students of what has worked with modeling in my classroom and what I still am developing. A majority of this session will be me sharing what my classroom looks like using this and with time remaining, the floor will be opened to a question and answer as an opportunity for more clarifications of how modeling could look for participants.

Speakers
LB

Lynnelle Buchanan

7th Grade Science Teacher, Rockford High School, Rockford Public Schools


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Capitol 3

4:00pm CST

Science Vocabulary: Turning Research into Practice
Science vocabulary is a critical component of scientific literacy. The amount of research available on how to teach vocabulary can be overwhelming. What does the research say? How can I embed the research into my instructional practices? This session reviews current research on science vocabulary instruction and focuses on practical strategies for putting that research into practice. Teachers will leave with tools designed to help them embed these practices into every unit they teach.

Speakers
avatar for Karen Kudla

Karen Kudla

Retired Teacher, Retired Teacher
I retired after teaching secondary science for thirty years. Currently I am working on developing 3 Dimensional lessons and strategies to support student learning and understanding of science. In addition I work on assessment projects through Oakland Schools and have written M-Step... Read More →


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 202

4:00pm CST

The Language of Science
Instructional methods focusing converging ELA with science will be covered: oral language, discussion, shared writing, conventions, pre-write work, the purpose of audience, and scoring for both ELA and science.

Speakers
avatar for Jami Neubecker

Jami Neubecker

5th grade, Indian Hill Elementary
I am a science enthusiast that has had the privilege of teaching for 21 years in Grand Blanc, MI. I have taught all those years in the same building and either in 4th or 5th grade. I have been an active learner and coach in my district for science with a focus on NGSS. I am excited... Read More →



Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Michigan 3

4:00pm CST

The Matrix, Fully Loaded: Sharing Best Practice in the Science Classroom
Wouldn’t it be great if you could celebrate and share your best lessons with your colleagues? And wouldn’t it be even better if those lessons engaged every learner? But how do you do it when planning time is short? This hands-on session will introduce you to The Matrix, a powerful tool for recording and sharing best practices and for planning across the curriculum.

Speakers
avatar for Lucinda Martinelli

Lucinda Martinelli

Education Director, Whole Planet Consulting
I've been teaching Enviornmental and Experiential Education for about 30 years. I help teachers by bringing my outdoor teaching and facilitating knowledge into the classroom.


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Meeting Room 205

4:00pm CST

Field Trip Metamorphosis: Transform One-Off Trips into Vibrant Place-Based Learning Experiences
“Field trips” can and should be a collaboration between the informal ed institution host and classroom educators. Amid all the prep work for learning excursions - permission slips, buses, lunches, sub plans, chaperones - how can each entity best prepare for the heart of it all: rich, vibrant student learning? Pulling from years of experience in and out of the classroom our staff will share knowledge and strategies to help you design place-based experiences that deepen and extend learning, and connect to the lives of students. Whether you have an existing field trip in need of CPR or want to plan a new, exciting outing, come and collaborate!

Speakers
avatar for Amy Emmert

Amy Emmert

Director of Education, Belle Isle Conservancy
avatar for June Teisan

June Teisan

PAEMST - MI TOY - NBCT, Belle Isle Aquarium - Detroit


Friday March 6, 2020 4:00pm - 4:45pm CST
Banquet 5

6:00pm CST

Field Trip - Lansing Brewery Tour
This fun tour includes meeting with a Lansing Brewing Company brewer, learning about the science of beer-making, and a pint of a craft brew (included in tour cost).

Cost for tour = $10 (paid directly to the Lansing Brewing Company on the day of the tour)

Lansing Brewing Company (518 E. Shiawassee St.) is within short walking distance of the Lansing Center. Please allow 15 minutes for travel time. Tour starts promptly at 6:00 PM.

After the tour, attendees may order food and drinks off of the menu as regular guests of LBC.

Maximum of 25 attendees - Please register for this event at the field trip information desk in the Lansing Center Concourse on the morning of the conference.

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the on-site field trip desk in the conference registration area. Space is limited.

Friday March 6, 2020 6:00pm - 7:00pm CST
Field Trip - Self Transportation

7:00pm CST

Field Trip - Lansing Brewery Tour
This fun tour includes meeting with a Lansing Brewing Company brewer, learning about the science of beer-making, and a pint of a craft brew (included in tour cost).

Cost for tour = $10 (paid directly to the Lansing Brewing Company on the day of the tour)

Lansing Brewing Company (518 E. Shiawassee St.) is within short walking distance of the Lansing Center. Please allow 15 minutes for travel time. Tour starts promptly at 7:00 PM.

After the tour, attendees may order food and drinks off of the menu as regular guests of LBC.

Maximum of 25 attendees - Please register for this event at the field trip information desk in the Lansing Center Concourse on the morning of the conference.

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the on-site field trip desk in the conference registration area. Space is limited.

Friday March 6, 2020 7:00pm - 8:00pm CST
Field Trip - Self Transportation
 
Saturday, March 7
 

7:00am CST

Michigan Chemistry Teacher Meeting
Join other chemistry teachers from around the state to share ideas, ask questions and network. In our line of work, collaboration is key!

Speakers
avatar for Mary Jordan McMaster

Mary Jordan McMaster

Chemistry Teacher, Allen Park High School
Currently teaching Advanced Placement Chemistry and Modeling Chemistry.


Saturday March 7, 2020 7:00am - 7:45am CST
Michigan 1
  Chem

8:00am CST

Field Trip Success: from planning to post-field trip extensions
What stands in the way of having a successful science field trip with your students? What do you wish you could fix to make out-of-the-classroom learning opportunities run smoothly for you, your students, and your fellow teachers and chaperones? What do you wish field trip sites and staff knew or did to help your students succeed? Let’s unpack the barriers that stand between you and a great educational experience from both sides of the equation- we’re former classroom teachers and current informal science site educators and we want to support fantastic off-site field trips for you and your students.

Speakers
avatar for Erin Parker

Erin Parker

Great Lakes Nature Center Manager, Detroit Zoological Society
avatar for Sandy Ling

Sandy Ling

Education Specialist, Detroit Zoological Society



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 2

8:00am CST

Modeling the Mechanisms of Evolution
Come explore hands-on evolution resources developed in conjunction with the National Center for Science Education and the Teacher Institute for Evolutionary Science aimed at engaging students in making sense of evolutionary concepts.

Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Brewer

Rebecca Brewer

Biology Teacher, Troy High School


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 201

8:00am CST

Sickle Cell Genetics Using Gel Electrophoresis
Using gel electrophoresis to investigate molecular genetics, inheritance and disease. Help a fictional family obtain a molecular diagnosis with this rich activity that can be easily tailored to classrooms ranging from middle school science to Advanced Placement Biology and beyond. Make classroom biotechnology faster, simpler and more intuitive than ever before!

Speakers
avatar for Ally Huang

Ally Huang

BioBits Program Lead, miniPCR bio
We make tools for scientists. Whether you are holding a micropipette for the first time or defining the cutting edge of research, doing science requires high quality innovative solutions. From classrooms to the International Space Station, our team of molecular biologists, engineers... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 203

8:00am CST

Chlorine Producing Units and Electrochemistry - Service Project in AP Chemistry
Join us to explore and learn about Chlorine Producing Units (CPU's) in an AP Chemistry classroom. CPU's provide villages in the developing world with access to clean water and only require salt water, a battery and electrochemistry. You will have an opportunity to use a CPU, see how it applies to electrochemistry and benefits others, and also brainstorm ideas on how to provide chemistry students an opportunity to serve.

Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Bender

Chelsea Bender

Chemistry Teacher, Grand Haven High School
Chelsea teaches Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Grand Haven High School. This year her AP Chemistry class paired with AP WE Service and they are participating in a service project.



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Michigan 3
  Chem

8:00am CST

pH Scale
What does pH actually measure? In this investigation, you will measure pH indirectly using indicators and absorption using the Lab-Master. Using their data participants generate a graph of absorbance vs pH. This graph can be used to determine the pH of solutions., within the measured pH range. Join us for this activity from The Natural Approach to Chemistry program.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 104
  Chem

8:00am CST

Investigating Changes in Landscape Over Time: What Happened, When, and How Do We Know?
Rock and fossil evidence found within sedimentary layers provide insights into Earth's geological past. We model an activity in which students investigate how different landscapes changed over time, including a Michigan geological mystery. Students support their interpretations using claims, evidence, and reasoning. Sharing their observations, they construct a general geologic time scale. Students apply their skills to design their own rock and fossil sequence to be evaluated by peers. Additional ideas for evaluation include rock sequence in national parks or on Mars and using a video of paleogeographic changes test their interpretations.

Speakers
CL

Christina Licari

Grand Valley State University
SM

Stephen Mattox

Grand Valley State University


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Regency 1

8:00am CST

The Next Generation of Student Stewardship: A Place-Based Watershed Education Curriculum for Middle School and Beyond
Learn about access to a new NGSS-aligned middle school curriculum that teachers in the Flint River watershed are using to connect students to local and global water issues. Explore how this resource supports teachers as they empower students to take the lead as citizen scientists using their own data to construct questions, explanations, and community action projects.

Course Subject(s): Life/Earth Science and Chemistry (LS, ESS, & ETS with support for cross content collaboration in ELA, CTE, Soc. St.)

Speakers
avatar for Autumn Mitchell

Autumn Mitchell

Education Programs Manager, Flint River Watershed Coalition
I am an experienced and dynamic education specialist with specific interest in connecting classroom curriculum to outdoor experiences across content areas and grade bands. I have an undergraduate degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from Michigan State University and 12 years of experience... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 202
  Earth Sci

8:00am CST

Fake news or real science? Building information literacy in today’s students
“Just because it’s on the Internet doesn’t mean it’s true.” If you’ve ever said that to a student, then this session is for you. Pseudoscience has always been with us, but in the era of intentional misleading and the ever-present “share” button, students now more than ever need skills to decipher truth from fiction. In this session I will share a student-developed website evaluation tool and the process used to create it. We will also discuss other strategies to encourage critical consuming of information. Although this session was developed with my environmental science class, the topic applies to all disciplines. Join us and bring your own success stories!

Speakers
avatar for Anne Jeannette LaSovage

Anne Jeannette LaSovage

Science Teacher, Southfield Public Schools
I am a veteran teacher with 20+ years of experience, primarily in a mostly minority district. MSTA Member for much of that time - and received MSTA High School Science Teacher of the Year Award in 2018! Talk to me about: (inter)active lessons, developing discourse in science... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 3

8:00am CST

Conference 101 - Sat AM
Conferences can be an overwhelming rush of presentations, conversations, and potential meetings. It can be tough to know where to focus your time. How do you figure out which sessions to attend? Should you skip the keynote to meet an important contact? How do I sign up for the field trip to the Cyclotron? When is the best time to hit the vendor area? Or avoid the lunch lines? What are some ways to bring back what I learn?

Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Michigan 1

8:00am CST

Learn About Free, Phenomenon-Based Materials for Grades 6-8 Science
The New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning (NJCTL) is a non-profit, charitable organization founded by the New Jersey Education Association. Our Progressive Science Initiative (PSI) raises student science achievement in grades 6-8 through proven, effective teaching practices and comprehensive, free Open Educational Resource curricula. This NGSS standards-aligned, phenomenon-based curriculum hooks students as they learn about the Physical Environment, Living Environment and Mathematical Physics in the world around them. Learn more about how to access these free resources to improve student engagement and achievement. All resources are posted at www.njctl.org

Speakers
avatar for Susan Olszewski

Susan Olszewski

Director, New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning
The mission of NJCTL, a nonprofit founded by NJEA, is to empower teachers to lead school improvement so that all children have access to a high-quality education.



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

8:00am CST

MI HEARTSafe Schools: Preventing Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young
The MI HEARTSafe School Program recognizes schools prepared for sudden cardiac emergencies. This presentation will touch on Michigan statistics on sudden cardiac arrest, the genetics and family history of these events, history of how the program began and details on the criteria schools need to meet to earn the designation.  

Speakers
KK

Kristy Karasinski

School Program Coordinator, MI HEARTSafe
The MI HeartSafe School Program recognizes schools prepared for sudden cardiac emergencies. Schools meeting all criteria are awarded annually for a three-year designation. Details are available at migrc.org/miheartsafe.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

8:00am CST

Standards Based Grading + NGSS: A Match Made in Heaven
Standards Based Grading (SBG) is one of the most effective ways to assess students, but how does it fit into NGSS? In this presentation you will learn about what SBG is and how it differs than traditional grading. You'll also learn how it can be used with NGSS DCIs and SEPs in an effective way that will help all students learn and be motivated in your class.


Check it out: bit.ly/SBGMSTA20

Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Physics Teacher, Avondale High School
Student-centered, inquiry-driven classrooms are central to my teaching philosophy. I focus on standards-based grading, NGSS practices, phenomenon, inquiry, flexible seating and flipped learning. I strive to help other teachers develop their skills and be the best they can be.I am... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 4

8:00am CST

Bee Science with SAGE Modeling
This session will demonstrate how teachers can build an integrated science unit around bee science using selected but interesting activities. SAGE Modeling will be used understand colony collapse disorder and hive health. Bee chemistry focuses on bee specific products, their composition, chemical reactions, and physical properties. Bee physics deals with flight, and hive temperature. Bee biology centers on the importance of bees to agriculture, colony collapse disorder, and bee agriculture in Michigan. All activities will be aligned with NGSS and Michigan science standards relevant to middle- and high-school education.

Speakers
LK

Larry Kolopajlo

Eastern Michigan University
Chemical Education at Eastern Michigan University.Active in K-12 science outreach, summer camps. Recently taught Upward Bound. Recently taught a four day science winter camp for 6th graders in a local school system.Working with science education students.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 1

8:00am CST

Promoting 3-Dimensional Science Teaching and Learning through NGSS-aligned Curricula and a Teacher Support System
Shifting K-12 teaching and learning toward the vision of science education embodied by the NGSS requires new materials and new approaches to what students learn and how they learn it. CREATE for STEM has developed innovative, high-quality, research-based and -tested student and teacher resources -- curricula, assessments, and professional development. This session will explain what makes these resources different, which ones are ready for use, and how teachers and districts can access them.

Speakers
avatar for Chris Reimann

Chris Reimann

Senior Academic Specialist, Michigan State University
Chris Reimann is a senior academic specialist in the College of Education at Michigan State University (MSU), where he has served in a variety of research, teaching, and outreach roles since 1991. Much of his work has focused on professional learning for educators and extending the... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Governor's Room

8:00am CST

A Penny For Your Thoughts
Does your departmental budget look more like bottom of your spare change drawer? Well, you're in luck, because pennies are all you need to teach a wide variety of science topics. Come get ideas to implement Monday with nothing more than some spare change!

Speakers
avatar for Jordan Smith

Jordan Smith

Teacher of Natural Sciences, St. Patrick Catholic School (Portland)
I'm a 2009 graduate of Spring Arbor University (BA) and 2019 grad of Western Governors University (MASE). For the past 10 years I've been the department chair at St. Patrick Catholic School in Portland, Michigan where I am responsible for the science education of about 90% of the... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 5

8:00am CST

Making Sense of Light
Experience fun, engaging NGSS 3-D investigations that help primary and intermediate students answer questions about light: Why does light affect what we see? What happens when different materials block light? How can we make light waves bend? How can we model light waves?

Speakers
DV

Deborah Vannatter

Science Education Consultant for Delta/School Specialty
Deborah Vannatter taught Gr 1-6 students and was Program Manager for the state-wide I-STEM Resource Network, supporting K-8 student-centered science. She served on advisory boards for NSTA, and her local Wessleman Woods Nature Preserve.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Regency 2
  Phy Sci

8:00am CST

Put On Your Engineering Glasses
This workshop will focus on how to integrate engineering concepts into your physics or physical science classroom using the acclaimed curriculum, Active Physics. We will do a fun take-home lab, and then implement strategies and directions for the students to analyze the lab with their “Engineering Glasses”. Come away completely invigorated and excited to infuse engineering concepts in your classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Gary Curts

Gary Curts

Activate Learning
For the past 18 years Gary Curts has worked with It's About Time's Professional Development Department as one of their Implementation Consultant/STEM Specialists and has been instrumental in helping support many teachers across the USA who have implemented that curricula or are focusing... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

8:00am CST

Builders, Makers, and Creators: Engineering in the Elementary Classroom
Help create the next generation of innovators with practical strategies for integrating engineering activities into your classroom. Explore how to cultivate creativity, critical thinking, curiosity, and collaboration as you dive in to the dos and don'ts of crafting rich learning experiences that teach your students to think and act like engineers!

Speakers
JO

Jon Oosterman

Instructional Specialist, Van Andel Institute
avatar for Ben Talsma

Ben Talsma

Van Andel Education Institute
Ben spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching students from kindergarten through sixth grade. He started a STEAM program at his school to inspire his students to become the builders, makers, and creators of tomorrow. Now, he works at the Van Andel Education Institute, providing... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Capitol 3

8:00am CST

Lab and Activity Enhancements with Google Sheets
Enhance your lab experiences with the data collection and processing power of Google Sheets. This readily available and free technology is an excellent way to engage your students through critical, algorithmic thinking. This presentation will give demonstrations of Google Sheets integration into labs and activities through our personal experiences. All lessons arepublicly available in Google Drive for download and/or modification.

Speakers
avatar for Justin Faught

Justin Faught

Teacher, Lake Shore Pubic Schools
avatar for Connie Kemner

Connie Kemner

Science teacher, Lake Shore HS


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Meeting Room 204
  STEM Ed

8:00am CST

Phenomena! Does One Size Fit All?
The use of natural phenomena to motivate student learning are key in the Michigan Science Standards and NGSS. Yet, what makes a good phenomena and are all phenomena good in all educational settings? We will explore different phenomena related to the MSS/NGSS and then apply cognitive learning theory and the practices driving the use of phenomena in science pedagogy. The goal - helping you make and evaluate good phenomena for your classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Rob Keys

Rob Keys

Professor, Cornerstone University
Creating models related to ecology NGSS performance expectations PreK-12 Science Education Prep and Learning Theory Grassland bird conservation, monitoring and management



Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 6

8:00am CST

Teaching Kids to Ride the Struggle Bus
The struggle is real! Help students develop an awareness of how their brain works, how a growth mindset helps learning, and how to grow their brains, by riding the struggle bus through the use of video clips.

Speakers
avatar for Laura Sloma

Laura Sloma

Physics Teacher, East Kentwood High School
Laura is has been a science educator for 29 years, teaching in Michigan and Ohio, at the high school and college level. She is a modeling instruction expert, workshop facilitator, and STEP UP physics ambassador.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 8:45am CST
Banquet 8

8:00am CST

Learning Adventures - Creative Curriculum for Classroom and Field Trip
The Clarkston Family Farm’s teaching team will present an overview of the Learning Adventures offered at Clarkston Family Farm as well as classroom curriculum. Participants will explore and engage in activities , takeaways, and manipulative materials. Two highlighted hands-on activities will be the process of pollination and plant genetics. Information regarding Field trips to the farm will also be distributed.

Speakers
avatar for Chelsea OBrien

Chelsea OBrien

Founder and Executive Dircetor, Clarkston Family Farm
Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a science degree from WMU's Lee Honors College, my early professional life was in health care and sales with Stryker Medical. My work in nutrition and exercise physiology with cardiac patients inspired me to educate youth about healthy food and the... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 2

8:00am CST

Promoting Student Agency: Building interest and identity as scientists while developing student skills to plan and carry out investigations
Explore more authentic student driven investigations. Where students plan and carry out their investigations while still moving the class forward to figuring out phenomena. How do we get students to do this without it seeming like it is a free for all? How do teachers scaffold this so that students investigate their own questions while moving the classroom forward in figuring out phenomena? In this session we will share some of the approaches, tips and techniques to help make this practice effective and productive in the classroom.


Speakers
avatar for Holly Hereau

Holly Hereau

Science Educator, BSCS
5-D learning, experiential and place-based learning, Next Gen Science Storylines, iHub, OpenSciEd, Achieve Inc. Science Peer Review Panel, EQuIP
avatar for Wayne Wright

Wayne Wright

BSCS Science Learning


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 101

8:00am CST

Tips and Tricks for Mi-STAR Labs
Work with MiSTAR experienced educators to set up and run labs that may seem difficult to run. The two facilitators would be happy to show you the labs and share tips and tricks.

Speakers
avatar for Dawn Kahler

Dawn Kahler

8th Grade Science Teacher, Kalamazoo Public Schools
Teacher for 27 years in Kalamazoo Public Schools. I have a BS from Western Michigan University in Elementary Education and a Masters from Michigan Technological University. I have helped to write, pilot, implement and train Mi-STAR for the past three years.


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 7
  STEM Ed

8:00am CST

Wire me up! Teach STEM with Hands-On Mind-Control, Cyborgs, Reflexes, Reactions... and more!
Meet K12 NGSS with the Hands-On, Muscles-On, Minds-On Activities developed by Backyard Brains!

This workshop is for teachers of Upper-El Science, Middle School Science and STEM, High School Biology, Anatomy/Phys, Physics, and Engineering! Also, for Admins who are looking to bring the cutting-edge to their district, look no further...

Bring the cutting-edge of research science into your classroom. See how easy it is to transform your students into neuroscientists, biomedical engineers, sports scientists, and quantitative biologists!


Speakers
avatar for Will Wharton

Will Wharton

Poet and Content Development, Backyard Brains


Saturday March 7, 2020 8:00am - 9:45am CST
Michigan 2

9:00am CST

Muffins for Members
Want to know more about the MSTA and the MSTA Board of Director?  Come join us for an informal meet and greet with MSTA Leadership.


Speakers
avatar for Betty Crowder

Betty Crowder

Visiting Instructor, Oakland University/MSTA
MSTA, Science Teacher Education, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Presidential Awards, Bees, Family, Friends.
avatar for Roberta Cramer

Roberta Cramer

Executive Director, MSTA
avatar for Brian Peterson

Brian Peterson

President, MSTA


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Michigan 1

9:00am CST

Dichoto-Me
Classify the species your Rover by using the provided (free content) file. Put your unknown species (Rover) through a battery of tests and observe behavior. Work through the process of a dichotomous key to narrow in on which species they are observing in this unique workshop using a robotic vehicle (Rover) to explore science concepts.

Speakers
avatar for Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments

Education Technology Consultant, TI


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 204
  Bio

9:00am CST

Dive in! Engaging with freshwater and marine science through the Great Lakes Bowl
Participation in the annual Great Lakes Bowl competition offers an engaging way for high school students to apply their science learning to the realms of freshwater and marine science. Explore how, why and when to participate in the Great Lakes Bowl and the opportunities provided through participation, including college and career exposure, scholarships, travel, and the fun of competing against their peers. Successful teams are composed of students with varying science interests including physics, chemistry, biology, ecology and technology, which are all components of solving water science challenges. Come learn about this unique way to connect to the Great Lakes!

Speakers
avatar for Erin Parker

Erin Parker

Great Lakes Nature Center Manager, Detroit Zoological Society



Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 2

9:00am CST

STEM based Phenomenon for Biology to Model Form and Functions within Organisms.
Original phenomenon for students to taste, create, and calculate systems found within all plants and used by animals. Although there is great diversity within plants and animals, they all have common fundamental systems within them. A leaf etching, food tasting/experiencing, and calorie calculating will all be demonstrated for students to model. These three phenomenon are easy. cheap. and ready to use.

Speakers
avatar for Andrew J. Frisch

Andrew J. Frisch

Science and Mathematics Teacher, Farwell Area Schools
STEM: Bringing it to the classroom. I am excited to get it into the students' hands. It may be hard to get it into your pedagogy, but it is a truly organic, natural way to teach and learn. I am confident we already do it, we just need to increase it and emphasis it,


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 6
  Bio

9:00am CST

Where did the fat go? A biology storyline for teaching growth & cellular respiration
We will share a storyline (unit plan) we developed for 9th grade biology that helps students figure out what happens when a person gains or loses weight. Participants will experience how we launch the unit and we will share our phenomena-driven storyline and the resources we developed/adapted for teaching how food is used for growth and for energy in cellular respiration.

Speakers
avatar for Wendy Johnson

Wendy Johnson

Kentwood Public Schools
I currently teach biology at the East Kentwood Freshman Campus. I earned a PhD in science education from Michigan State University. My dissertation was titled "Supporting Three-Dimensional Science Learning: The Role of Curiosity-Driven Classroom Discourse." Twitter @wendyjohns... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 201
  Bio

9:00am CST

More than just alcohol and water: straightforward examples of hydrogen bonding
A seminar describing in detail how the mixture of alcohols, acetone, and water can be used to show hydrogen bonding and initiate discussion of how chemical bonding differs in different environments. NGSS connections will be made. Handouts will be provided.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Benvenuto

Mark Benvenuto

Professor of chemistry, University of Detroit Mercy
Interests in making metals chemistry and synthetic chemistry easy to bring to teachers at all levels. Interested in connecting these learning areas with NGSS points.
CM

Courtney Mather

University of Detroit Mercy



Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

9:00am CST

One in a Million
How do we teach topics such as electron congurations - that were graduate school material a generation ago- so that high school students can learn and understand them? Walk away with some effective ways to teach the structure of the atom. Using a user-friendly spectrophotometer, explore how light interacts with dyes. Then use unique spectrum cards to show how atoms, color, and spectra are related, making a conceptual bridge between a core chemical technology- making dyes- and the fundamental structure of the atom.

Speakers
BC

Bill Cline

Science Curriculum Specialist, Lab-Aids
Lab-Aids proudly publishes the Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) which began developing science intructional materials with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 1987.


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 104

9:00am CST

Gravity and Marbles: A 5th graders Dream
During this session, teachers will gain lesson ideas to use in their classrooms to allow students hands-on discovery with Gravity.

Speakers
avatar for Brian Stroble

Brian Stroble

5th Grade Teacher, Williams Elementary School.
Using Paper to create a Roller Coaster to understand Gravity and other physical science. Students will be restricted as to which building pieces to use and to how high to create the roller coaster. I will challenge students to not only create a roller coaster that has the marble... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 1

9:00am CST

Touching the Untouchable: Models That Really Work - Satellite Orbits and Floating Golf Balls
Since 1957 (Sputnik), space agencies and private companies around the world have launched thousands of artificial satellites into orbits around Earth. We will build a wire model providing students with the basic understanding of the differences between Polar and Geosynchronous orbits and differentiating which satellites (e.g. spy, communication, environmental, weather, etc.) would be launched into each kind of orbit.
Our second model consists of a tennis ball container filled with salt water, a floating golf ball, and food coloring to illustrate for students such concepts as density, solubility, color, estuaries, optics, chemistry, and other critical applications for STEM Education.
Together these models will ignite curiosity and build confidence in science learners as they begin to touch and manipulate abstractions.

Speakers
avatar for David Mastie

David Mastie

Ann Arbor Public Schools (retired)


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 202

9:00am CST

Our NGSS Journey at Avondale High School: 3 Years In and Continuing Forward
What is NGSS actually like implemented for an entire science department? Follow our 3+ year journey from 2017 to now to how we went from traditional classrooms to inquiry and modeling based instruction. Our journey wasn't perfect and we will discuss our positives and our setbacks. We will also tell you more about how you can transform your department.

Check it out: bit.ly/AvondaleNGSS

Speakers
avatar for Fahmida Matin

Fahmida Matin

Science teacher, Avondale High School
Began implementing NGSS since the last 2 years and it has been the best decision I’ve made. I realized that my students learn best through inquiry so why not make that change in my teaching.
avatar for Katie Osborn

Katie Osborn

Science Department Leader
I am a HS chemistry and AP chemistry teacher. As a school, we are really working to embrace MSS and making learning meaningful to students. I want to find new ways to increase engagement and ways to know students are learning.
avatar for Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Vanessa Logan Wentzloff

Physics Teacher, Avondale High School
Student-centered, inquiry-driven classrooms are central to my teaching philosophy. I focus on standards-based grading, NGSS practices, phenomenon, inquiry, flexible seating and flipped learning. I strive to help other teachers develop their skills and be the best they can be.I am... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 4

9:00am CST

Questioning Science
Do you struggle to get your students to ask their own questions? Or respectfully "talk" about claims and evidence? At this session, you'll learn about a new technique to get students asking questions and a way to get them engaged in conversations with their peers.

https://bit.ly/3axslXa



Speakers
AD

Ashley Driscoll

Fisher Elementary School
LM

Lyndsay Mahar

Fisher Elementary
avatar for Katie Stevenson

Katie Stevenson

4th Grade Teacher, Fisher Elementary


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Regency 1

9:00am CST

Reading, Writing, Talking, and DOING Science: Literacy Strategies in the Elementary Classroom
Science is the gateway for real-world context for math and language skills development, resulting in greater student confidence and higher achievement. Participate in a new Activate Learning PRIME lesson that demonstrates the

Speakers
avatar for Diane Wright

Diane Wright

Professional Development Facilitator, Activate Learning
Diane Wright has been an educator for over 40 years. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Education. She began her career in public education, teaching learning disabled and emotionally impaired middle school students. She then transitioned into teaching elementary and... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

9:00am CST

Rising Flood Water: Engineering Design Challenge for 3rd Graders
Great Minds®, the creator of Eureka Math/EngageNY, introduces PhD Science to support three-dimensional teaching and learning. In this hands-on workshop, you will use the engineering design process to design a seawall based on established criteria and constraints (SEP.6) to reduce the impact of flooding (ESS3.B) caused (CC.2) by storm surge.

Speakers
avatar for Great Minds

Great Minds

Matthew Cosby
Join Zoom Meeting: CLICK HERE TO CHAT VIA ZOOMGreat Minds provides exemplary curricula to schools and districts nationwide, inspiring joy in teaching and learning. Teachers using Eureka Math®, Wit & Wisdom®, and PhD Science® help students build knowledge via a comprehensive, coherent, and cohesive design. Students earn a... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

9:00am CST

Using "Complex Instruction" Practices to Facilitate Effective Group Work
Do your students struggle to work together productively in groups? With the emphasis that NGSS places on collaboration, creating a classroom culture that supports effective group work is more important than ever. In this session, attendees will be introduced to the instructional practice known as "Complex Instruction." They will learn about scaffolds and teacher moves shown to increase classroom equity and support student participation and learning for all.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Vanhala

Michelle Vanhala

Science Teacher, Washtenaw Technical Middle College
Michelle Vanhala is a graduate of Central Michigan University, where she earned a degree in both Integrated Sciences and English for Secondary Education. In 2014, she was awarded a Knowles Science Teaching Fellowship, and she received a Masters in Science Education from the University... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 5

9:00am CST

Geospatial Technology for the Michigan Science Standards
 Geospatial Technology for the Michigan Science Standards Presentation

Speakers
avatar for Andrew Bruen

Andrew Bruen

Berkley High School
avatar for Russell Columbus

Russell Columbus

High School Science Teacher, Monroe Public Schools
presenting at MSTA 2020 about geospatial technologies for the michigan science standards. Link to the presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/13CDfP6octoO51c8eEFRRohXEqHbNjq82YFuaRouNWwU



Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Banquet 8

9:00am CST

Comfortable Chaos
STEM education often means environments that are talkative, exciting, and somewhat unstructured. Come and learn strategies for classroom management during STEM lessons from an educator who is very familiar with hands-on activities. You will have an opportunity to share as we discuss why control can mean being comfortable with chaos!

Speakers
ST

Steven Tezak

Director, STARBASE, Inc.
Steven Tezak is a Director and Instructor at DoD STARBASE in Alpena, MI where he has been teaching STEM principles to students for the past five years. WIth eight years of teaching and 12 years of skilled trades background, he has a dedication to teach STEM topics as well as safe... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 9:45am CST
Capitol 3

9:00am CST

NASA Resources, GLOBE Program and Student Research
Science is something anyone can do. Doing science makes you a scientist! By doing science, scientists gain a better understanding of the world around them and share their findings with the whole world. Use the GLOBE Science Process and NASA Resources to encourage student research.  Full information on the presentation can be found in the Padlet at: http://tiny.cc/84pdkz

Speakers
avatar for David Bydlowski

David Bydlowski

Science Consultant, Wayne RESA
I am a part-time Science Consultant at Wayne RESA. I am also a Co-Investigator of the AREN Project, a NASA CAN Award from 2015 - 2020. I am also the host of the Middle School Science Minute Podcast.
avatar for Kevin Czajkowski

Kevin Czajkowski

Professor, University of Toledo
JS

Janet Struble

Project Manager, GLOBE Mission Earth at University of Toledo
Our project is connecting GLOBE and NASA resources.


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 10:45am CST
Governor's Room

9:00am CST

Model Development in Electricity and Magnetism
If you want to learn to teach the way you've always wanted... this session is for you. In this extended NGSS session participants will examine the relationship between electricity and magnetism while working through a model development cycle. The session will explore how models are developed in science while helping teachers deepen their understanding of the relationship between electricity and magnetism.

Speakers
avatar for Don Pata

Don Pata

Teacher, Grosse Pointe North High School
I have been teaching high school science for over 20 year. I like to talk about NGSS, advanced pedagogy, modeling instruction and healthy grading. I have 4 young children. In the summer I run modeling workshops across Michigan.
avatar for Laura Ritter

Laura Ritter

Physics Teacher, Troy High School
I have been a science and math teacher for 15 years. My primary subject is physics and I specialize in discourse and student-centered instruction. I have co-led several summer Modeling Instruction workshops, but have pulled back in order to spend more time with my two young daughters... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 1

9:00am CST

MESTA Free & Inexpensive Rock Shop
Need something to get your students excited about science? Come visit MESTA’s fabulous Rock Shop! We have a variety of rocks, minerals, fossils and other oddities that will spark your student’s curiosity. These purchases can be used as classroom showpieces and make great gifts. There is something for everybody. All proceeds go towards Earth Science educator scholarships and grants awarded through the Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association. Cash, check, and cards accepted.

Speakers

Saturday March 7, 2020 9:00am - 1:00pm CST
Rock Shop - Exhibit Hall

10:00am CST

Nature Walk in the Urban Jungle
Join award-winning, professional naturalist Paul Roose on a discovery walk of the natural world in Lansing’s urban jungle setting. Unplug, get outside, observe and explore plants and animals around the Lansing Center and the banks of the Grand River. Learn how a nature/outdoor education center can help teachers connect their students to great hands-on nature experiences.

Speakers
PR

Paul Roose

Naturalist, Hartley Outdoor Education Center
Naturalist, Hartley Outdoor Education Center Love birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. Love it when I find red-backed salamanders and flying squirrels.


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Regency 1
  Bio

10:00am CST

Land Use and Water Quality Project-Base Learning
Students discover the importance of water quality of our creeks, streams and Great Lakes through a year-long study of Kids Creek in Traverse City sponsored by the Dan Wolz Clean Water Education Grant, and in partnership with the Michigan Water Environment Association (MWEA) and MSTA. Students will look at the chloride levels throughout the year, plus research and test different methods of to explore alternative de-icing possibilities.

Speakers
CM

Carolyn Mammen

Old Mission Peninsula School


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 5
  Env Sci

10:00am CST

Disciplinary Literacy; Writing in Science Class
Using literacy skills and practices, we will help give you ideas that will transform your classroom into a record-gathering, analyzing, and reasoning writing-driven area where you can develop better writing skills in your students within the science classroom. Examples for lab reports, CER, whiteboarding will be introduced.

Speakers
avatar for Mari Maltby

Mari Maltby

Pinckney Community High School
My husband and I have raised five fantastically diverse children and are currently enjoying our empty nest life by traveling around the state visiting each of them. They each live in unique places and the best one of all is pictured in the photo; he lives on Mackinac Island! We... Read More →
avatar for Julia McBride

Julia McBride

Director of High School Instruction & New Tech High, Pinckney Community Schools



Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 202

10:00am CST

Engaging with Socioscientific Issues Through the Media
This session is based on findings from the analysis of media texts and on ongoing classroom research with the Carbon TIME curriculum. Our findings suggest the type of instruction that can support students in working with media texts, including promising scaffolds. We will engage teachers in analyzing the challenges of reading media texts, so they can understand the support their students will need to read these texts, and in a lesson structure that they can use with their students, so they will be better able to support their students with this science practice. The lesson structure can be used with texts about all socio-scientific issues so teachers can adapt it for the content they teach. This instruction is vital for preparing students to be informed citizens who can understand and respond well to science-related issues which have implications for their and their community's well being.

Speakers
avatar for Kirsten D. Edwards

Kirsten D. Edwards

Research Assistant, Michigan State University
I am a Ph.D. student at Michigan State University. Prior to coming to MSU, I was a middle school science and math teacher and did curriculum review and development work for elementary and middle school. My research interests are at the intersection of science and literacy. Specifically... Read More →
avatar for Carly Seeterlin

Carly Seeterlin

Research Assistant, Michigan State University
Teaching Intern at Michigan State University studying Integrated Science Education interests include curriculum development and disciplinary literacy.



Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 6

10:00am CST

Incorporating Interactive Science Notebooks into NGSS
Discover new methods of incorporating Interactive Science Notebooks in your classroom! Interactive Science Notebooks serve as the perfect way to record student learning throughout a unit that gives students a chance to reflect on what they have learned and revise their ideas. We will be sharing specific examples of how you can incorporate phenomena, modeling, claim-evidence-reasoning (CER) and meaningful group work and collaboration while using science notebooks. You'll be sure to leave this session with new strategies and activities to bring back to your classroom! Our link to our slides can be found HERE. Our link to our Google Drive shared folder can be found HERE.

Speakers
avatar for Melissa Foster

Melissa Foster

7th & 8th Grade Science, Upton Middle School: St. Joseph Public Schools
avatar for Jenna Francis

Jenna Francis

Teacher & Dept Chair, Upton Middle School, St. Joseph
I teach 8th grade Earth Science & 8th grade Astronomy at Upton Middle School in St. Joseph, MI. I am also the director of our planetarium. This is my 17th year of teaching.



Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 203
  Gen Sci

10:00am CST

Inquiry Based Chemistry Projects for Middle School Students
In this session participants will use inquiry based chemistry projects to investigate chemical and physical properties, density, solubility and reactivity. Resources from the Chemical Education Foundation and the 'You Be The Chemist Program' will be presented. Each session participant will receive a flash drive containing lesson plans and activities to assist with teaching Chemistry Standards

Speakers
KO

Kathleen O'Connor

Benjamin Franklin Middle School


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 4
  Gen Sci

10:00am CST

Learning to Lead Discussions in Science: How to Talk Less so Students Learn More.
Student teaching interns in Secondary Science at Oakland University present strategies and examples from their efforts to enact more powerful discussion-based learning activities. Drawing upon resources such as Ambitious Science Teaching (Windschitl, Thompson, & Braaten, 2018), this session will show how even beginning efforts at discussion can provide rich learning opportunities for students.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Olson

Mark Olson

Associate Professor of Science Education, Oakland University
avatar for Naomi Sarelis

Naomi Sarelis

Secondary Science Oakland University Student Teacher


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 101

10:00am CST

NGSS Strategies that Work K-12
Have you been wanting to work with other teachers to explore model based lesson planning, but are reluctant to try to take on another new set of strategies? We will share ways that you can infuse model development into your teaching, use phenomena to drive instruction, and assess student learning without having to redesign everything you do. We will answer your questions related to implementing NGSS and provide several ELE, MS, and HS content specific resources for immediate use and further exploration.

Speakers
avatar for Katie Stevenson

Katie Stevenson

4th Grade Teacher, Fisher Elementary


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 1

10:00am CST

ONPAR Assessments for Middle School NGSS Aligned Curricula, including OpenSciEd and IQWST
Are you looking for assessments to use with your OER Middle School Curriculum? OnPar’s Multimedia interface is designed to be accessible to all students, providing rich, formative information for both students and teachers. Join us in this session to learn more!

Speakers
LM

Linda Malkin

ONPAR Outreach Specialist, University of Wisconsin


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

10:00am CST

Storytelling with a Twist
Storytelling in science? Yes! In this fun interactive session , learn a strategy you can use in your classroom tomorrow to promote interest and attention in any STEM classroom. Come away with a new tool in your teacher toolbox and lots of ideas from your fellow teachers.

Speakers
avatar for Lucinda Martinelli

Lucinda Martinelli

Education Director, Whole Planet Consulting
I've been teaching Enviornmental and Experiential Education for about 30 years. I help teachers by bringing my outdoor teaching and facilitating knowledge into the classroom.


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Capitol 3

10:00am CST

3D printing more than toys and gadgets instead design, engineer and create motion!
3D printing is a wonderful technology but after you've printed a dozen or more cat models what's next? The best use of this new technology is to inspire the need to create. This session will outline and give practical ideas to bring a STEM design project into the classroom. With the cost of 3D printing at the lowest levels it has ever been this is a wonderful opportunity to engage students in an engineering project while teaching course content. The project outlined in this presentation is in a physical science or physics class at the middle school or high school level.In the unit shown students designed, printed, wired and raced electric vehicles at minimum cost.

Speakers
avatar for Kyle Ondersma

Kyle Ondersma

Teacher, Ionia Public Schools
My background and interests, I always feel uncomfortable discussing myself as it seems boastful but if you want to read it, here we go. I am a graduate of Grand Rapids Community College where I completed an associates degree in Applied Science finishing their program in Chemical... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Banquet 8

10:00am CST

Adopt an Integrated K-5 STEM Program in Your Classroom
The New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning (NJCTL) is a non-profit, charitable organization founded by the New Jersey Education Association. Explore NJCTL’s free Open Educational Resource materials for K-5 science. Learn how these materials can help you integrate engineering activities, math and grade-level reading resources to bring science to life. All resources are posted at www.njctl.org.

Speakers
avatar for Susan Olszewski

Susan Olszewski

Director, New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning
The mission of NJCTL, a nonprofit founded by NJEA, is to empower teachers to lead school improvement so that all children have access to a high-quality education.



Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 102
  STEM Ed

10:00am CST

Are You Moddy?
We will bring science and coding together as participants learn to do some basic coding (no experience necessary) while developing a mood ring! The science of color mixing is explored while determining the right body temperature thresholds. Is fuchsia flirty? Should green be groovy? It's up to you!

Speakers
avatar for Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments

Education Technology Consultant, TI


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Meeting Room 204

10:00am CST

Engineering for Pre-K & Kindergarten
Children of all ages are curious, natural problem solvers. Engineering for Elementary (EiE) for PreK and Kindergarten students builds a strong base of problem solving and critical thinking that prepares children for success in school and in life. Participants will sample the new activity materials and gain tips for classroom implementation. I’ll also share our experience holding educator workshops and Family Engineering Fun Nights for the little ones.

Speakers
avatar for Joan Chadde

Joan Chadde

Director, Center for Science & Environmental Education, Michigan Technological University
Informal Science, K-12 STEM Outreach, Engineering is Elementary (PreK to Gr. 5), Diversity & Inclusion, increasing STEM & Natural Resources pipeline, Environmental Education, Lake Superior Stewardship Initiative


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 10:45am CST
Michigan 2

10:00am CST

Using Models to Drive Student Understanding of the Central Dogma
This interactive workshop will feature student models created by 3D Molecular Designs in Milwaukee. Participants will work with models that explore protein folding and emphasize how the sequence of the amino acids influences the folding pattern of the protein that determines its shape that in turn determines the protein’s function. Participants will then work with a second set of models, which focuses on the central dogma including both transcription and translation. The activities culminates when both these models come together to help students make the connection between DNA and RNA sequences and how they can impact protein functions. Examples of a variety of student-created products that can be used to document student learning will be presented and discussed.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Eberhard

Mark Eberhard

AP Biology & Biology Teachers, St. Clair High School
34 years in the classroomAmbassador for HHMI BiointeracitveWriting Team for College Board's Pre-AP Biology CourseFacilitator for BSCS/NABT Regional Biology Teacher AcademyBoard of Directors for Michigan Association of Biology Teachers (MABT)


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 201

10:00am CST

Energy ReWork Michigan: Energy Audit and Curriculum Training
Join us for an introduction to the new Energy ReWork curriculum and walk through the process of conducting an energy audit with your students. Taking a place-based-approach, lessons provide an in-depth look into Michigan’s current electrical system, identifying technological, structural, social, and environmental challenges as well as opportunities. Supports Michigan STEM and Social Studies learning goals and provides practical experience with modern technologies and methods for effective local action. How can your school contribute to a healthier and more sustainable energy system? Join Ecology Center educators and energy professionals for this hands-on workshop to find out!

Speakers
KA

Katy Adams

Ecology Center
avatar for Martin Morgan

Martin Morgan

Senior Engineer, Consumers Energy
Consumers Energy is a public utility company providing electricity and natural gas to residents and businesses in Michigan. The Consumers Energy Business Efficiency Program incentives for business customers (including schools) who upgrade their facilities with energy efficient eq... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 205

10:00am CST

Engaging Your Students to Think and Act Like Scientists
Engage your students to think and act like scientists and engineers. Be the teacher that transforms everyday lesson plans into authentic, memorable learning experiences with inquiry-focused instruction. Come with a willingness to inspire learning; leave with strategies and tools to make it happen.

Speakers
avatar for Dawn McCotter

Dawn McCotter

Van Andel Education Institute



Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 2

10:00am CST

Help your students be better at science, life and CERs through sound reasoning
Reasoning is at the heart of science; sound reasoning is required to argue from evidence, construct explanations and even to plan investigations. Yet, reasoning is hard, and many students struggle to use reasoning effectively. Experience Mi-STAR’s pilot-tested lesson designed to help students use reasoning to argue from evidence. Practice using a tested process to identify and construct sound reasoning statements to strengthen CERs that argue a position. After getting the basics down, we will expand our newfound reasoning skills into other science practices. Classroom-tested lesson plan provided.

Speakers
avatar for Lori Hall

Lori Hall

STEM Teacher, Saginaw Public Schools
Twenty-five years of teaching and it never gets old!  With a love of middle school science, I transitioned into a K-8 STEM teacher and love inspiring students (and adults) to have fun learning.  This is my third year as a Noyce Fellow in the MTP Grant through Michigan Technological... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 7

10:00am CST

It's Too Hard to Explain! Develop Models to Construct Explanations
Developing models and activity summary boards gives students tools to explain phenomenon. In addition, developing and using models helps students figure things out. Learn how Cereal City Science uses modeling and activity summary boards teo construct scientific explanations. The activity summary board is a record of progression of learning and constructing explanations.

Speakers
avatar for Nancy Karre

Nancy Karre

Science Educational Consultant, Cereal City Science


Saturday March 7, 2020 10:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 2

11:00am CST

Equitable Systems of Learning and Assessment and Positive Student Outcomes
We will discuss our experiences and student outcomes when we "un-tracked" science classes and moved to a Standards-Based Grading System in a Metro Detroit suburban high school. We saw student interest and engagement increase as we adopted the NGSS and enacted storylines and NGSS-PBL in our science classes, but we still noticed some patterns that interfered with student learning tied to inequitable access to learning and traditional grading policies. Join us as we talk about how we made these shifts and how this looked in our classrooms. In particular how we used existing work done by the Next Generation Science Storylines and Inquiry Hub teams to identify opportunities for 3D assessment throughout the unit, and to create three dimensional single point rubrics. We will celebrate successes and identify potential pitfalls to address prior to making this shift.

Speakers
avatar for Holly Hereau

Holly Hereau

Science Educator, BSCS
5-D learning, experiential and place-based learning, Next Gen Science Storylines, iHub, OpenSciEd, Achieve Inc. Science Peer Review Panel, EQuIP
avatar for Wayne Wright

Wayne Wright

BSCS Science Learning


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 102

11:00am CST

Free-flight Birds and Integrative Science
Free-flighted birds offer a unique opportunity for students to engage in experiential and integrative science education. In this session I will present an example from a pilot classroom, explain the motivation, and describe the broader potential of this approach.

Speakers
avatar for Craig Perdue

Craig Perdue

Manager, Shadow Speak, LLC
My goal is to inspire a connection between nature and people. Among other things, I do this as an experiential educator integrating animal behavior, ecology, natural history, and physics. I welcome you to visit, www.shadowspeak.org. I look forward to hearing from you. .Craig... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 3

11:00am CST

Incorporating Accessible and Engaging Anchoring Phenomena in Chemistry
A common idea held by departments transitioning to NGSS is that earth science, biology, and physics lend heavily to phenomena-based inquiry, while chemistry does not. This workshop will empower chemistry educators to develop engaging phenomena that already align with common curricula, while also providing a few to “get started” with.

Speakers


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 6

11:00am CST

Making metals and making medals: A nexus of science and art
This seminar will discuss how metal alloys such as solders can be made safely, how Wood's metal can be used in classes, how both can be connected to the art of producing medals, will emphasize the use of inexpensive materials, and will detail how such chemistry and materials science connects to the NGSS.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Benvenuto

Mark Benvenuto

Professor of chemistry, University of Detroit Mercy
Interests in making metals chemistry and synthetic chemistry easy to bring to teachers at all levels. Interested in connecting these learning areas with NGSS points.



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 203

11:00am CST

Break Down the Walls of Your Classroom: Enhance Science Curriculum and Engage Students with Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiences!
Have your lessons on fossils and rock layers become stale? Do the kids whimper at the slight mention of your weather unit? Maybe you are just looking for new and exciting ways to teach biodiversity? Whatever the case may be, The Virtual Tour Guys have the answer! Come learn how you can break down the walls of your classroom and take your students anywhere in the world and beyond using VR and AR experiences!

Speakers
avatar for Eric Nephew

Eric Nephew

The Virtual Tour Guys
Elementary EducatorsDistrict Technology CoachesDistrict Google and Schoology Ambassadors


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 202

11:00am CST

EdReports – Do Quality Instructional Materials Matter to you?
The Heart of Science Content Matters! - The student, teacher, and content are the three most important factors of classroom success, yet less than 20% of teachers have access to standards-aligned curriculum. It is more important than ever to know the research, understand the materials you have, find out how it was selected, and learn how to advocate to ensure that all educators and students have access to high quality instructional materials. Find out more about EdReports – a FREE resource of comprehensive curriculum reviews!

Speakers
avatar for Minna Turrell

Minna Turrell

Secondary Science Consultant, St Clair RESA
I am the Secondary Science/Math Consultant at St Clair RESA. Prior to taking this role I was a high school science teacher and competitive cheer coach. I am the current president of MSELA. I also review science curriculum for EdReports. I love science, my kids, and my rescue dogs... Read More →
avatar for Bo Winkler

Bo Winkler

Independent Consultant
I am an independent education consultant who is appreciative of the wonder of nature, how things work and an advocate of life-long learning.



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Regency 2

11:00am CST

Elementary and Middle School Science and STEM Extravaganza
Join us for the MSTA Elementary and Middle School Extravaganza! Teachers and teacher candidates will be sharing lessons, activities, resources, and outstanding trade books in a poster session-type format. Come for a few minutes or stay for the whole time. Either way, you'll walk away with a head full of ideas and a handful of materials.

Speakers
avatar for Betty Crowder

Betty Crowder

Visiting Instructor, Oakland University/MSTA
MSTA, Science Teacher Education, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Presidential Awards, Bees, Family, Friends.
avatar for Conni Crittenden

Conni Crittenden

Teacher, Explorer Elementary
I'm the Region 5 Regional Director for MSTA. Want to know more about MSTA and how to be involved? need help with sessions? presentations? getting involved at the national level? the Presidential Awards? getting funded for science? Come talk to me!


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 1

11:00am CST

Hands On + Leveled Reading= Science for ALL
Discover how to make phenomena-driven science accessible to ALL of your students through hands-on science investigations supported with differentiated science texts-available in four reading levels. Learn how to structure strategies to reach the methods of coding texts, utilizing text structures and mastering tier 3 academic vocabulary

Speakers
DV

Deborah Vannatter

Science Education Consultant for Delta/School Specialty
Deborah Vannatter taught Gr 1-6 students and was Program Manager for the state-wide I-STEM Resource Network, supporting K-8 student-centered science. She served on advisory boards for NSTA, and her local Wessleman Woods Nature Preserve.


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 204
  Gen Sci

11:00am CST

Teaching Forensic Science Without Breaking Your Budget
The focus of this session will be on topics that do not require high tech or expensive equipment to teach certain forensic science topics.

Speakers
avatar for Kathy Mirakovits

Kathy Mirakovits

Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Science! It is what motivates us to be the best teachers/instructors we can be. I have recently retired from high school science teaching, but in actuality have just shifted to teaching at the higher ed level. I am a part-time instructor at Kalamazoo Valley Community College and... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 3

11:00am CST

Using Anchoring Phenomena and Driving Question Boards to Spark Student Questioning
Learning is a fundamentally social endeavor. This session will model the collaborative “figuring out process” of students engaging in phenomena and asking questions. Through an IQWST investigation, we will examine students’ ways of talking so they are able to articulate, make sense, and evaluate each other’s ideas with confidence.

Speakers
avatar for Diane Wright

Diane Wright

Professional Development Facilitator, Activate Learning
Diane Wright has been an educator for over 40 years. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Education. She began her career in public education, teaching learning disabled and emotionally impaired middle school students. She then transitioned into teaching elementary and... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Meeting Room 103

11:00am CST

Using NGSS Science and Engineering Practices to Create Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Are you interested in connecting with your colleagues for some interdisciplinary work? A team of 9th grade science, English, and social studies teachers designed a year-long course centered around the theme of sustainability. In this session, we will share our experience using backwards planning and the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices to guide curriculum design. We will present examples of lessons and assessments, and reflect on our successes and challenges in the process.

Speakers
avatar for Katie Torkelson-Regan

Katie Torkelson-Regan

Science Teacher, Washtenaw Technical Middle College
Katie TR is an environmental science/biology teacher at Washtenaw Technical Middle College in Ann Arbor, MI. She is a Knowles Teaching Fellow and graduate of the University of Michigan. Her teaching passions are environmental literacy, education for sustainability, climate change... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Vanhala

Michelle Vanhala

Science Teacher, Washtenaw Technical Middle College
Michelle Vanhala is a graduate of Central Michigan University, where she earned a degree in both Integrated Sciences and English for Secondary Education. In 2014, she was awarded a Knowles Science Teaching Fellowship, and she received a Masters in Science Education from the University... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 5
  Gen Sci

11:00am CST

Using Summary Tables for Sense-Making in Science
Have phenomena to try in the classroom, but don’t know how to get students to give a gapless explanation? Come learn how to use summary tables in the classroom as a tool for sense-making!! During this session we’ll learn about summary tables and see the different ways they’ve been implemented in the classroom as well as brainstorm how to adapt and implement this tool in your classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Sydney Barosko

Sydney Barosko

Troy High School



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Capitol 4

11:00am CST

Modeling With Mi-STAR
Are you teaching the MiSTAR curriculum and want to implement modeling strategies but don't know where to start? This session is for you!
This session is designed as an immersion model for Mi-STAR practitioners that use the same techniques and materials utilized with students. Participants will rotate through roles of student and instructor as they practice and engage in guided inquiry and cooperative learning. Strategies for raising the level of discourse during classroom discussions and whiteboarding techniques will be emphasized.
The presentation can be reviewed at http://bit.ly/32Pg7Gx


Speakers
avatar for Jenne Bush

Jenne Bush

8th Grade Science Teacher, Modeling with Mi-STAR
AW

Andrea Williams

Orchard Lake Middle School


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 8

11:00am CST

Experimenting with Electromagnetism
From simple refrigerator magnets to wireless chargers, the applications of magnetism and electricity (electromagnetism) are everywhere. But how do you teach electromagnetism to middle and high school students who don’t have the mathematical background to discuss Maxwell’s equations? Join this presentation for a look at a hands-on, phenomenon-led unit of study that begins with exploring magnets and static electricity and ends with assembling electric generators, building electric motors, and lighting a light bulb - wirelessly! - through the use of a homemade electric transformer. Come for a sampling of hands-on experiences that utilize the science and engineering practices; leave with a complete unit of study!

Speakers
avatar for Katelyn McCarthy

Katelyn McCarthy

Physics/Astronomy Teacher, Battle Creek Lakeview School District
I am passionate about physics and providing my students with opportunities to question, struggle with, experience, and master physical concepts that describe the world around us. I love to put learning in the hands of my students, and discovering new ways to bring hands-on experiences... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Banquet 4
  Physics

11:00am CST

Lights, Camera, Learning: Take a virtual field trip with your class!
Video conferencing programs allow teachers and students to embark on virtual explorations right from their own classrooms. Materials for hands-on activities from the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum are sent directly to the teacher in addition to supplemental guides for further experimenting. With just a camera, speakers and a screen to project on, a whole world of STEM programming awaits. Come learn how you can incorporate this programming into your classroom!

Speakers
RP

Rebecca Petrone

Ann Arbor Hands On Museum


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Governor's Room

11:00am CST

STEMgineering Instruction for Elementary Students
Don’t let engineering scare you! Join in this engaging hands-on workshop where you’ll be experiencing the Engineering Design Process through STEM Challenges sparked by common picture books. We will discuss the role of text in the design challenge, and how your students can be problem finders AND problem solvers in your classroom. Explore the various skills students participate in with STEM, more than just science, technology, engineering, and math. In this rapid fire session, you’ll leave with loads of ideas for design challenges for your own classroom!

https://www.mystemakers.com/stemgineer-design-challenges

Speakers
avatar for Linnea Gibson

Linnea Gibson

K-12 Science Consultant, COP ESD


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Regency 1

11:00am CST

The Henry Ford's Early Childhood Curriculum
Join The Henry Ford for an in-depth look into our early childhood curriculum. Created for ages 3-5 but adaptable through 3rd grade, this collection of lessons and activities will help your little learners get a jumpstart in STEAM. We’ll show you how our museum’s collections engage curious preschoolers within the frame of material sciences. In the spirit of Henry Ford’s “learn by doing” approach, we’ll get hands on with some of the activities and learn how The Henry Ford is taking its collections beyond the museum walls and into your classrooms.

Speakers
RO

Robert Oleary

Program Manager, Learning Content Management, The Henry Ford
The Learning & Engagement team at The Henry Ford is passionate about an interdisciplinary, learn by doing approach to education. We use artifacts in the museum and Greenfield Village to teach innovation, invention, and entrepreneurship. Ask us about our learning framework, Model... Read More →


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Michigan 2
  STEM Ed

11:00am CST

Let's DIVE-in To Engineering and the Engineering Design Process
Students get engaged with practical and inquiry-based engineering experiences by using the DIVE-in method. This program was developed in partnership with the New York Hall of Science. Transform your classroom into an authentic makerspace with the DIVE process. Learn how to facilitate and use the design process through consensus,

Speakers
avatar for Maeve Green

Maeve Green

STEM Coach, STEMscopes / Accelerate Learning, Inc.


Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 104

11:00am CST

Field Trip - AgroLiquid and IQhub
Agenda for the Field Trip:

IQhub & AgroLiquid Overview/ Presentation (30 min)
  • Discuss how the IQhub and AgroLiquid began
  • What we do today and what we have to offer students
  • Discuss free science opportunities for school to bring students 
LEED Cert Building Tour (30 min)
  • Discuss what LEED Certification is
  • Tour the AgroLiquid Headquarters and explain how we meet LEED Certification
  • Discuss opportunities for schools, homes and offices to be more environmentally friendly
IQhub Explore (60 min)
  • Teacher explore the IQhub and see how it could relate to their students • 
  • Discuss opportunities for various levels of students 
To learn more, visit the website at ​www.iqhubag.org​​​

Attendees are responsible for their own transportation. Address is 1130 S. DeWitt Rd, St Johns, MI 48879

Registration is required! You can register by emailing info@msta-mich.org or visiting the onsite field trip desk in the conference registration area.  

Saturday March 7, 2020 11:00am - 1:00pm CST
Field Trip - Self Transportation

12:00pm CST

Animal Adaptation Rotations
Discover hands-on activities with basic materials and technology that can be implemented in your classroom the next day, to enhance your lessons and rotations in science class.

Speakers
NJ

Nicole Jakubowski

5th Grade Science Teacher, Detroit Country Day School
MK

Meghan Kurleto

3rd and 4th Grade Science and STEAM, Detroit Country Day School
3rd and 4th Grade Science and STEAM Teacher at Detroit Country Day School.
MM

Marlenn Maicki

Retired, Detroit Country Day School


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Capitol 3
  Bio

12:00pm CST

Michigan's Frogs and Toads: 25 Years of Monitoring
Get the scoop on the when, where and how citizen scientists across Michigan have been surveying our thirteen frog and toad species for twenty-five years. You too can participate in the effort. [I can only present Saturday morning very early (8 am preferably)]

Speakers
LF

Larry Feldpausch

board of director, River Raisin Institute


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Capitol 4

12:00pm CST

Anti-racist science teaching methods
This session will look at my struggles in teaching and provide some insights and methods to improve upon. Attempts that were helpful and unsuccessful will be explored as well as some cognitive science connections with regards to bias.

Speakers
avatar for Scott Milam

Scott Milam

Plymouth High School
I teach IB Chemistry HL and Chemistry at Plymouth High School. I use modeling pedagogy and curriculum along with standards based grading.



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 1
  Chem

12:00pm CST

Pigs, Hurricanes, and Surface Water, Oh My!
Intense rainfall events lead to surface water pollution. We look at connections between agriculture, specifically hog production in North Carolina and its impacts on water quality. Hurricanes cause extreme rainfall and flooding, affecting waste lagoons, leading to surface water pollution. Participants will explore connections between hurricane paths, rainfall intensity, watersheds, flooding, with farm location and environmental impact. Rainfall events in Michigan can cause flooding and surface water pollution. We use examples of waste lagoons from Three Oaks and waste water treatment plants across Michigan to connect human activities to environmental impacts. Participants will design potential solutions using criteria and constraints.

Speakers
HH

Hannah Henrichsen

Grand Valley State University
SM

Stephen Mattox

Grand Valley State University


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 4
  Earth Sci

12:00pm CST

A Method to Encourage Recycling and Earn Cash with a Mobile App
Plastics and other waste materials are harming the environment. Introduce your entire student population to a brand-new way to recycle through the use of a free mobile app that encourages students to recycle by offering rewards for good deeds in recycling. The Bottles4Bucks app communicates to any existing trash bin by simply adding a bar code sticker to it. Collection sites can be arranged as needed to sort containers of glass, plastic, aluminum and other materials of choice upon deposit. Teachers will learn how to setup the the free software at their school in order to educate students on the importance of recycling and at the same time earn money for their science clubs through the collection of valuable recyclables.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Supal

Mark Supal

Founder, Stemwalkers
Stemwalkers.org has a mobile app which encourages recycling and sorting of trash in exchange for reward coupons. Simply add barcode stickers to existing waste bins.



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 3

12:00pm CST

3D Assessment of 3D Learning: Collisons!
Plan and carry out a phenomena-based collision investigation to explore how potential energy and kinetic energy are related. Engage as students in this 3D investigation to develop an understanding of energy transfer. Explore as educators the strategies for 3D assessment of student learning in MS.

Speakers
DV

Deborah Vannatter

Science Education Consultant for Delta/School Specialty
Deborah Vannatter taught Gr 1-6 students and was Program Manager for the state-wide I-STEM Resource Network, supporting K-8 student-centered science. She served on advisory boards for NSTA, and her local Wessleman Woods Nature Preserve.


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 204
  Gen Sci

12:00pm CST

Are Your Science Test Items High-Quality? Examining Test Items Using a Collaborative Process
Participants will learn about the process Wayne RESA science and assessment consultants used with constituent districts to examine assessment items using the Task Annotated Project in Science criteria to determine the features of science test items that were of high-quality. Additionally, the session will provide an overview of how this work fits in with a balanced assessment system.

Speakers
avatar for Heather Rottermond

Heather Rottermond

Assessment & Instruction Consultant, Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency
avatar for Nathan Spencer

Nathan Spencer

Science Consultant, Wayne RESA



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 202

12:00pm CST

Integrating white-boarding into Mi-STAR and Interactions
This presentation will provide ideas and instructional strategies for incorporating white-boarding into the Mi-Star and Interactions curriculum. Lessons from each resource will be used to demonstrate collaboration and productive talk through the use of the white boards in creating, evaluating, and discussing models.

Speakers
DM

Darci Merillat

Dean, Bay City Public Schools
Hello, I've been teaching both middle school math and science for over 20 years. This is my 4th year using the Mi-Star curriculum in science combined with some great whiteboarding strategies and techniques. I enjoy watching the students make connections to the real world through... Read More →
avatar for Allison VanDriessche

Allison VanDriessche

Building Principal, Bay City Public Schools



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 201

12:00pm CST

Making the Math and Science Connection
Spend time working with the 8 Math Practices and 8 Science and Engineering Practices. Identify areas for cross-curricular connections and strategies to share with others at your building.

Speakers
avatar for Kristen Miller

Kristen Miller

District Coach, Kalamazoo Public Schools
I am a District K-5 Math coach and the K-5 Lead Science Teacher for Kalamazoo Public Schools.



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 102

12:00pm CST

Putting the Pieces Together! Using KLEWS boards, Investigation Notebooks and Science Talk in the Elementary Classroom!
Come and gain a deeper understanding of how to use the tools of KLEWS boards, Investigation Notebooks and Science Talk in your classroom! I hope you will walk away feeling more comfortable teaching science in your Elementary Classroom with a NGSS aligned approach to whatever curriculum you currently use. Using these three tools will help support student understanding of concepts and growth in the Science and Engineering Practices!

Speakers
avatar for Marie Woodman

Marie Woodman

K-12 Science Coordinator, Troy School District



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Capitol 1

12:00pm CST

Where Are You Now???
Want to hear what other districts are doing with NGSS in regards to course sequence, curriculum, and assessments? Looking for colleagues to help with your NGSS implementation? We will hold an open conversation with participants sharing where they are and what they need to move forward in the process of implementation. We will share where our district is and what we are doing in moving forward. Feel free to come no matter where you are in the process - haven't started, just starting or finished all are welcome.

Speakers
avatar for Kristy Butler

Kristy Butler

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Education & Science
avatar for Patti Richardson

Patti Richardson

Teacher, Forest Hills Central High School
Biology education, student centered learning



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 2
  Gen Sci

12:00pm CST

Incorporating Hands-On Engineering Activities/Labs into your Curriculum.
This presentation will highlight some of the hands-on engineering activities/labs which we have added to our curriculum to better meet the NGSS engineering standards. Teachers will walk away with fully completed lessons ready to be immediately implemented with their current curriculum. (i.e. Straw Rockets, Earthquake Proof Buildings, Wind Turbines, Mars Lander/Egg Drop, Mag Lift Cars)

Here is the presentation and some of the resources from the Presentation. - MSTA 2020 Google Drive

Anyone who would like to share their engineering projects are welcome to email/share them with me and I'll add them to the folder for everyone.  matthew.baleja@ppps.org



Speakers
avatar for Matt Baleja

Matt Baleja

Teacher, Paw Paw Middle School
avatar for Kevin Oles

Kevin Oles

6th grade science, Paw Paw Middle School
I am a middle school science teacher, currently teaching 6th grade. I have a passion for plants, and have worked with plants most of my life in different jobs.


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203
  Int Sci

12:00pm CST

Mi-STAR for Newbies
Implementing a Mi-STAR unit can feel like you are building an aircraft, while it's in flight! Let us help you utilize the tools and understand: Bubble Maps, UST, UCQ, GHC, Anchor, Uncover, Share, Connect, CYP, and whiteboarding, and how it all works together to help your students become 21st Century thinkers and problem solvers.

Speakers
YB

Yonee Bryant-Kuiphoff

Science teacher, Linden Grove Middle School
I have taught middle school science for 25 years. I am also the Middle School Director for MSTA. I am a writer, Professional Learning Facilitator, and have piloted units for MISTAR. I served on the review Board for the NGSS /MSS Science Standards. Our school district is in the... Read More →
AM

Amanda M. Dine

ScienceTeacher
ST

Stephanie Tubman

Michigan Technological University


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 7
  Int Sci

12:00pm CST

Demonstrations that Really Grab Attention!
20 Awesome phenomena anyone can create on a budget. Get ideas to spunk up your delivery and engage your students. Science is never boring when you have the right hook. You will be able to recreate inexpensive demonstrations for the physical sciences. Most are 7-12.

Speakers
avatar for Mark Sheler

Mark Sheler

Sandusky Jr Sr High School
High School Physics, Biology, Anatomy, Chemistry and Earth Science, Baker College of Education



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 8

12:00pm CST

Build Your STEM Team
The New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning (NJCTL) is a non-profit, charitable organization founded by the New Jersey Education Association. NJCTL provides a simple, scalable solution to build a qualified team of STEM teachers in your school or district. Train teachers of any subject to teach physics, chemistry, computer science, AP and middle school science in as little as one year.

Speakers
avatar for Susan Olszewski

Susan Olszewski

Director, New Jersey Center for Teaching & Learning
The mission of NJCTL, a nonprofit founded by NJEA, is to empower teachers to lead school improvement so that all children have access to a high-quality education.



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 6

12:00pm CST

Chihuly in The Science Classroom
Turn STEM into STEAM with sculptures inspired by Chihuly. No, we won't be making glass sculptures, but we will be using heat guns, toast ovens, plastic cups, and overhead transparencies to create similar artwork. Easily replicated in the classroom, these plastic sculptures can be used as phenomena during lessons on energy. This session works well with NGSS standards for fourth grade as well as middle school.

Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Edwards

Jennifer Edwards

Ronald Brown Academy, DPSCD
MS

Maria Shadbolt

Ronald Brown Academy, DPSCD


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Regency 2
  STEM Ed

12:00pm CST

Launching Space Science in a K-12 Classroom
Take your curriculum to new heights! Learn how to incorporate NASA and US National Lab space science curriculum into any classroom. Discover opportunities that allow students to design experiments and launch them into space. Explore how you can connect with other space professionals and participate in some “out of this world” professional development. We’ll discuss opportunities, identify space science resources (many of them free) designed for teachers, and hear from teachers who have integrated space science into their curriculum and Space Industry professionals who helped along the way. Awesome space swag too!

Speakers
avatar for Ashlie Smith

Ashlie Smith

Physical Science Teacher, Cranbrook Schools
Ashlie Smith instructs physical science at Cranbrook Kingswood Middle School for Girls located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. She uses space science to encourage her students to dream big and cites inspiring young girls to develop an interest in STEM and consider STEM careers as driving... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Regency 1

12:00pm CST

The KAMSC Astronomical Research Balloon program
The KAMSC Astronomical Research Balloon program is an on-going project that small teams of high school students launch high-altitude balloons in order to conduct research at the edge of space. I will describe the "back story" that led to implementing this project, the equipment necessary for high-altitude flights, a summary of the four years of flights to date, and proposed future flights over the next 4-6 years.

Speakers
MS

Michael Sinclair

Physics teacher, Kalamazoo Area Math & Science Center
I'm an old-timer and still use old-timey teaching skills.


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Banquet 5

12:00pm CST

Title: Invent! Investigate! Intrigue! Applying Green Chemistry to Engineering
Learn about Green Chemistry principles and how they can be applied to engineering practices. We will focus on three main project ideas including the mushroom packaging Ecovative, bioplastics and biomimicry. This session will give you great ideas to implement into your middle or high school classes as well as show you how to access free curriculum with many more Green Chemistry lessons. High school, middle school, and even elementary can use these resources to enhance and equip responsible scientists. 

Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Baek

Jonathan Baek

Middle School Science Teacher, Honey Creek Community School
avatar for Erika Fatura

Erika Fatura

Pentwater Public Schools
avatar for Jennifer Sherburn

Jennifer Sherburn

High School Science Teacher, Hesperia High School
I have taught for 16 years at a small public school in West Michigan. I coach youth basketball and Science Olympiad. I love crafting, cooking, and working in the garden. I am also a fairly new beekeeper.



Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 12:45pm CST
Meeting Room 101

12:00pm CST

Designing 3-dimensional classroom-based assessments for measuring middle school students' knowledge-in-use of energy: A research-based systematic approach
We will present our work of using a research-based systematic approach to design tasks for assessing students’ knowledge-in-use of energy at the middle school level. By sharing technology-enhanced item examples (Energy MS-PS3-1,2,5), participants will learn how to design and use classroom-based assessments. The process includes: 1) unpacking performance expectations (DCI, SEP, and CCC separately), 2) creating learning performances, 3) specifying student proficiencies and evidence statements, and 4) creating assessment tasks and rubrics.

We will also share examples of students’ responses on various tasks along with our rubrics, and will invite participants to consider how student’ responses can be used as evidences to promote robust 3-dimensional learning. We will lead participants to discuss how to use these tasks to diagnose students’ science learning.

Speakers
avatar for Peng He

Peng He

CREATE for STEM Institute, MSU
Research Associate at CREATE for STEM Institute; NGSS-align Curriculum and Assessment Designer, and PD facilitator; was also an assistant professor of chemical education in China.


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 205
  Gen Sci

12:00pm CST

It Can't Wait! Understanding the Importance of Learning Progression
The Disciplinary Core Ideas were built on the notion of learning as a developmental progression and that science concepts can be broken down to start the knowledge building as early as Kindergarten! Experience how the learning progression of the DCIs Energy and Structure and Property of Matter, occurs from grade band to grade band giving students the opportunity to learn more complex materials leading to a deeper understanding of the DCI. The core ideas provide an organizational structure for acquisition of new knowledge as students move through the grade levels.

Speakers
avatar for Nancy Karre

Nancy Karre

Science Educational Consultant, Cereal City Science


Saturday March 7, 2020 12:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Capitol 2

1:00pm CST

Design a Bird Community
Teachers will work in small groups to observe bird nests found in the presenter's yard. Groups will design a bird community, using the nests as a starting point, to illustrate resource partitioning while applying ecological concepts of habitat and realized niches. Groups will share their bird community designs and will evaluate the designs for maintaining biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem.

Speakers
avatar for Kim Smith Kolasa

Kim Smith Kolasa

STEM Education Consultant, Seaborg Math & Science Center - NMU
Research interests in plant biology education and transitioning classrooms to NGSSPersonal hobbies include yoga, outdoor recreation, global travel and art



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Governor's Room
  Bio

1:00pm CST

An Integrated Approach to Teaching High School Earth and Space Science Standards
Are you struggling to get in all the NGSS for life, physical and Earth/ space science before the end of students’ junior year? In this session we discuss ways in which the Earth and Space Science standards can be incorporated into other courses within the first three years of high school. We will share a phenomenon based integrated Chemistry and ESS unit as well talk about how your English and Social Studies teachers are untapped resources in helping to address all the high school science standards.  

To get to all of our links use this slideshow:
https://tinyurl.com/mstaEarth 


Speakers


Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 104
  Chem

1:00pm CST

Using a School Rock Garden to Teach Rocks and Minerals
We converted a dated in-class pen and paper workbook to a hands-on learning experience that constructs students’ rock and mineral identification skills that they then apply to the school’s rock garden. The new rock garden contains more than 100 rocks and is 12x40 meters. The boulders are glacial erratics consisting of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that are common in Michigan. Students apply their new knowledge to identify rocks in the garden and interpret their process/environment of formation. Students construct a rock cycle and connect samples to their source. A similar rock garden is possible at your school!

Speakers
RL

Ryanne Lezotte

Grand Valley State University
SM

Stephen Mattox

Grand Valley State University


Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 4

1:00pm CST

Invading Our Classrooms: Reducing Aquatic Invasive Species Use in Education
Using live organisms in class is part of the thrill of doing science. From bio-bottles to class “pets” to observing evidence of photosynthesis, live organisms add that WOW factor that can engage students in science. Some of these organisms may become ecological hazards if released into the wild. Practices of giving away organisms to families; dumping water outside or down sinks; planting school gardens with invasive plants; or releasing organisms into the wild can exacerbate the already formidable problem of invasive species in Great Lakes ecosystems. Participants gain understanding of the legal and environmental issues of aquatic invasive species in addition to resources for environmentally safe alternatives to current classroom practices.

Speakers
BC

Beth Christiansen

Great Lakes Education and Outreach Specialist, Center for Freshwater Research and Education, LSSU



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 201

1:00pm CST

Restoration of Southern Michigan's Original Bur Oak Savannah
In his novel “Oak Openings” which was set in early settlement-era south central Michigan, James Fenimore Cooper described the landscape as consisting of “low oaks that were scattered profusely… and with… an air of negligence.” This landscape, which is now called a bur oak plan when it has less than 30% canopy, has been completely extirpated from Michigan. Marshall Academy has received a $3000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to convert an acre of its property into both a small bur oak plan and a fragment of another ecosystem, the oak opening which contains more than 30% canopy. By this coming spring a ten-member crew of MA students will have planted 85 graminoids and forbs and shrubs and trees, including thirteen endangered and critically imperiled plants that thrive in these two ecosystems. I plan to show at the conference how our crew has been planting each species at the side of an interpretive trail in the best specialized environment in which it can thrive, how we’ve been working with an area which was originally a waste land to stabilize its soil and rid it of invaders, and how we hope to restore it into a specimen of the landscape Cooper described, one which will be a haven for plant and animal life now threatened by extinction.

Speakers
avatar for Richard G Green

Richard G Green

Retired Science Teacher and Coach for the Academy's Bur Oak Savannah Restoration Project, Marshall Academy
I retired last year after teaching earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics at Marshall Academy. I feel strongly that science students learn best by direct experience, and lab work and field trips played a central role in my curriculum. My earth science students viewed shale... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 203

1:00pm CST

Water Quality: Developing Citizen Scientists
Students become citizen scientists each year when we conduct water quality testing in our local river. Results are communicated to our area, and we upload our data to an international database.

Speakers
avatar for Jackie Murray

Jackie Murray

Middle School Science Teacher, Clinton Community Schools
I am the sixth grade science teacher at Clinton Middle School. I love teaching students about science and getting them involved in hands-on projects. I am delighted to also teach a section of Project Lead the Way: Energy and the Environment. These courses really let me students learn... Read More →



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 8

1:00pm CST

Grab their Attention with Gizmos!
Gizmos are a sure-fire student engagement strategy. Students perform virtual experiments, collect and analyze data, and take ownership of their own learning. We want to share our success after 5 years of working with this amazing program.

Speakers
avatar for Diana Markley

Diana Markley

Teachers, Stevenson Middle School
Julie Parks and I have been 7th grade teaching partners since 2014. We have both taught for Wayne-Westland Schools for 25+ years. Collaborating and designing lessons together makes us both stronger teachers, and our students have reaped the rewards. Gizmos give our students the opportunity... Read More →
avatar for Julie Parks

Julie Parks

Stevenson Middle School/Wayne-Westland Community Schools


Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Regency 2
  Int Sci

1:00pm CST

High-Tech, Low-Cost NGSS Investigations for Physical Science
Want to incorporate more NGSS-style investigations and data analysis into your physical science class, but don’t have the expensive technology to make it happen? No problem! Learn how to use the FREE Google Science Journal app to engage your students in real science, all with the technology they already have in their pockets.

Speakers
EC

Emily Cizmas

Science Teacher, Wayne State University, Lincoln Park High School



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Banquet 6

1:00pm CST

STEP UP - Encouraging young women in physics
Did you know that teachers are the reason that most undergraduate women in physics chose that degree? That’s right. You are key to encouraging women to pursue prosperous careers in physics! The STEP UP project provides access to downloadable research-based lessons about physics and a nationwide community of teachers engaged in changing the future of physics.This insightful and interactive workshop invites participants to join a national movement designed to empower teachers with resources specifically focused on leveraging high school physics teachers’ pivotal role in influencing the career choices of women and contributing to the culture change needed to inspire more women to pursue physics as undergraduates.

Speakers
avatar for Laura Sloma

Laura Sloma

Physics Teacher, East Kentwood High School
Laura is has been a science educator for 29 years, teaching in Michigan and Ohio, at the high school and college level. She is a modeling instruction expert, workshop facilitator, and STEP UP physics ambassador.



Saturday March 7, 2020 1:00pm - 1:45pm CST
Meeting Room 202

1:00pm CST

A High School's Stem Day Experience at The University of Michigan- John Glenn HS (Westland)
This presentation will explore promoting STEM accesibility and engagement in southeastern Michigan through the University of Michigan STEM Society's biannual "STEM Saturday" event. We will hear from 9th and 10th grade students at John Glenn High School in Westland, Michigan on their experiences in fall 2019. The focus of the day was to expose these students to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math activities run by undergraduate members of STEM Society organizaton from the U of M.
This presentation will provide an overview of the lessons and opportunities that were offered, as well as how YOU can get involved!

Speakers
avatar for Greg Cooper

Greg Cooper

Biology Teacher/ Accelerated Biology/ Science Coach, John Glenn High School(Westland)
I am an enthusiastic science teacher. I have truly enjoyed the challenge of implementing NGSS and STEM into our curriculum and approach with my students. Phenomena investigation, models, student white boards, and argumentative conversations are used as often as possible.
avatar for Haley Kalis

Haley Kalis

Biology Student Teacher
I am a student teacher for 9th grade biology at Washtenaw International High School in Ypsilanti, MI, and will be certified for secondary biology and integrated science by July 2020. I\\'m thrilled to be attending (and presenting!) my first MSTA conference and am always looking to... Read More →