MnSTA
Newsletter Volume 55 No. 1 A Quarterly Publication of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association Inc.
Fall 2018
full day of relicensure workshops designed for you. By attending this full day workshop you will receive all the required licensure CEU’s you will Our premiere annual professional development event for 2018 will be in St. Could at the Rivers Edge need for Minnesota relicensure in one day. The courses will include Scientific Based Reading, AccommoConvention Center. The event is Thursday, Friday dations and Modifications in the Science Classroom, and Saturday November 8-10. We welcome you to Mental Health, Positive Behavioral Interventions, join the Jeffer’s Foundation for a pre-event called “Team Teaching with Mother Nature” on Thursday at Reflection and ELL Statement, Suicide Prevention 4:30pm November 8th. This free workshop is open to and Technology. Other options on Saturday include an elementary, SEPA and Sound workshops. Inforall preservice teachers, university scieince methods mation on MNCOSE speakers, sessions, ventors, instructors and all current MnSTA members. Thrusday’s Jeffer’s Foundation Workshop, Saturday’s Starting at 7:00 PM we welcome you to The Paramount Theater just down the street from Rivers Edge Workshops and hotel accommodations can be found beginning on page 14. for a MnCOSE18 Welcome Reception. We’ll have Our keynote speaker, Steve McComas is owner a cash bar and a few exhibits, but mostly a time to of Blue Water Science in St. Paul, Minnesota. He land and catch up after a teaching day! Starting just has been working on lakes and streams for over 40 after 8:00 PM we’ll view a free screening of the film Chasing Coral! It just won an Emmy for outstanding years and specializes in lake management and lake Nature Documentary - and we get to see it together! restoration projects. Steve has authored over 800 journal publications, magazine articles, and technical Registration for MnCOSE18 begins at 7:00 reports and has written two books on lake restoration AM on Friday morning at the Rivers Edge Center. methods describing over 300 projects to improve lake Registration for the main event begins at 7:00 am conditions. Steve McComas, also known as the Lake on Friday morning at the Rivers Edge Center. There Detective, appears occasionally on Joe Soucheray’s will be a full day of great sessions for educators. We welcome Steven McComas also known as the Garage Logic radio show Lake Detective for our keynote speaker. In addition, and is a columnist for each conference strand will include a special strand Outdoor News. Steve speaker who will bring expertise in each strand topic. has Masters Degrees in You will have the opportunnity to visit several vencivil engineering and in dors who will educate you on the latest in scientific environmental sciences innovations. By visiting these vendors, you will have and a Bachelor Degree in the opportunity to win some amazing door prizes! biology/geology. Steve We’ll end the afternoon Friday with a social event started his science career at the Courtyard Marriott followed by opportunities in Faribault, Minnesota to dine locally at several restaurants with friends old when he was 6 years old and new. catching frogs by the Steve McComas On Saturday you will have the option to attend a Cannon River.
2018 MnCOSE Edition
President’s message by Josh Tharaldson It is a very exciting time for all of us in science education across Minnesota. Our state is currently revising the 2009 Minnesota academic standards in science standards with plans to soon release a draft. MnSTA recently voted to approve a new strategic plan which provides us with an organizational roadmap, and our state conference on science education (MnCOSE) is just a few weeks away! I hope that you feel the excitement as you read about these items and so much more throughout the rest of this edition of our newsletter. With over a month and a half of school under most of our belts, I hope that you have settled into another school year and it is off to a great start for all of you! My name is Josh Tharaldson and I want to introduce myself as your current MnSTA President. I am in my ninth year as a high school science teacher at Marshall County Central High School in Newfolden. I teach 7th grade Life Science, 8th grade Earth Science, 10th grade Advanced Biology, and senior high Ecology. In previous years, I have also taught 9th grade Physical Science and General Biology. In addition to my teaching duties, I advise an annual 8th grade field trip to the Iron Range of Minnesota. I am also the co-advisor for our Close-up program, which brings high school Juniors and Seniors to Washington D.C. every other year. In previous years, I was also an advisor for our high school robotics teams, envirothon teams, and our school’s RiverWatch program. Please consider joining me and other MnSTA board members in St. Cloud November 8 - 10th for an opportunity to learn new ideas for your classroom, provide feedback on the draft of our revised Minnesota academic standards in science, network with your colleagues from across the state and so much more! I look forward to working with you as we continue to move science education in the right direction in Minnesota!
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Teacher Feature Our featured teachers for this issue of the MnSTA newsletter are Matt and Leah Inman, Matt and Leah are science teachers at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Faribault, MN. Matt currently teaches Physics and AP Physics and is entering his eleventh year of teaching. Leah currently teaches Biology and AP Biology and entering her seventh year of teaching. Leah also helps coordinatethe science outreach program called STEM@SSM. Probably the most interesting part of the job comes from the fact that Shattuck-St. Mary’s is a boarding school. This means that the Inmans live on campus with their two kids and serve as dorm parents to students in the dorm. The role of dorm parent is both challenging and rewarding. This role is challenging because of the additional time commitment which comes from working in a dorm facility and the added work that comes along with that time commitment. When one of them is on duty, they supervise a dorm at night or over a weekend. The usual commitment is one night a week and one weekend every one or two months. Since someone is always on duty in the dorm, there is really no such thing as a 7:30 to 3:30 work day in the boarding school environment. The most rewarding part is when they see their students in an environment other than the classroom and get to know their students in a context beyond seeing them once a day in class. Since most of the students also live on campus, the students also get to see them as more than just teachers. They see normal interactions between Matt and Leah and their children. They share meals together in the dining hall. This can be very rewarding for both the teacher and the students. Overall, they have enjoyed living and working at Shattuck-St. Mary’s. Teaching at a boarding school can be tough but it is in the end a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Upper School Director, Patrick Schaefer expressed, “Matt and Leah are terrific teachers and valuable members of the Shattuck-St. Mary’s community.” Here were some of his additional thoughts: Matt• Dedicated to his craft and is always interested in improving what he does • Extremely organized. He is able to plan out his courses weeks in advance. If you want to know what he is doing in his class on December 7th, he can probably tell you right now
MnSTA Newsletter
Teacher Feature • Always willing to integrate new forms of technology into his classroom. Not only this but he is also generous with his time as he often volunteers to help teach his colleagues about different forms of tech he is trying. Leah• Expects a lot from herself and from her students. Leah always gives everything her best effort and expects the same from her students • Truly cares about each and every one of her students. She values the relationships she forms in the classroom and the kids know they are cared for • Always willing to help out colleagues who are new to the school. Leah often takes new faculty under her wing to help show them the ropes of SSM Both Leah & Matt• Together with their children they are a valuable family in the SSM community. SSM would be a different place if they were not here. We are lucky to have them!
Leah working with students in AP Biology on an activity related to cell membranes AP Biology students explored various properties of the cell membrane, such as flexibility, the ability to self-heal, and even channel proteins through the model of bubbles. Soap bubbles have a similar structure to the cell membrane, so this exploration helped students understand the amazing nature of the cell membrane.
Matt working with a group of students from the Gifted and Talented students from one of the elementary schools in Faribault showing a demonstration on moment of inertia.
The MnSTA Newsletter is published four times each year by the Minnesota Science Teachers Association, Inc. Articles, opinions, book reviews and other information pertinent to Minnesota teachers are welcome. Please limit submission to 1 typed page, e-mail preferred (text file please). Deadlines for submission of articles are: Fall ............... August 1st Winter ............. November 1st Spring ........... February 1st Summer....................April 1st Send all correspondence regarding the newsletter to: Jerry Wenzel 22002 100th Ave Randall, MN 56475 e-mail: jerrywenzel@brainerd.net The MnSTA Newsletter is an exempt program service provided to the membership. A membership form is found on the back page. Materials found in the newsletter may be reprinted without charge.
Fall 2018
MnSTA, Inc. is an IRS 501 (c) (3) Charitable Educational Corpora-tion, incorporated as a tax exempt, non-profit organization with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Donations and dues are tax deductible charitable contributions for itemized deductions on IRS form 1040 Schedule A. The newsletter is an exempt program service provided to the membership. A membership form is found on the last page.
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Meet Our New MnSTA Board Members David Grack, Informal Education
David lives in Buffalo with his wife Jodi and their three daughters. He graduated from St. Olaf College with a degree in biology and both his teaching and coaching licenses. He began his teaching career as a life science and biology teacher at both the middle and high school level. He earned a master’s degree in natural science and environmental education from Hamline University. In 2004 David stepped away from teaching full time to be a stayhome-dad. Over the past 14 years he has continued to instruct science in a variety of environments and at a variety of levels. He has instructed summer science courses for K-6 students through community education programs in two school districts, taught ‘dad-and-me’ nature classes through an ecfe program, has taught science education courses for both pre-service and in-service teachers for three different colleges and universities as an adjunct instructor, has trained elementary teachers to incorporate birding into their curriculum (including the use of his bird activity book), leads snowshoeing and birding programs through the Wright County parks department, and has instructed teacher workshops with the Jeffers Foundation that promote outdoor education with a focus on science. He is currently working on his dissertation to complete his doctorate at Saint Mary’s University.
Diana Fenton, Higher Ed.
Diana started her career in education in the middle school as a science teacher primarily in 7th and 8th grade. She has worked with K-12 science curriculum alignment initiatives and literacy across all curriculums within her school district. After 15 years of teaching middle school and various college courses, she left the K-12 classroom to teach Science Pedagogy at St. Benedicts College in St. Joseph, Minnesota. In her spare time, Diana has three boys 19, 17, and 15 who are very active in sporting activities. She lives in St. Cloud, Minnesota and can be spotted on a bike in early mornings or golfing during the summer months.
Diana Fenton, Higher Ed
Lisa Pingrey, Region 5 Director
David Grack, Informal Education
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Lisa grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota. She earned her Bachelor’s degree majoring in Mathematics and Biology as well as Secondary Education from Black Hills State University. She also has her Master’s degree in Science Education from Montana State University. She has taught middle school and high school math and science for 21 years in South Dakota, Wyoming and Minnesota. Currently she is an education consultant for Sourcewell servicing Region 5 schools. She has a son, Jordan, who is married and has a son in Wyoming. Her daughter Taylor just graduated from Walker-Hackensack-Akeley high school, will be attending Finlandia University in Michigan this fall majoring in Business and playing on the Women’s Hockey team. Her husband is the superintendent for WHA school district. This school year will be their third year in Minnesota. They enjoy boating and the outdoors. MnSTA
Newsletter
New MnSTA Board Members
Science Poem Ed Hessler, former MnSTA Executive Secretary, shares some wonderful Back to School poems he has come across: One of the poems included in the seasonal listing of back-to-school poems from the Poetry Foundation is about a food chain. This poem by John Englels is found in “Ten Poems to Get You Through Science Class This Year.” Here is the link to the complete sampler https:// www.poetryfoundation.org/articles/68662/back-toschool-poems He hopes you will sample away. Some of his favorite poems are in this collection. One of the samplers is a collection with a great title--”10 Poems to Read When You Get Stuffed In Your Locker”-- recommended by a Twin Cities resident, Caitlin Kimball. .
Damselfly, Trout, Heron Lisa Pingrey, Region 5 Rep.
BY JOHN ENGELS The damselfly folds its wings over its body when at rest. Captured, it should not be killed in cyanide, but allowed to die slowly: then the colors, especially the reds and blues, will last. In the hand it crushes easily into a rosy slime. Its powers of flight are weak. The trout feeds on the living damselfly. The trout leaps up from the water, and if there is sun you see the briefest shiver of gold, and then the river again. When the trout dies it turns its white belly to the mirror of the sky. The heron fishes for the trout in the gravelly shallows on the far side of the stream. The heron is the exact blue of the shadows the sun makes of trees on water. When you hold the heron most clearly in your eye, you are least certain it is there. When the blue heron dies, it lies beyond reach on the far side of the river.
Fall 2018
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Department of Education What is happening with the science standards review?
The science standards review is off and running. The review committee of 36 representing various stakeholders started with a three-day retreat in early August. They shared their vision for science learning, delved into research John Olson is the science specialist about science educafor the Department of education. tion, compared our curHe will keep us updated on science rent standards to other education. in the MnSTA newsletter. states, and determined desired attributes for the next standards. The committee has already identified a few issues that will require attention: • How standards should be sequenced for a continuous progression of learning in both elementary and middle school • How to affirm cultural contributions and equity without tokenism • How to have standards reflect the research in A Framework for K-12 Science Education, the committee’s primary research document • How to have standards support the variety of school and teacher contexts, along with graduation requirements and college/career readiness In September they looked at data on our current standards and their implementation using information from an online feedback survey in August. They will started to organize to write the first draft by early November. During October the determined the starting point and organization of the first draft and smaller writing teams started to write standards and benchmarks. The first draft will be published Nov. 8 in time for the MnSTA conference and will be posted on the MDE Science page https://education.mn.gov/MDE/ dse/stds/sci/. The draft will have major changes from the current standards. Several ideas will intentionally be tried out to get reactions from teachers and other stakeholder. Feedback for the first draft will be collected through sessions at the MnSTA conference, at town hall meetings across the state, regional meetings hosted by MnSTA regional directors, and an online
survey. Those dates are later in this newsletter. There will be a second draft in February and the final draft in May. I hope that you will add your ideas for making the standards effective for student learning during the ten year span of the next standards. Go to the MDE Science page for more information about the committee membership, process, timeline and especially the Assumptions that are guiding the standards review and revision.
Opportunities
News
Preparing for the First Draft of new Science Standards The Minnesota K-12 Science Standards are being revised this year and your input is needed! The Science Standards Committee is working on substantial changes to the standards and they will be presenting ideas for feedback from stakeholders. Often the feedback results in important changes in direction for the standards work. These will be reflected in the second draft in February and the final draft in May. The first draft will be posted at the MN Dept. of Education (MDE) Science Page on November 8th and there will be a link proved for the feedback survey available Nov. 9 – 26. You can currently consult that page for the names of committee members, the meeting schedule, and especially the Assumptions that are guiding the committee’s work. Go to the MnSTA standards page for articles that describe the ideas that are influencing the development of the new standards. These will be helpful in understanding the draft standards. The Minnesota Science Teachers Association (MnSTA) regional directors are hosting MnSTA Feedback Meetings for the first draft of the next standards and benchmarks. At these meetings you will: Learn about the process being used to write the standards Explore the research that is the foundation of the standards Review the first draft and discuss the ideas with fellow science teachers and educators Enter group feedback into an online survey that goes to the Science Standards Committee Network with fellow teachers from your region and learn about regional science activities These meetings are free and often snacks are provided. To register for the event contact the regional
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MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities director that is listed. We encourage you to bring a laptop or tablet to enter your feedback.
MDE Assessment Workshops
This fall, the Minnesota Dept. of Education will provide a full-day workshop designed for teachers Bemidji – Nov, 12, 4 – 6 pm. Beltrami Electric Coopand District Assessment Coordinators at various locaerative, Mike Urban, murban@bemidjistate.edu Duluth, Nov. 13, 4:30 – 6:30 pm, Piedmont Elemen- tions across the state and will be joined by Dr. Michael Rodriguez, Professor of Educational Measurement and tary, Jenny Gagner peder384@gmail.com Campbell Leadership Chair in Education and Human Alexandria, Nov. 13, 5 – 7 pm, Alexandria High School, Kalina Haley, hkalina@alexandria.k12.mn.us Development from the University of Minnesota. The workshop will include a discussion on the formative Thief River Falls, Nov. 14, 5 – 7 pm, Challenger uses of assessments, practice time with classroom Elementary, kmelgaard@mcfreeze.org Winona, Nov. 14, 6 -8 pm Winona State Univ. Gild- assessments, and an update on the redesign of the meister Hall Room 155, Denine Voegeli, dvoegeli@ Benchmark Reports. The day will finish with a focus group for teachers on the Testing 1, 2, 3 website and isd2899.k12.mn.us St. Cloud, Nov 15, 4:30-6:30 pm, St. Cloud District work time for DACs with Dr. Rodriguez. Lunch will be provided to all participants who attend the full-day Office, karen.bengtson@isd742.org workshop. Details, Schedule and Registration https:// Staples, Nov 15, 9 – 11 am, Sourcewell, Lisa.Pintesting123.education.mn.gov/test/train/index.htm. grey@sourcewell-mn.gov Eagan, Nov. 15, 4:30 – 6:30, Oak Ridge Elementary, Cathy.Kindem@district196.org Montevideo, Nov. 15, 5-7 pm, Montevideo High School, Jeremy Brady, jbrady@montevideoschools. org St. Peter, Nov. 20, 4:30 – 6:30 pm, St. Peter High School, Dave Borslien dborslien@stpeterschools.org In addition there will be feedback sessions at the MnSTA Conference on Science Education on Nov. 9th in St. Cloud. The Department of Education is providing official MDE Town Hall meetings to solicit input from educators and the public. These meetings are led by MDE staff (Doug Paulson and John Olson) and often include members of the Standards Committee. The Town Halls will include general discussion of the draft and may provide an opportunity for individual entries into the feedback survey. All meetings are 5:30 – 7 PM. Questions should be directed to john.c.olson@state.mn.us. Moorhead, Nov. 12, Horizon Middle School West, Media Center Rochester, Nov. 12, Southeast Service Cooperative, Cedar Room Roseville, Nov. 13, Minnesota Dept. of Education, Conference Center B Mankato, Nov. 14, Intergovernmental Center, Mankato Room Duluth, Nov. 20, UMD, Alworth Hall, Planetarium, An optional demonstration of the planetarium will follow the meeting.
Fall 2018
NSTA releases a position statement on the Teaching of Climate Science
The Climate Science position statement calls for greater support for science educators in teaching evidence-based science, including climate science and climate change. The statement promotes the teaching of climate change as any other established field of science and calls on teachers to reject pressures to eliminate or de-emphasize climate-based science concepts in science instruction. The statement provides specific recommendations for the various stakeholders—school and district administrators, policy makers, parents, and others—to help educators succeed in teaching quality science in the classroom. This and other climate science resources are available at the NSTA Climate Science page http:// www.nsta.org/climate/.
District Science Leader Network
District-level staff who have responsibility for science education across their district are invited to participate in this network. Some examples are curriculum coordinators, science coaches, TOSAs, and charter school/ private school lead teachers. There will be 5 meetings this year for three hours in the morning, beginning September 21. This year the focus is on leading district educators in feedback for the science standards review and preparing teachers for changes that are likely from revised standards. There will also some out-state meetings. If you would like to receive announcements of the meetings, contact john.c.olson@state.mn.us.
Updating the Minnesota STEM Teacher Center (Frameworks website) The Minnesota STEM Teacher Center http://stemtc. scimathmn.org, developed jointly by MDE and Sci-
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Department of Education Opportunities MathMN has recently undergone an update making it more accessible and useful for teachers and administrators. With generous support from 3M the site’s underlying software was brought up to date, the content was brought in line with ADA accessibility requirements, and the content made more mobile friendly. The STEM Teacher Center houses the Frameworks for Minnesota Science and Mathematics Standards which provides resources for each standard and benchmark. Users are provided a vignette of a lesson, information on common student misconceptions, resources for instruction, guidance on assessment, and support on differentiating their classroom practice for special education students and English Language Learners, along with those identified as gifted and talented.
Requirements for Safety Training of Science Teachers
The National Science Teachers Assn. (NSTA) Safety Blog http://nstacommunities.org/ blog/2018/08/23/chemical-safety-training-forscience-teachers/ for August describes the required safety training that must be provided by your employer. This includes initial training for new science teachers and other staff who work with chemicals and periodic updates. The Blog describes specific requirements and available resources. Review this with your science teachers and show it to your school administrator.
Teacher Events and Workshops
Outdoor Education and Raptor Lab Teacher Workshops, Oct. 18, 19, Nov.27, Northern MN sites
Learn to use the Raptor Lab a free interactive online learning environment that models the process of scientific investigation in real-world settings through the active role-play of different scientific careers involved in veterinary care and wildlife rehabilitation. Then provides a platform for students to team up, investigate outside, and share their own inquiry-based investigations online. Raptor Lab is appropriate for students from sixth grade through high school. This free day-long workshop will look at the Outdoor Investigator module of the Raptor Lab and provide techniques to bring students outside and do scientific inquiry. All educators of any grade are invited. Details and registration: https://wolf-ridge. org/camp/raptor-lab-workshops/ Oct. 18, Wolf Ridge, Finland Oct. 19, Fond du Lac College, Cloquet
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Nov. 27, Deep Portage, Hackensack
EdCamp Math & Science, Oct. 19, Oakdale
Edcamp is a form of unconference designed specifically for teachers and their needs. The agenda is created by the participants at the start of the event. Rather than presentations, people are encouraged to have discussion and hands-on sessions. Edcamp Math Science MN is designed to focus on topics specifically around math and science education within the Edcamp framework. The event is at Tartan High School, 9am – 3 pm. Watch the EdCamp site for information updates: https://sites.google.com/a/apps. hopkinsschools.org/edcamp-science-math/
Project learning Tree Early childhood Workshop, Oct. 27, West St. Paul
Explore hands-on, nature experiences designed for children ages 3-6 and get PLT’s award-winning Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood book and music CD. The book is a guide for educators to create safe, age-appropriate, indoor and outdoor naturebased “experiences” for young children. More than 100 experiences are designed to engage children with experiences centered on cognitive reasoning, math and manipulatives, music and dance, art, songs and stories, outdoor play, snacks, discovery tables and learning centers, guided neighborhood walks, and family connections. Stay later and explore Dodge Nature Center’s trails and acclaimed preschool play area. $30, includes book, music CD, and CEUs Register by Oct. 19.
Discovery Education Three-Dimensional Learning Academy, Oct. 30, Minneapolis
White Bear Schools and Discovery Education are sponsoring a free workshop 4 – 7 pm at the Surly Brewing Company. • Engage: Fermenting phenomena led by Surly’s head brew master • Explore: Crafting 3-dimensional learning experiences led by Dr. Robert Corbin • Explain: Tapping into inquiry Information and Registration: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/three-dimensional-learning-academy-surlybrewing-mn-10-30-18-registration-48172233447
The MnSTA Conference on Science Education, Nov 8-10, St. Cloud
Pick up new tips, ideas and resources for your teaching and connect with colleagues from across the state. This year’s theme is based on water resources, with a keynote by Steve McComas, the Lake Detective of Blue Water Science. Steve has been working
MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities on lakes and streams for over 40 years and specializes in lake management and lake restoration projects. The conference begins Thursday evening with a private screening of the Netflix documentary Chasing Coral at the historic Paramont Theater. The Jeffers Foundation will offer Team Teaching with Mother Nature, with strategies for effective teaching in the outdoors. There will be sessions all day Friday with content area strands. The Strand keynotes are: • Biology: Emily Mohl from St. Olaf College • Chemistry: Alan McCormick from University of MN • Earth Science: Bryce Hoppe from MN State University- Mankato • Elementary: Julie Jackson from Texas State University Each strand will include a session for feedback for the first draft of the next Minnesota science standards. A new Friday feature is an elementary share-athon of instructional ideas by participants. After a busy day enjoy an evening social event and dining at local restaurants. Saturday brings longer workshops and license renewal sessions. More details and registration are available on the Conference Website. https://www.mnsta.org/cgi/page.cgi/2018_Conference.html
MN Earth Science Teachers Conference, Feb 1, Plymouth
This annual Mn Earth Science Teachers Assn. conference features a keynote on inclusive science from Native Skywatchers. Concurrent session topics include Skywarn storm spotting and severe weather, bedrock geology and groundwater management, authentic learning and assessments, and ESRI Story Maps. The Thursday evening pre-conference session features the Como Planetarium and dinner at Gabe’s by the Park. https://mnearthscience.weebly.com
GEEO is offering the following travel programs for 2019: Borneo, Bolivia, Bangkok to Hanoi, Camino de Santiago, Central Europe, The Galapagos Islands, Greece, Iceland, China, India and Nepal, Jordan, Egypt, Ethiopia, Tibet, Madagascar, Ireland, The Baltics, Paris to Rome, Multi-Stan, Sri Lanka and The Maldives, Morocco, Mongolia, Peru, Vietnam/Cambodia, and, The Balkans. The registration deadline is June 1st, but space is limited and many programs will be full well before the deadline.
University of St. Thomas Engineering Resources
The Playful Learning Lab https://www.playfullearninglab.org at the University of St. Thomas is scheduling free “Educator Playdates” for the coming school year on the third Tuesday of each month. Each session will include a hands-on project led by Playful Learning Lab students, as well as ample time for discussion. We will also have a Show and Tell and we invite you to email us if you have something you’d like to share! We will also have a snack and lots of time to meet each other. Contact Dr. AnnMarie Thomas at apthomas@stthomas.edu with any questions. Also check out OK Go Sandbox https://okgosandbox.org, a collaboration with the band OK Go, which created engaging, fun-filled STEM-focused videos for use in K-12 classrooms (and beyond). The St. Thomas Center for Engineering Education https://www.stthomas.edu/cee/ offers engineering courses and a Master degree program in engineering education.
Teacher and School Awards and Opportunities Green Ribbon Schools Award
Be recognized for environmental and sustainability efforts and spur your school to greater accomplishments. This award honors schools, districts and colleges who are Global Explorations for Educators • reducing energy and resources consumption Founded in 2007, Global Exploration for Educa- • improving health and wellness tors Organization (GEEO) http://geeo.org is a non• providing effective environment education profit organization that has sent over 2400 teachers Awardees receive a plaque for the school, local abroad on adventurous travel programs. With GEEO recognition, use of the Green Ribbon School Logo on educators can earn professional development and their website, and an invitation to the national award graduate credit while seeing the world. GEEO’s ceremony and related activities in Washington, DC. trips are 5 to 23 days in length and are designed and This year the school application has been streamdiscounted to be interesting and affordable for teach- lined to make the application process more openers. In addition to amazing tour leaders, many of the ended. The information and applications will be soon programs are accompanied by university faculty that posted on the MDE Green Ribbon Schools webpage are experts on the destination. https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/stds/sci/grn/ and
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Department of Education Opportunities are now available from john.c.olson@state.mn.us.
Knowles Teaching Fellows for early career teachers
The Knowles Teacher Initiative https://www. knowlesteachers.org is accepting applications for their 2019 Cohort of Teaching Fellows. The Knowles Teaching Fellows Program is an intensive and cohesive, five-year program that supports early-career, high school mathematics and science teachers in their efforts to develop teaching expertise and lead from the classroom. Applications for 2019 Knowles Fellowships are due by November 25, 2018.
Apply for the NSTA Council and Committees
The National Science Teachers Associations is seek applicants for several positions on the Board, Council, and many committees. Most are three year terms. In particular there is an opening for the region IX Director https://www.mnsta.org/cgi/page.cgi/ article.html?aid=1001&zine=show on the Council representing Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. For information about the duties and reward and to apply go to the NSTA nominations page http:// www.nsta.org/about/governance/nominations.aspx or contact Brenda Walsh, the current region IX Director, bwalsh@edenpr.org.
Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship
The AEF Program provides a unique opportunity for accomplished K-12 educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to serve for eleven months in Federal agencies or in U.S. Congressional offices, applying their extensive knowledge and classroom experiences to national education programs and/or education policy efforts. Applications are due by November 15, 2018. https://science.energy.gov/wdts/einstein/?utm_ content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_ source=govdelivery&utm_term=
School Programs and Instruction Resources World of 7 Billion Video Contest
The World of 7 Billion student video contest helps you bring technology and creativity into your middle and high school classes. The contest challenges students to create a short video connecting world population growth to one of three global challenges: preserving biodiversity, sustainable resource use, or human rights. Students can win cash prizes, and participating teachers will receive free curriculum resources. The deadline for submissions is Febru-
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ary 28th, 2019 – use this lesson plan to get started now! Full contest guidelines, resources for research, past winners, and more can be foundat https://www. worldof7billion.org
Real-world applications of STEM concepts inspired by GPS.
Free hands-on activities from GPS.gov https:// www.gps.gov/students/partners for students with no/low costs for materials include stories, videos, presentation materials, and career highlights. Four modules (Earth, Life, Space, Movement) include 12 inquiry-based lessons designed to support the new science standards and the Common Core. Scenarios highlight STEM applications in satellites, orbital space clutter, energy grids, precision agriculture, global supply chains, aviation, weather forecasting, and conservation. “IDEA” (Inquiry, Discovery, Explanation, Application) pedagogy is used with all lessons incorporating real-time and archived data analysis, online simulations, modeling, and the application of geometry and mathematics.
Climate Science Teaching Resources
Climate Generation: A Will Steger Legacy https://www.climategen.org is launching the I pledge to #TeachClimate365 campaign https:// www.climategen.org/blog/climate-lessons-updateaugust-2018/, a challenge to bring climate change into the classroom all year. Teachers post why and how they teach climate on Facebook and Instagram. Climate Gen is also are providing a School Board Resolution Toolkit https://www.climategen.org/ take-action/act-climate-change/shape-public-policy/ climate-change-policy-solutions/climate-commitments-school-board-resolution-toolkit/ for students to advocate for climate solutions.
Computer Science Clubs
Girls Who Code Clubs https://girlswhocode. com/Clubs are FREE after-school programs for 3rd-5th or 6th-12th grade girls to join a sisterhood of supportive peers and role models and use computer science to change the world. Clubs are led by Facilitators, who can be teachers, computer scientists, librarians, parents, or volunteers from any background or field. Many Facilitators have NO technical experience and learn to code alongside their Club members. • 6th-12th grade Clubs program: here’s an overview of the Clubs curriculum https://3zjc852t4swp1lmezl171oga-wpengine. netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Clubs_ Curriculum_Flyer_Final.pdf that focuses on a Girls
MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities Who Code Project where girls work in teams to solve a real world problem they care about through code. • 3rd-5th grade Clubs program: the fun and engaging curriculum is a book club model where students learn from Girls Who Code’s best-selling book Learn to Code and Change the World https://www. amazon.com/gp/product/042528753X?tag=randoho useinc7911-20 and participate in interactive activities that can be run completely offline with optional online activities. To learn more about Girls Who Code programs, you can sign up for a Girls Who Code Webinar https://www.eventbrite.com/o/girls-whocode-15707655262 Oct 3 or email Jackson Thomas at Jackson@girlswhocode.com.
MN Zoo’s Show us your Mussels Challenge
The Show Us Your Mussels Challenge http://mnzoo.org/education/schools-teachers/teachers-protectmussels/ offers students in grades 9-12 with the opportunity to learn about the real problems facing our endangered native freshwater mussel populations and what community members can do to help. Students learn how local water quality affects these important species, and the role of mussels in maintaining a healthy aquatic system. Students create digital media campaign to highlight what they have learned and encourage community members to take action. Schools post their projects online to be voted on by the public from February 1-28, 2019. Five winning schools are selected based on the number of votes they receive and the number of people they reach by their campaigns. Participants from winning schools receive a FREE field trip to the Minnesota Zoo including bussing, admission, parking and an interactive session about the Zoo’s Mussel Conservation program.
Student Programs, Awards and Competitions
Tech Savvy for Girls, Oct. 27, St. Cloud
Learn about careers in Science, Technology, math and engineering. Tech Savvy is a daylong STEM event filled with interactive workshops for girls in grades 5-9, and a simultaneous program for parents. The cost is $10 per student and includes lunch and giveaways. Online registration is at this American Association of University Women St. Cloud Branch websitehttps://stcloud-mn.aauw.net
Trailblazers: Women Succeeding in Science and Technology, Nov. 1, Richfield
Million Women Mentors, Keyot, and Best Buy are teaming up to bring a great mentorship event at Best
Buy in Richfield 6:30 – 8:30 pm. The event will give women in high school or college the opportunity to explore STEM-related education and career options in an open, collaborative and fun setting! A panel of female STEM professionals will share their experiences and give a glimpse into a day in the life of STEM-related career professionals. Then, attendees will be off to a fun networking session where they can connect with other attendees and talk with STEM professionals about their experiences and the variety of career options available in STEM. Information and Registration link: https://trailblazersmn.eventbrite. com
Young Scientist Roundtable, various dates, Wayzata
Learn about exciting ideas and developments presented by professors and prominent experts. Since 1992, Young Scientist Roundtable has brought over 250 scientists to thousands of K – 12 students on topics from the hydrogen atom to human joint replacement to food coloring. All programs are always free and no registration is required. The main presentation begins at 7:00 p.m. and is generally followed by a “Roundtable Part 2” where students can participate in an in-depth discussion and question/answer session with the speaker. Schedule and speakers https://www.wayzataschools. org/ces/programs/ysr
STEM Award for students of color
A partnership between the Donaldson Company and the Science Museum of Minnesota recognizes high school students of African American, Latino, Native American, and Asian heritage for their interests and achievements in STEM. Minnesota educators and STEM professionals may nominate a student they teach or mentor and students are welcome to nominate themselves. The deadline is November 5. More information https://www.smm.org/sciencefusion/donaldson-stem-award
Youth Incentive Award for studying beetles
The Coleopterists Society, an international organization of professionals and hobbyists interested in the study of beetles, has established a program to recognize young people studying beetles. The Society has pledged to provide up to $600 each year for the Youth Incentive Award Program https://www.coleopsoc.org/ default.asp?Action=Show_SocietyInfo&ID=Youth. The Junior Award is a monetary grant of $200 and the Senior Award is $400. Award recipients also will receive up to $200 (Junior) and $400 (Senior) of equipment credit from the BioQuip Products catalog http://www.bioquip.com. This is for students in
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Department of Education Opportunities grades 7-12 only. The deadline is November 1.
Minnesota Programs and Competitions
Many competitions, out-of-school programs and field trip opportunities are posted at the Mn-STEM website http://mn-stem.com/stem/ and listed in the Reach for the Stars Catalog of Programs and Activities http://synergyexchange.org/Synergy/media/ Reach/2018/reach-2018.pdf.
Presidential Award for Math and Science Teaching
Celebrate great teaching! Nominate a colleague or yourself for the Presidential Award, which brings state and national leadership opportunities and $10,000. Two teachers from each state receive this award from the White House. This year applications are sought from secondary teachers with a deadline of May 1. Information and nomination site. https:// www.paemst.org
2019 Minnesota Earth Science Teachers Assoc. Conference Feb. 1. https://mnearthscience.
weebly.com/2019-mesta-conference.html This annual Mn Earth Science Teachers Assn. conference features a keynote on inclusive science from Native Skywatchers. Concurrent session topics include Skywarn storm spotting and severe weather, bedrock geology and groundwater management, authentic learning and assessments, and ESRI Story Maps. The Thursday evening pre-conference session features the Como Planetarium and dinner at Gabe’s by the Park.
Mighty Mississippi River Electronic Field Trip, Nov. 14
Register your class (especially grades 5 – 8) for the Mighty Mississippi Electronic Field Trip--a free, source-to-sea, web-based learning adventure that streams live November 14, 2018. The hour-long interactive television program, produced by PBS affiliate WYES New Orleans in collaboration with Hamline University’s Center for Global Environmental Education (CGEE), features field segments with content experts (including CGEE’s John Shepard) interviewed by student reporters at Lake Itasca, the Twin Cities, and multiple points downstream. http://electronic-field-trips.wyes.org
CGEE’s fully revised Waters to the Sea®:
Mississippi Adventure web-based, NGSS-aligned, learning program serves as a companion for the Electronic Field Trip. This rich multimedia learning resource includes dozens of short videos, immersive 360-VR panoramas, and interactive modules on the
following topics: Earth Science, Life Science, History/Geography, Arts & Culture, and Current Affairs. https://www.hamline.edu/education/cgee/youthresources.html
National Bridge and Structure Competition
Students in grades 7 – 12 form teams of up to three people to design a Truss Bridge that is tested for strength-to-weight ratio using a kit and software supplied by the organization. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is a participant in this program and can arrange mentors. Information and team registration (Due Nov. 5) is at this Transportation and Civil Engineering site https://tracrides.transportation.org/ national-trac-bridge-challenge/. The MnDOT contact is Marcia Locker at stemoutreach.dot@state.mn.us
Youth Eco Solutions
YES! is a unique youth program that develops youth leaders among students in grades 7 – 12 while inspiring widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies, waste, and energy conservation best practices, local foods, habitat restorations, and water quality improvement projects, which contribute to the environmental and economic health of rural Minnesota communities. In addition, students are gaining leadership and workforce skills such as problem solving, communication, teamwork, innovation, and project management. Participating YES! teams of students are guided by motivated adult coaches. Throughout the year, YES! Coordinators work intensively with teams to assess community assets and needs, create action plans, identify and involve community partners, and link teams with further funding resources to match the students’ passions with real needs and opportunities in their communities. Students also take part in hands-on YES! educational opportunities during the school year. https://yesmn.org/
Captain Planet Grants
K-12 educators who are interested in receiving support for students to design and implement handson environmental solutions should check out some of the grant opportunities that Captain Planet Foundation™ is offering! Take a look and see if they have a program that fits your needs. http://captainplanetf. wpengine.com/grants/
3M Science Encouragement Program
3M TECH offers classroom visits to provide students, especially women and minorities, with the opportunity to meet and interact with role models who enjoy technical careers. 3M volunteers from a variety of technical job positions, degree levels, and
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MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education backgrounds participate. The visits encourage a variety of questions from the students, such as: scientists sharing stories from their own career path, guidance on courses to take now to prepare for college, demonstration of the products or technology the scientist/ engineer has developed as part of their job, and the facts around technical careers (salaries, types of jobs available, high demand for trained persons, etc.). Submit requests by Dec. 14. Information and Registration. https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/gives-us/ education/3m-tech/
November is an important month for registering for competitions. Some to consider:
• Minnesota Science Olympiad http://www. minnesotaso.org • Science and Engineering Fair and Science Bowl http://www.mnmas.org • FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge http://www.hightechkids.org, FIRST Robot ics http:///www.mnfirst.org • Supermileage Challenge www.mteea.net/ index.php/competitions/supermileage • Real World Design Challenge http://www. realworlddesignchallenge.org • Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision www.ex ploravision.org • NSTA Angela Award – girls grades 5 – 8 http://www.nsta.org/about/awards • MN Scholars of Distinction – high school https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/gifted/ sod/ • National Youth Science Camp – two Minne sota Delegates http://www.nysf.com/w/pro grams/nysc/
Opportunities
Can’t make it to the January shows at Northrop? The Physics Force may also perform at your site with a scaled-back performance (on equipment, not comedy). Send us an invite and let’s talk. Check out our website for more information: https://physicsforce. umn.edu/
Physics Force | Physics is fun!
physicsforce.umn.edu We invite you to the 2018 University of Minnesota’s Physics Force Rochester Shows at the Mayo Civic Center. See the Physics Force in Rochester, MN May 17-18, 2018. Lastly, it might be on the early side, but we’re coming back to Rochester again this May! If you are in the area, plan on seeing us at the Mayo Civic Center. Tickets are available for our May 8 and 9 shows here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-physicsforce-may-shows-tickets-48851323624
MDE Science Contacts:
John Olson, Science Content Specialist, john.c.olson@state.mn.us Jim Wood, Science Assessment Specialist jim.wood@state.mn.us Judi Iverson, Science Assessment Specialist judi.iverson@state.mn.us Send submissions for the Science Update to John Olson john.c.olson@state.mn.us Other Minnesota Links: Minn. Dept. of Education Science Page http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/dse/stds/sci/ Minn. Science Teachers Association mnsta.org Frameworks for MN Science and Mathematics Standards http://scimathmn.org/stemtc/ Get – STEM Connections between schools and businesses https://getstem-mn.com The Physics Force! Mn-STEM STEM programs and resources for famiScience teachers of all ages - did you know that lies, schools and community http://mn-stem.com/ the University of Minnesota’s Physics Force perstem/ forms for free 12 times every January at Northrop Sharing Environmental Education Knowledge enAuditorium on the U of MN campus? Did you know vironmental education resources https://www.seek. that the Force will help subsidize your transportation state.mn.us fees if you are at a high-poverty school? Minnesota Academy of Science: Science Fair, Well, we do. Before the school year gets too Science Bowl and other competitions hairy, sign your classes up for the free tickets! Your http://www.mnmas.org kids will see large-scale physics demonstrations done Mn DNR Education website: Curriculum, profesby trained professionals paired with comedy done by sional development, posters, etc. total amateurs. Here’s the site for reservations: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/education/index.html https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-physics-forcewinter-shows-tickets-48814847523
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NSTA Interested in applying for the NSTA District IX Director position?
A note from current director Brenda Walsh: This is a 3 year position in which you will represent the three states in our district: Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The main points of this position is to represent the district at NSTA and promote NSTA in your district. The district director acts as the bridge for communication between the teacher and the national organization. The requirements are: Yearly: ·Attend NSTA winter meeting in Washington D.C in mid to late February ·Attend Summer Congress in July in various locations ·Attend one NSTA regional conference (optimum being the location that is in or closest to our district) And at least once during your three year tenure: ·Attend each of the state conferences You do have a small budget to help pay for your expenses. You will be paying for travel, lodging, food, registration, … for the all conferences from this budget (state, regional, and national). The meetings (winter and summer congress) do NOT come out of your budget. Your district is reimbursed by NSTA for your substitute teacher expenses. A few things: ·Most of your expenses are out of pocket at the beginning and then you will be reimbursed. ·If you are a classroom teacher, you will miss school. It is very helpful to have a supportive administration and you are OK with being gone from your classroom. ·It is a very rewarding experience. You will meet, work with, and network with an amazing group of people through the state organizations, NSTA, and the different conferences. If you have any questions or want more information about my experience please don’t hesitate to contact me. http://www.nsta.org/about/governance/nominations. aspx Thanks, Brenda Walsh bwalsh@edenpr.org
MnCOSE MnSTA Conference on Science Education, Nov 8-10, St. Cloud
Pick up new tips, ideas and resources for your teaching and connect with colleagues from across the state. Conference information and registration.
Thursday Evening
• Free workshop Team Teaching with Mother Nature by Jeffers • Reception and a special screening of the Netflix documentary Chasing Coral at the historic Paramont Theater
Friday
The Keynote speaker is Steve McComas, the Lake Detective of Blue Water Science. Steve has been working on lakes and streams for over 40 years and specializes in lake management and lake restoration projects. There will be sessions all day Friday in content area strands. Each strand will include a session for feedback for the first draft of the next Minnesota science standards. The elementary strand will include an elementary share-a-thon of instructional ideas by participants.
The Strand keynotes are:
• Biology: Emily Mohl , St. Olaf College, researches milkweed plants, a food source for Monarch butterflies • Chemistry: Alan McCormick, University of MN, will describe teacher research opportunities and his work on dispersants for oil spills • Earth Science: Bryce Hoppe, MN State University- Mankato, focuses on environmental and engineering geology • Elementary: Julie Jackson, Texas State University, is involved in science education research • Physics: Kevin Haglin, St. Cloud State University, chair of physics and astronomy The end of the session day will include a reception and annual meeting of the membership. After a busy day join up with your regional or content colleagues and enjoy dining at local restaurants.
Saturday (single day registration is available)
• Elementary Workshop: Interactive Word Walls by Julie Jackson, Texas State • Secondary Workshops: Science and Engineering Practices in Action, and Sound and Acoustics for Teachers and Students • Relicensure-in-a-Day. One hour sessions for each of the licensure requirements. For more MnCOSE information including lodging go to https://www.mnsta.org/cgi/page.cgi/2018_Conference.html
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE
Strand Speakers Biology-Emily Mohl
Emily is an Assistant Professor of Biology and Education at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. She earned a BA in biology and anthropology from Grinnell College, a Masters of Arts in Teaching at Washington University in St. Louis, and a Ph.D. in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior at the University of Minnesota. She has taught English in China, biology at a private school in St. Louis, and integrated science at a charter school in Chicago. Her current research investigates geographic variation in milkweed plants, an important food source for monarch butterflies. She is coordinating a distributed research and education project involving educators and students repeating the same experiment at multiple institutions to better understand patterns of adaptation in milkweed.
Alon McormickChemistry
Alon has taught in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, and he has had the chance to learn about the Research Experiences for Teachers program at UMN from Angela Osuji, Claire Hypolite, Cassandra Knutson, Jane Wissinger, and Phil Engen. With help from these colleagues, Alon will tell some of that story - including a project on the action of dispersants such as those used in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. He’ll also hope to learn more at the conference about other ways that research programs at UMN can better serve STEM education in the state.
Bryce HoppieEarth Science
Bryce focuses his teaching efforts on introductory geology courses and those related to environmental and engineering geology. From nutrient cycling in shallow Minnesota lakes to the formation of new crystals in the sediment below 17,000 feet of water in the South Pacific, his research strives to more fully characterize how interactions between water, rock, and life shape the world in which we live.
Julie JacksonElementary
Julie is an associate professor at Texas State University where she is actively involved in science education research. She received her PhD in science education from the University of Texas at Austin, her MA in secondary education from the University of Alabama, and her undergraduate degree in natural science education from the University of South Carolina.
Kevin HaglinPhysics
Prof. Haglin is the chair of the department of Physics & Astronomy at St. Cloud State University and an extremely valued member of the university community. He has a unique ability to perceive and address thorny political challenges within the department and university community. Kevin is good at seeing the ‘big picture’ and at addressing challenging planning and scheduling problems. He is sought out by both students and faculty for advice and wisdom on a daily basis.
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MnCOSE Vendors The University of Minnesota Nano Center offers lab tours, classroom activities, and teacher training in the area of nanotechnology.
Applying science through real-life projects… • Energy Efficiency • Greenhouses • Pollinator Sites • Solar systems • Waste Reduction • Water Quality • & More! For more information, contact Jim Marti at jmarti@umn.edu or (612) 626- 0732
Learning by DOING. Building skills that make a difference. “YES! activities lead to meaningful, visible change.” YES! Coach “YES! landed me in a career as an energy professional.” Former YES! Student
LEARN MORE at yesmn.org
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
BIO-MEDICAL LIBRARY LEARN
how to find trusted health information
SHARE library skills classes for students and teachers - taught by experts
CREATE
web guides and bibliographies
PARTNER
Jump-Start Your Career in Agriculture! The Southern Minnesota Center of Agriculture can help find the right college for you!
We hav options e ag program just for y ou! • Agrono my
• Agricult ural Educ ation • Agribus iness and Man Production agemen • Agribus t iness Se rvice Te • Agricult chnician ure Busin ess Mar • Biofuel keting s Techno logy • Precisio n Agricult ure • Food Science • & Muc h More!
on grants to support student learning Our center is available to assist in your classrooms, as well as provide STEM and agricultural resources for special events and career fairs. Please contact us.
VISIT our booth to learn more! A great professional development opportunity for STEM instructors.
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Visit us at www.centerofagriculture.org or email: natalie.compart@southcentral.edu
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Vendors
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MnCOSE Vendors Science and Service: Bringing Learning and Action Together and inspiring children to help ďŹ ght the global water crisis.
ENGAGE EDUCATE INSPIRE
h2oforlifeschools.org
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Vendors
J E F F E R S
F O U N D A T I O N
Your partner in teaching science with the help of the environment
JeffersFoundation.org Your On-line Environmental Education Toolbox
A complete source of programs, ideas, inspirations and more for the educator or family that believes in the power of the environment in education.
Att w
JeffersFoundation.org
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MnCOSE Vendors
MnCOSE: Dive into Amplify Science! Challenge your students to think, read, write, and argue like scientists and engineers. Amplify Science is a breakthrough K–8 curriculum that empowers students to make the leap from “learning about” to “figuring out.” In each Amplify Science unit, students inhabit the role of a scientist or engineer in order to investigate a real-world problem.
“The engineering units are engaging and really helped me better understand the new standards. I love being able to walk around and talk to students as they explore solutions, make claims, and reason with their peers.” Pilot Teacher
I am excited to show you Amplify Science in action! Come to our booth in the exhibit hall to get your demo account!
Proudly Supporting Minnesota Educators:
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Peter Brenner Sr. Account Executive pbrenner@amplify.com (608) 224-9331
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Vendors
IQWST
™
INVESTIGATING AND QUESTIONING OUR WORLD THROUGH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
WHY IQWST IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR MIDDLE SCHOOL “IQWST is based upon the development of student understanding through student-focused activities, reading and writing articles, and spirited claim, evidence, reasoning discussions. I have not come across a science curriculum in 25 years of education that approaches science education in this manner.” — Brian Klaft, Science Teacher, Indian Prairie School District #204, IL
Project-Based, 3-Dimensional Learning • Research-based and Supported by National Science Foundation (NSF) • Aligns with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) • Literacy Focus: reading, writing, talking, and doing science • Crosscutting Concepts with Scientific Practices • Student-Driven Learning Instructional Design with Teachers in Mind • Teacher Edition: lesson plans, discussion questions, differentiation strategies, and background information • • • •
Interactive Digital Edition Video Tutorials: background knowledge & activity set ups Embedded Content and Pedagogical Support Interactive Student Notebook that Integrates Lab, Reading, and Writing Activities
Professional Development • Online Teacher Support and Webinars • Lesson Modeling • Educational Resource Specialists
4 Amogerone Crossway #7862, Greenwich, CT 06836 activatelearning.com | (646) 502-5231 | info@activatelearning.com
IQWST_TheRightChoice-REVISED_V4.1.indd 1
Rev. 201�.0�.0�
7/7/2016 10:57:48 AM
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Exhibitors Activate Learning AgCentric Amplify Anatomy In Clay Learning System American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Bell Museum Carolina Biological Supply Company Climate Generation Discovery Education H2O for Life Health Sciences LibrarIes of MN Jeffers Foundation Laser Classroom MN Association for Environmental Education McGraw-Hill Education Minnesota Academy of Science Minnesota Zoo MN Ag in the Classroom MnSTA Ntnl Assessment of Educational Progress - MDE Nasco National Geographic Learning/Cengage NSTA PASCO Scientific Pearson Science Museum of Minnesota Southern MN Center of Agriculture St Cloud State University St. Mary’s University Twin Cities PBS - Public Television The Museum of Science, Boston University of MN Nano Center University of MN Arboretum Valleyfair Amusement Park YES! Youth Eco Solutions
Visit-a-Vendor and Prize Drawings
Our MnCOSE18 Exhibitors have generosly donated several wonderful items to be given to our conference participants! We are happy to have our exhibitors with us and encourage each participant to take time to visit with them and learn about what they do! During the day on Friday we will have several door prize drawings at the MnSTA Booth in the exhibit hall. Please come and join the fun as these happen during the day! Visit-a-Vendor - $100 Cash Drawing Make your way to EACH vendor Friday to collect stamps and fill your Visit-aVendor sheet! Fill in ALL the stamps on your Visit-aVendor sheet to become eligible to win a $100 CASH prize! Complete and turn in your sheet by 3:10 Friday in the Exhibit Hall - you must be present to win! A second $100 CASH prize will be awarded at the annual meeting at 5:00 PM Friday. Pick up a ticket at the social event at the Marriott for this drawing. Friday Door Prizes - Drawings at 8:55, 10:00, 2:10, 3:15 Special thanks to The Jeffer’s Foundation for providing a Journal for every attendee
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Thursday Workshop
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MnCOSE Sessions Strand
Room
Session I 8:00 - 8:45 AM
Session II 9:05 - 9:50 AM
Session III 10:10 - 10:55 AM
The Engineering Design Process through Hexbug Mazes: Jim Thielman Schrankler, St. Anthony Elementary Room Park Elementary
Elementary
First American Room
A Daily Dose of Vitamin N: Kandy Stevens, Jeffers Foundation/SMSU, and Claire Macki, SMSU
Elementary Share-athon! 15 teachers with treasures to share!
Chemistry
Physics
Physics/ Chemistry
Earth
Exhibitor Workshops
Schilplin Room
Session V 2:35 - 3:20 PM
Session VI 3:40 - 4:25
Elementary Science K-5 Feedback on the 1st Draft of the MN Science Branching Out Budding Getting Physical or Standards: Jill Jensen, Scientists Leaf it to Me: Physical on the Cheap: Glaicer Hills Elementary Dan Gruhlke, Eastivew Dan Gruhlke, Eastivew Education Center School of Arts and Education Center Science, and John Olson, Minnesota Department of Education
Incorporating the Read Aloud in Science: Leah Bulver and Katrina Mison-Mazy, Gustavus Adophus College
Julie Jackson Elementary Strand Speaker
Ok Go Sandbox Aha! "Light doesn't come out of someone's eyes!" STEM the in - Modeling Light and Sight Phenomena: David Elementary Classroom: McGill, Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet Alison Haugh, Glacier School Hills Elementary School
Science Learning in Swisshelm Nature: Cinda Current, Elementary Room Riverview Elementary
Mitchell Room
Session IV 1:30 - 2:15 PM
Replacing Traditional Labs with Greener Alternatives: Cassidy Javner, Shakopee High School, and Cassandra Knutson, White Bear Lakes High School
Creating Environmental Chemistry Models of Minnesota Phenomena: Richard Lahti, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Autumn Welcome, Martin County West High School
Pivot Interactives for Potpourri of Physics Physics Inquiry: Peter Engagement Strategies: Bohacek and Elizabeth Chris Ann Johnson and Kevin Haglin, Physics Howatt, Heather Johnson, Strand Speaker Henry Sibley High Apollo High School School
Microscopic Mycelium: Teaching Inquiry and Growing Sustainable Engineering through Solutions: Cassidy Sustainable Polymers in Javner, Shakopee High a Chemistry Classroom: School, and Cassandra Cassandra Knutson, Knutson, White Bear White Bear Lake High Lakes High School School, and Cassidy Javner, Shakoppe High School
Alon McCormick, Chemistry Strand Speaker
Breakout! - Building an Escape Room Experience Focused on Radio Science: Tom Tomashek, Minnetonka High Content: Joe Cossette, School Minnetonka High School
Whitney Room
I Can See Clearly Now: Mobile phones in Steve Lindaas, Isaac Physics: Phil Skalsky, Minnesota Sexton, Mankato East State University High School Moorhead
Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics 6Where Does the Energy 12 Feedback on the 1st Go?: Using Evidence- Draft of the MN Science Unique Model Based Reasoning to Standards: Eric Koser, Conceptualizes Periodic Connect Energy and Mankato West High Law: Chuck Handlon, Motion: Marta Stoeckel- School, Angela Osuji, Retired Rogers, Tartan High Washburn High School, School and John Olson, MN Department of Education
Alexander Room
NOAA Teacher at Sea An Alaskan Charting Expedition: Eric Koser, Mankato West High School
Studying Wavelength My Experiences with Earth Science 6-12 by Modeling Filters and Lake Superior and Lake feedback on the 1st Processing Michigan: Josh draft of the MN Science Astronomical Images: Tharaldson, Marshall Standards: Haley Robert Palmer and County Central High Kalina, Alexandria Felicia Leammukda, School Public Schools University of Minnesota
Bell Room
Water, Water Everywhere: Free National Library of Bringing STEM to Light: Medicine Resources to Enhance Your Colette DeHarpporte, Laser Classroom, LLC. Curriculum: Katherine Chew, Health Sciences Libraries, University of MInnesota.
Make any Space a MakerSpace! Obie Martin, Pearson.
Bryce Hoppie, Earth Science Strand Speaker
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Taking a PhenomenaBased Approach to Innovative Approach to Science Instruction: A Teaching Anatomy: 10 Plants That New K-8 Science Changed Minnesota: Building Body Systems Resource by the Mary Meyer, University in Clay: Dan Whisler, Lawrence Hall of Anatomy in Clay of Minnesota. Science: Peter Brenner, Learning System. Amplify.
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Sessions Strand
Life Science
Life Science
Room
Weidner Room
Edelbrock Room
Session I 8:00 - 8:45 AM STEM with the Zoo: Conservation in Water Systems, Kristi Berg, Minnesota Zoo
Race to Mars! Cathy IIkka, Raven Stream Elementary School
General
General
General
General
Coborn Room
Session III 10:10 - 10:55 AM
Evolution for Middle School Educators: Alison Peterson and James Finch, Minnetonka High School
Life Science 6-12 Feedback on the 1st Sense Making Tools as Draft of the MN Science We Transition to NGSS: Standards: Jean Mark Peterson, BenildeTushie, Eden Prairie St. Margaret's School High School, and John Olson, MN Department of Education
Session IV 1:30 - 2:15 PM
Trees! Trees! Trees! Melanie Reap, Winona State University
Session V 2:35 - 3:20 PM
Session VI 3:40 - 4:25
The Science of a GMO: Sue Knott and Keri Sidle, Minnesota Biology Strand Agriculture in the Speaker, Emily Mohl Classroom
How to Transition Your Labs and Assessments to Claim, Evidence and Reasoning Formats: Mark Peterson, BenildeSt. Margaret's School
Tetrahymena thermophilus as a Model Organism in Biology/Life Science: Mark Peterson, BenildeSt. Margaret's School
Reading, Writing, Thinking, and Talking Science: Literacy Strategies in the Science Classroom: Mary Kelly, Activate Learning.
Exhibitor Clarke Workshops Room
General
Session II 9:05 - 9:50 AM
Introduction to A Framework for K-12 Science Education (the Developing Resilience Computer Science foundation for the next in the STEM classroom: Principles with Code. science standards): Bonnie Laabs, Jie Ming org: Garret Bitker, ZED John Olson, Minnesota Mandarin Immersion ALC Department of Education
Classroom Formative Assessment Techniques: Tyler Buchan, Salisbury Composite High School
Metzroth Room
Rethinking the Report Getting Students to Free Green STEM Communicate Resources: Jenna Totz, Information in Creative Climate Generation: A Ways: Joe Cossette, Will Steger Legacy; Minnetonka High School
Helgeson Room
Baby it's cold! Liquid Nitrogen Using NAEP Items in Building Outdoor Kids: demonstrations for Your Classroom: Sarah Gainey, Saint elementary and middle Jennifer Cain, John's Outdoor Minnesota Department school teachers: Denise University Black, Bemidji Middle of Education School
Fandel Room
Become a Nat Geo The Question Focus as National Geographic’s Certified Educator to Phenomenon: Marlene Geo-Inquiry Process in Join an Interdisciplinary Schoeneck, Parkers Action: Elaine Larson, Learning Community: Prairie High School, National Geographic Elaine Larson, National and Mark Peterson, Society Geographic Society Benilde-St. Margaret
Marsh Room
Science MCA-III- Alive and well since 2012: Jim Wood and Judi Iverson, Minnesota Department of Education
Looking ahead to MCAIV: Judi Iverson and Jim Wood, Minnesota Department of Education
Using Phenomena to Engage ALL Students: David Crowther, Former NSTA President
STEMify Your Teaching: Bring True Integration to Your Classroom: Thomas Meagher, Owatonna Public Schools
Using a Student’s Passion in a STEM Related Field to Encourage Participation in Science Fairs, Leading Them Toward a Future STEM Related Career: Mary Hedenstrom, University of Minnesota, Cindy Welsh, Cloquet Middle School, and Michele Koomen, Gustavus Adolphus College
Inspiring Students in the Three-Dimensional Learning with Independent Research Projects: Cindy Welsh, Cloquet Middle School, Mary Hedenstrom, University of Minnestoa, and Michele Koomen, Gustavus Adolphus College
Time to BREAKOUT of Teaching Science those old lessons with Giving Students Control Outdoors: Lesson and science ESCAPE - Individualized Pacing: Ideas: Josh Tharaldson, rooms! Kathryn Emily Koehler, Marshall County Herrboldt and Karina Glencoe-Silver Lake Central High School Sebastian, Apollo High Senior High School
Integrating Feedback with FlipGrid and Google: Ryan Lester, Hmong College Prep Academy
Honoring students' social and emotional needs: Ryan Lester, Hmong College Prep Academy
Sane Implementation of Argument Driven Inquiry (ADI) in Your Classroom: Marlene Schoeneck, Parkers Prairie High School
Benefits to Being a NSTA Member: Brenda Walsh, NSTA District IX Director/Eden Prairie High School
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnSTA Board Directory
MnSTA Phone# (651)-523-2945
Below, you will find information about your MnSTA Board Members. The listing includes the board member’s school (or organization), mailing address, work phone, FAX number, and e-mail address. The board wishes to make itself as accessible as possible for our members. Please feel free to contact your discipline representative, regional representative, or executive board members if you have ideas, concerns, or wish to help with the mission or operation of MnSTA. We are always looking for members who wish to serve MnSTA as Board Members, Non-Board Service Chairs or Members, and as Committee Chairs or Members.
Executive Board:
Exec. Secretary Vacant President
Michele Koomen
Gustavus Adolphus College 800 W College Ave.
612-669-2319 mkoomen@gustavus.edu
President-Elect
Josh Tharaldson 218-847-7225
jtharaldson@mccfreeze.org
Treasurer
Joe Reymann
Retired
e: joereymann@comcast.net
DOE Science Specialist
John Olson
Dept.of Education
john.c.olson@state.mn.us 651-582-8673
Marshall County HS
301 W. Minnesota Ave.
St. Peter, MN 56082 Newfolden, Mn 56738
Discipline Directors: Biology
Mark Peterson 320-275-3800
mpeterson@bsmschool.org
Chemistry
Angela Osuji
Washburn High School
612-668-3400
Angela.Osuji@mpls.k12.mn.us
Earth Science
Haley Kalina
Alexandria Public School
320-762-7900
hkalina@alexschools.org
Elementary/Greater MN Amy Bodin Elementary/Metro Higher Ed Informal Ed Alternative Ed.
Benilde-St. Margaret
2501 MN-100 St. Louis Park, MN 55416 1500 James Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 510 McKay Ave. Alenandria, MN 56308
Myers-Wilkins Elementary
1027 North 8th Ave. E. Duluth, MN 55805
218-269-5221
amy.bodin@isd709.org
Jill Jenson
Glacier Hills Elem School of Arts &Sciences
651-332-2185
jill.jensen@district196.org
Diana Fenton
College of St. Benedict/St. Johns U
320-363-5968
dfenton@csbsju.edu
David Grack Garret Bitker
huntinggirl01@msn.com 3825 Glacier Rd. Eagan, MN 55123
jill.jensen@charter.net 37 College Ave. S. St. Joseph, MN 56374
david.grack@charter.net ZED ALC
630 1st Ave. NW Byron, MN 55920
507-775-2083
gbitker@zumbroed.org
Newsletter
Jerry Wenzel
Retired
Physics
Thomas Tomashek
Minnetonka High School
612-401-5700 tom.tomashek@minnetonka.k12.mn.us
Private Schools
Matthew Inman
Shattuck-St. Mary’s School
507-333-1537
minman@s-sm.org
Eric Koser 507-387-3461 x 322
Mankato West H.S. F: 507-345-1502
1351 S. Riverfront Dr. e: ekoser@chartermi.net
310 W. Minnesota Ave. Newfolden, MN 56738
Webmaster
:jerrywenzel@brainerd.net 18301 Hwy 7
Minnetonka, MN 55345
1000 Shumway Ave.
Fairbault, MN 55021
Mankato, MN 56001 W:
Region Representatives: Region 1&2: North
Katherine Melgaard
Marshall County HS
218-874-7225 ext. 116
kmelgaard@mccfreeze.org
Region 1&2: North
Michael Urban
Bemidji State University
1500 Birchmont Dr.
218-775-3782 murban@bemidjistate.edu
Region 3: Northeast
Jennifer Gagner
218-729-8214 jgagner@proctor..k12.mn.us
Pike Lake Elementary
Bemidji, MN 56601
5682 Martin Rd Duluth, MN 55811
Region 4: Westcentral Vacant
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MnSTA Board Directory Region 5: Northcentral Lisa Pingrey
320-269-6446X1122
Montevideo High School
Karen Bengtson
St. Cloud Area School Dist. 472
320-253-9333
karen.bengtson@isd742.org
Region 8: Southcentral Jeremy Brady Region 9: South Region 10: Southeast
1501 William Ave. Montevideo, MN 56265
jbrady@montevideoschools.org
Region 7: Eastcentral
202 12th St. NE Staples, MN 56479
307-624-0627 lisa.pingrey@sourcewell-mn.org
Region 6: Southcentral Jeremy Brady
National Joint Powers Alliance
Montevideo High School
320-269-6446X1122
jbrady@montevideoschools.org
David Borslien
St. Peter High School
507-943-4212 ext 6028
dborslien@stpeterschools.org
Denine Voegeli
Plainview-Elgin-Millville Schools
507-867-2521 Ext. 3631
dvoegeli@isol2899.k12.mn.us
Region 11: Metro
Cathy Kindem 651-423-7911
Rosemont-Apple Valley-Eagan cathy.kindem@district196.org
Region 11: Metro
Claire Hypolite
Edison High School
612-668-1300X34110
612-24207333
1000 44th Ave N. St. Cloud MN 56303 1501 William Ave. Montevideo, MN 56265 1221 Broadway Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082 701 1st St SE 3455 153rd St. W
Elgin, MN 55932
Rosemont, MN 55068
700 22nd Ave. NE Minneapolis, MN 55418
claire.hypolite@mpls.k12.mn.us
Ancillary Positions: Database
Mark Lex
marklex@umn.edu
NSTA Dist. IX Director
Brenda Walsh 952-975-6726
Conference Coordinator Mary Haberman
Eden-Prairie High School brenda_walsh@edenpr.org
17185 Valley View Rd Eden Prairie, N 55346
Minnesota Valley Area Learning Center 1313 E Blackk Oak Av. Montevideo,MN
320-269-7131 mhaberman@montevideoschools.org
Events Calendar If you have events you want placed on the calendar, send them to the editor - see page 2 for deadlines, address, etc.
Conferences / Workshops 2018 MnSTA Conference on Science Education November 9-10, 2018 This annual event of MnSTA will be held at the St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center and the Courtyard Mariott in St. Cloud, MN. MESTA Conference Feb. 1 2019
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