Liberty Science Center STEM Guide

STEM

EDUCATION PLANNING GUIDE

Welcome to the Liberty Science Center STEM Education Planning Guide!

Liberty Science Center is more focused than ever on its mission to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. We remain committed to empowering all learners to be curious and creative thinkers who confidently pursue an understanding of science and technology. We are elated to welcome you back and ready to provide high-quality, innovative, and interactive STEM experiences.

Serving more than 280,000 Pre-K - 12 students and teachers each year and partnering with nearly 3,000 schools over the past five years, Liberty Science Center maintains its standing as an established leader in informal STEM education. With unique programs like Live From Surgery, world-class resources like the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium and Weston Family Lab for Earth and Space Exploration, and talented and passionate educators, LSC is unsurpassed in advancing STEM education in the tri-state area.

For the 2022-2023 school year, LSC will continue to model and advance best practices in STEM education. We will facilitate programming that promotes equity, inquiry, and problem-based learning, having students learn science by doing science collaboratively, sharing and challenging ideas, asking questions, and making connections to their lives and communities.

Through this STEM Education Guide, you will see a wide array of experiences, including standards-aligned stand-alone and series program offerings. Stand-alone programs leverage our educators’ expertise, enthusiasm, creativity, and passion and the Center’s assets. Through progressive interactions, series programs allow students to build better conceptual understanding and more in-depth skills.

In addition to student programming, Liberty Science Center offers highly interactive professional learning to build teacher capacity and support student sense-making. Our student-focused teacher programs emphasize evidence-based learning, phenomenon-driven instruction, and scientific discourse. We provide comprehensive training in unpacking the Next Generation Science Standards, New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Science, and New York State Science Learning Standards. We work closely with district leaders and educators to provide tools, strategies, and implementation support for high-priority “standards in action” initiatives, such as climate change education. LSC is also a certified provider of the research-based curriculum OpenSciEd.

Liberty Science Center wishes you a safe and successful school year. We look forward to partnering with you to excite learners of all ages about the power, promise, and pure fun of science and technology!

Ivory Williams Vice President, STEM Education

LSC’s Green Programs are made possible by generous support from Amazon. Liberty Science Center acknowledges the generous support of Josh Weston and Jennifer Chalsty. LSC is also grateful to the following donors for their support.

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER’S INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS

Liberty Science Center is grateful to the following institutional partners for their generous support. We offer a variety of benefits and opportunities to organizations who share our vision. Please contact us at corporate@lsc.org or 201.253.1473 to learn more.

$100,000 and up

ADP Amazon Bank of America

BD

Boston Consulting Group

Bristol Myers Squibb

The Cove JC ExxonMobil Corporation

EY

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey Horizon Foundation for New Jersey Johnson & Johnson Foundation JPMorgan Chase & Co.

The Prudential Foundation PSE&G Foundation PSE&G

State of New Jersey State of New Jersey Department of Education U.S. Department of Education Verizon

$50,000 - $99,999

BASF Corporation Bayer Fund Google Langan

Lord, Abbett & Co. LLC

National Science Foundation (NSF)

NJM Insurance Group United United Therapeutics Corporation

$35,000 - $49,999

David R. Clare and Margaret C. Clare Foundation

Goldman, Sachs & Co.

The Hyde & Watson Foundation Investors Bank

$25,000 - $34,999

Atlantic Health System

Bank of China

Bloomberg Philanthropies

BNP Paribas

HLW

Investors Foundation

F.M. Kirby Foundation, Inc.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Pfizer Inc.

Victoria Foundation Wells Fargo The Williams Foundation

$15,000 - $24,999

Day Pitney LLP

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Hackensack Meridian Health PNC Foundation Regeneron Sporos Bioventures

Verisk

$10,000 - $14,999

Accenture

Abacus Insights

AIG

American Express Company Aramark

ATALIAN

ASTC

BNY Mellon Equitable Foundation

Event Network

Exhibit Development Group Merck MetLife

Morgan Stanley Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation

Penguin An EMCOR Company

PNC Bank PNC Foundation

Provident Bank

Prudential Financial, Inc.

RWJBarnabas Health

S&P Global Thor Labs

$1,000 - $9,999

Anonymous

Coca-Cola Company

Cogen Technologies Linden Venture Colgate-Palmolive Company

DTCC

Infineum USA L.P.

Jerome Stevens Pharmaceuticals

Family

Kayal Orthopaedic Center

KPMG LLP

New Jersey Space Grant Consortium Northeastern Chemical Association

PKF O’Connor Davies, LLP

Valley Health System

Willis Towers Watson

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER’S LUMINARY SOCIETY

Liberty Science Center is grateful to the following individuals for their generous support. To help us keep world-class science learning accessible to all, visit lsc.org/luminary or contact us at individualgiving@lsc.org or 201.253.1327

$100,000 and above

David Barry

Jennifer A. Chalsty

Paul and Phyllis Fireman Charitable Foundation

Frank J. Guarini Foundation

Richard Hodosh and Helga Fisch

Kate and Steve Howe

ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON 1962 Charitable Trust

Bruce and Rhonda Levy

Mandler Family Trust

John and Laura Overdeck

Chirag and Priti Patel

John H. and Regina K. Scully Gregory Tusar

Josh Weston and Family Millie and Joe Williams

Norman A. Worthington III and Susan Marie Keating

$50,000-$99,999

The Carlin Family Foundation

$25,000-$49,999

Alma DeMetropolis

The Graham Family Mitchell and Joleen Julis John and Suzanne Willian

$10,000-$24,999

Christopher and Sinead Bennett Sheri and Ted Bronstein

Michael DeMarco

Dr. Janet L. Denlinger

Louis V. Henston Michele Holcomb Kannan Family

The Honorable Thomas H. Kean Gerry Ohrstrom

Marc and Karin Pavese

Richard and Kayla Pechter David and Laura Rosenberg Eric Silverman and Paul Silverman Carolyn and Bob Slaski

Sharon Stamm and Jerome Zeldis Janet Truncale

$5,000-$9,999

Susan and Ira Akselrad Dennis and Denise Bone

Izzo Family Fund

Nevins and April McCann David, Noreen, and Brendan O’Brien Carlos and Eileen Rodriguez Peggy and Gary Shilling

Anthony Skiadas and Celeste Campos

$2,500-$4,999

John E. Abele

Bridgewood Fieldwater Foundation Russell and Stephanie Deyo The Halpern Family Foundation The Kaplan Family Private Foundation Dr. George Karnoutsos and Raquel Lewan Dr. Amit Rakhit and Mr. Brad Senatore Anonymous

$1,000-$2,499

Ann and Stan Borowiec Sumeet and Donna Chabria Dr. George Church Diana Domenech

Dr. Jessica Marinoff and Mr. Jim Charatan Mike and Gloria Masri and Family Jeffrey S. Morrison Eric Munroe

Minal Patel and Asra Warsi Pawan Patel and Tania Chakroborty Popat Family Kevin and Jane Quinn

In memory of Lucille Rathyen Rickert Family Fund Rossini Family Cassandra Roth Tom and Anne Stanton Mary Alice Williams Lynette Wilson

HANDS-ON EXHIBITIONS

Have a blast on our four exhibition floors, with hands-on experiences for all ages and stages of learning. Our galleries bring a wide range of STEM topics to life, from the environment and Earth science to health and green energy choices. Access to our general admission exhibitions is included in your ticket. Education staff and volunteers are happy to answer questions, assist with interactive features, and tell you more about what you’re seeing.

Skyscraper! Achievement and Impact

Enter a cityscape of towers and discover what it takes to design and build the world’s tallest skyscrapers. See what it’s like to test a building in a wind tunnel, operate an electromagnetic crane, learn about careers in construction and architecture, and see artifacts from the World Trade Center.

Dino Dig Adventure

Enter this 1,750-square-foot fossil site to be immersed in the landscape of a real paleontological dig. Explore three dig pits and discover fascinating fossils poking out from the sand. Dig for fossils from seven different dinosaur species buried in more than 60 tons of sand. Uncover replica fossils of bones, eggs—even dinosaur poop!

Wild About Animals

Learn about dozens of animal species in our live animal gallery. Study beautiful examples of camouflage. See mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and fish in natural settings, and marvel at nature’s complexity. Don’t miss the incredibly adorable family of critically endangered cotton-top tamarins, the colony of industrious leaf-cutter ants, or the amazing community of naked mole rats!

NEW! The Great Train Set

This amazing model railroad captures the wonder of the Lackawanna Railroad in the 1950s, when trains chugged from the grand Hoboken Terminal through scenic small-town New Jersey to coal country in eastern Pennsylvania. The enormous set includes up to five trains at a time zooming along 425 feet of track, 132 magnificently detailed model buildings, and nearly 5,000 tiny trees. All aboard!

Bees to Bots

Watch a live colony of honey bees from just inches away as they go about their daily work. See bees collecting nectar and making honey, and get close enough to hear them buzz. Can you spot the queen? Then explore our multimedia exhibition to discover innovative ways that scientists are studying bees.

Wonder Why

Experiment with air in motion, see how long you can hang from a pull-up bar, scramble up our fossilstudded rock climbing wall, and more.

Infinity Climber

Explore this two-story climbing structure suspended 35 feet above the Center’s atrium. Can you make it to the top?

Microbes Rule!

Step inside a giant microscope lens and discover these microscopic organisms in a whole new way. Through stunning art and groundbreaking technology, explore how the overwhelming majority of microbes are beneficial to us and essential to our survival.

Our Hudson Home

Meet the creatures that live in the Hudson River in our enormous aquariums, including 80-pound drum fish, terrapins, sea stars, and sea urchins. Then unload a virtual cargo ship, dredge a river channel, and try a real hands-on lab experiment.

Energy Quest

Build a hydrocarbon molecule, discover the power in ocean waves and dams, learn about nuclear power, and explore renewable energy: solar and wind. Then you can be an energy source when you race hand-crank-powered cars!

Brain Games

What does it take to solve puzzles? Practice your critical thinking skills and challenge yourself! Discover coding by teaching a robot to navigate a maze, piece together magnet shapes to create the five Platonic Solids, explore patterns using big colorful blocks, and more.

Featured Exhibitions

We host several exciting exhibitions each year that relate to topics in science and technology, and incorporate pop culture and entertainment. This school year, exhibitions will include Pompeii: The Immortal City and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.

FIELD TRIPS & EXPERIENCES

Liberty Science Center is a prime destination for learners of all ages and abilities. We’re ready to welcome schools and groups to explore our exhibition halls, live animal collection of 110 species, giant aquariums, and so much more! Be sure to take in an amazing show at the nation’s biggest planetarium—the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium. We would love to help you plan your next LSC adventure.

Online

Can’t bring your group to LSC? Many of our programs can be transmitted into your classroom using distance learning technology on platforms such as Zoom or Google Meet. No permission slips required!

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Internet connection; wired connection recommended

• Computer or other device(s) with the following: webcam, microphone, speakers, display

• We’ll send you a link via email once your booking date has been confirmed.

At Your School

Our knowledgeable and enthusiastic team of educators is eager to bring dynamic, standards-aligned STEM experiences directly to you. We can provide engaging laboratory workshops, after-school programs, and more.

All field trips and experiences must be booked in advance. Call 201.253.1214.

Online

CLIMATE CHANGE PROGRAMS

In June 2020, New Jersey became the first state to fully integrate climate education into its K-12 learning standards. The New Jersey Student Learning Standards require climate change education across seven areas: 21st Century Life and Careers, Comprehensive Health and Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Technology, Visual and Performing Arts, and World Languages. The goal is to prepare students to understand how and why climate change happens and its impact on our local and global communities, and to act in informed and sustainable ways.

We are ready to support educators with programs for grades Pre-K through high school, which can take place at LSC, online, and at your school. Our Science On a Sphere (SOS) programs employ the ultimate data visualization tool—a six-foot illuminated globe display. Using the only publicly accessible SOS in New Jersey, these programs present a unique opportunity to see evidence of climate change in NOAA and NASA data sets vividly come to life. Other program types include laboratory workshops, young learner series, teacher professional development, and a brand-new planetarium program devoted to climate change. Let us know how you are incorporating climate change learning in the classroom and we can help you succeed!

The Climate Change Programs, and all of LSC’s Green Programs, are made possible by generous support from Amazon.

PLANETARIUM PROGRAMS

Our Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium is the biggest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere and the fifth largest in the world. It is uniquely designed to display Earth and Space Systems phenomena in a way that’s just not possible in the classroom. View astronomical objects and celestial phenomena from the surface of Earth and then travel into space to truly understand these concepts by flying up to, around, and through the objects. We can also speed up time in our presentations, allowing you to make an entire year of space systems observations during one program—seasons, moon phases, seasonal constellations, and more. Our 27-meter (89-foot) dome, coupled with an all-dome video and astronomical object database, provides an immersive environment in which to explore the Earth and Space Systems Performance Expectations of the NJSLS - Science.

How It Works Online

Using the same advanced software as in our planetarium, we bring astronomy and aerospace content to the classroom and your students’ home screens. These programs are presented ‘live’ by an LSC Planetarium Educator and allow lots of time for students to ask questions to the presenter.

Check your grade-level band section for planetarium programs that are aligned with your grade-specific NJSLS - Science requirements.

SCIENCE ON A SPHERE PROGRAMS

The visually stunning Weston Family Lab for Earth and Space Exploration allows students to explore Earth and its systems using authentic data on the only publicly available NOAA Science On a Sphere in New Jersey. The six-foot spherical visualization globe can show hundreds of highresolution global images and animations of the Earth, sun, moon, and planets, bringing Earth and space science vividly to life.

Our Science On a Sphere programs are presented live by LSC’s educators, allowing for plenty of interaction between the students, the presenters, and the visually stunning, data-rich content. See earthquakes, hurricane tracks, sea surface temperatures, plate tectonics, weather patterns, and more!

How It Works Online

Through a remote connection from LSC, we bring our home planet and other objects in our solar system to life in vivid, high-quality resolution with satellite views, animations, and real-time data sets. These programs are presented ‘live’ by an LSC Planetarium Educator directly from the Weston Lab and allow lots of time for students to ask questions to the presenter.

LIVE FROM SURGERY

Live From Surgery brings the world of healthcare to the next generation of surgeons and biotechnology experts. Experience the dynamics of surgery, problem-solving, and teamwork in an actual operating room. Connect to hospitals through videoconferencing to interact with the medical team during a surgical procedure, and observe some of the same tools that the medical team is using. We partner with the most prestigious hospitals across the region for this unforgettable experience.

MEET THE SURGEON

Our Live From Surgery program also features Meet the Surgeon sessions. Speak to the professionals face to face as you explore taped cases, understand each medical problem, examine the course of action, and review the outcomes. These sessions create an intimate environment where surgeons can focus their attention on the students while narrating and showing a video of the surgical procedures.

LIVE FROM SURGERY PLUS

Our Live From Surgery Plus program takes the experience to the next level by enhancing your surgical session with a 45-75 minute laboratory workshop that brings medical science to life. Choose to add a session on real-life lab skills, healthcare career exploration, or another focus. Contact us to discuss the options.

be booked in advance.

Available Online

LABORATORY WORKSHOPS

Our Laboratory Workshops reinforce learning through highly interactive explorations that promote scientific thinking and reasoning and often spark a lifelong interest in STEM. Programs are available for grades Pre-K - 12, and can accommodate up to 30 students. Programs range in length from 30 minutes to 75 minutes, depending on the grade band and subject matter. These engaging and inspiring labs can occur online, at Liberty Science Center, or at your school.

Add some hands-on science flair to your school science fair or special event! Our staff can lead an interactive session that complements your theme. Programs can be configured to meet your needs and to support curriculum standards and multiple learning styles. To book any program, please call our reservation line at 201.253.1214. All programs must be booked in advance.

TECH SKILLS ARE IN DEMAND

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer-based occupations are projected to increase by 12.5% from 2014 to 2024, an uptick expected to result in nearly half a million new jobs—far more than any other STEM category. The occupation projected to add the second-largest number of new jobs from 2014 to 2024 is engineering, with 65,000 new jobs. Liberty Science Center’s programs introduce exciting technology skills that help you meet curriculum goals and reinforce new concepts with invaluable, hands-on experiences. Programs are aligned to the NJSLS - Science, ISTE standards, and NJSLS - Math. Join us for a single session or a series.

MAKERLAB WORKSHOPS

In these lab-based programs at Liberty Science Center, we celebrate and encourage the creative, curious, and inventive spirit that all students have. The maker culture is at the heart of this lab, with a 1-to-1 student-to-3D-printer ratio. Every student is free to create.

TECH & DESIGN STUDIO WORKSHOPS

Available Online

Learn the latest technology skills in workshops for grades 3 - 12. These programs apply computational thinking and design thinking to identify solutions or create dynamic projects.

These workshops

be

STAGE SHOWS

Kick start the school year with a science spectacular! Let us present our highly entertaining and science-rich assemblies online, or at your school. These programs are appropriate for grades K - 8. Each show is up to 60 minutes of science and fun and can accommodate up to 300 participants at your school and up to 800 participants online.

YOUNG LEARNER SERIES

LSC is here to help your young learners discover their love for the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and nurture their STEM identity. We have a variety of new program series for grades Pre-K - 2 that can support learning recovery and acceleration.

These project-based learning experiences align with the New Jersey model curriculum to ensure we have programming around common themes focused on by schools throughout the state. Each series includes five 45-minute interactive, sciencebased programs that build on one another.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS OFFERING:

Biomimicry to Me

Everyone loves animals! But did you know that we can copy our favorite animals’ special qualities to create inventions? That’s called biomimicry! In this series, learn all about what adaptations are, how they help animals survive in their unique environments, and how we mimic these solutions to solve everyday problems. Help apply what you learn throughout the series to solve a problem and design a unique solution with 3D printing pens.

My Big Blue Marble Planet Earth is extraordinary! Explore the diverse landforms and bodies of water that make up our planet’s surface. Identify where water can be found, differentiate between types of landforms as you hunt for treasure, and create a model of your own island.

The Light in my Life Investigate the properties of light! Explore how light interacts with the objects around it and how we can use our understanding of light to solve problems and explore our world.

See the Grades Pre-K - 2 section (page 32) for the full series listings and more details.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

LSC brings science learning to you! Take part in interactive, science-based programs online or at your location. These 45-60 minute programs provide project-based learning experiences and develop critical thinking, collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving skills over one or multiple sessions. Select a range of topics, or build on the same topic over several weeks.

Length: Single week or multi-week series

SOME POPULAR TOPICS INCLUDE:

Forensic Science

Grades 3 - 12

Online | At Your School

Crack a case using the same techniques real forensic scientists use, such as checking for fingerprints, comparing fibers, DNA analysis, shoeprint analysis, chromatography, and more.

Digital Art Studio Series

Grades 2 - 12

Online

Animation is a series of images, each slightly different from the last, shown in sequence. Artists and animators are the ones that can take a vision and bring it to life. In this series, students are introduced to the core principles of animation, using Pixilart Software tools, and apply their new skills in animation to solve a series of design errors and improve a product.

Engineering: Simple Machines

Grades 2 - 5

Online | At Your School

Identify and investigate simple versus complex or compound machines and use that knowledge to create solutions for given problems. Using the engineering design process, students will compare multiple possible solutions as they explore their own creativity using common recyclable materials.

Engineering: Define and Defy Gravity Grade 4 - 6

Online

Use Newton’s laws of motion to develop models explaining the force of gravity and be able to support explanations with evidence. By the end of the series, students will be able to create and compare multiple solutions to a problem using common household and recyclable materials.

TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Liberty Science Center partners with schools and districts to offer highly interactive professional development programs that will build teachers’ capacity around planning and implementing engaging and effective standards-based science instruction. Our programs can be delivered online and in person.

GRADES PRE-K - 2

According to the National Research Council, young learners begin school with a rich knowledge of the natural world, the ability to reason, an understanding of the principles of cause and effect, foundations for modeling, ability to consider ideas and beliefs, and an eagerness to participate in learning. LSC’s programs for early learners promote making observations, asking questions, and constructing explanations as they directly relate to NJSLS - Science. Our programs also support New Jersey’s Approaches to Learning standards, which promote the building of core skills known as EPPIC: engagement, planning and problem solving, and initiative and creativity.

SERIES Biodiversity Big Ideas

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes Young Learner Series

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Explore the rich array of life on Earth, from the colorful creatures of the tropical rainforest to the desert’s amazingly adapted plants and animals. Through modeling, observation of various media sources, and hands-on investigation, students will develop an understanding of what plants need to grow, the interdependent relationship among plants and animals, and the structures and behaviors that help living things survive.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-LS2-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow.

2-LS2-2 Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.

2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.

SERIES Biomimicry to Me

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

Everyone loves animals! But did you know that we can copy our favorite animals’ special qualities to create inventions?

That’s called biomimicry! In this series, learn all about what adaptations are, how they help animals survive in their unique environments, and how we mimic these solutions to solve everyday problems. Help apply what you learn throughout the series to solve a problem and design a unique solution with 3D printing pens.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-LS1-1 Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/ or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.

K-2-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

SERIES Circle of Life

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Zoey can’t wait to become a zoologist!

Help Zoey apply what she’s learning about in school, from animal adaptations, to life cycles, to behaviors that parent animals use to help their babies survive.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-LS1-2 Read text and use media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive.

1-LS3-1 Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents.

Backyard Safari

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Have you ever wanted to go on a safari?

Well, let us introduce Mickey. He’s a small but mighty puppy who loves other animals and especially loves noticing patterns! With his love of patterns and making observations, Mickey will serve as the perfect guide for a backyard safari featuring our LSC animals.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science K-LS1-1 Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.K.1. With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text. RI.K.4. With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about unknown words in a text. Approaches to Learning Displaying Curiosity, Communication of New Ideas

Beneficial Behaviors

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop Online

As baby animals enter the world, they need to be shown the ropes! Experience a live animal encounter, examine media resources, and follow Zoey the Zoologist as she explores the beneficial behaviors animals exhibit to help their babies survive.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 1-LS1-2 Read texts and use media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.1.2 Ask and answer questions about key details in a text read aloud or information presented orally or through other media.

Flower Power

30-45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

As the seasons change, flowers begin to bloom again. But how do they get the water they need to grow? Explore how plants use specialized parts to take in water and send it throughout their structure.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-LS1-1 Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/ or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.

Approaches to Learning

Displaying Curiosity, Persistence, Following Multi-Step Plans

Habitat Hop 30-45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online

Grab your passport; it’s time for an adventure! Immerse yourself in the brilliant biodiversity of Earth as you visit different habitats and explore the unique plants and animals that make them home.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.2.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

Approaches to Learning Initiative and Creativity

Maple Seed Models

30-45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Create your own maple seed model out of paper, and explore how the maple seed has a special way of getting the space it needs to grow and survive.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-LS1-1 Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.

Approaches to Learning

Displaying Curiosity, Persistence, Making & Following Multi-Step Plans

Pollinators: Honey Bees

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Have you thanked a bee today? Pollinators provide an essential service to the ecosystem. At least a third of the world’s crops depend on pollination provided by insects and other animals. Honey bees produce and store honey, but they also help to make other favorite foods. Design a pollination device that works just as hard as a busy bee.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-LS2-2 Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.

K-2-ETS1-2 Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.2.5 Create audio recordings of stories or poems; add drawings or other visual displays to stories or recounts of experiences when appropriate to clarify ideas, thoughts, and feelings.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.1.7 Participate in shared research and writing projects (e.g., explore a number of “how-to” books on a given topic and use them to write a sequence of instructions).

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

SERIES A Matter of Matter

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series Online

What do words like hard, soft, flexible, and absorbent have in common? They’re all observable properties of matter. Investigate how the properties of materials determine their use and apply what you’ve learned to create your version of the perfect roof and skyscraper.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-PS1-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.

2-PS1-2 Analyze data obtained from testing different materials that have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.

K-2-ETS1-1 Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

SERIES The Light in My Life

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

SERIES The Science of Sound

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

Bing! Bang! Boom! It’s time to explore the science behind sound. In this series, investigate how sound can make matter vibrate and how vibrating matter can create sound. Afterward, we will see how we can use our understanding of sound to communicate over long distances.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-PS4-1 Plan and conduct investigations to provide evidence that vibrating materials can make sound and that sound can make materials vibrate.

1-PS4-4 Use tools and materials to design and build a device that uses light or sound to solve the problem of communicating over a distance.

Cubby’s Cowtastrophe

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Oh no—it’s a cowtastrophe! Cubby the Cow loves to lie in the meadow, but lately, she’s been getting too hot. Can you help Farmer Joe figure out how to help her stay cool in her favorite place? Explore how sunlight warms the Earth’s surface and build a structure that creates shade.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-PS3-2 Use tools and materials to design and build a structure that will reduce the warming effect of sunlight on an area.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

Secret to Survival

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Animals and plants have internal and external parts that help them grow, survive, and meet their needs. Learn how humans can mimic these special adaptations to help inspire solutions to everyday problems.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-LS1-1 Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/ or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.

Investigate the properties of light! Explore how light interacts with the objects around it and how we can use our understanding of light to solve problems and explore our world.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-PS4-3 Plan and conduct investigations to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light.

K-2-ETS1-1 Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

K-2-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

SL.K.2 Confirm understanding of a text read aloud or information presented orally or through other media by asking and answering questions about key details and requesting clarification if something is not understood.

Approaches to Learning Initiative and Creativity, Planning and Problem Solving

Flow Motion

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

From puddles to clouds and rain to snow, water is changing its form around us all the time. Help us conduct different experiments to see evaporation, condensation, and precipitation right before our eyes.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-PS3-1 Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface.

Approaches to Learning

Displaying Curiosity, Communication of New Ideas

Fundamental Physics

45-60 Minutes

Stage Show

Online | At Your School

Two siblings love showing each other what they’ve learned about in science class. Join this dynamic duo as they work together to take concepts such as forces, motion, and pushes and pulls to a whole new level!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-PS2-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or different directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object.

K-PS2-2 Analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.K.3 Ask and answer questions in order to seek help, get information, or clarify something that is not understood.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

K.MD.A.1 Describe measurable attributes of objects, such as length or weight. Describe several measurable attributes of a single object.

Light It Up!

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Plan and conduct investigations using flashlights and lightboxes to make sense of what it means for objects to be transparent, opaque, translucent, or reflective.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-PS4-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.1.8 With guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

SL.1.1 Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 1 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.

Approaches to Learning Displaying Curiosity, Collaboration, Communication of New Ideas

Matter in Motion

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Matter can be solid, liquid, or gas. But matter can also change. Observe phenomena involving some of the ways matter can change. Work collaboratively to construct evidence-based arguments on whether or not changes to matter can be reversed.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-PS1-4 Construct an argument with evidence that some changes caused by heating or cooling can be reversed and some cannot.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.2.1 Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply reasons that support the opinion, use linking words (e.g., because, and, also) to connect opinion and reasons, and provide a concluding statement or section.

Approaches to Learning Displaying Curiosity, Collaboration, Communication of New Ideas

Super Strong Shapes

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Which shapes are not only strong but… super strong? In a hands-on program that blends science and architecture, build and test your favorite three-dimensional shapes and explore how an object’s shape relates to its properties and uses.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 2-PS1-2 Analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.2.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

MP.4 Model with mathematics.

MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically.

Approaches to Learning Persistence, Collaboration, Problem-Solving, Following Multi-Step Plans

What’s the Matter?

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Explore the world of chemistry with investigations that show how to classify materials by their observable properties. Learn to describe what happens when matter is cooled using liquid nitrogen.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-PS1-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.2.1 Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply reasons that support the opinion, use linking words (e.g., because, and, also) to connect opinion and reasons, and provide a concluding statement or section.

W.2.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

Approaches to Learning Displaying Curiosity, Collaboration, Communication of New Ideas

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

SERIES My Daytime and Nighttime Sky

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

The sky is full of patterns whether we look at it during the daytime or nighttime. What patterns can we observe, why do they happen, and what can they teach us?

Through hands-on activities focusing on the moon, sun, and stars, identify how the movement of these celestial objects can be observed, described, and predicted.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-ESS1-1 Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.

1-ESS1-2 Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.

SERIES My Eco-Friendly Self

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

Can plants and animals change their environments? Build models to discover how animals like beavers do just that. But it’s not just beavers making changes. Did you know we can also change our environment? Explore how our choices can positively, and sometimes negatively, affect our environment and the animals that inhabit it. Learn how to make more ecofriendly choices.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-ESS2-2 Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.

K-ESS3-3 Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/ or other living things in the local environment.

K-2-ETS1-1 Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

SERIES Our Big Blue Marble

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Planet Earth is extraordinary! Explore the diverse landforms and bodies of water that make up our planet’s surface. Identify where water can be found, differentiate between types of landforms as you hunt for treasure, and create a model of your own island.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-ESS2-2 Develop a model to represent the shapes and kinds of land and bodies of water in an area. 2-ESS2-3 Obtain information to identify where water is found on earth and that it can be solid or liquid.

SERIES Weather, Weather, Everywhere

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Young Learner Series

At LSC | At Your School

What makes up the weather we see outside every day? Through a variety of handson programs, learn the components of weather and explore tools meteorologists use to describe, record, and notice patterns over time.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-ESS2-1 Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.

Leo the Landform Llama

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop Online

Join Leo the Landform Llama on a treasure-hunting adventure! Journey across different landforms, observing the characteristics of each. Along the way, use these characteristics to differentiate the various high and low landforms and answer questions to collect clues and find hidden treasure.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

2-ESS2-2 Develop a model to represent the shapes and kinds of land and bodies of water in an area.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.2.1 Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 2 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups. Approaches to Learning Engagement

One World, One Sky

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

At LSC

Join Big Bird and Elmo as they explore shapes in the sky and even go on a trip to the moon!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-ESS1-1 Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.1.8 With guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

30-45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Explore causes of our weather using Science On a Sphere. See how Earth’s weather changes from place to place and season to season.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-ESS2-1 Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.

2 ESS2-3 Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.

Connection to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics.

Sun, Moon, and Stars

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Join a tour of the sky for our youngest astronomers! Explore the sun, moon, and stars and discover their patterns, including sunrise and sunset locations, moon phases, and how constellation visibility varies with Earth’s position from season to season.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

1-ESS1-1 Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.

1-ESS1-2 Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.

1-PS4-2. Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that objects can be seen only when illuminated.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.1.8 With guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY, AND APPLICATION OF SCIENCE

NEW SERIES Coding with Kubo

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

At LSC | At Your School

Work with our very special robot, Kubo, to get an introduction to the basics of coding. From understanding coding as a language

and building functions to creating loops and solving puzzles, you’ll have a blast coding with Kubo.

Alignment to NJSLS - Algorithms & Programming

8.1.2.AP.1 Model daily processes by creating and following algorithms to complete tasks.

8.1.2.AP.3 Create programs with sequences and simple loops to accomplish tasks.

8.1.2.AP.4 Break down a task into a sequence of steps.

Nothing but Net!

30-45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Shoot “baskets” like a pro! Design and engineer a catapult to push and pull your way toward this goal. Then, analyze, compare, and test a friend’s design. There is always more than one possible solution to a problem.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

K-2-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.2.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics. MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically.

Approaches to Learning Persistence, Evaluating and Modifying Plans, Problem-Solving

GRADES 3 - 5

According to the National Research Council, students in grades 3 - 5 engage in a wide variety of scientific practices, including: posing questions, making predictions, designing and conducting investigations, representing and interpreting data, designing models, and making arguments that support conclusions. They can now engage in more complicated forms of measuring and graphical representations. LSC’s programs for grades 3 - 5 introduce simple models that help explain observable scientific phenomena as they directly relate to the NJSLS - Science.

Adaptation Exploration

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC | At Your School (seasonal: May-June)

Would a polar bear survive in the middle of the Sahara Desert? Explore animal adaptations up close with live animal interactions. Reveal how their adaptations make them uniquely able to find food, protect themselves, or find a mate.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.

3-LS3-2 Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment.

Disease Transmission

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online

We are influenced every day by the microbes around us, especially viruses. Take on the role of epidemiologists and use online simulations to investigate the transmission of viruses. Make predictions and manipulate variables to speed or slow the rate of infection.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-LS2-1 Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.

4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.

4-LS1-2 Use a model to describe that animals receive different types of information through their senses, process the information in their brain, and respond to the information in different ways.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

RI.3.3 Describe the relationship between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect.

SL.4.5 Add audio recordings and visual displays to presentations when appropriate to enhance the development of main ideas or themes.

W.4.1 Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.

RI.5.9 Integrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.4 Model with mathematics.

Ecology through Game Design

45 - 60 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Explore ecosystems, food chains, and more in a whole new way. Build and play games using the Scratch platform to investigate concepts in ecology.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

5-LS2-1 Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.5.ITH.3 Analyze the effectiveness of a new product or system and identify the positive and/or negative consequences resulting from its use.

8.2.5.NT.3 Redesign an existing product for a different purpose in a collaborative team. 8.2.5.NT.4 Identify how improvement in the understanding of materials science impacts technologies.

Connections to NJSLS – English Language Arts RI.5.7 Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently. (5-LS2-1) Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. (5-LS2-1) MP.4 Model with mathematics. (5-LS2-1)

Ecosystem Survival

45-60 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School Step into the shoes of a field biologist to study the Hudson River watershed. Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected living and nonliving factors that make up an ecosystem. Construct a food web to model how energy from the sun moves through the ecosystem.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

5-LS2-1 Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment. 5-PS3-1 Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.5.7 Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to

locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently. (5-LS2-1)

Owl Pellet Dissection

45-60 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Explore the diet of our favorite raptors by dissecting the undigested remains of their prey. Dissect an owl pellet and identify what the owl consumed. Investigate animal adaptations and begin to make sense of food webs.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.3.4 Report on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking clearly at an understandable pace.

Swinging into the Past 45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Observe fossils up close. Determine their makeup, draw conclusions about them, and organize them by the geologic time periods when different species lived.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 3-LS4-1 Analyze and interpret data from fossils to provide evidence of the organisms and the environments in which they lived long ago. Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.3.3 Describe the relationship between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect.

W.3.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

All About Mars

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online

In this program, students will travel to Mars and explore the Red Planet as NASA sees it.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-2 Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.

4-ESS1-1 Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.

5-PS1-3 Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

W.4.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic. (4-ESS1-1)

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

4-PS3-1 Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics 4-5.MD.A Convert like measurement units within a given measurement system. 3-5.MD.B Represent and interpret data

Black Holes

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the nature of black holes, which are among the most mysterious objects in the universe. How do we know they exist?

Where do they come from? What would it be like to get close to a black hole?

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 3-PS2-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object. 4-PS3-1 Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object. 5-PS1-1 Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen. Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic. W.4.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Chemistry of Candy

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

electricity and magnetism.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-3 Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.

5-PS1-1 Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.

It’s Slimy Time

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Investigate chemical and physical changes by making your own slime. Get messy, have fun exploring its properties, and then use what you learn to engineer and create your ultimate slime.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

5-PS1-4 Conduct an investigation to determine whether the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances.

3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Matter Matters

60-75 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

Explore the basis of chemical changes by engaging in hands-on experiments to identify unknown substances by their properties. Investigate such concepts as hardness, chemical change, solubility, and others.

Balls and Tracks

45-60 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

What forces help ski jumpers become champions? Using marbles and ramps, this hands-on program introduces the fundamental principles of gravitational forces and projectile motion. Investigate the path that a launched projectile takes, discover the patterns of this motion, and use data to predict the distance of a final launch!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-2 Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.

What are some properties of your favorite treats? Sweet? Salty? Sour? Experiment with some sweet delights to observe physical and chemical changes.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

5-PS1-3 Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties. Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Electricity and Magnetism 45 minutes Laboratory Workshop

At LSC | At Your School

Starting with the phenomenon of an electromagnet, conduct several handson experiments to understand the relationship between the two forces of

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

5-PS1-3. Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties.

Science Circus

45-60 Minutes

Stage Show

Online | At Your School

It’s our most popular show! Explore the positives and negatives of static electricity, the immense pressure of air, the states of matter, and the subzero temperatures of liquid nitrogen. See more than a dozen thrilling experiments bring the concepts of energy and matter to life!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-3 Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic

interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.

5-PS1-1 Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.3.3 Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.

NEW Wonders from the Webb Telescope and Beyond

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the biggest space and astronomy stories of the year. See magnificent images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope and learn about the insight they offer and the questions they spark. Discover the dynamics of returning to the moon with Artemis.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.

4-PS3-1 Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.

5-PS1-1 Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

W.4.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Wonders of the Night Sky

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Use the current night sky to explore Earth and Space Science concepts. Topics relate to objects visible in the sky on the date of your program, including seasonal constellations and planets, exciting deep-sky objects, and breaking astronomical news.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-PS2-2 Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.

4-PS4-2 Develop a model to describe that light reflecting from objects and entering the eye allows objects to be seen.

5-ESS1-1 Support an argument that differences in the apparent brightness of the sun compared to other stars is due to their relative distances from Earth.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

W.5.1 Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Are We There Yet?

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Explore observations of the sun, planets, and stars to discover that objects in the universe are located at large distances from Earth and exhibit predictable cyclic patterns. See how large objects can appear very small when they are located far from Earth. Discover that the sun is a star that appears larger and brighter than other stars because it is close.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 5-ESS1-1 Support an argument that differences in the apparent brightness of the sun compared to other stars is due to their relative distances from Earth.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.5.7 Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Climate Change

30-45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the causes and impacts of climate change using Science On a Sphere, the digital globe developed by NOAA to bring Earth’s processes vividly alive. Collaborate to brainstorm creative solutions to address the vital issue of climate change.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 3-ESS2-1 Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season. 3-ESS2-2 Obtain and combine information to describe climates in different regions of the world.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.3.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from print and digital sources;

take brief notes on sources and sort evidence into provided categories.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Cycles of the Seasons

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Observe the repeating pattern of the seasons and learn how Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun combine to change the length of day and night over the course of a year. See how Earth’s motion around the sun changes the stars visible from season to season.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 5-ESS1-2 Represent data in graphical displays to reveal patterns of daily changes in length and direction of shadows, day and night, and the seasonal appearance of some stars in the night sky.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics: MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Filter the Future

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

How does tap water become so clean and clear? Conduct a variety of tests to determine if a water sample is safe for human consumption. Then generate a solution to make a water sample as clean and clear as the water from your home faucets.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

4-ESS3-2 Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.

Introduction to Spheres

30-45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Science On a Sphere brings the nature of Earth Systems Science vividly to life. Explore the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere and how these spheres interact with one another.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

4-ESS2-2 Analyze and interpret data from maps to describe patterns of Earth’s features.

5-ESS2-1 Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

RI.5.7 Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Natural Disasters

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop Online

Discover the mechanisms of volcanoes and earthquakes and explore the ways scientists use models to prepare for future catastrophic events. Create your own tectonic plate model and investigate ways to minimize damage.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

4-ESS3-2 Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.

5-ESS2-1 Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Weather vs. Climate

30-45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Watch Earth data sets come alive on Science On a Sphere. Explore climate changes over time and how the shortterm weather changes are different from the long-term changes of climate.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-ESS2-1 Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.

3-ESS2-2 Obtain and combine information to describe climates in different regions of the world.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

W.3.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from print and digital sources; take brief notes on sources and sort evidence into provided categories.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY, AND APPLICATION OF SCIENCE

Coding Virtual Rovers

45 Minutes

Tech & Studio Design Workshop

Online | At LSC

Want to see your code come to life? Using a user-friendly, web-based computer science coding program, create a code to navigate a virtual rover through a maze. Your challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to try to make your code as efficient as it is effective.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved. 3-PS2-2 Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion. Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science & Design Thinking 8.1.5.AP.4: Break down problems into smaller, manageable sub-problems to facilitate program development 8.1.5.DA.5 Propose cause and effect relationships, predict outcomes, or communicate

ideas using data.

8.1.5.AP.1: Compare and refine multiple algorithms for the same task and determine which is the most appropriate.

8.1.5.AP.3: Create programs that include sequences, events, loops, and conditionals.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Digital Animation Series

Three to Five 45-Minute Sessions

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Animation is a series of images, each slightly different from the last, shown in sequence. Artists and animators can take a vision and bring it to life. In this series, learn the core principles of animation, use Pixilart software tools, and apply your new animation skills to fix design errors and improve a product.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.5.DA.3: Organize and present collected data visually to communicate insights gained from different views of the data.

8.2.5.ED.3 Follow step-by-step directions to assemble a product or solve a problem, using appropriate tools to accomplish the task.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.5.7 - Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Digital Art Studio

Now available in Spanish.

45-60 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Explore color theory, lighting, and animation to create digital art or animation. We’ll use an intuitive online

S.T.E.A.M. toolset that’s limited only by your imagination.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.5.DA.3: Organize and present collected data visually to communicate insights gained from different views of the data.

8.2.5.ED.3: Follow step-by-step directions to assemble a product or solve a problem, using appropriate tools to accomplish the task.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.5.7 Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

NEW Game Design Series

Five 45-Minute Sessions

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Become a game designer! In this series, students will design games and custom characters with animation and behaviors using Scratch. The only limitation is your creativity!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.5.AP.6 Develop programs using an iterative process, implement the program design, and test the program to ensure it works as intended.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.5.9 Integrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.

W.5.8 Recall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; summarize or paraphrase information in notes and finished work, and provide a list of sources.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically.

Grow Green

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Why is it so much hotter in a city than in the country in the summertime? Can we use plants to cool down? Learn about the urban heat island effect as you complete an engineering design challenge to create your very own model green roof!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost 3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts W.4.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

Intro to 3D Design with Tinkercad

45-60 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop

Online | At LSC

Learn the basics of 3D design using the open-source software Tinkercad to design and create a custom desk name plate. Each student will need a computer and a Tinkercad account.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.4 - Model with mathematics. Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.2.5.ITH.2 Evaluate how well a new tool has met its intended purpose and identify any shortcomings it might have. 8.2.5.ED.2: Collaborate with peers to collect information, brainstorm to solve a problem, and evaluate all possible solutions to provide the best results with supporting sketches or models.

Intro to Game Design 45-60 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Design custom characters, animations, and behaviors for video games. Use the platform Scratch to build a foundation for computational thinking, an essential skill in today’s tech-driven world.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science 3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.1.5.AP.3: Create programs that include sequences, events, loops, and conditionals. 8.1.5.AP.6: Develop programs using an iterative

process, implement the program design, and test the program to ensure it works as intended.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics.

NEW Me and My A.I. Machine

Five 45-Minute Sessions

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

How do machines know what they know? In this five-part series, students will have opportunities to scaffold their understanding of how artificially intelligent machines are developed. They will play with smart paper, explore adaptability, use open source applications, and program an artificial intelligent virtual hexbug.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5-ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.5.AP.4 Break down problems into smaller, manageable sub-problems to facilitate program development.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RI.5.9 Integrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically.

Simple Machines: Catapult

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Discover how simple machines are used to make work easier. Learn the various types of simple machines and how they can be combined to build a complex machine like a catapult.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

3-5 ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified

Somany choices!

GRADES 6 - 8

According to the National Research Council, students from grades 6 - 8 transition to more abstract and detailed models and explanations of scientific phenomena. They learn to ask questions based on phenomena, determine relationships within models, and use mathematical representations and graphical displays of data to support scientific reasoning. LSC’s programs for grades 6 - 8 have students working more closely with authentic data sets to create models of the scientific phenomena being observed.

LIFE SCIENCE

Biodiversity

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Become a naturalist and go into the field virtually to observe the behavior of a unique species discovered by our scientists. Construct an explanation based on evidence, experimentation, and simulations that describe how variations of traits increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS4-4 Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment.

BRAAINS! You and the Zombie

45-60 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Join the Zombie Response Team as research scientists to help determine how a mutated strain of a zombie virus is altering zombie behavior. Gain a better understanding of how the brain works as you identify and construct scientific explanations for observed differences in behavior and capabilities of zombies and humans.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-3 Use argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells. Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

RST.6-8.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

WHST.6-8.9 Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Cow Eye Dissection

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Follow light on its journey through the eye. Observe (online) or perform (at LSC or at your school) cow eye dissections and gain a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the human eye.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-8 Gather and synthesize information that sensory receptors respond to stimuli by sending messages to the brain for immediate behavior or storage as memories.

MS-LS4-2 Apply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms to infer evolutionary relationships.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.8.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Disease Transmission

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop Online

We are influenced every day by the microbes around us, especially viruses. Take on the role of epidemiologists and use online simulations to investigate the growth and transmission of viruses. Make predictions and manipulate variables to determine what factors speed or slow the rate of infection.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-LS2-4 Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.9 Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.8.DA.5 Test, analyze, and refine computational models.

Live From Cardiac Surgery

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

At LSC Watch bypass or valve replacement surgery performed at Morristown Medical Center and interact with the surgical team. The program focuses on surgical procedure, risk factors for coronary artery disease, and careers in medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-LS1-3 Use argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Live From Kidney Transplant

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

Online | At LSC

Witness the gift of life shared between two people as the surgical team removes a donor kidney, prepares it for transplantation, takes it to an adjacent operating room, and sews it into a recipient. Experience a profound sense of wonder and elation when the donated kidney is attached to the patient’s blood supply and begins to function.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-3 Use argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells. MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Live From Neurosurgery

3 hours

Live From Surgery Program

Online | At LSC

Watch as delicate neurosurgery is performed to extract tumors from the brain or pituitary glands, repair spinal column damage, implant brain pacemakers to provide deep electrical stimulation to Parkinson’s patients, or

deflate dangerously ballooning aneurysms. Some operations even include removing the top of the skull, fully exposing the cranium.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-PS1-3 Gather and make sense of information to describe that synthetic materials come from natural resources and impact society.

MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.

Live From Robotic Surgery

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

Online | At LSC

Learn about the engineering and design of high-end medical equipment, like the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, and its application in partially removing a tumor from a kidney or related urological procedure. See a live surgery and speak to the surgical team as they operate using a robot.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-3 Use argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells.

MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

NEW Live From Surgery Plus: Microbes Rule! Exhibition Tour

45 Minutes

Live From Surgery Program

Online

Take a virtual tour through Microbes

Rule! Step inside a giant microscope lens and discover these organisms in a whole new way. Explore how the overwhelming majority of microbes are beneficial to us and essential to our survival through stunning art and groundbreaking technology.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-5. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics 6.SP.B.4 Summarize numerical data sets in relation to their context.

Meet the Surgeon: Heart Transplant

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Join Margarita T. Camacho, MD, as she discusses one of her prerecorded heart transplant surgeries. Learn about risk factors for heart disease, mechanical hearts and assistive devices, and new cardiac transplant technologies and procedures. Gain a better understanding of the organ donation process and analyze data from past research on mechanical devices.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-3 Use arguments supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells. MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content. WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Meet the Surgeon: Neonatal

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Join Dr. Yi-horng Lee as he discusses prerecorded surgeries on gastric tube placement (G-Tube). During the session, Dr. Lee will speak about how surgery on a small infant and child differ from surgery on an adult, teach about caloric needs and the developing child, and how digestion and the digestive system works. Explore a career path in neonatology and pediatric medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function

MS-LS1-8 Gather and synthesize information that sensory receptors respond to stimuli by sending messages to the brain for immediate behavior or storage as memories.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.7 Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.

Meet the Surgeon: Pediatric Orthopedics

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Join Dr. Samara Friedman as she discusses one of her prerecorded surgeries: the treatment of bone fractures, surgery of the knee, or pinning of the arm. Hear Dr. Friedman speak about her career path and other kinds of careers in medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-LS1-3 Use arguments supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells.

MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Mystery at the Hotel Philadelphia

60-75 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Conduct an investigation, collect and analyze evidence to identify a pathogen, and solve a deadly mystery based on a real-world disease outbreak.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-LS1-5 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RST.6-8.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to the precise details of explanations or descriptions.

WHST.6-8.9 Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics 6.SP.A.2 Understand that a set of data collected to answer a statistical question has a distribution which can be described by its center, spread, and overall shape.

6.SP.B.4 Summarize numerical data sets in relation to their context.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

All About Reactions

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

At LSC | At Your School

Conduct an inquiry-based set of experiments using chemical reactions to analyze and interpret data on the properties of unknown substances.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.

NEW Car Crashes: Impact

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC | At Your School SCREEEECH! Crash! How are engineers making cars safer? Investigate Newton’s Laws of Motion and understand the physics behind some of the most commonly used vehicle safety features using Vernier equipment and toy cars.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-PS2-1. Apply Newton’s Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.SP.A.1 Construct and interpret scatter plots for bivariate measurement data to investigate patterns of association between two quantities. Describe patterns such as clustering, outliers, positive or negative association, linear association, and nonlinear association.

experiments to track energy flow in a series of transformations that produce useful actions and losses.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-PS3-5 Construct, use, and present arguments to support the claim that when the kinetic energy of an object changes, energy is transferred to or from the object.

Forensic Science: Gotham Detective

60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Conduct an investigation and analyze evidence to build a case against one of the city’s notorious criminal masterminds before it’s too late.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-PS1-2 Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.

Chemistry Matters

45 Minutes Laboratory Workshop Online

From alchemy to chemistry, what are elements, and how do they interact to create new substances? Observe what happens when substances are combined and gather evidence to determine whether a reaction has occurred.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-PS1-2 Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.

MS-PS1-5 Develop and use a model to describe how the total number of atoms does not change in a chemical reaction and thus mass is conserved.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.EE.A.3 Apply the properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.EE.A.4 Identify when two expressions are equivalent.

Energy: Use It and Lose It 45-60 Minutes Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

Energy comes in many forms. We use it and lose it every day. Through handson stations, use models and complete

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RST.6-8.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to the precise details of explanations or descriptions.

Moving Molecules

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Investigate how thermal energy influences particle motion. Experiment with hot and cold substances to determine how molecule movement changes depending on the temperature.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-PS1-4 Develop a model that predicts and describes changes in particle motion, temperature, and state of a pure substance when thermal energy is added or removed.

Science Circus

45-60 Minutes Stage Show

Online | At Your School

It’s our most popular show! Explore the positives and negatives of static electricity, the immense pressure of air, the states of matter, and the subzero temperatures of liquid nitrogen. See more than a dozen thrilling experiments bring the concepts of energy and matter to life!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-PS1-4 Develop a model that predicts and describes changes in particle motion, temperature, and state of a pure substance when thermal energy is added or removed.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics 6.NS.C.5 Understand that positive and negative numbers are used together to describe quantities having opposite directions or values (e.g., temperature above/below zero, elevation above/ below sea level, credits/debits, positive/negative electric charge); use positive and negative numbers to represent quantities in real-world contexts, explaining the meaning of 0 in each situation.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

All About Mars

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program Online

Explore the Red Planet, from an orange dot in the sky to the striking world we’ve seen through the eyes of our orbiters, landers, and rovers.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ESS1-3 Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system. MS-PS2-4 Construct and present arguments using evidence to support the claim that gravitational interactions are attractive and depend on the masses of interacting objects.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.1 Write arguments focused on disciplinespecific content.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Asteroids: Discovery, Danger & Dinosaurs

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Investigate past asteroid impacts on Earth, from the extinction of the dinosaurs to a 2013 explosion over Russia, and look at what NASA is doing to track, study, and potentially divert other near-Earth asteroids. Then, explore how an asteroid led to the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ESS1-3 Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.

MS-ESS3-2

Analyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.

MS-ESS1-4 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth’s 4.6-billionyear-old history.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. 6.RP.A.1 Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.

5-ESS2-1 Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.

MS-ESS2-5. Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses results in changes in weather conditions.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

RI.5.7 Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Cycles of the Seasons

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Observe the repeating pattern of the seasons and learn how Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun combine to change the length of day and night over the course of a year. See how Earth’s motion around the sun changes the stars visible from season to season.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS1-1 Develop and use a model of the Earthsun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.

Phases and Eclipses

Black Holes

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the nature of black holes, which are among the most mysterious objects in the universe. How do we know they exist? Where do they come from? What would it be like to get close to a black hole?

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS1-2 Develop and use a model to describe the role of gravity in the motions within galaxies and the solar system.

Climate Change

45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the causes and impacts of climate change using Science On a Sphere, the digital globe developed by NOAA to bring Earth’s processes vividly alive. Collaborate to brainstorm creative solutions to address the vital issue of climate change.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Observe the changes in the moon’s phases as a month goes by and develop a conceptual model of their cyclic patterns, as well as of eclipses of the sun and moon. Explore these astronomical phenomena as seen from both Earth and outer space.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS1-1 Develop and use a model of the Earthsun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.

Wonders of the Night Sky

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Use the current night sky to explore Earth and Space Science concepts. Topics relate to objects visible in the sky on the date of your program and include seasonal constellations and planets, exciting deep-sky objects, and breaking astronomical news.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS1-3 Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

6.RP.A.1 Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.

ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY, AND APPLICATION TO SCIENCE

Arduino Circuits

45-60 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Learn about circuitry and how to code for the microcontroller Arduino. This program is great for beginners but flexible enough to provide additional challenges for more knowledgeable students.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

NEW Wonders from the Webb Telescope and Beyond

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Explore the biggest space and astronomy stories of the year. See magnificent images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope and learn about the insight they offer and the questions they spark. Discover the dynamics of returning to the moon with Artemis.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS1-3 Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.6-8.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.2.8.ED.1 Evaluate the function, value, and aesthetics of a technological product or system, from the perspective of the user and the producer.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. Connections to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.18.CS.4 Systematically apply troubleshooting strategies to identify and resolve hardware and software problems in computing systems. 8.1.8.AP.2 Create clearly named variables that represent different data types and perform operations on their values.

NEW Coding Sphero

45 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

At LSC

Inspire the innovators of the future with Sphero. Team up with a partner and work together to develop a plan to navigate your Sphero Bolt through a maze in the least amount of time.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ETS1-2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RST.6-8.9 Compare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text on the same topic.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

7.EE.3 Solve multi-step real-life and mathematical problems posed with positive and negative rational numbers in any form (whole numbers, fractions, and decimals), using tools strategically.

Apply properties of operations to calculate with numbers in any form; convert between forms as appropriate; and assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies.

NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.8.AP.4: Decompose problems and subproblems into parts to facilitate the design, implementation, and review of programs.

Coding Virtual Rovers

45 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Using a user-friendly, web-based computer science coding program, create a code to navigate a virtual rover through a maze. Your challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to try to make your code as efficient as it is effective.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ETS1-2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem. Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. Connections to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.1.8.AP.3: Design and iteratively develop programs that combine control structures, including nested loops and compound conditionals.

8.1.8.AP.2: Create clearly named variables that represent different data types and perform operations on their values.

Design Thinking with Tinkercad

60-75 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop

Online | At LSC

Engage in the online digital creation of 3D models and learn how to create pieces designed for a community with needs. At LSC, our Monoprice Mini Select printers print a prototype of your model that’s yours to keep.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ED.1 Evaluate the function, value, and aesthetics of a technological product or system, from the perspective of the user and the producer.

8.1.8.ED.3 Develop a proposal for a solution to a real-world problem that includes a model (e.g., physical prototype, graphical/technical sketch).

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics: MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Digital Animation Series

Three to Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Animation is a series of images, each slightly different from the last, shown in sequence. Artists and animators can take a vision and bring it to life. In this series, learn the core principles of animation, use Pixilart software tools, and apply your new animation skills to fix design errors and improve a product.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science

8.2.8.ED.3 Develop a proposal for a solution to a real-world problem that includes a model (e.g., physical prototype, graphical/technical sketch).

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Digital Art Studio

Now available in Spanish.

45-60 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Explore color theory, lighting, and animation to create digital art or animation. We’ll use an intuitive online S.T.E.A.M. toolset that’s limited only by your imagination.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ED.1 Evaluate the function, value, and aesthetics of a technological product or system, from the perspective of the user and the producer. Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

NEW Game Design Series

Five Sessions; Each 45 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Become a game designer! In this series, students will design games and custom characters with animation and behaviors using Scratch. The only limitation is your creativity!

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.8.AP.3 Design and iteratively develop programs that combine control structures, including nested loops and compound conditionals.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.8.5 Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Intro to 3D Design with Tinkercad

45-60 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop Online | At LSC Engage in the digital creation of 3D models and learn how to create intricate pieces designed for 3D printing using Autodesk Tinkercad.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.2.8.ED.1 Evaluate the function, value, and aesthetics of a technological product or system, from the perspective of the user and the producer. Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.8.5 Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Intro to Game Design 45-60 Minutes Tech & Design Studio Workshop Online | At LSC Design custom characters, animations, and behaviors for video games. Use the platform Scratch to build a foundation for computational thinking, an essential skill in today’s tech-driven world.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ETS1-2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ED.1 Evaluate the function, value, and aesthetics of a technological product or system, from the perspective of the user and the producer.

8.2.8.ED.4 Investigate a malfunctioning system, identify its impact, and explain the step-by-step process used to troubleshoot, evaluate, and test options to repair the product in a collaborative team.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

7.EE.3 Solve multi-step real-life and mathematical problems posed with positive and negative rational numbers in any form (whole numbers, fractions, and decimals), using tools strategically. Apply properties of operations to calculate with numbers in any form; convert between forms as appropriate; and assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies.

NEW MakerLab Plus: SURE House Exhibition Tour 45 Minutes MakerLab Workshop Online

It’s the SUstainable + REsilient SURE House. Take a virtual tour of this award-winning, storm-resistant, energy-efficient beach house, designed by Stevens Institute of Technology students. Discover how it uses 90% less energy than a traditional home and serves as a hub for emergency power to other buildings in the aftermath of a storm.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

6.RP.A.1 Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.

GRADES 9 - 12

While gaining proficiency with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Science, students at the high school level are expected to explore major global issues at the interface of science, technology, society, and the environment; to engage in analytical and strategic thinking that prior training and increased maturity make possible. As at prior levels, these capabilities can be thought of in three stages: defining the problem, developing possible solutions, and improving designs. LSC’s programs for high school students allow them to successfully explore these stages.

LIFE SCIENCE

Animal Behavior

60-75 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

What is behavior? Can we influence it? What would be the benefits of influencing behavior? Observe our cotton-top tamarin monkeys and your fellow humans as you learn how to decipher and record animal behaviors. Discover how to influence behavior as you design an experimental habitat for a live Madagascar hissing cockroach! How do we affect behavior change in animals, including humans?

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS2-8 Evaluate the evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species changes to survive and reproduce.

Disease Transmission

45 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop Online

We are influenced every day by the microbes around us, especially viruses. Take on the role of an epidemiologist and use online simulations to investigate the growth and transmission of viruses. Make predictions and manipulate variables to determine what factors speed or slow the rate of infection.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales. Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics. HSN.Q.A.1 Use units as a way to understand problems and to guide the solution of multistep problems; choose and interpret units consistently in formulas; choose and interpret the scale and the origin in graphs and data displays.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.12.DA.6 Create and refine computational models to better represent the relationships among different elements of data collected from a phenomenon or process.

Forensic Science: Gotham Detective

60-75 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Conduct an investigation and analyze evidence to build a case against one of the city’s notorious criminal masterminds before it’s too late. Help reconstruct the crime to determine what could have happened to the victim based on the evidence you’ve gathered.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Live From Cardiac Surgery

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

At LSC

Students watch bypass or valve replacement surgery performed at Morristown Medical Center. The program focuses on surgical procedure, risk factors for coronary artery disease, and careers in medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms. HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Live From Kidney Transplant

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

Online | At LSC

Witness the gift of life shared between two people as a surgical team removes a donor kidney, prepares it for transplantation, takes it to an adjacent operating room, and sews it into a recipient. Experience a profound sense of wonder and elation when the donated kidney is attached to the patient’s blood supply and begins to function.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Live From Neurosurgery

3 hours

Online | At LSC

Watch as delicate neurosurgery is performed to extract tumors from the brain or pituitary glands, repair spinal column damage, implant brain pacemakers to provide deep electrical stimulation to Parkinson’s patients, or deflate dangerously ballooning aneurysms. Some operations even include removing the top of the skull, fully exposing the cranium.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Live From Surgery Plus: Bacteria Detective

60 Minutes

Live From Surgery

Online | At LSC

They’re microscopic, mighty, and play a key role in life all over our planet. Learn to distinguish groups of bacteria using digital materials to simulate gram-staining techniques and identify specimens.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS.LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

Alignment to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.11-12.5 Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.

Meet the Surgeon: Heart Transplant

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Live From Robotic Surgery

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery

Online | At LSC

Learn about the engineering and design of high-end medical equipment, such as the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, and its application in partially removing a tumor from a kidney or related urological procedure. See a live surgery and speak to the surgical team members as they operate using a robot.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Join Margarita T. Camacho, MD, as she discusses one of her prerecorded heart transplant surgeries. Learn about risk factors for heart disease, mechanical hearts and assistive devices, and new cardiac transplant technologies and procedures. Gain a better understanding of the organ donation process and analyze data from past research on mechanical devices.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Meet the Surgeon: Neonatal

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Join Dr. Yi-horng Lee as he discusses prerecorded surgeries on gastric tube placement (G-Tube). During the session, Dr. Lee will speak about how surgery on a small infant and child differ from surgery on an adult, teach about caloric needs and the developing child, and how digestion and the digestive system works. Explore a career path in neonatology and pediatric medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Meet the Surgeon: Pediatric Orthopedics

2.5 hours

Live From Surgery: Meet the Surgeon Online | At LSC

Join Dr. Samara Friedman as she discusses prerecorded surgeries: the treatment of bone fractures, surgery of the knee, or pinning of the arm. Hear Dr. Friedman speak about her career path and other kinds of careers in medicine.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.

HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Now Isee it.

Mystery at the Hotel Philadelphia

60-75 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

Online | At LSC

Conduct an investigation, collect and analyze evidence to identify a pathogen, and solve a deadly mystery based on a real-world disease outbreak.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-LS1-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

WHST.9-12.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

Chemical Investigations

60-75 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

Why is the periodic table that strange shape? Melt, dissolve, and electrify chemicals as you learn how to predict an element’s properties by noting its place on the periodic table.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-PS1-1 Use the periodic table as a model to predict the relative properties of elements based on the patterns of electrons in the outermost energy level of atoms.

Physics of Car Crashes

45-60 Minutes

Laboratory Workshop

At LSC

Explore the physics of car crashes and how cars are engineered to keep us safe. Use Vernier dynamics carts and tracks to investigate various collisions (elastic and inelastic), force, and impact time.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-PS2-1. Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

All About Stars

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program Online

Develop a conceptual model of the formation of the universe and the life cycle of a star. Use evidence from stellar light spectra, the motion of distant galaxies, the composition of matter in the universe, nuclear fusion, and the production of elements in stars to develop this model.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ESS1-1 Develop a model based on evidence to illustrate the life span of the sun and the role of nuclear fusion in the sun’s core to release energy that eventually reaches Earth in the form of radiation.

HS-ESS1-2 Construct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter in the universe. HS-ESS1-3 Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.11-12.4 Present information, findings and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically. The content, organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. HSN-Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.

Black Holes

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the nature of black holes, which are among the most mysterious objects in the universe. How do we know they exist? Where do they come from? What would it be like to get close to a black hole?

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ESS1-3 Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Climate Change

45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the causes and impacts of climate change using Science On a Sphere, the digital globe developed by NOAA to bring Earth’s processes vividly alive. Collaborate to brainstorm creative solutions to address the vital issue of climate change.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ESS2-4. Use a model to describe how variations in the flow of energy into and out of Earth’s systems result in changes in climate.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

The Solar System 30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Tour all of the planets and many of the moons in the solar system, using the latest data from NASA.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ESS1-1 Develop a model based on evidence to illustrate the life span of the sun and the role of nuclear fusion in the sun’s core to release energy that eventually reaches Earth in the form of radiation.

HS-ESS1-3 Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.11-12.4 Present information, findings and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically. The content, organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. HSN-Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.

Violent Planet

30-45 Minutes

Science On a Sphere Program

Online | At LSC

Explore the often violent forces that have shaped our planet, from currently active volcanoes and earthquakes to Earth’s distant past, using Science On a Sphere

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ESS2-1 Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form

continental and ocean-floor features.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.11-12.5 Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. HSN-Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.

NEW Wonders from the Webb Telescope and Beyond

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC | At Your School

Explore the biggest space and astronomy stories of the year. See magnificent images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope and learn about the insight they offer and the questions they spark. Discover the dynamics of returning to the moon with Artemis.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ESS1-3 Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts SL.11-12.4 Present information, findings and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically. The content, organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

Wonders of the Night Sky

30-45 Minutes

Planetarium Program

Online | At LSC

Use the current night sky to explore Earth and Space Science concepts. Topics relate to objects visible in the sky on the date of your program and include seasonal constellations and planets, exciting deep-sky objects, and breaking astronomical news.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ESS1-1 Develop a model based on evidence to illustrate the life span of the sun and the role of nuclear fusion in the sun’s core to release energy that eventually reaches Earth in the form of radiation.

HS-ESS1-3 Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts

SL.11-12.4 Present information, findings and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically. The content, organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. HSN-Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.

ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY, AND APPLICATION OF SCIENCE

NEW Coding Sphero

45 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

At LSC

Inspire the innovators of the future with Sphero. Team up with a partner and work together to develop a plan to navigate your Sphero Bolt through a maze in the least amount of time.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ETS1-2 Design a solution to a complex realworld problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.4 Model with mathematics.

NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.12.AP.5: Decompose problems into smaller components through systematic analysis, using constructs such as procedures, modules, and/ or objects.

Coding Virtual Rovers

60-75 Minutes

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Create a code to navigate a virtual rover through a coral reef and clean up garbage using a user-friendly, web-based block coding program. Your challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to try to make your code as efficient as it is effective.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ETS1-4 Use a computer simulation to model the impact of proposed solutions to a complex real-world problem with numerous criteria and constraints on interactions within and between systems relevant to the problem.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.1.12.AP.1: Design algorithms to solve computational problems using a combination of original and existing algorithms.

Connections to NJSLS – Mathematics

MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics.

NEW Design Thinking with Tinkercad

60-75 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop

Online | At LSC

Engage in the online digital creation of 3D models and learn how to create pieces designed for a community’s needs. At LSC, our Monoprice Mini Select printers print a prototype of your model that’s yours to keep.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ETS1-2 Design a solution to a complex realworld problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics

MP.4 Model with mathematics.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.12.NT.2 Redesign an existing product to improve form or function.

Digital Animation Series

Three to Five, 45-60 Minute Sessions

Tech & Design Studio Workshop

Online | At LSC

Animation is a series of images, each slightly different from the last, shown in sequence. Artists and animators can take a vision and bring it to life. In this series, learn the core principles of animation, use Pixilart software tools, and apply your new animation skills to fix design errors and improve a product.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science

HS-ETS1-2 Design a solution to a complex realworld problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.12.ED.5 Evaluate the effectiveness of a product or system based on factors that are related to its requirements, specifications, and constraints (e.g., safety, reliability, economic considerations, quality control, environmental concerns, manufacturability, maintenance and

repair, ergonomics).

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.4 Model with mathematics.

Intro to 3D Design with Tinkercad

45-60 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop

Online | At LSC

Engage in the digital creation of 3D models and learn how to create intricate pieces designed for 3D printing using Autodesk Tinkercad.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ETS1-2 Design a solution to a complex realworld problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

Alignment to NJSLS - Computer Science and Design Thinking 8.2.12.NT.2 Redesign an existing product to improve form or function.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.4 Model with mathematics.

NEW MakerLab Plus: SURE House Exhibition Tour

45 Minutes

MakerLab Workshop Online

It’s the SUstainable + REsilient SURE House. Take a virtual tour of this awardwinning, storm-resistant, energyefficient beach house, designed by Stevens Institute of Technology students. Discover how it uses 90% less energy than a traditional home and serves as a hub for emergency power to other buildings in the aftermath of a storm.

Alignment to NJSLS - Science HS-ETS1-1 Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants.

Connections to NJSLS - English Language Arts RST.11-12.7 Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media (e.g., quantitative data, video, multimedia) in order to address a question or solve a problem.

Connections to NJSLS - Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

Teachers continue to face new challenges as the NJSLS-S continue to be implemented. With an increased emphasis on evidence-based learning, exploration of science phenomena, and scientific discourse, educators need professional development experiences that reflect these tenets of learning.

Liberty Science Center partners with schools and districts to offer highly interactive professional development programs that build teachers’ capacity around planning and implementing engaging and effective standards-based science instruction. Our programs can be delivered in person and online.

Teachers can also experience job-embedded professional development when they observe and learn from LSC STEM educators as they deliver programming in real-time with real students.

To learn more, contact Mary McDonald at mmcdonald@lsc.org or 201.253.1214.

Programs range from 60-90 minutes to full-day.

CLIMATE CHANGE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Climate Change: Classroom Connections

Experience interdisciplinary activities that address the science of climate change and highlight connections across content areas. Explore the climate change resources offered by the NJ Department of Education and brainstorm ways to leverage them in your grade K - 8 classroom. (leaf symbol)

Investigating Climate Change & Human Impact on Ecosystems

Engage in critical Science and Engineering Practices (e.g., Developing and Using Models, Asking Questions) while building content knowledge to support teaching climate change and human impact on ecosystems. Explore the resources offered by the NJ Department of Education for grades 6 - 12 as part of its Climate Change Initiative.

DEEP DIVE INTO THE NGSS WORKSHOPS

These workshops offer K - 12 teachers comprehensive training in unpacking the Next Generation Science Standards, also known as the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Science and New York State Science Learning Standards. Participants experience and reflect upon the standards-based shifts for classroom instruction.

Integrating the NGSS with Common Core ELA and Math Standards

Explore learning synergies between the NGSS (NJSJS-S), the Common Core ELA (NJSLS-ELA), and Common Core Math Standards (NJSLS-Math) for Grades K - 8. Engage in student-centered investigations, which illustrate Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information. Gain mastery in modifying existing science lessons to emphasize connections between these disciplines.

NGSS Overview: Teaching Science in Three Dimensions

This workshop introduces the Next Generation Science Standards, highlighting key shifts in content and practices that the new standards bring to classrooms. Educators will become familiar with teaching through the three dimensions of NGSS: Disciplinary Core Ideas, Science and Engineering Practices, and Crosscutting Concepts. Participate in hands-on activities that illustrate how the standards support inquiry. Discuss and revise activities to effectively support the standards and meet performance expectations.

Phenomena-Based Classrooms

Explore NGSS (NJSLS-S) phenomena designed to motivate students to figure out why something happens to build three-dimensional understanding. We will explore phenomena rooted in compelling real-world situations, including hands-on investigations and local exploration.

Science and Engineering Practices: Asking Questions and Planning Investigations

This workshop focuses on two Science and Engineering Practices: Asking Questions and Planning and Carrying Out Investigations. Engage in different questioning protocols and participate in investigations that highlight the synergy of these two practices. Reflect on the inquiry-based science investigations to modify existing science lessons.

Science and Engineering Practices: Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Investigate ideas through the Science Practice of Analyzing and Interpreting Data and the Crosscutting Concept of Patterns. Engage in hands-on activities and carry out investigations that highlight the importance of qualitative and quantitative data in science learning. Reflect on these investigations to plan modifications of current science lessons.

Science and Engineering Practices: Evidence-Based Explanations and Argumentation

Focus on two high-leverage Science Practices: Constructing Explanations and Engaging in Argument from Evidence. Conduct investigations that require collecting data and other evidence to form the foundation for constructing explanations and engaging in evidence-based science argumentation. Based on this learning, modify existing science lessons to be better aligned to the NGSS (NJSLS-S).

INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING WORKSHOPS

These workshops have a particular emphasis on educators participating in inquiry-based lessons and activities. Teachers will experience the effectiveness of inquiry as the basis of student learning while learning strategies that will increase inquiry activities in their classrooms.

OpenSciEd Science Curriculum Introduction and Overview

Discover the educational rationale and learning strategies that are the foundation of OpenSciEd, an NGSSbased science curriculum for grades 6 - 8 that now serves as the NJDOE’s Model Science Curriculum for Middle School. Experience sample phenomena, reflect on the importance of teacher and student roles, and gain a better understanding of three-dimensional learning and student sense-making at the core of OpenSciEd.

OpenSciEd Science Curriculum Launch (Multi-Day Series)

Engage in a multi-day professional learning series that focuses on the pedagogy and practices needed to successfully launch the OpenSciEd curriculum in grades 6 - 8. Gain a comprehensive understanding of OpenSciEd’s instructional model. Participate in anchoring phenomena activities, science sense-making, and discourse centered on scientific investigation. Reflect on the learning and instructional shifts necessary for student-centered science learning and teaching.

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING WORKSHOPS

These workshops will engage educators in lessons that encourage learners to build their problemsolving skills in technology and engineering. Teachers will learn effective strategies for increasing their students’ technological literacy and engaging more deeply in the NGSS (NJSJS-S) Engineering Practices.

Computational Thinking for STEM Educators

Explore the major competencies in computational thinking (i.e., pattern recognition, decomposition, abstraction, and algorithms), experience hands-on STEM activities that support those domains, and purposefully incorporate computational thinking into existing lessons.

Design Thinking for STEM Educators

Learn how to integrate science investigations, engineering, and design thinking as you explore how to develop students’ creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills. Engage in design challenges and discuss how to leverage design thinking to support national standards and 21st-century skills.

Engineering is Elementary Overview

Engineering is Elementary is a research-based elementary engineering curriculum that has proven engaging and effective in involving Grade K - 5 students in STEM units that focus on Engineering Practices. During this workshop, you will explore a sample curriculum unit designed to build proficiency in the NGSS-based Engineering Practices.

Contact Us

201.253.1214 or groups@LSC.org

Weekdays 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Weekends 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Sign Up for Our Free Educator Newsletter

Receive an e-newsletter of program updates, professional development news, and special event previews. Email groups@lsc.org to join.

VISIT THE SCIENCE CENTER

Transportation and Directions

Easily accessible by bus, car, light rail, and ferry. See LSC.org/visit.

Health and Safety

We care about your safety and comfort. We have an experienced safety and security staff, a building-wide Code Adam protocol for lost children, and a basic first-aid room.

LSC is ADA compliant and located just one mile from a topranked hospital. Be sure to review our health and safety protocols and rules before you visit: lsc.org/health.

Parking

Convenient, on-site parking is available. Cars are $7, buses $10.

Accessibility

Liberty Science Center is accessible to all guests. You may request wheelchairs at the Welcome Desk. Assistive listening devices for deaf and hard-of-hearing guests are available for the theaters and several other public areas.