The STATellite (February 2013) by The STATellite

Contents Calendar President’s Message

Volume 57, Number 1

February 2013

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Inside:

• Legislative Summary • Region 19 Mini-CAST • CAST 2013 • Science Teachers Day at the Capitol • Making Science Better • ...and much more! 1

The Official Newsletter of the Science Teachers Association of Texas

Contents

About Us

Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message

We are STAT, the Science Teachers Association of Texas.

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

STAT is committed to the enhancement of the teaching of science in Texas at all levels and in all science disciplines.

Legislative Summary

For STAT Position Statements, go to: http://www.statweb.org/positions

Science Magic Show

STAT is: o A statewide organization of elementary, middle level, and high school teachers, college educators, supervisors of science, and others dedicated to maintaining the highest levels of science and education in our schools. o A chapter of the National Science Teachers Association o Visit the NSTA site

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

STAT seeks to: o Serve as a unified voice for the science teachers of the state. o Keep science teachers and other members informed about current trends in science education. o Provide opportunities for members to examine techonology, curriculum, materials, and services. o Inform members of local, state and national meetings, conferences, seminars and workshops related to sciences. o Cooperate with other science oriented organizations and teacher associations in the promotion of teaching of science.

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better

History: STAT, Science Teachers Association of Texas, was formally organized in 1957 during the 4th Annual Conference for the Advancement of Science & Mathematics Teaching (CASMT). STAT membership is now more than 7,000 strong!

Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 22

Contents Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Calendar ...........................................................................4 Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message ......................................................5 Science Teachers Day at the Capitol ..........................7 Legislative Summary.....................................................8 Science Magic Show ......................................................9 Region 19 Mini-CAST .................................................13 Science Updates and Opportunities.........................16 Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills ...18 New Water & Aquatic Science Guides ....................20 CAST 2013 .....................................................................21 Putting the T in STEM: 5E & Technology ...............22 CAST Technology Committee ..................................25 Making Science Better ................................................27 Summer Leadership Institute ....................................28 NGSS Update ...............................................................29 STAT Contacts ..............................................................30 Standing Committees Elected Officers Appointed Positions Affiliate Congress Texas State Board of Education 33

Contents Calendar

April NSTA National Conference April 11 San Antonio, TX

President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

Nasco Science Division STATellite Newsletter Spring 2013 November STAT1304

Legislative Summary Science Magic Show

February Science Teachers’ Day at the Capitol February 21-22 Austin, TX

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

CAST 2013 November 7-9 Houston, TX

STAT Board Meeting February 22 Austin, TX

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

STAT Executive Committee Meeting February 23

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM

Region V Mini-CAST February 23 Orange, TX

CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better

TESTA Earth Science Conference February 23 Sugarland, TX

Summer Leadership Institute

March ISEA Annual Conference March 4 Port Aransas, TX

NGSS Update STAT Contacts 4

STAT1304

Contents Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

A Message from President Kamas

Exhilaration! That’s the feeling of gearing up for CAST 2013, Appetite for Instruction- Keep the Bunsens Burnin’. Although Corpus Christi hosted a fantastic conference, it is nice to be back under one roof. CAST will remain under one roof for the next few years as we head to Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and then back to Houston. To say that attending CAST is a bargain is an understatement. No other professional development opportunity gives you three days of high quality learning, engaging keynotes, networking, and of course, evening socials for the incredibly low price that STAT has managed to maintain. The CAST proposal site goes up March 9th. If you have a great learning strategy, lesson, management technique, or content knowledge to share with colleagues from all over Texas, consider submitting a proposal. Presenting is always more fun with a friend!

dous efforts of our members and besides, who doesn’t want a free t-shirt? Please contact me to choose a committee that is right for you. I treasure my t-shirts from CASTs past, but more than that, I treasure the memories of meeting and working with new friends and reuniting with those I seldom see. Be a part of the fun and excitement and join the 2013 CAST planning committee.

We have added a social media committee for CAST 2013 and are super excited about our expanding efforts to communicate CAST planning progress, events and happenings during CAST and post-CAST reflections. This also gives the planning committee opportunities to hear from you along the way. Follow STAT on Facebook and Twitter, then “Like” the new CAST 2013 Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/CASTour2013.

Legislators are in session and many new bills have been introduced. The education bills for high school are trending toward giving students “career-path” choices in high school, a foundation diploma with endorsements, and reducing the number of required EOC exams. While alternate high school paths are ostensibly a solution to meeting the needs of students, it is essential that all students complete high school with a firm understanding of fundamental science concepts, whether entering the work force or college. STAT understands the importance of being the voice for science education. We have a presence at both the State Capitol and the State Board of Education. In order to strengthen that presence, we need more members actively serving on the STAT legislative committee. As the 83rd legislative session continues, STAT will communicate with legislators and provide input on the proposed changes. As we present a unified voice, please continue to send your reactions and feedback by emailing, posting on Facebook or Twitter, and contacting your representatives directly.

We are still adding volunteers to our committees. CAST happens because of the tremen-

I have been fortunate to attend several SBOE, Senate, and House meetings to represent you

Contents Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

as we advocate for science education. It has been such a valuable experience that we are hosting Science Teachers’ Day at the Capitol on Friday, February 22nd with a reception and guest speaker on the evening of the 21st. Learn how to stay up-to-date with what is happening at the state board and what state legislators are doing, how to contact your representatives, get your message to elected officials, and how to speak to them about issues that are important to you. As I said at CAST, our jobs do not end at the poll, we must advocate for teachers, students, and for science. We elect officials to represent us; we have to communicate our needs.

Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

Other exciting news at STAT is the revision of our organization Bylaws. We will have the last reading at the February Board Meeting before members vote on them. In addition to the Bylaws, we are revising the Policies and Procedures Manual and developing a comprehensive strategic plan. Do you or someone you know, deserve to be recognized for outstanding teaching or leadership? Do you know a college professor, scientist, or business person who has made significant contributions to science education? Although nominations are a few months away, now is the time to begin thinking of those deserving of a STAT award. Good energy!

Experiencing Physics

CAST 2013

Like us Follow us

Integrated Teaching Solutions from

Putting the T in STEM

Physics, A First Course - Second Edition Physics A First Course, is an ideal approach to physics at the introductory, conceptual level. This program uses an inquiry-based approach. Students discover science concepts by investigating with hands-on equipment.

CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better

Foundations of Physics - Second Edition Foundations of Physics, is a friendly, readable, conceptual approach to physics that is accessible to every student. This program includes successful STAAR strategies and a focus on mathematics for conceptualized physics.

Features of CPO Science Teaching and Learning Systems

Summer Leadership Institute

• Student textbooks and Investigation manuals

NGSS Update

• High-quality equipment included with minimum purchase

STAT Contacts

• Teacher resources and professional development

6 6

www.cposcience.com STATellite_Ad_CPO.indd 1

• Digital and online learning products

Sally Dudley, Regional Sales Manager 800-237-1371 or 972-825-6588 sally.dudley@schoolspecialty.com 2/14/12 12:26 PM

SCIENCE TEACHERS DAY AT THE CAPITOL February 21-22, 2013 Wyndham Conference Center Austin, TX Are you concerned about public education funding? Would you like to see appropriations for new science textbooks? Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength in numbers, so join us this February in Austin for the first ever New ks! r o o f bo ly Science Teachers Day at the Capitol! Ral e Text nc e i c S We will book visits with your representatives and meet with chairs and

CAST Technology Committee

staff for the public education committee.

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Unite a for Y t the Ca pit our C aree ol r!

If you care about the future of your career and science education for students in Texas, we urge you to save the date and plan to attend.

Contents

Legislative Summary

Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Summary of legislative proposals This legislative session promises to be an important one for education in Texas. A number of bills have already been filed in the Senate and the House proposing changes to the accountability system. This current field of bills includes proposed changes ranging from eliminating the STAAR assessment system completely to adding additional exams. Between those extremes are a plethora of bills that fiddle with details such as which courses would be tested and how those tests would impact local grades if at all. One item filed by Senator Kel Seliger (R-Amarillo), however, addresses not only the assessment system, but graduation requirements as well. This bill basically redefines all of the rules, and would change the current reality of the high school experience. Senate Bill 225 proposes changing graduation plans from the current “Minimum”, “Recommended”, and “Distinguished” plans to a new Foundation plan. Under the Foundation plan, students would be required to earn 26 credits. 16 of those credits would come from core subject areas while the remaining 10 would come from electives. Additionally, students would be allowed to earn “Endorsements” by completing 5 credits in one of the following areas: Humanities, Business and Industry, Human Services, or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). In order to earn the 16 core credits, students would be required to take 4 credits of English, 3 credits of Mathematics, 2 credits of Science, 3 credits of Social Studies, and 3 total credits of Foreign Language, Fine Arts and Physical Education. In addition to lowering the number of core courses required by the current 4X4 plan, the highest levels of courses required under the Foundation plan include English IV, Algebra II, U.S. History, and Integrated Physics and Chemistry. The Foundation plan effectively eliminates the requirement for students to take rigorous 4th year math and science courses. In fact, it eliminates the requirement for students to take any current science courses beyond Integrated Physics and Chemistry. These courses would be replaced with STEM equivalents that would be used to earn the STEM “Endorsement”. In addition to the changes in the graduation requirements proposed by Senate Bill 225, the bill seeks to lower the number of End of Course exams required for graduation. Students would still have to take all of the End of Course exams required in the current assessment system, but the only exams that would be required for graduation would be English III, Algebra I, Biology and U.S. History. That is quite a change from the current reality of having to pass 15 End of Course exams. In order to provide an alternate route for students, this Bill proposes expanding the path for tech prep by allowing for a work/study program based on a partnership between schools and local businesses. The Bill also provides a safety net for students who were not successful in the current system, and creates more accountability between high schools and colleges to ensure success of incoming college freshmen. Senate Bill 225 proposes major changes in the way we “do school” in Texas. If it receives a twothirds majority vote in both houses, it will go into effect immediately. If it passes without the two-thirds majority vote, it will come in next September.

Similar bills are those of Senate Education Committee Chair, Dan Patrick, SB3 and HB5 from Rep-

Contents Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST

Legislative Summary (cont’d.) resentative Jimmie Don Aycock, House Public Education Committee Chair. Senator Patrick’s bill does not address End-of-Course exams, where Representative Aycock does. Another notable bill that may impact the current accountability for K-8 is HB 866 authored by Representative Dan Huberty. HB866 eliminates testing in ELA and Mathematics 4th, 6th, and 7th grade when students show successful achievement in 3rd, 5th, and 8th grade. With the deadline to file new bills and joint resolutions set for March 8, and the pressures to change the current system, there are sure to more proposed changes. For more information on the current legislation, visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Home.aspx or http://www.tasb.org/legislative/legislative/billsummaries.aspx

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013

EOCs Foundation Curriculum

Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better

Endorsements (optional)

Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update

SB3- Patrick

HB5 - Aycock

SB225 - Seliger

HB399 - Krause

Foundation HS Program 14.5 Credits 11.5 electives

Foundation HS Program 16.5 Credits

Foundation HS Program 16 Credits

Modifies current program to give 4th year flexibility

EOCs not addressed

5 EOCs - Eng. III Reading and Writing, Algebra I or Geometry, Biology, US History 4 credits – English 3 credits – Math 2 credits – Science 3 credits – Social Studies 2 credits – Foreign Lang. 1 credit – Fine Arts 1.5 credits – Phys. Ed.

5 EOCs - Eng. III Reading and Writing, Algebra I, Biology, US History 4 credits – English 3 credits – Math 2 credits – Science 3 credits – Social Studies 2 credits – Foreign Lang. 1 credit – Fine Arts 1 credit – Phys. Ed.

4 credits – English 3 credits – Math 2 credits – Science 3 credits – Social Studies 1 credit – Fine Arts .5 credit - Speech 1 credit – Phys. Ed. (phys. Ed. And fine arts may be completed outside the school day) Business and Industry – one add’l science

Business/Industry

Arts and Humanities – one add’l science, social studies, fine arts or career/tech., two foreign lang.

Humanities

Human Services

STEM – one add’l math, two add’l science, one add’l fine arts or career tech, two foreign lang.

STEM

STEM – 4 yrs. of math and science

Distinguished Achievement – one add’l math, two add’l science, one add’l social studies, three foreign lang.

STAT Contacts

Biology Chemistry Physics Algebra Geometry Algebra II Optional 4th yr. career/tech for two courses

General Studies – 5 credits across disciplines – types of course options listed – no specified requirements for additional science

– types of course options listed – no specified requirements for additional science

Contents

Legislative Summary (cont’d.)

Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show

83rd Legislative Senate Education Committee

Dan Patrick, Chair (R-Houston) Eddie Lucio,Vice-Chair (new to committee; D-Brownsville) Donna Campbell (new to Senate & committee; R-New Braunfels) Robert Duncan (new to committee; D-Lubbock) Ken Paxton (new to Senate & committee; R-McKinney ) Kel Seliger (R-Amarillo) Larry Taylor (new to Senate & committee; R-Friendswood) Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) Royce West (D-Dallas)

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

83rd Legislative House Public Education Committee Jimmie Don Aycock, Chair (R-Killeen) Alma Allen, Vice Chair (D-Houston) John Davis (R-Houston) Joe Deshotel (D-Beaumont) Harold Dutton (D-Houston) Mike Villarreal (D-San Antonio) Marsha Farney (R-Georgetown) Dan Huberty (R-Humble) Ken King (R-Canadian) Bennett Ratliff (R-Dallas) Justin Rodriguez (D-San Antonio)

ELEMENTARY

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

JOIN THE FUN

EXTRAVAGANZA

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM

Friday, April 12, 2013 8–10 am · Convention Center · Ballroom B

CAST Technology Committee

• Hands-on activities • Preview science trade books • Learn about award and grant programs • Walk away full of ideas and arms filled with materials • Door prizes and refreshments - Win an iPad! • 100+ presenters

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute

Sponsored by:

NGSS Update Organizations participating in the Elementary Extravaganza include the Association of Presidential Awardees in Science Teaching, the Council for Elementary Science International, the NSTA Committee on Preschool–Elementary Science Teaching, Science and Children authors and reviewers, and the Society of Elementary Presidential Awardees.

STAT Contacts 10

Contents Science Magic Show as a Discrepant Event Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

As a science teacher, it is important to gain students’ interest to promote their learning. But it is challenging for the teacher to spark curiosity in students to truly engage them in the processes of “doing science.” One often-used method of motivation is demonstration of science in action, such as “discrepant events.” They are “discrepant” because something occurs that is unexpected. A discrepancy causes students to wonder “How did “that” happen?” and to want those questions answered. Discrepant events influence equilibration and the self-regulatory process, according to the Piagetian theory of intellectual development. Situations that are contrary to what a student expects cause him or her to wonder what is taking place, resulting in cognitive disequilibrium. With proper guidance, the student will attempt to figure out the discrepancy and search for a suitable explanation for the situation. When a student arrives at a plausible explanation for a discrepant event, he or she will establish cognitive equilibrium at a new level. The student is now better equipped mentally to approach new situations that cause curiosity and puzzlement (Piaget, 1971). One of the discrepant events that teachers can demonstrate in science classroom is a science magic show. The science magic show makes students aware of the inadequacies of their own explanations by exposing them to a demonstration that directly contradicts their ideas, therefore creating cognitive conflict. The following activity is one science magic show that is good enough to stimulate students’ interest in science and spur their creativity (see Fig.1). _______________________________________ Pepper and Water Science Magic Show* Materials: black pepper, water, dishwashing liquid, plate or bowl Procedure

Step 1. Pour water into a plate or bowl. Step 2. Spread some pepper onto the water. Step 3. Dip your finger into the pepper and water (nothing much happens). Step 4. Put a drop of dishwashing liquid on your finger and then dip it into the pepper and water. Then, the pepper moves to the outer edges of the dish. If you want to do this as a magic show, then have one finger that is clean and another finger that you dipped in detergent before perform- ing the magic show.

How it works When the detergent was added to water, the surface tension of the water is lowered (in other words, it made the bonding of water molecules weak). When the surface tension is lowered, the water wants to spread out. As the water flattens on the dish, the pepper that is floating on top of the water is carried to the outer edge of the plate as if by magic. * Modified from Helmenstine, A. M. (2004). Pepper and Water Science Magic Trick How to Perform the Pepper and Water Trick. ________________________________________

11 11

Contents Science Magic Show as a Discrepant Event (cont’d) Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST

Through this science magic show, the students can understand the concepts of water surface tension and molecular bonding. Therefore the science magic show can take students to meaningful inquiry and the scientific principles as an engagement. In addition to learning science concepts, science magic shows improve students’ observation, inference, and prediction skills. When students observe the magic shows, they are motivated and have a chance to think critically about how it happened. In the following science magic show, students can make observations and inferences of what happens. ________________________________________ Helmenstine, A. M. (2004). Pepper and Water Science Magic Trick: How to Perform the Pepper and Water Trick. Retrieved September 1, 2012 from http://chemistry.about. com/od/chemistrymagic/a/peppertrick.htm Piaget, J. (1971). Biology and Knowledge. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 12

Contents Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST

Region 19 MiniCAST On Wednesday January 30, 2013, history repeated itself in El Paso as the Region 19 STAT dinners began again after more than an 8 year absence. First started in 1998 and running through 2004, the dinners became a tradition in the area and acted as a place where science teachers could network with other educators and area science professionals. The words “You should teach...” were verboten at these meetings, as presenters showed science in action in real world local situations and never once told teachers how or what to teach. The relaxed atmosphere became legend and served as the incubation grounds for CAST 2002 in El Paso and several area miniCASTs.

speaker, chicken fried steak, and door prizes. That is an equation for success! That excitement will continue for the remainder of the 2012-13 school year as speakers are lined up for February through May. (You can check out the speakers on the Region 19 STAT wiki: http://minicastelpaso.wikispaces.com/STAT+Science+Dinners)

That spirit and excitement was back on Wednesday as 45 educators representing five Region 19 school districts and several private nonprofit schools re-lit the flame while the first guest speaker Bill “Dr. Skateboard” Robertson spoke about creating excitement with creative multimedia approaches to learning science, specifically his “Dr. Skateboard Action Science” video series. (http://drskateboard. com) Bill is a great speaker and was perfect to get the ball rolling again. Doorprizes, provided by the Region 19 STAT group included everything from Singing Magnets, Mento® geysers, weather stations, model rockets and robots. Almost half of the attendees walked away with a door prize. A great

One of the great benefits of having dinners is that they introduce nonSTAT members to the organization. Every person that attended was given a STAT membership form, as well as STAT benefits handout and encouraged to join. If someone was already a member, they were encouraged to take a membership form back to school and encourage a colleague to join. Another benefit is that the dinners act as a great marketing tool for the upcoming El Paso miniCAST, another tradition that is being reborn after too long of an absence. (miniCAST El Paso will be held September 28, 2013. Check out the miniCAST website here: http://minicastelpaso. wikispaces.com) Planning an event like a science dinner is pretty simple, the hardest part is getting the speakers and finding a place to eat. Believe me, most restaurants will bend over backwards to have 50 or so customers show up on a slow night like a Wednesday.

Contents Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

Work with them on a menu and time (pick a place that teachers can afford!) and that part is taken care of. Work with your Regional Service Center to get the word out to teachers. Most ESCs have the names and contact information for district science folks. The district science people should know how to get the word to the teachers. Advertise also in the local paper about two weeks ahead. (Advertising on the day of the event is not helpful.) Make sure your guest speakers understand the audience (they are usually not giving technical talk, but more of an overview). Send reminders several times to your attendees. Use a Google Form to get reservations (http://tinyurl.com/b9btggf). We hope to reinvigorate STAT in the Region 19 area through a combination of events, and the monthly science dinners are the first of many events. Who knows, if we get on a roll, we might convince someone to have CAST out in the west Texas town of El Paso again! Email Data

Legislative Summary

Graphical Analysis for iPad

LabQuest Viewer

Science Magic Show

Vernier Data Share

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

• High-resolution touch screen

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

• Built-in data-collection software • Quick response to touch, curve fits, and modeling

CAST 2013

• 5 built-in sensors—including GPS

Putting the T in STEM

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

• 100,000 samples per second

• Collect, view, and analyze data on ANY device with a compatible web browser.

CAST Technology Committee

• Show students how to use LabQuest by projecting your LabQuest screen in the classroom. (LabQuest Viewer sold separately.)

Making Science Better

• Collect, view, and analyze data with Graphical AnalysisTM for iPad®. Simultaneously provide access to data for the entire lab group. (Sold separately.)

Summer Leadership Institute

Introducing LabQuest 2 ®

NEW oNLY

$329

The most powerful, connected, and versatile data-collection device available for STEM education The new Vernier LabQuest 2 interface puts scientific data-collection technology into your students’ hands and is compatible with your existing Vernier sensors and software. Explore science in the lab and in the field with full-color clarity, touch-screen ease, and breakthrough, versatile technology. Collect, view, analyze, and annotate data on LabQuest 2 or on any device with a compatible web browser—iPads®, AndroidTM devices, iPhones®, and other mobile technology Go to www.vernier.com/labquest2 for complete details, and to find frEE workshops in your neighborhood.

NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Vernier Software & Technology | Toll Free: 888-837-6437 | www.vernier.com

Contents hmhco.com • 800.225.5425

What Works Workshops for 21st-Century Classrooms Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Workshop Schedule Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, Room 204B Thursday, April 11 7:30–9:00 am: Session 2234 9:30–11:00 am: Session 2233 STEM Challenges for the Classroom, Part 1. Connecting to Chemistry: Igniting Student Author — Michael DiSpezio Motivation with STEM Examples and Ideas. Author — Michael DiSpezio

11:30–1:00 pm: Session 2240 That’s Amazing! Explore the Bizarre, Cool, and Exciting World of Project-Based Biology. Author — Mike Heithaus

Friday, April 12 12:00–1:30 pm: Session 2241 Ecology Adventures: Motivating Students through Project-Based Learning. Author — Mike Heithaus

2:00–3:30 pm: Session 2231 Extra, Extra! Read All About It! Taking Biology from the News to the Classroom. Author — Stephen Nowicki

4:00–5:30 pm: Session 2235 More STEM Challenges for the Classroom, Part 2. Author — Michael DiSpezio

8:00–9:30 am: Session 2236 Misconception Mania: Exciting and Engaging Ways to Address Common Misunderstandings in K-8 Science. Author — Michael DiSpezio

10:00–11:30 am: Session 2230 Extra, Extra! Read All About It! Taking Biology from the News to the Classroom. Author — Stephen Nowicki

12:00–1:30 pm: Session 2237 Meeting the Needs of Today’s Physics Students. National Consultant— Dave Kowal

2:00–3:30 pm: Session 2238 From Big Bird to Bird Brains—How Fun with Our Feathered Friends Helps Students Learn Science. Author — Steve Nowicki

4:00–5:30 pm: Session 2232 Differentiating Instruction in Today’s Chemistry Classroom. National Consultant — Dave Kowal

Saturday, April 13

Meet Our Authors and Get a Signed Copy of Their Books. Elizabeth Rusch

Stephen Nowicki

Elizabeth Rusch is an awardwinning children’s author and has written two books for HMH’s highly-acclaimed Scientists in the Field series. Elizabeth will be signing copies of her book The Mighty Mars Rovers: The Incredible Adventures of Spirit and Opportunity.

Dr. Stephen Nowicki is the author of Holt McDougal Biology. Dr. Nowicki is a Professor in the Departments of Biology, Psychology, and Neurobiology at Duke University and is currently the Dean and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education. Dr. Nowicki will be signing copies of Holt McDougal Biology.

Booth Signing: Friday, April 12 Time: 3:15 PM

Booth Signing: Saturday, April 13 Time: 12:00 PM

Win a Mini Tablet! Guests that attend any of our workshops or in-booth activities can enter to win one of two mini tablets* that will be raffled off during the conference.

WIN!

Visit Houghton Mifflin Harcourt at Booth #1526 hmheducation.com/tx/science *Prize is to be used for educational/classroom purposes. Applicable laws and policies may restrict educators from accepting certain items, including raffle and contest prizes. Each prizewinner must obtain approval from the appropriate school authority for the acceptance of the prize and is responsible for notifying Houghton Mifflin Harcourt immediately if approval is denied. Must be a current educator to qualify for the drawing. Only one entry per person will be accepted. Winners do not need to be present to win. Facebook® is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc. Twitter® is a registered trademark of Twitter, Inc. © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 02/13 MS71332

Contents

Texas Science Updates and Opportunities

Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show

ISEA’s 16th Annual Conference “We Don’t Make Science, We Make Science Better” The Informal Science Education Association of Texas’ annual conference will be held on March 4-6, 2013, at the UT Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas, Texas. Keynote speaker Dr. Lynn Dierking is internationally recognized for her research on the behavior and learning of children, families and adults in informal learning settings and has published and spoken extensively in these areas. Dr. Dierking is a professor at Oregon State University. Conference registration will be available soon. See the website for more information: www.texasinformalscience.org

Region 19 Mini-CAST

Texas Natural Resource / Environmental Literacy Plan

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

The core of who we are as Texans lies in the sustenance, history and culture built around our natural world. The future of Texas’ natural and cultural resources depends on every one of us having a sense of place and our role in that place.

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013

The Texas Natural Resource/Environmental Literacy Plan serves as a framework to coordinate statewide efforts of formal and informal educators to provide lifelong opportunities for all Texans, regardless of age, culture, and circumstances, to become stewards of our natural resources. View the Plan here.

Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee

Read CAST Presenter and STAT Member Craig Wilson’s Interview: PERSPECTIVES: A Free-Thinking Scientist Meets Free-Tailed Bats http://www.science.tamu.edu/articles/890

Making Science Better

Texas Biomedical Forum Grants Available

Summer Leadership Institute

Each year, The Science Education Awards are given jointly by the Texas Biomedical Forum (formerly

NGSS Update STAT Contacts

the Southwest Foundation Forum) and the V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation to area high school teachers and their department in support of new and innovative programs that further the student’s interest in and knowledge of science. This year marks the 20th anniversary of these awards. Award grants range from a possible $7,000 for the first place winner to $500 for our Honorable Mention recipient. On behalf of the TBF, we would like for you to extend this invitation to the science teachers in your department. Please note that the deadline for submitting an application is February 15th and that all proposals must be faxed, e-mailed, or postmarked on or before that date. As an incentive to apply early, the L.D. Ormsby Charitable Foundation has offered a personal stipend of $50.00 for the first ten teachers who apply. In addi-

Texas Science Updates and Opportunities tion the first ten applicants, whose qualified projects do not place in the top six, will receive a $200.00 award for their school’s science program. It really pays to apply early! For more information about the TxBiomed and these awards please visit www.txbiomed.org/forum.

Interact with hurricane scientists and hurricane hunters! National Hurricane Center webinars for 5th grade classes in hurricane prone regions. The Hurricanes: Science and Society (HSS) team at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography (URIO/GSO) is excited to announce that it is again partnering with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to offer hurricane preparedness webinars for 5th grade students in U.S. regions that are impacted by hurricanes. During these these 1-hour webinars, students will hear from NHC scientists and forecasters, as well as NOAA Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) officers that fly into hurricanes. A presentation on region-specific hurricane science and preparedness will be given with interactive questions prompting student responses. Classroom questions will also be collected in advance of the webinar; as many of these questions as possible will be answered by the hurricane scientists. Many videos, visualizations, graphics, and other media will be included to engage students. Groups will also receive a virtual tour of the National Hurricane Center. Schools/classes wanting to participate MUST REGISTER in advance. Please visit the National Hurricane Center: 2013 5th Grade Webinars page in the Resources section of the Hurricanes: Science and Society website for more detail and registration information. Please note, registration will close one week in advance of each webinar.

Summer Institute in Physics and Physical Science The Center for Physics Education in the University of Washington Physics Department offers a five-week, 10-credit summer institute in physics and physical science for full-time inservice teachers. The 2013 institute is tentatively scheduled for June 24-July 26 at the UW in Seattle. Classes meet from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday-Thursday, except for occasional Fridays. Directed by Professor Lillian C. McDermott and supported by the National Science Foundation, the institute is tuition-free and a $1500 stipend is offered upon successful completion of the course work. Additional money may be available if needed to help defray the cost of lodging for persons from outside the Seattle area. The application deadline is March 1, 2013: https://courses.washington.edu/uwpeg/2013-summer.

STAT Contacts 17

Contents

Using Sticks to Teach Young Children Math and Science Skills by Dr. Bob Williams

Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

The inspiration for this post was my own backyard. Living on the banks of the Guadalupe River, I always find fallen branches and sticks from my pecan trees. Right now, these sticks are keeping me warm in my wood stove! Even during the cold days of winter, there are plenty of activities for you and your children to explore outdoors. Why not have your children pick up sticks? Sticks are great tools to use when teaching counting, measuring, and sorting. They can also be used to teach children about nature. So, bundle up, head outside, and search for sticks! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

Use sticks as counters. Use pruning scissors and cut sticks about 3 cm or 1 inch long. Observing sticks. Ask children to observe and discuss the different characteristics of sticks or branches. Those from the same tree will be similar. Have children sort sticks into piles by their appearance. Light or dark? Smooth or rough? Short, medium, or long? Straight or crooked? Matching Sticks. Make pairs of sticks or three sticks in a pile that are all the same. Can they do this? Use a ruler to measure sticks. Give children a ruler and a set of branches. Have each child mea sure the length of each stick. Teach about trees. Explain why sticks fall from trees. Discuss why this is important in the life cycle of a tree. Sticks from a tree have common characteristics. Go to a tree and collect the sticks from that tree. Find the name of the tree and look for a leaf. Put those together in a bag. Make a collection for future reference. Building with sticks. Use sticks to construct houses or buildings. Use clay or glue to keep the structure from falling down. Add pieces of cardboard cut different sizes to help with the building. Animals that eat sticks. Take this opportunity to talk about animals that eat trees or bark (i.e. ter- mites, beavers, rolly polys, wood roaches). Making numbers and letters with sticks. Cut sticks into different sizes and then encourage the children to create numbers and letters using bits of sticks. Spell your name in sticks. Use the stick pieces to spell the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first, last or both names. Use the sticks to make other words. Stick with it to learn vocabulary. Use sticks for art. Find placemats from a dollar store. Use these as a base for the art. Add sticks and rocks and whatever to form an art piece. Place a card with the students name on the art. Take a picture. Have the child return the pieces to respective piles and give the placemat to another child. Repeat. Classifying leaves. Have children collect sticks with leaves still on them. Then try to match the leaves and branches with the tree. Have the children come up with an idea for sticks. Send it to me. Rivers40@yahoo.com

Contents

STAAR™ RESULTS ARE IN RISING STANDARDS

Legislative Summary

{

77%

2013-2014

8th

5th

GRADE

54%

2012-2013

63%

2013-2014

STEMscopes Districts

Region 19 Mini-CAST

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013

2012-2013

ESC REGION IV: HOUSTON SNAPSHOT

Science Magic Show

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

66%

+3.4%

Region IV

+1%

-2.8%

STATE AVG. PASSING 70%

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

STAAR PASSING STANDARDS ARE INCREASING. TO MEET THE RISING CHALLENGE, STUDENTS NEED TO LEARN SCIENCE CONTENT IN NEW WAYS.

STATE AVG. PASSING 73%

President’s Message

{

Calendar

Region IV

STEMscopes Districts

+3.0%

-2.4% non-STEMscopes Districts

non-STEMscopes Districts

STEMSCOPES USAGE

Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee

300 k

700 k

1.2 M

2010

2011

2012

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

THE SOLUTION STEMscopes is a fully comprehensive K-12 science curriclum that addresses all TEKS through hands-on inquiry. Visit stemscopes.com/features, call 713-348-5516, or email stemscopes@rice.edu. connect with us

VIEW COMPLETE SAMPLES AT WWW.STEMSCOPES.COM 19

Contents

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

Inviting Teacher Review and Comments We invite teachers and others interested in aquatic science educators for Texas’ middle and high school students to review and comment on the draft guides, as well as submit their favorite aquatic science-related activities to include in the guides. All contributions will be acknowledged. Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University, and the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies have teamed up to develop guides to aquatic science for Texas’ middle and high school students. To learn more about the guides, become a member of the review team, enter discussion and submit aquatic science activities please log onto http://www.aquaticedguides.org/ While there, please download review materials and sign up to be kept informed about the project.

Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 20

Contents

CAST 2013

Calendar

TOUR CA*ST APPETITE FOR

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

2013 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 7-9 7-9 ** HOUSTON, HOUSTON, TX TX

Legislative Summary

INSTRUCTION

Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST

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New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

ASSOCIATIO ASSOCIATION

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Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

KEEP THE BUNSENS BURNING Click Here to Learn More

Contents

Putting the T in STEM – 5E and Technology By: Dr. Lisa Brown, Ed.D. lobrown@shsu.edu

More schools are having Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) initiatives where students can bring their own laptop, smartphones, and tablets to school. Why? Students feel comfortable using technology and are not afraid to try new apps, programs, games, etc. Administrators and teachers often are not very successful enforcing the rules banning cell phone use in schools. Instead, they should embrace the technology and find pedagogically appropriate applications and websites to help students construct their own learning and acquire 21st century skills. While the jury is still out, most teachers, students, parents, and administrators have found BYOD to be positive for the learning environment and has created and atmosphere of enthusiasm for learning. Teachers are able to address the needs of all learners and differentiate instruction using technology. The BYOD initiative lends itself in to science. Below are some ideas, using the 5E learning model, to get you started. Don’t be afraid to get rid of the 3-ring binders and embrace technology. Engagement: Polleverywhere - This allows for instance student feedback. You can pre-assess your students’ prior knowledge as well as activate it. Student text their responses to a given number and it automatically records the student’s answer then updates it in real-time. http://www.polleverywhere.com Animoto - Animoto can be accessed using the Internet or an app (iPhone & Android) where teachers and students can create videos related to a topic. Creating movie trailers for upcoming content or units is a great way to engage learners. It is a wonderful way to reach your English Language Learners and the visual and auditory learners. You can add text, music, and your own photos to your video. Animoto has a free Educator account for 181 days. http://animoto.com Explore: KidWings Virtual Owl Pellet Dissection – If you are not able to purchase owl pellets, this website allows students to “dissect” an owl pellet. Students click on the pellet and a rodent’s bone is revealed. Then, the students click and drag the bone to the appropriate location in an outline of a rodent. When students have completed the dissection, a printable certificate will appear. http://www.kidwings.com/owlpellets/ flash/v4/index.htm Virtual Salmon Dissection – The goal of this game is to dissect a female salmon. Students click on the instruments to help remove the organs from the fish. http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00548/DissectionGame.html The Periodic Table of Videos– This Flickr photo contains QR (Quick Response) image of the Periodic Table. Teachers can download this image in several sizes. Students use the QR reader on their smartphones to view videos from YouTube about the element the student chose. http://www.flickr.com/photos/periodicvideos/5912075438/sizes/l/in/photostream/ 3D Cellstain – This iPhone & iPad app allows students to explore the cell in 3D. Students can choose from a list of cell structures and learn its function as well as how it related to the other cell components. You can find this free app in the iTunes store. Explain: Podomatic & Screencast-o-matic – both of these websites allow students and teachers to create explanations of concepts, processes, and skills through podcasting & vodcasting, and digital storytelling. With both sites, they have free and Pro versions. http://www.podomatic.com/login http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/ Hippocampus – This is a free educational resource for middle and high school students and teachers. The subjects range from Algebra to Chemistry (including Organic Chemistry). Teachers can play these videos

Contents

Putting the T in STEM – 5E and Technology (cont’d) By: Dr. Lisa Brown, Ed.D. lobrown@shsu.edu

Calendar President’s Message

in class or assign for homework to help explain difficult concepts. Students can view the videos for tutorials. http://www.hippocampus.org/

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

Educreations – Educreations allows you to transform your computer or iPad into an interactive whiteboard. It records your voice and handwriting as you go through your lesson. Absent students or students who need re-teaching can replay these lessons on their iPad or Internet browser. http://www.educreations.com/

Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

Elaborate: Skype in the Classroom – Skype is a free and easy way for students to apply their knowledge by collaborating with people around the world. There are lessons for teachers to use to get started using Skype. https://education.skype.com/ Evaluation: Quizlet – Teachers and students can create digital flashcards and set up 6 different study and game modes. Students can also access their flashcards on their smartphones. This is also a great way to preteach vocabulary and spelling for students. http://quizlet.com/ Socrative – this is a unique student response system, which allows teachers to interact with students in real-time to engage and evaluate students via interactive games, exit tickets, exercises http://www.socrative.com/

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 23

Contents Bite of Science

Calendar

Sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Education

President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

This exciting, cost free dinner event brings together 25 high school teachers with leading scientists and/or engineers from industry, academia, or government. Teachers will have the opportunity to hear the scientist and/or engineer speak about a cutting edge research area, view a laboratory demonstration if possible, and find out how to connect the research to the high school classroom and laboratory. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, network with peers, and interface with the scientist and/or engineer during the informal dinner. Following the event, all attendees receive access to the Teacher Enrichment Program Lab Bench containing additional science and engineering resources for use in the classroom.

Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013

Date

Location

Time

March 18th & 19th March 20th March 21st

Houston Austin San Antonio

5:00 – 7:30 pm 5:30 – 8:00 pm 5:30 – 8:00 pm

For more information or to register, please contact: Natasha Schuh-Nuhfer, Ph.D. Director, Teacher Enrichment Program nschuh@cee.org or 703-448-9062 ext. 222

Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee

Learn more about the components of CEE’s Teacher Enrichment Program at: www.cee.org/teacher-enrichment-program-tep

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update

CEE is a private, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation that provides programs to high school and university students, and U.S. teachers, at no cost to them, through collaborations with educational institutions, private foundations, corporations, government agencies, and individuals who share a commitment to educational excellence and leadership in STEM.

STAT Contacts 24

CAST: Technology Committee My name is Monica Ibañez. I am Chair of the recently formed STAT Technology Committee. I also serve as the CAST 2013 Social Media Chair, a new committee for CAST. As we prepare our students for a Global Marketplace, it is important that we too become skilled digital educators. Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn among other social media sites, have become powerful educational and collaborative tools. STAT’s new Technology Committee will strive to enrich science teachers and administrators by keeping them informed about the latest technologies in science, web 2.0 tools, science apps, PBL science lessons and instructional technology resources. In addition posting all the “fun” technology has to offer, we will post important updates and information concerning STAT. I am thrilled to take on this new role. Start the discussion by visiting us on Facebook and Twitter! https://www.facebook.com/CASTour2013 https://twitter.com/CASTour2013

If you want the TEKS on their minds, put CPO and FOSS in their hands. Thanks to the hundreds of teachers who participated in our CAST 2012 workshops. It’s obvious that there are plenty of excellent, dedicated science teachers in Texas! Add our engaging, TEKS-aligned K–12 science programs to the mix and there’s no limit to the success your students will experience!

For more information contact: Grades K–5

Grades 6–12

Verne Isbell 817-379-2013 verne.isbell@schoolspecialty.com

Sally Dudley 800-237-1371 or sally.dudley@schoolspecialty.com

STAT Contacts 25

16th Annual Conference

Contents

We don’t make science, We make science better

Calendar

Keynote Speaker Lynn Dierking

March 4-6, 2013

Please join us in welcoming our Keynote Speaker, Lynn Dierking, to the 16th Annual ISEA Conference in Port Aransas, Texas! Dr. Dierking is internationally recognized for her research on the behavior and learning of children, families and adults in free-choice learning settings and has published and spoken extensively in these areas. She holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from the University of Florida, Gainesville and her research priorities include: the long-term impact of free-choice learning experiences on individuals and families, and the development and evaluation of community-based programs. Over the last 20 years Dr. Dierking has worked in a variety of settings, including: the Smithsonian Office of Educational Research, University of Maryland's College of Education, and as director of a national curriculum project, Science in American Life, at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. She is currently a Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon.

President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary

Dr. Dierking is also interested in the role of play in science learning (co-creating playful environments that support children’s science and mathematics learning as cultural activity (See J.D. Adams & D.E. Kanter (Eds.) Special Section: Designing Environments to Promote Play-based Science Learning‚ in Children, Youth and Environments).

UT Marine Science Institute • Port Aransas, TX

Science Magic Show

http://www.utmsi.utexas.edu/

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

$170 (includes campus lodging) $120 (no lodging)

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

“The University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute, the oldest and most significant marine research facility on the Texas coast, is changing our understanding of the world's oceans and coasts and educating a global population dependent on the ocean ecosystem.”

Preconference Workshops

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee

R/V KATY TRIP presented by UTMSI Monday, March 4 • 8:30am-11:30am $20 per person, limited to 25 people

Making Science Better

Explore the bay aboard the research vessel the Katy! See marine life up-close as we examine the catch from plankton tows, benthic mud grabs and trawls. Experience the abundant marine life seen from the deck of the boat including dolphins and brown pelicans. You will gain an understanding of the marine ecosystem and its importance to us all. It’s an experience that you won’t want to miss!

Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts

STEM SANDCASTLES presented by Mark Sandrum Monday, March 4 • 2:00pm-4:00pm $12 per person, limited to 20 people Learn the science behind the art of sandcastle sculpting! You will learn three types of stacking sand: volcano, form, and hand. Then learn how to carve various towers and work as a team to build a fantastic castle.

LIGHTHOUSE KAYAK TOUR presented by Jay Tarkington, TAMU-CC Center for Coastal Studies Monday, March 4 • 1:00pm-4:00pm $10 per person, limited to 30 people

Join a group-led kayak tour of local wetlands. Topics include kayak safety, wetland/mangrove ecology, and species identification.

POST-CONFERENCE FIELD TRIP presented by Jay Tarkington: Archaeology and Marine Habitat Boat Trip Wednesday, March 6 • 1:00pm-4:00pm. $10 per person, limited to 25 people.

For more information visit: www.texasinformalscience.org 26

Contents

Making Science Better

As March approaches, STAT Affiliate ISEA (Informal Science Education Association) is preparing for a trip to Port Aransas, but this isn’t a Spring Break blowout. ISEA is bringing their annual conference to the coast with nationally recognized speakers, professional development opportunities, science experiments, and (yes) a beach bonfire. ISEA wants to invite all of you - STAT Members and Affiliates - to join us at the University of Texas Marine Science Center (UTMSC) as we celebrate science learning. The 2013 ISEA conference theme - We Don’t Make Science, We Make Science Better – conjures the notion of improving upon science learning via learning in informal environments. Do people learn science in non-school settings? This is a critical question for policy makers, practitioners, and researchers alike — and the answer is yes. The National Research Council Committee on Learning Science in Informal Environments published their 2009 report titled, Learning Science in Informal Environments: People, Places, and Pursuits (http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12190). They found abundant evidence that across all venues – everyday experiences, designed settings, and programs – individuals of all ages learn science. Dr. Lynn Dierking will be our amazing keynote speaker this year. Dr. Dierking is internationally recognized for her research on the behavior and learning of children, families and adults in free-choice learning settings and has published and spoken extensively in these areas. She holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from the University of Florida, Gainesville and her research priorities include: the long-term impact of free-choice learning experiences on individuals and families, and the development and evaluation of community-based programs. She is currently a Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. In addition to Dr. Dierking, we welcome Dr. Theresa Coble as our invited speaker who will talk about teaching controversial subjects. Dr. Coble is a professor of forest recreation and interpretation at Stephen F. Austin State Univsersity (SFA). The ISEA Conference stretches beyond featured speakers - breakout sessions and workshops present their best practices from around Texas, with many that include hands-on inquiry methods that support classroom learning (If you saw us at CAST, we have more than Bee Hummers to offer!). This year’s conference presents unique learning experiences through pre-conference workshops including kayak and Katy Research Vessel tours, as well as sandcastle lessons that teach the science and engineering behind the art form. Statewide networking opportunities happen at each conference - chances for collaboration, outreach, and program development. If you are curious about what ISEA has to offer the STAT community, please join us in Port Aransas and get to know what we’re all about! The ISEA 2013 Conference registration and information are available at www.texasinformalscience.org. Registration costs are $120 for the conference and meals, or $170 for the conference, meals, and UTMSI dorm lodging.

STAT Contacts 27

SUMMER LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

Contents

July 7-9, 2013 Historic Tremont Hotel Galveston, TX

Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

Receive your continuing education credit, learn how to move up in your career from science experts across the state, and enjoy our family-friendly programs to combine your vacation with professional development.

Legislative Summary Science Magic Show

For the first time in its history, STAT is offering an exclusive Summer Leadership Institute that will include field trips of scientific interest for your family and general sessions on how to build your involvement at the state level in science administration and leadership. Spots will be limited. Contact us at stat@bizaustin.rr.com to put your name on the list to receive updates about how you and your family can join us this summer.

Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 28

NGSS Update The Science Teachers Association of Texas has taken an active stance regarding the Next Generation Science Standards. For the last two years, members of the executive committee have worked with association members and business leaders to review the standards and provide comments to NSTA and Achieve in order to ensure that the final draft of the standards will be the best they can be. The members of the committee are Ross Ann Hill, Sharon Kamas, Kenn Heydrick, Haidee Williams, Barbara Taylor, Pat White, Sandy Dochen, and Kelli Key. This committee set up two reviews for STAT members in the past year. In June of last year, 70 STAT members reviewed the first NGSS draft at SEDL, Southwest Educational Development Laboratory in Austin. The members worked in teams to provide comments to NSTA and Achieve. Team members reviewed specific parts of the document to provide detailed comments. The discourse during the review focused on all parts of the document. All of the groups suggested major changes to the document while wondering if their voice would be heard. In July, some members of the planning committee met in Indianapolis to learn more about the document and start planning for the next review meeting to be held in January, 2013. We worked with science leaders from across the country to better understand how to help teachers understand the standards, how states could implement the standards, and what implications implementing the standards would have on curriculum and instruction. Barbara, Haidee, and Kenn presented information regarding the NGSS at CAST in Corpus Christi. Their sessions provided information about the standards. Most teachers and administrators walked away from a session with many questions about how our state would respond. They also wondered how they could integrate the standards with our TEKS. Teachers could be overheard talking about the standards and the implication on their teaching practices. Last month, 60 STAT members from around the state attended the review of the NGSS second draft. The members reviewed the document and provided valuable feedback to NSTA and Achieve. Everyone that attended, stated how much the first draft had changed based on the feedback provided from the first draft. OUR VOICES HAD BEEN HEARD from the June meeting!!! Many groups shared that there were some alignment issues and concepts that were not grade level appropriate that still needed to be addressed in the final version. We look forward to seeing the final version of the NGSS. In the meantime, we can and should utilize the resource, A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas to help increase our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (teacher and student) knowledge of science content. No matter the position that Texas takes on the Next Generation Science Standards, the Framework document is a great resource for all teachers and leaders of science education.

Contents

STAT & NSTA Joint Membership

Calendar President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary

The Science Teachers Association of Texas and the Nation Science Teachers Association have teamed up to bring you a limited time only promotional Joint Membership Offer to registrants at the NSTA National Conference in San Antonio April 11-14, 2013. Conference registrants may choose to purchase the joint membership package for both STAT and NSTA at a discounted rate on-site in San Antonio in April, don’t miss the chance to save some money!

Science Magic Show PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRANDS

Region 19 Mini-CAST

• Next Generation Assessments: Effectively Measuring Student Learning • Next Generation Elementary Science: Building the Foundation

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

• Next Generation Special Populations: Improving Science Instruction to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

• Next Generation Technology: Putting the “T” in STEM

ATTENDEES CAN ACCESS: • A wide range of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and Common Core sessions

CAST 2013

• 2,000 sessions, workshops, field trips, and short courses for K–16 educators

Putting the T in STEM

• Content development and ready-to-use teaching techniques

CAST Technology Committee

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, VISIT WWW.NSTA.ORG/CONFERENCES/2013SAN

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute NGSS Update STAT Contacts 30

• Exhibit Hall featuring new products and giveaways from more than 400 exhibitors • NSTA Science Bookstore with 100s of professional development books; attendees receive a 20% discount

Contents Calendar

STAT Standing Committees

President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary

Awards Committee

Chair – Patsy Magee pmagee@beaumont.k12.tx.us

Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

Nominations Committee

Chair – Susan Talkmitt susan.talkmitt@ttu.edu

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

Legal/Legislative Affairs Committee

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM

Chair – Sandra West sw04@txstate.edu

CAST Technology Committee Making Science Better

CAST Committee

Chair – Ross Ann Hill rahill@idalouisd.net

Membership Committee

Chair – Donald Burken donald.burken@springbranchisd. com

Archives Committee Chair – Karen Hewitt hewittkaren@yahoo.com

Policy & Procedures Committee

Summer Leadership Institute

Chair – Donald Burken burken.donalds@gmail.com

NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Contents Elected Officers

STAT Office

Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message

Mailing Address: 5750 Balcones Dr., Ste 201 Austin, TX 78731

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary

Phone: (512) 491-6685

Science Magic Show

Fax: (512) 873-7423

Region 19 Mini-CAST

www.statweb.org stat@bizaustin.rr.com

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

President: Sharon Kamas (281)-604-7000 president@statweb.org

Past President: Ross Ann Hill (806) 892-1900 pastpresident@statweb.org

President-Elect: Donald Burken (713) 723-0273 presidentelect@statweb.org

Treasurer: Terry Ward (817) 305-6741 treasurer@statweb.org

Vice President: Lola West (806) 677-5187 vicepresident@statweb.org

Secretary: Jo Anne Jackson (806) 766-1162 secretary@statweb.org

Members At Large: Kiki Corry George Hademenos Melana Silva

kiki@statweb.org george@statweb.org melana@statweb.org

Appointed Positions

CAST 2013

Executive Director:

Putting the T in STEM

Chuck Hempstead (512) 491-6685 stat@bizaustin.rr.com

CAST Technology Committee

Assistant Executive Director:

Making Science Better

Lauren Swetland (512) 491-6685 lauren@statweb.org

Summer Leadership Institute

TEA Representative:

Irene Pickhardt Curriculum Division: Science (512) 463-9581 irene.pickhardt@tea.state.tx.us

STATellite Submissions: (512) 491-6685 stat@bizaustin.rr.com

CAST Exhibits Manager & Advertising Manager:

NGSS Update STAT Contacts

Frank Butcher 32 32

(281) 424-1230 frank.butcher@comcast.net 32

Contents Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message

ACT

Science Teachers Day at the Capitol Legislative Summary Science Magic Show Region 19 Mini-CAST

TABT

ISEA

Associated Chemistry Teachers of Texas

Informal Science Education Association

Amiee Modic

Amy Moreland

amodic@sbcglobal.net

amoreland@austin.utexas.edu

TAEE

TCES

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

Texas Association of Biology Teachers

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

matthew.wells@cfisd.net

lob002@shsu.edu

drangtces@yahoo.com

CAST 2013

TESTA

TMEA

TSAAPT

Matthew Wells

Putting the T in STEM CAST Technology Committee

Texas Association for Environmental Education Lisa Brown

Texas Earth Science Teachers Association

Texas Marine Educators Association

Lexy Bieniek

Marolyn Smith

lexyb@consolidated.net

marolynsmith@yahoo.com

Texas Council of Elementary Science Deborah Rang

Texas Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers Paul Williams

pwill@austincc.edu

Making Science Better

TSELA

Summer Leadership Institute

Texas Science Education Leadership Association

NGSS Update

Kevin Fisher

kfisher56@msn.com

STAT Contacts

Contents Barbara Cargill, Chair Bob Craig, Vice Chair Mary Helen Berlanga, Secretary

Calendar Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

SBOE District 1 - Martha M. Dominquez P.O Box 960543 El Paso, Texas 79996 (915) 373-3563

Legislative Summary

SBOE District 2 - Ruben Cortez, Jr. 735 Habana St. Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 639-9171

Science Magic Show

SBOE District 3- Marisa B. Perez

Region 19 Mini-CAST

P.O. Box 276406 San Antonio, TX 78227 (210) 317-4651

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

SBOE District 4 - Lawrence A. Allen, Jr. 2130 Vermillion Oak St. Fresno, Texas 77545 (713) 203-1355

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

SBOE District 5- Ken Mercer P.O. Box 781301 San Antonio, TX 78278-1301 (512) 463-9007

CAST 2013

SBOE District 6 - Donna Bahorich P.O. Box 79842 Houston, TX 79842 (832) 303-9091

Putting the T in STEM

SBOE District 7 - David Bradley

CAST Technology Committee

2165 North Street Beaumont, TX 77701 (409) 835-3808

Making Science Better

SBOE District 10 - Tom Maynard

P.O. Box 2885 Georgetown, Texas 78627 (512) 763-2801 (512) 532-9517 fax

SBOE District 11 - Patricia Hardy 900 North Elm Weatherford, TX 76086 (817) 598-2968 (817) 598-2833 fax

SBOE District 12 - Geraldine Miller

1100 Providence Tower West 5001 Spring Valley Road Dallas, Texas 75244 (972) 419-4000 (214) 522-8560 fax

SBOE District 13 - Mavis B. Knight 6108 Red Bird Court Dallas, TX 75232 (214) 333-9575 (214) 339-9242 fax

SBOE District 14 - Sue Melton 101 Brewster Waco, TX 76706 (254) 749-0415

SBOE District 15 - Marty Rowley

P.O. Box 2129 Amarillo, TX 79105 (806) 373-6278 (806) 220-2812 fax

SBOE District 8 - Barbara Cargill 61 W. Wedgemere Circle The Woodlands, TX 77381 (512) 463-9007

Summer Leadership Institute

SBOE District 9 - Thomas Ratliff P.O. Box 232 Mount Pleasant, TX 75456 (903) 717-1190

NGSS Update

Need to find your state legislators? Search by zip code at:

STAT Contacts

http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us 34 34

Contents Calendar

Want to be published? E-mail us your letters and articles!

President’s Message Science Teachers Day at the Capitol

STATellite Due Dates

Legislative Summary

Due dates for publication of articles in The STATellite are:

Science Magic Show

Submission Deadline

Region 19 Mini-CAST

May 1 August 1 December 1 February 1

Using Sticks: Math/Science Skills

Publication Date May 15 August 15 December 15 February 15

Text files or Microsoft Word documents are preferable, but InDesign files are also acceptable.

New Water & Aquatic Science Guides

A minimum of one picture to accompany each article is required.

CAST 2013 Putting the T in STEM

E-mail your submissions to: The STATellite stat@bizaustin.rr.com

CAST Technology Committee

The views of the columnists in The STATellite do not necessarily represent the views of STAT or its Board members.

Making Science Better Summer Leadership Institute

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NGSS Update STAT Contacts 35