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E-Blast for October 22, 2009
Sponsored by the National and Michigan Science Teachers Associations - NSTA/MSTA
In this E-Blast
- Leadership
- The Science Matters Network in Michigan
- Science Humor
- MEAP, MME, and MDE Science
- Science Matters to Parents
- Student Activities and Opportunities
- Grants
- K-12 Science
- High School Science
- Middle School and High School Science
- Middle School Science
- Elementary and Middle School Science
- Elementary School Science
- October Contest
Here are your science education resources and announcements for October 22, 2009 provided by the Science Matters Network. These science education highlights are emailed to Key Leaders, Points of Contact and State Partners. Please forward them on to other science educators in your school. If you have questions or comments, please forward them to:
David Bydlowski
Michigan Coordinator-Science Matters Network
or
Sue Campbell
MSTA Representative
Please Note: If you do not receive the full e-blast you can view it at: http://msta-mich.org/bap or request a Word version by emailing: bydlowd@resa.net You can also listen to the e-blast, as a podcast, by visiting: http://k12science.net and clicking on Podcasts or you can subscribe at iTunes by searching for k12science in the iTunes Store.
I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.
Mohandas Gandhi
Thank you to Herm Boatin, Science consultant and lecturer, University of Michigan-Dearborn, for contributing this leadership quote.
The Science Matters Network In Michigan
Do you like to twitter and tweet? If so, the Michigan Science Matters Network eBlast is doing a study on the effectiveness of twitter as an aid to our eBlast. We are running a four-week study to collect data on the value of Twitter with the eBlast. If you are one of the first 20 people that volunteer to be part of this study and complete the required evaluation, you will receive a prize for your efforts. All you have to do is to go to: http://twitter.com
Sign In. (If you don't have an account, set up an account.)
Go to Find People.
Then type in "k12science" or "david bydlowski"
You will receive one tweet per day, then you will be asked your comments on the twitter experience. After that, you will receive your prize.
2b. Upcoming Presentation at MDSTA
Are you attending the Metropolitan Detroit Science Teachers Association Fall Conference at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, MI on Saturday, October 24? If so, please stop by Science Room 203 for a presentation on the Michigan Science Matters Network in Michigan. The time of the presentation is 2:30 - 3:30. Key Leaders, Points of Contact, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the network is invited to attend.
Teacher: If you subtract fourteen from a hundred sixteen, what's the difference?
Student: Yeah, I think it's a lot of foolishness too!
Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.
Teacher: What was the name of the person in Greek mythology who was half man and half animal?
Student: Buffalo Bill
October 22, 2009 is the Science MEAP testing date for all 5th and 8th grade students in Michigan. Good luck!
October 21, 2010: Initial Test Date for the 5th and 8th grade science MEAP assessments.
5a. More Tips for Busy Parents
Explore non-formal education sites. In an informal learning situation-the kind of learning that happens outside the traditional confines of the classroom, at science centers, museums, zoos, and aquariums-children are encouraged to experiment on their own and ask questions about what they are experiencing.
Connect science with a family vacation. Family vacations are a great way to explore science. It could be a hiking trip where you explore nature or a discussion on tides during a beach vacation.
Become active in your children's formal education by getting to know the teacher and the curriculum. Participate in your child's school science program by locating scientists and others to be guest speakers, or accompany your child on a field trip to a science-related place.
Show excitement for science!
For more ideas, visit: http://www.nsta.org/sciencematters
Student Activities and Opportunities
6a. Real World Design Challenge for 9th - 12th Grade Students
The Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) is an annual competition that provides high school students, grades 9 - 12, the opportunity to work on real world engineering challenges in a team environment. Each year, student teams are asked to address a challenge that confronts our nation's leading industries. Students will utilize professional engineering software to develop their solutions and will also generate presentations that convincingly demonstrate the value of their solutions. The RWDC provides students with opportunities to apply the lessons of the classroom to the technical problems that are being faced in the workplace. This year's Challenge will focus on aeronautics and energy usage.
The Governor's Cup State Level Challenge deadline is January 15, 2010. Students will be competing against other teams within their state. The winning team from each of these states will receive an all expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to participate at the National Event March 26-29, 2010. Want to know more? Please contact: rwdc_support@ptc.com
or visit:http://www.realworlddesignchallenge.org/
6b. Team America Rocketry Challenge for 7th - 12th Grade Students
The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), in partnership with NASA and other sponsors, is holding the annual Team America Rocketry Challenge. The contest is an opportunity for students in grades 7-12 to prove their knowledge of aerospace science. This year's challenge is to design, build, and fly a model rocket that reaches exactly 825 feet, stays aloft for between 40 and 45 seconds, and returns the raw egg payload uncracked. A pool of $60,000 in cash and savings bonds is available for the winning teams. The deadline to enter is November 30, 2009.
More information at:http://www.rocketcontest.org/#
6c. You Be the Chemist Challenge for 5th - 8th Grade Students
PVS-Nolwood Chemicals Inc., a subsidiary of PVS Chemicals, Inc., a multi-national company owned by Detroit businessman James B. Nicholson, and headquartered in Detroit, is the local sponsoring company for a national competition called the You Be The Chemist Challenge (YBTC). PVS-Nolwood Chemicals, Inc, is announcing the tentative competition schedule for the 2009-2010 school year. Those dates are as follows:
Oakland, Lapeer, Genesee, Livingston Counties Challenge - March 2, 2010
Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe Counties Challenge - March 8, 2010
Macomb County Challenge - March 15, 2010
Ludington Challenge - March 18th, 2010
Detroit Public Schools Challenge - March 30, 2010
Saginaw Valley, TBA
State Challenge - Detroit Public TV, Wixom, MI - May 1, 2010
Created by the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF) out of Washington D.C., the fifth annual You Be The Chemist Challenge (YBTCC) aims to engage grade 5-8 students in a dynamic event that partners members of the chemical industry with schools and organizations in the communities in which we operate. It is the goal of this program to develop interest and proficiency in chemistry for pre-high school students with the hope of that interest carrying into their high school years and beyond. The Challenge offers a new and exciting way for communities to celebrate the excitement of competition, the education of youth, and the importance of chemistry. In this case it is simply an example of a Michigan chemical company investing in the future of Michigan education. For more information, please contact Mike Hutto at:
or visit:http://www.chemed.org/ybtc/home.aspx
6d. 2010 Michigan Envirothon Kick-Off for High School Students
The Michigan Envirothon is a program that teaches environmental stewardship values to Michigan high school students. The State Competition is taking place at the Leelanau Outdoor Center on May 13 and 14, 2010. The Michigan Envirothon Learning Objectives support the Michigan High School Content Expectations and this year they are offering special incentives to teams that can help reduce participation costs.
Get Michigan high school students excited about Envirothon, register NOW and be part of the 2010 competition! Registration is open until February 12, 2010. You will find a copy of the 2010 Michigan Envirothon Manual for program and competition details on the Michigan Envirothon website at: http://www.michiganenvirothon.org
(click on "Resources" and open the pdf version of the manual in the box "Resources for Michigan Envirothon Teams"). If you have questions, please contact:
Svenja Drebes, 517.324.4421
November 30, 2009: Deadline for 7th - 12th grade students to enter the Team America Rocketry Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.rocketcontest.org/#
December 15, 2009: Deadline for high school students to register for the Spirit of Innovation Awards. For more information, please visit: http://www.conradawards.com
January 15, 2010: Deadline for 9th - 12th grade students to enter the Real World Design Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.realworlddesignchallenge.org/
January 31, 2010: Last day for 7th - 12th grade students to enter the DuPont Challenge Science Essay Competition. For more information, please visit: http://thechallenge.dupont.com/
January 31, 2010: Deadline for 5th grade students to enter the 2010 Arbor Day National Poster Contest. For more information, please visit: http://www.arborday.org/kids/postercontest/?gclid=CLCm54Prr5wCFQebnAod5B5Ckg
January 31, 2010: Deadline for elementary students to enter the Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.wecanchange.com
February 2, 2010: Deadline for K-12 students to apply for the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Awards Program. For more information, please visit: http://www.exploravision.org
February 12, 2010: Deadline for high school teachers to apply to participate in the MI Envirothon. For more information, please visit: http://www.michiganenvirothon.org
March 1, 2010: Deadline for the 2010 Citizen Science Paper Competition for High School Students. For more information, please visit: http://www.sustainus.org/citizenscience
March 15, 2010: Deadline for high school students to enter the DNA Day Essay Contest. For more information, please visit:http://www.ashg.org/education/dnaday.shtml
March 15, 2010: Deadline for middle school students to enter the Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.wecanchange.com
7a. Win $3000 For Your School's Science Department
an educational children's Web site developed by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), has announced a national competition for students (grades four through eight) to win $3,000 for one lucky school's science department. The contest challenges teachers and their students to create educational Public Service Announcements (PSAs) that highlight the health and property risks posed by household pests such as rodents, ants, termites, cockroaches, stinging insects and ticks. Deadline December 23, 2009.
Target Field Trip Grants are available to fund scholastic outings in situations where monies are otherwise lacking. Target will award 5,000 grants of up to $800 each for the upcoming school year. For field trip ideas, use the Field Trip Idea Generator and check out some destinations that Field Trip Grant recipients explored this past year. The deadline: November 3, 2009. For more information, please visit: http://sites.target.com/
7c. MRSP School Application - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Programs
Energy Works Michigan (Energy Works) invites Michigan public and private K-12 schools to submit an application to participate in the Michigan Renewable Schools Program to receive energy efficiency or renewable energy measures at their school. Schools must complete the application for either the Energy Efficiency (EE) Program or Renewable Energy (RE) Program. Schools eligible to apply for the Energy Efficiency (EE) Program are K-12 school buildings built before 1999 and without major energy efficiency upgrades. Schools eligible to apply for the Renewable Energy (RE) Program are K-12 school buildings built after 1999 or with significant energy efficiency upgrades. A summary of the Michigan Renewable Schools Program are available on the Energy Works website at: http://www.energyworksmichigan.org
For more information, please email info@energyworksmichigan.org. They look forward to your participation in the Michigan Renewable Schools Program!
7d. Does Your School Need New Laptops?
Samsung's "Four Seasons of Hope" program is offering $1,000,000 of technology equipment and software prizes for schools. The Grand Prize includes 30 laptops (basically, a moveable lab) and a bunch of other equipment. The contest can be entered by educators, parents, or students. You submit a 100-word essay on technology in education. For contest rules and prize information, please visit: http://pages.samsung.com/us/4seasons_hope/rules.html
The deadline is December 1, 2009.
Rolling Deadline for the Michigan Renewable Schools Program. For more information, please visit: http://www.energyworksmichigan.org
October 31, 2009: Deadline for Project Learning Tree Greenworks Grants. For more information, please contact Ada Takacs at: takacsa@michigan.gov
November 3, 2009: Deadline to apply for the Target Field Trip Grants. For more information please visit: http://sites.target.com
December 1, 2009: Deadline to write an essay for Samsung's "Four Seasons of Hope" program. For more information, please visit: http://pages.samsung.com/us/4seasons_hope/rules.html
December 23, 2009: Deadline to apply for the National Pest Management Associations Grade 4 -8 national competition. For more information, please visit: http://www.pestworldforkids.org/psa-contest.html
January 18, 2010: Deadline to apply for the Toyota Tapestry Grants for K-12 Teachers. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/pd/tapestry
8a. Freebies for Science Teachers
Tucked away in the NSTA website, under the Publications tab, you'll find the Freebies for Science Teachers, a continually refreshed repository of free resources for you and your classroom. The "Freebies" have long been a popular part of the Grab Bag pull-out section of NSTA Reports. The handy online version is well worth bookmarking. Just visit: http://www.nsta.org/publications/freebies.aspx?lid=tnavhp
8b. More Freebies for Science Teachers
Practical Uses of Math and Science (PUMAS) offers more than 60 one-page examples of how science and math can be used in interesting settings and everyday life. Topics include clouds (why they float), Social Security benefits (algebra), Pythagorean theorem (cabinet corners), ice sheets and sea level (logarithms), matching birthdays (statistics), traffic signals (probability), seasons (causes), volcanic clouds, wind chill (algebra) and more. The examples, written primarily by scientists, engineers and other content experts, are aimed mainly at K-12 classroom teachers. Please visit: https://pumas.gsfc.nasa.gov/
Whelmers are 20 hands-on science activities intended to capture students' imagination and spark curiosity. The activities have been aligned with the National Science Education Standards by the staff of McREL. Among the activities are Iron in Cereal, Nickel Karate, Inch of Skin, Fire Sandwich, Pretzel Predictions and Liquid Rainbow. Please visit: http://www.mcrel.org/whelmers/
8c. NASA Prepares to Launch the Ares-I-X Rocket
On Oct. 27, 2009, NASA launches the first flight of a new era with the flight test of the Ares I-X rocket. In preparation for the flight test, NASA has launched a new Web site to involve the public in this exciting and historic event. The "MyExploration" Web site encourages visitors to learn, explore and participate in the upcoming mission. NASA is asking the public to upload 60-second videos that finish the statement "Space exploration is important because..." These videos will be posted on the site for others to see.
The "MyExploration" Web site also has links to Ares information on the Web, including links to the latest news and information on Flickr, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. To learn more, upload your video, view videos submitted by others, and take the "MyExploration" quiz, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/myexploration
8d. Project Learning Tree Workshop
On November 7th from 9 am until 4 pm, the DeVries Nature Conservancy, in Owosso, will be holding a Project Learning Tree Teacher Workshop. You will learn great hands-on methods to teach environmental science in your classrooms and homes; and will get over 100 lesson plans, receive materials, prizes and free lunch. Participants will see different activities and spend some time out on the grounds of beautiful DNC. Your morning coffee and lunch will be provided. SB CEUs (0.6) will be awarded to participants from Shiawassee and Clinton Counties. Early registration is $30 and late registration is $35. If you register multiple teachers from one school, you get entered into a great prize drawing. For more information, please call Tracy at 989.723.3365 or email info@devriesnc.org to register by October 26.
January 1 - December 31, 2009: The Year of Science. For more information, please visit: http://www.yearofscience2009.org
October 24, 2009: MDSTA Fall Conference at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, MI. To register, please visit: http://mdsta.org
October 27, 2009: Launch of the Ares I-X Rocket.
November 18, 2009: Fall Science Update at Grand Valley State University from 8:00 - 3:00. For more information, please visit: http://www.gvsu.edu/rmsc/index.cfm?action=home.events&eventId=1B30A6B0-A218-7C51-C0723A854DCAF30B
December 31, 2009: Deadline to apply for the NOAA Teacher at Sea Program. For more information, please visit: http://teacheratsea.noaa.gov/
March 4-6, 2010: MSTA Conference in Lansing, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.msta-mich.org/conference/
March 18-21, 2010: NSTA Conference in Philadelphia, PA. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/conferences/2010phi/?lid=tnavhp
9a. Stipend Plus Expenses for PD on Nanoscience and Technology
NanoTeach is a National Science Foundation (NSF) funded professional development project that utilizes the Designing Effective Science Instruction (DESI) framework to integrate nanoscience and technology content into existing science curricula. It is collaboration between Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL), the Stanford Nanofabrication Facility (SNF), the Georgia Institute of Technology, the National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN), and ASPEN Associates.
They are seeking 30 public high school science teachers to participate in their year-long, nationwide pilot test of NanoTeach beginning summer 2010. Teachers who complete all requirements will receive a stipend of $3,000 (15 days at $200/day) for the out-of-classroom time required for participation. The application deadline is January 8, 2010. A special NanoTeach Question-and-Answer webinar is scheduled for November 17 at 5 p.m. EST. For more information, go to: http://www.mcrel.org/NanoTeach/Recruiting
November 9, 2009: 9th Annual Southwest Michigan Science Educators Symposium (SWMSES). For more information, please visit: http://www.swmses.org/
January 8, 2010: Deadline to apply for the NSF funded Professional Development integrating nanoscience and technology. For more information, please visit: http://www.mcrel.org/NanoTeach/Recruiting
Middle School and High School Science
10a. Acknowledge Exemplary Science Teaching
Ciba Specialty Chemicals Exemplary Middle Level and High School Science Teaching Awards recognize classroom teachers who have demonstrated exemplary science teaching in one or more of the following areas: creativity using science teaching materials; design and use of innovative teaching plans and ideas; and development and implementation of department, school or school-community programs that improve science instruction and/or stimulate interest in science and the learning of science. The award consists of $4,000, a one-year membership in the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and up to $1,000 to attend the NSTA National Conference on Science Education, March 18-21, 2010 in Philadelphia.
Deadline: November 30, 2009. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/pdfs/awards/CibaTeaching.pdf
November 30, 2009: Deadline for Grade 6-9 Teachers to apply for the DCAT Making a Difference Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/about/awards.aspx?lid=tnav#dcat
November 30, 2009: Deadline for Middle School and High School Teachers to apply for the CIBA Foundation Science Teaching Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/pdfs/awards/CibaTeaching.pdf
November 30, 2009: Deadline for MS and HS teachers to register for the 2010 Team America Rocketry Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.rocketcontest.org
October 28, 2009: Urban Middle Level Science Educators Conference in Minneapolis, MN. For more information, please contact Cindy Moss at: cindy.moss@ccms.k12.nc.us
Elementary and Middle School Science
12a. Learn Science From Frankenstein
The Atoms Family is a Science Learning Network online resource based on The Atoms Family exhibit at the Miami Science Museum. This resource contains educational activities, presented by famous gothic horror characters, related to different forms of energy. In The Mummy's Tomb, students learn about energy conservation and kinetic and potential energy. In the Phantom's Portrait Parlor, they investigate the principles of atoms and matter. In Frankenstein's Lightning Laboratory, they study different forms of electricity and electrical safety. Dracula's Library introduces the properties of light, waves and particles, and The Wolf Man's Graveyard presents the concepts of fuel conservation and energy transfer. Visit the website and have some fun at: http://www.miamisci.org/af/sln/frankenstein/index.html
12b. FREE Water on the Go Programs for Your School
As part of their Watershed Education Initiative, Cranbrook Institute of Science and DTE Energy Foundation are pleased to have the opportunity to offer your 5th, 6th & 7th grade students, free of charge, an exciting new program on Great Lakes Watershed Education. These programs, developed around the Michigan Grade Level Content Expectations for Science and Social Studies, are a part of the Institute's Water on the Go! educational outreach program. Water on the Go! programs come to your school to engage students in a fun presentation and hands-on learning.
Programs include:
- How We Use Water
- I Live In A Watershed
- Groundwater Pollution
To schedule a FREE program, please contact their scheduling office at 248-645-3008, or water@cranbrook.edu
to reserve dates or to receive more information. Programs are presented one classroom at a time and can be repeated multiple times in a day.
There are two FREE virtual field trips scheduled for the week of November 9 - 16, 2009 provided by the MSU Museum. For the week of November 9-16, these two programs are FREE to Michigan schools:
Sense of Adaptation, Grades 1-4 http://www.vccontentproviders.org/viewprogram.php?pid=1044 and Jiminy Crickets: Exploring the Scientific Method, Grades 4-6
http://www.vccontentproviders.org/viewprogram.php?pid=1042
Please note, when you click on the links, you will see that there is a $50 charge. There is usually a fee, but they are FREE for this week only. Just complete the registration form and enjoy these virtual field trips.
13b. Curious George Helps Bring Earth Science to Kids
Leverage Curious George's appeal to bring earth science learning to young kids, PreK - 1. PBS has created easy-to-use resources for educators that are free and online. The resources outline how to set up and run hands-on "Curiosity Centers" where children can make their own discoveries about sand, water, soil, wind, and recycling. How-to includes simple materials lists, learning goals, leader notes, and tips for success. Over 80 three-minute video clips showing kids exploring science are also available. For more information, please visit: http://www.pbs.org/parents/curiousgeorge
13c. Where the Wild Things Are
National Wildlife Federation has teamed up with the film Where The Wild Things Are to bring you some fun activities. Try them out and discover the Wild Things in your own world! Playing outside makes healthy, happy kids. Visit: http://www.nwf.org/beoutthere to explore lots more ideas for wild outdoor fun.
You will find an Educator's Guide, plus all the details on how to plan a fun Wild Rumpus Day, by visiting: http://www.nwf.org/beoutthere/docs/BeOutThere_KidsGuide.pdf
13d. Apply Today to Participate in the 2010 Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy
The 2010 Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy is accepting applications until October 31, 2009, for this all-expense-paid professional development program designed to give teachers like you the opportunity to hone your math and science teaching skills and help you inspire your students to shine in these subjects.
Each summer, 600 third- through fifth-grade teachers from school districts across the country to attend the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academies. The Academies offer a five-day program, with camps in New Jersey, Texas and Louisiana, designed to provide third- through fifth-grade teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to motivate students to pursue careers in science and math.
Taught by a distinguished faculty compiled through the National Science Teachers Association and Math Solutions, teachers experience a fresh and engaging approach to many math and science concepts. The Academy faculty follow a philosophy of a learning cycle, the 5E teaching and learning model based on the theory that students learn best when they are allowed to work out explanations for themselves through learning experiences structured by the teacher. This learning cycle has five key cyclical components: engagement, exploration, explanation, elaboration and evaluation. The structure of the model demonstrates the benefit of teachers guiding students through the learning process, which is key to students fully understanding the critical subjects of math and science. To learn more and apply, log on to the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy website at: http://www.sendmyteacher.com/
Contact Dr. Joe Sciulli, Program Director, at jsciulli@nsta.org if you have questions.
November 7, 2009: Sowing Seeds Humane Education Workshop from 8:30 - 5:00 at the Detroit Zoo-Ford Education Center. For more information, please send an email to: education@detroitzoo.org
November 30, 2009: Deadline for K-2 Science Teachers to apply for the Zula International Early Science Educator Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/about/awards.aspx?lid=tnavhp#zula
December 18, 2009: Deadline for 4th - 6th grade students and teachers to enter the Disney Planet Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://disney.go.com/planetchallenge
In October, we gave away wristband flashdrives. Here is a list of the winners:
Renee Moore - Seaholm High School, Birmingham Public Schools
Gwen Windiate - Christa McAuliffe Middle School, Bay City
Deb Emelander - East Kelloggsville Elementary, Kentwood
Deborah Taylor - Royal Oak Middle Oak, Royal Oak Schools
Richard Suckow - Lincoln Park Middle School, Lincoln Park
Julie Luehmann - Westwood High School, Ishpeming
Paul Drummond - Macomb Science, Mathematics, and Technical Center, Macomb ISD
Congratulations to all of the winners. If you did not win, keep trying. Next month may be your lucky month.
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