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E-Blast for November 26, 2009
November 26 - December 9, 2009 - Science Matters Network Michigan eBlast
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
- Research Experiences for Teachers with $3600 Stipend
- 3 and You are Free at MSTA
- NASA Resources for STS-129, Spacesuits, and Spacewalks
- Robotics Website
- Are You Against the Closing of the Geology Department at MSU?
- Free Space Shuttle Artifacts for Your School
- The Secret Life of Scientists
- Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award
- Upcoming Deadlines
- High School Science
- Middle School and High School Science
- Elementary School Science
- November Contest Winners
Here are your science education resources and announcements for November 26 - December 9, 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/smn 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.
Keep your fears to yourself, but share your inspiration with others.
Robert Louis Stevenson
Thank you to Herm Boatin, Science consultant and lecturer, University of Michigan-Dearborn, for contributing this leadership quote.
The Science Matters Network In Michigan
Follow the eBlast on Twitter. Just go to: http://msta-mich.org/smn and click on the Twitter button.
Here is a quote form Kelli Polleys, Harbor Springs Middle School:
For the past month I have been receiving twitter tweets from k12science regarding a wide array of topics. I have really enjoyed receiving these tweets because I have been reminded of things I otherwise would have forgotten about from reading or listening to the biweekly E-blast. The E-blasts are so rich with information it is easy to miss things or just skim over them. Receiving the tweets was a nice way to be reminded of time sensitive information. I specifically have enjoyed the information about NASA launches and programs that I can share with my class right away!
Do you enjoy the Science Matters eBlast on Twitter. If so, send in a quote like Kelli and you will be sent an iTunes gift card. Thanks for your comments, Kelli!
Teacher: What do you call the last teeth we get?
Student: False Teeth
The toughest thing about homework is getting mom and dad to agree on the same answer.
A school board had a teacher prospect in to size him up. One member asked him whether the Earth was round or flat. He didn't bat an eye. "I don't know how you people feel about it, but I can teach it either way."
4a. MDE School Improvement Conference
"Effective School Improvement Practices, Creating an Atmosphere of Change"
December 1-2, 2009
With the school/district online deliverables launch date scheduled to occur next week, important information related to the MDE and Title I reporting requirements will be shared at the MDE Fall School Improvement Conference. Schools and districts are strongly encouraged to register for the conference.
The keynote, as well as the conference breakout sessions, will introduce practitioner experiences from districts, ISDs/RESAs, and state initiatives. Keynote speaker, Michael Fullan, is Professor Emeritus of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Dr. Fullan is recognized as a worldwide authority on educational reform. He is engaged in training, consulting, and evaluating change projects around the world.
Register online at http://www.gomiem.org/event/school_improvement_framework_conference_3
October 21, 2010: Initial Test Date for the 5th and 8th grade science MEAP assessments.
5a. Four Strands of Science Proficiency
Four intertwined and equally important strands comprise the National Research Council's definition of proficiency in science. All K-8 education should offer students opportunities to engage in the four strands of science proficiency.
The four strands include:
- Develop the ability to know, use, and interpret scientific explanation of the natural world.
- Generate and evaluate scientific evidence.
- Understand the development of scientific knowledge.
- Learn to participate productively in scientific practices and discussions.
For more ideas and information for parents, visit: http://www.nsta.org/sciencematters
Student Activities and Opportunities
6a. River of Words for Students in Grades 4-12
River of Words is a letter writing, art and poetry contest sponsored by the Library of Congress. River of Words is an environmental poetry and art contest on the theme of WATERSHEDS. The contest is designed to help youth explore the natural and cultural history of the place they live, and to express, through poetry and art, what they discover. The 2010 deadline is December 1, 2009. National level winners receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to present their work at the Library of Congress.
For more information on the programs, please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/mcfb and follow the links.
6b. DASH + for High School Students
It'll take your best future scientist, engineer, mathematician and designer to win at this finish line. Changing the world isn't easy. That's why the DASH+ contest needs your best. Form a team to design the eco-friendly dashboard of the future and drive change today.
As part of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE Education Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, DASH+ challenges high school students to design the next generation dashboard that supports behavior change to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
At the finish line, the DASH+ winning team has the chance to travel to Motor City for a VIP experience where they can:
Pitch their ideas-to representatives from the automotive industry and receive feedback
Showcase their ideas-on the ground and online at www.FuelOurFutureNow.com
See the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE vehicles-and meet the competing teams
Learn more about college programs-and career possibilities
For more information, please visit: http://www.fuelourfuturenow.com/contest/
Deadline is March 1, 2010.
6c. We Can Change the World Challenge for K-8 Students
Join the nation's premier sustainability challenge where students create solutions to environmental problems in their own backyard. Give your students the chance to make a difference in their own classrooms, schools and communities by offering them the tools, resources and inspiration to change their world.
Register for a complimentary webinar to learn more about the process of getting your students involved. Please visit: http://siemens.discoveryeducation.com/
6d. Michigan Society for Medical Research High School Essay Contest
The MI Society for Medical Research HS Essay Contest for 2010 information can be downloaded at: http://www.mismr.org/services/essay/2010EssayContestPacket.pdf
The 2009 MISMR Essay Booklet winner and honorable mentions can be downloaded at: http://www.mismr.org/services/essay/2009_Essay_Contest_full_Booklet.pdf
The deadline to enter is December 18, 2009.
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 1, 2009: Deadline for grade 4-12 students to enter the River of Words contest. For more information, please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/mcfb
December 1, 2009: Deadline for schools to apply to participate in the Great Lakes Bowl. For more information, please visit: http://www.glerl.noaa.gov/pr/nosb/cur/
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
December 18, 2009: Deadline for High School Students to enter the Michigan Society for Medical Research Essay Contest. For more information, please visit: http://www.mismr.org/services/essay/2010EssayContestPacket.pdf
December 18, 2009: Deadline for 4th-6th grade students to apply to enter the Disney Planet Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://disney.go.com/planetchallenge/?THEBIGDEALBOOK=633922594183524065
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 15, 2010: Last day for high school students to submit their research for the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium at Wayne State University. For more information, please visit: http://www.coe.wayne.edu/ted/JSHS/
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 1, 2010: Projects due for the Waste Limitation Management and Recycling Design Challenge, for middle school students. For more information, please visit: http://wlmr.nasa.gov/
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 3, 2010: Deadline for high schools to apply for the USA Biology Olympiad. For more information, please visit: http://www.cee.org/programs/usabo/teacher-info
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 high school students to enter the DASH+ Challenge. For more information, please visit: http://www.fuelourfuturenow.com/contest/
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 1, 2010: Deadline for 7th - 12th grade students to apply for the Young Naturalist Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.amnh.org/nationalcenter/youngnaturalistawards/
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. Apply Now for the Toyota TAPESTRY Grant
The deadline to submit applications for the Toyota TAPESTRY Grants for Science Teachers program is fast approaching. K - 12 science teachers with innovative project ideas that enhance science education in their school and/or school district are encouraged to apply.
Fifty large grants and a minimum of 20 mini-grants totaling $550,000 will be awarded this year. Individual science teachers or a team of up to five teachers can submit proposals in one of three categories: physical science application; environmental science education; and integrating literacy and science. Additionally, all awardees will receive a $500 stipend to use for travel expenses or registration to attend the NSTA National Conference on Science Education in Philadelphia.
Don't delay! Apply now! Visit the TAPESTRY website at: http://www.nsta.org/pd/tapestry
for complete details. Applications must be submitted no later than Monday, January 18, 2010, to be considered.
7b. Free Technology Training for Your School
Want to receive free training worth up to $8,300 to help educators in your school become more skilled at using educational technology?
The Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) has received a grant from the Michigan Department of Education to train 70 teams (350 educators) at the school building level. In the MI-Champions program, teams of 3-5 educators attend the annual MACUL conference (one of the largest in the Midwest) in 2010 and 2011, receive two days of training in the summer of 2010, receive onsite coaching expertise, and a wealth of resources. MACUL conference registration, as well as stipends, are provided for each MI-Champion participant.
The purpose of the program is to develop the expertise of teachers to use technology to improve student academic achievement. For more information and to apply for the MI-Champions program for your school team, please visit: http://www.macul.org
Application deadline is December 16.
Rolling Deadline for the Michigan Renewable Schools Program. For more information, please visit: http://www.energyworksmichigan.org
November 30, 2009: Deadline for K-12 science teachers to apply for the Teacher Fellow Program at The Henry Ford. For more information, please visit: http://www.thehenryford.org/education/development.aspx
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 1, 2009: Deadline for Physics Teachers to apply for grants. For more information, please visit: http://www.aapt.org/programs/grants/hsgrant.cfm
December 4, 2009: Deadline to apply for the teacher stipend from MACUL to produce 25 online learning resources. For more information, please visit: http://macul.org/milearning/
December 15, 2009: Deadline to apply for the Bette and Roger Gay Scholarship at the Detroit Zoological Society to travel across the equator. For more information, please visit: http://www.detroitzoo.org/Saving_Wildlife/Saving_Wildlife/Adopt-A-School/
December 16, 2009: Deadline to apply for MI-Champions Free Technology Training for Your School. For more information, please visit: http://www.macul.org
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 13, 2010: Deadline for K-12 science teachers to apply to be an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow. For more information, please visit: http://www.einsteinfellows.org/application.html
January 13, 2010: Deadline for potential high school science teachers to apply for the teaching fellowships from Knowles Science Foundation. For more information, please visit: http://www.kstf.org/fellowships/teaching.html
January 15, 2010: Community Action Grants for Females. For more information, please visit: http://www.aauw.org/education/fga/fellowships_grants/community_action.cfm
January 15, 2010: Deadline for HS Environmental Education Teachers to apply for the Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.neefusa.org/bartlettaward/
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
January 29, 2010: Deadline for teachers to apply for the Global Learning Adventure of grants of $5000 to $10,000. For more information, please visit: http://www.fundforteachers.org
8a. Research Experiences for Teachers with $3600 Stipend
There are two research/professional development opportunities for elementary, middle and high school teachers at Florida State University during the summer 2010. One of the programs is at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee, FL and the other is at FSU's Coastal and Marine Laboratory at Turkey Point, FL (just south of Tallahassee). Both programs provide wonderful and engaging opportunities for teachers. Each program includes a $3600 stipend for full participation. The program dates for the Magnet Lab RET are June 14th - July 23rd, 2010 and June 21st - July 30th, 2010 for the Coastal and Marine Lab RET. The deadline to apply is March 15, 2010.
For further information including applications please visit: http://www.ret.magnet.fsu.edu, http://bio.fsu.edu/osta/ret
8b. 3 and You are Free at MSTA
Do you want to attend the 57th Annual Michigan Science Teachers Associations conference, Science on a Shoestring, March 5-6, 2010, for FREE? If you, as a current member of MSTA or as a renewing member, sign up 3 individuals to attend, and they become NEW members of MSTA, they will pay for your one or two day registration! That's right - you attend FREE! (That is a $65 or $90 savings for you!)
Details:
You need to be a current member of MSTA, or you renew your membership (membership can not be expired more than 6 months).
Send all 4 of the registrations at one time with payment, to MSTA.
Forms are due by the early registrations deadline of February 12, 2010.
It's that easy! For a registration form, go to: http://www.msta-mich.org
8c. NASA Resources for STS-129, Spacesuits, and Spacewalks
NASA is offering a wealth of classroom resources that can be used to learn about the STS-129 space shuttle mission to the International Space Station. The page includes a mission overview, interactive games, topic articles for students, links to mission information, image galleries and classroom materials for educators. For more information, please visit: http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/sts129-index.html
The STS-129 space shuttle mission is continuing construction on the International Space Station and providing additional supplies to lengthen the life of the space station. These tasks will showcase the importance of spacewalks and the reliance on spacesuits. To help educators share these topics with their students, NASA Education has created the Spacesuits and Spacewalks Web site. This site brings a wealth of educational resources together in one place. Visitors to the Web site can:
- Check out the Clickable Spacesuit and learn about the different parts of a spacesuit.
- Take a look at videos about the spacesuits of the future.
- Read topic features "What Is a Spacesuit?" and "What Is a Spacewalk?"
- Watch Brain Bites videos and learn about hard-to-do moves in a spacesuit.
- Take a step back in time and visit the Spacesuit History Gallery.
- Explore the Educational Activities.
- Read about spacesuit designers and engineers who create and test spacesuits.
- Discover other NASA Web sites with information about spacesuits and spacewalks.
For more information please visit: http://www.nasa.gov/education/spacesuits
Innovation, creativity, problem solving -- the world of robotics at NASA is all of these things. Bookmark this new one-stop shop on NASA.gov for news about robotics for educators and students. Check out the things to do on the site to see if robotics might be in your future. Things you can do on this site:
- Answer the question: What Is Robotics?
- Practice your programming skills with the interactive robotic activity.
- Watch and download video and multimedia features about robotics.
- Follow a timeline tracing the history of robotics.
- Check out lesson plans for your classroom.
- Stay up-to-date with information about NASA-supported robotics competitions.
- Visit the Robotics Image Gallery.
- Explore other worlds with NASA through robotic spacecraft discoveries.
- Read about scientists and engineers who design and test robots.
- Browse NASA Web sites for information about robotics.
Please visit: http://www.nasa.gov/education/robotics
8e. Are You Against the Closing of the Geology Department at MSU?
The Department of Geological Sciences at MSU, is scheduled to be closed. If you are interested in signing a petition which states:
The Department of Geological Sciences at Michigan State University is home to a nationally and internationally prominent, vibrant group of students, faculty and staff. Closing this department would result in the loss of formal geosciences as a fundamental part of undergraduate and graduate training and would impair Michigan State University's service to students, the local community, and the global scientific community. Given the key role of the geosciences with respect to studies of global change, environmental science, and global sustainability, I oppose closing the Department of Geological Sciences at Michigan State University.
Please visit: http://new.ipetitions.com/petition/savegeosciencesatmsu/
8f. Free Space Shuttle Artifacts for Your School
NASA invites eligible educational institutions, museums and other organizations to register, screen and request potential space shuttle artifacts. Included are small items such as astronaut helmets, gloves, and boots, and large items such as shuttle Motion Based Simulators and Crew Compartment Trainers.
NASA will retire the Space Shuttle Program at the end of 2010 and is eager to share the wonders of space exploration through donations to museum and library exhibitions. This is your opportunity to own and display Space Shuttle artifacts.
In order to receive an ID and password to access the web site, schools and universities must register using their IPED or NCES number. Information on registering and links to find the IPED and NCES numbers are available on the U.S. General Services Administration website at: http://gsaxcess.gov/NASAWel.htm
The artifacts are free, but recipients must cover shipping and special handling fees.
8g. Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award
Do you know K-12 teachers or district-level administrators who are making a difference in education through the use of technology? Recognize their achievements by nominating them for the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award. The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, in partnership with NASA and the Space Foundation, will recognize the accomplishments of one outstanding individual and his or her contributions to lifelong learning through the application of technology in the classroom or professional development of teachers.
Technology personnel and K-12 classroom teachers who have demonstrated exemplary use of technology to enhance learning are eligible for this award. School principals, superintendents or associate superintendents may nominate eligible candidates. The award will be presented in April 2010 at the 26th National Space Symposium in Colorado Springs. The deadline for applications is Jan. 16, 2010.
Applications and more information are available online at http://www.amfcse.org/Alan%20Shepard%20Award/alan_shepard_award.htm
8h. The Secret Life of Scientists
Please check out the web-only series, "THE SECRET LIFE OF SCIENTISTS" at: http://www.pbs.org/nova/secretlife
highlighting two science and engineering stars every month. From back-flipping inventors to biochemist beauty queens to artists and athletes and musicians and more. "THE SECRET LIFE OF SCIENTISTS" is a brand-new NOVA series, which shows what happens when the lab coats come off.
The series is sure to dispel the stereotypes about scientists by spotlighting the playful side and passionate hobbies of some of the world's top minds and the quirky personalities of the people who bring us the groundbreaking innovations that improve our daily lives.
January 1 - December 31, 2009: The Year of Science. For more information, please visit: http://www.yearofscience2009.org
December 2, 2009: Environmental Education Expo at GVSU's Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center in Muskegon, for 4:00 - 6:00. For more information, please contact Melissa Maxon, 231-767-7336.
December 2, 2009: MVU Online Learning Symposium Connecting with Youth in a Media Rich World at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.mivu.org/symposium
December 31, 2009: Deadline to apply for the NOAA Teacher at Sea Program. For more information, please visit: http://teacheratsea.noaa.gov/
January 16, 2009: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award. For more information, please visit: http://www.amfcse.org/Alan%20Shepard%20Award/alan_shepard_award.htm
March 4-6, 2010: MSTA Conference in Lansing, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.msta-mich.org/conference/
March 15, 2010: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the Research Experiences for Teachers, along with a $3600 stipend. For more information please visit: http://www.ret.magnet.fsu.edu
March 18-21, 2010: NSTA Conference in Philadelphia, PA. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/conferences/2010phi/?lid=tnavhp
October 8-10, 2010: MAEOE Conference in Pellston, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.michiganenvironmentaled.org/
9a. Nanoscience and Technology PD with at $3000 Stipend
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. For more information, go to: http://www.mcrel.org/NanoTeach/Recruiting
9b. ChemMatters Debuts on YouTube
The American Chemical Society's (ACS) award-winning high school chemistry magazine ChemMatters is making its YouTube debut with its first video podcast. The podcast highlights the promises of nanotechnology, the science and technology of building very small machines that are as small as 1/50,000th the width of a human hair. It is available at: http://www.bytesizescience.com
and on the Bytesize Science podcast on iTunes.
Produced by the team behind ACS's award-winning Bytesize Science video podcast, the ChemMatters video serves as an entertaining and educational introduction to the fascinating world of nanotechnology. The episode explains how incredibly small materials could lead to tiny devices that bring medicine exactly where it needs to go in your body, powerful computers the size of a grain of sand and new sources of energy.
ChemMatters has been demystifying the chemistry in our everyday lives for over 25 years. Released quarterly, each issue contains readable articles about the chemistry used in everyday life, and is of interest to high school students and their teachers. New episodes of the ChemMatters video podcast will be available in early 2010.
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. President Obama Announces National Lab Day Initiative
On Monday, President Obama announced the establishment of National Lab Day, a new science education initiative aimed at improving labs and inquiry-based science experiences for students in grades 6 - 12.
Designed to increase community-based collaborations between scientists, engineers, teachers and students, National Lab Day emerged from collaboration earlier this year among NSTA, the American Chemical Society (ACS), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Jack D. Hidary Foundation, and the MacArthur Foundation.
National Lab Day will bring together stakeholders in communities of support where science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professionals and teachers can work together to assess current labs, update or refurbish lab equipment, conduct equipment and materials inventory, clean and repair equipment, and provide technology support. Projects can also center on computer or outdoor labs, anywhere where hands-on lessons in the STEM subjects can come alive.
The first National Lab Day is scheduled for the first week of May, 2010. For more information about National Lab Day, visit the official website at: http://www.nationallabday.org
10b. Fully Funded International Opportunity for US Teachers
The Institute of International Education has announced that they are accepting applications for the 2010 Toyota International Teacher Program to Costa Rica, a fully-funded professional development program for U.S. educators. Funded by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and administered by the Institute of International Education, the program aims to advance environmental stewardship and global connectedness in U.S. schools and communities.
The program will take place June 18 - July 3, 2010 and the deadline to apply is January 6, 2010. Please visit their website at: http://www.toyota4education.com for application instructions, FAQs, and to apply online. Full-time classroom teachers and librarians of all subjects for grades 6 - 12 are eligible to apply!
When: February 12th-13th, 2010
Where: Michigan Technological University
Who: High and Middle School Science and Math Teachers
For more information contact Joe East at jreast@mtu.edu
This workshop provides the opportunity for middle and high school teachers to work with students and faculty from Michigan Tech in order to learn more about nanotechnology. This will be accomplished through interactive presentations, hands-on demos, and touring the laboratory facilities at Michigan Tech that have a key role in nanotechnology research. Topics will include:
Learning more about nanotechnology
Learning how to use a Scanning Tunneling Microscope and Atomic Force Microscope
Touring research laboratories
Developing a nanotechnology lesson plan for your class
Attendance is limited to 10 teachers so please apply as soon as possible online at http://nano.mtu.edu/ni/index.htm
All applications are due by January 8th.
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
January 6, 2009: Deadline to for teachers to apply for the fully funded Toyota International Teacher Program to Costa Rica. For more information, please visit: http://www.toyota4education.com
January 30, 2010: Free Leopold Education Project Workshop at the Ebersole Center in Wayland, MI. For more information, please contact: Wendy Cheek, Leopold Education Project State Coordinator
616-688-5172 or wcheek@allcom.net
January 8, 2010: Deadline for Middle School and High School teachers to apply to attend the Nanotechnology Workshop at Michigan Technological University. For details, please visit: http://nano.mtu.edu/ni/index.htm
First week of May, 2010: National Lab Day for 6th - 12th grade students. For more information, please visit: http://www.nationallabday.org
11a. Nominate a Teacher for the 2010 Presidential Awards
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the highest award a K-12 math or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the U.S. The President officially names up to 108 teachers annually. Awards alternate between elementary and secondary teachers-with elementary teachers eligible in 2010-and are given to teachers from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the outlying territories, and Department of Defense schools. The deadline for 2010 award nominations is May 1, 2010. For more information, please go to: http://www.paemst.org
11b. Earth Day Poster Contest for K-5
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) invites students to celebrate Earth Day 2010 by competing in a Poster Contest! The DEQ will select 1st and 2nd place winners from each grade level, Kindergarten through 5th grade. The winners will be invited to receive their awards at our Earth Day Celebration on Thursday, April 22, 2010.
Any student from Kindergarten through 5th grade is eligible to participate. They are looking for posters that celebrate Earth Day! Earth Day is a celebration of our environment: the air, water, land, resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. The posters must have an Earth Day theme. For more information, check out: http://www.michigan.gov/deqenved/ or http://www.epa.gov/kids/
Poster size must be 11" x 17" or must fit within 16" x 20" frame, in full color or black and white, with media consisting of crayon, pencil, colored pencil, watercolor, pen and ink (marker), or paint. The winners of the Earth Day Poster Contest will be honored and presented their awards at Constitution Hall in Lansing, Michigan on Thursday, April 22, 2010. The presentation will be part of the DEQ Earth Day 2010 Celebration. All original entries must be received by February 12, 2010. Winners will be notified by March 19, 2010. The awards presentation for the winners will be held on April 22, 2010.
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
February 12, 2010: Deadline for K-5 students to enter the DEQ Earth Day Poster Contest. For more information, please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/deqenved/
May 1, 2010: Deadline for K-6 teachers to apply for the Presidential Award in Mathematics and Science Teaching. For more information, please visit: http://www.paemst.org
In November, we gave away two pencil pouches constructed of recycled juice boxes. Here is a list of the winners:
Diane Krzyaniak---Wildwood Elementary, Wayne-Westland Schools
Christine Montemayor-Wilson Middle School, Wyandotte Public Schools
Congratulations to all of the winners. If you did not win, keep trying. Next month may be your lucky month.
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