Home
About
E-Blast May 27
May 27 - June 9 - Science Matters Network Michigan eBlast
Follow Science Matters on Twitter, Facebook and in the iTunes Store - Search for: k12science
In this E-Blast
- Leadership
- The Science Matters Network in Michigan
- Science Humor
- Science Matters to Parents
- Science Matters to Students
- Grants
- K-12 Science Teachers - Something for All Grades
- High School Science Teachers
- Middle School and High School Science Teachers
- Middle School Science Teachers
- Elementary and Middle School Teachers
- Elementary School Teachers
- May Contest - iTune Gift Cards
Here are your science education resources and announcements for May 27 - June 9, 2010 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.
"There are people who make things happen, there are people who watch things happen, and there are people who wonder what happened. To be successful, you need to be a person who makes things happen."
Jim Lovell
Thank you to Herm Boatin, Science consultant and lecturer, University of Michigan-Dearborn, for contributing this leadership quote.
The Science Matters Network In Michigan
2a. Your Certificate of Appreciation for 2009-2010 is Ready for You to Download
Are you a Science Matters for Science Super Key Leader, Key Leader, or Point of Contact? You can now print your certificate of appreciation for the 2009 -- 2010 school year, signed by Michigan's Superintendent of Public Instruction, Mike Flanagan. Just visit: http://msta-mich.org/index.php/bapawards
Add your name, select your award, and print! Thanks for all the work you have done to promote Science Matters in Michigan.
2b. eBlasts Going to Once a Month During the Summer
Starting in June, the Michigan Science Matters eBlast will move to a once a month schedule, instead of the current, twice a month schedule. During the months of June, July and August, there will only be one eBlast during the month. In September, we will go back to the twice a month schedule. I hope you will enjoy the summer months in Michigan. It has be a hectic and trying end to the school year, due to all of the changes coming out of Lansing. Thank you for all that you do for the students in Michigan.
Q: How many scientists does it take to change a light bulb?
A: The current theory is one but new theories are being put forward all the time and with experimentation the old theory may be discredited.
Q: How many experimental high-energy physics graduate students does it take to change a light bulb.
A: One. (but it takes him/her ten years).
Q: How many physical chemists does it take to change a light bulb?
A: Only one, but he'll change it three times, plot a straight line through the data, and then extrapolate to zero concentration.
The Wayne County Mathematics and Science Center, in conjunction with Wayne County Health and Family Services Head Start have produced a booklet entitled, 'Simply Science for Pre-Schoolers.' You can download a copy at: http://www.resa.net/curriculum/curriculum/science/communityinvolvement/community/
This is a great resource for parents and grandparents.
5a. "Tell Us Why Science is Cool" K-12 Science Video Contest
K12 students are encouraged to enter the "Tell Us Why Science is Cool" video contest. The USA Science & Engineering Festival is scheduled to be held in Washington, DC, in October 2010 and will screen the contestant's winning video on the National Mall in Washington, DC. With possible prize money, electronics, and a trip to the Expo in Washington for the winners, this is an opportunity to get your students involved and share your passion for science. Sponsored by The Kavli Foundation and conducted in partnership with SciVee, the contest closes on July 15, 2010.
Here are a few suggestions for the budding videographers who must show "Why Science is Cool":
Explore a scientific concept
Show the wonders of nature
Give a glimpse into the future
Show what scientific discovery has done for us in the past or will do in for us in the future
Introduce us to a great scientist or engineer
Show us why we should care about science and/or engineering
For more information, visit the USA Science and Engineering Festival Website at: http://www.usasciencefestival.org/2010festival/contests/kavli-science-video-contest
May 28, 2010: Deadline for high school students to enter the Poetry Essay Contest on the Environment. For more information, please visit: http://www.shmoop.com/news/2010/04/12/poetry-essay-contest-ipad/
June 1, 2010: Deadline for students under the age of 19 to enter the Show Green Student Film contest. For more information, just visit: http://www.showgreentv.org
June 30, 2010: Deadline for 9th - 12th grade students to apply for the INSPIRE program. For more information, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/education/INSPIRE
June 30, 2010: Deadline for 12 - 15 year olds to apply for the Michigan Out-of-Doors Youth Camp Scholarships. For more information, please visit: http://www.scinovi.com
July 15, 2010: Deadline for K-12 students to enter the "Tell Us Why Science is Cool" Science Video Contest. For more information, please visit: http://www.usasciencefestival.org/2010festival/contests/kavli-science-video-contest
September 5, 2010: Deadline for K12 students to enter the Trash to Treasure competition. For details, visit: http://pbskids.org/designsquad/contest/index.html
6a. National Weather Association Grant for K-12 Teachers
The National Weather Association (NWA) Education Committee is announcing the Sol Hirsch Education Fund Grants to K-12 teachers who are involved in activities that improve the education of their students, schools and communities in the science of meteorology. The following Web site will provide more details:
http://www.nwas.org/grants/solhirsch.php
The entire application process is now on-line and there are only seven - $750 grants available. So please do not wait and send in your applications early. The deadline to apply is June 1, 2010.
June 1, 2010: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the Sol Hirsch Education Fund Grants in Meteorology. For more information, please visit: http://www.nwas.org/grants/solhirsch.php
K-12 Science Teachers-Something for All Grades
I recently became aware of the Cloud Appreciation Society. They want people to enjoy cloudy skies, not just perfect blue skies. Here is their manifesto:
WE BELIEVE that clouds are unjustly maligned and that life would be immeasurably poorer without them. We think that they are Nature's poetry, and the most egalitarian of her displays, since everyone can have a fantastic view of them. We pledge to fight 'blue-sky thinking' wherever we find it. Life would be dull if we had to look up at cloudless monotony day after day. We seek to remind people that clouds are expressions of the atmosphere's moods, and can be read like those of a person's countenance. Clouds are so commonplace that their beauty is often overlooked. They are for dreamers and their contemplation benefits the soul. Indeed, all who consider the shapes they see in them will save on psychoanalysis bills. And so we say to all who'll listen: Look up, marvel at the ephemeral beauty, and live life with your head in the clouds! Check out their website at: http://cloudappreciationsociety.org/
7b. Scholarships Donated for the Academy of Natural Resources Summer Workshop
Educators looking for credit, knowledge or new ideas for the classroom should sign up for a week of 'Ram Camp,' July 18-23 at the Ralph A. MacMullan (RAM) Conference Center on the north shore of Higgins Lake. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment offers three separate tracks:
Natural Resources Curricula Certification (Projects WET, WILD, Learning Tree and Leopold)
Field Camp (field studies with DNRE biologists)
NatureQuest (nature interpretation 101).
All course materials, 15 meals, 5 nights lodging for $295.00. However, Safari Club International (Novi Chapter) has donated funding to reduce tuition by $100 bringing the fees to $195.00 SB-CEU's and Education credits from CMU also available. For more information, go to: http://www.michigan.gov/anr
7c. Summer Discovery Cruises on the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair Begin June 19
'Great Lakes Science for Teachers' is but one of the educational cruises you may want to take advantage of as the 2010 Summer Discovery Cruise season prepares to get under way June 19 on the lower Detroit River and Lake St. Clair. In addition to science cruises designed for teachers, you can learn about other interesting aspects of our Great Lakes region by taking part in some public educational cruises that feature sturgeon, eagles, islands, rum-runners, lighthouses, shipwrecks, wetlands, ROVs, Bob-lo Island and more. For descriptions of all the Summer Discovery Cruise options, to see the complete Summer Discovery Cruise schedule, or to register on-line, visit the program website at: http://www.discoverycruises.org
The Square One Education Network, in partnership with Michigan Technological University and support from the Michigan Space Grant Consortium, is presenting an outstanding professional development opportunity, Remotely Operated Vehicles in the Classroom. This is a hands on, project based workshop that will send teachers back to their students with a dynamic and engaging platform on which to connect physics, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts.
There will be three workshops. Teachers are encouraged to attend the one most pertinent to their situation, but are welcome to attend the most convenient one! Form a three-person team and join in. This workshop has repeatedly been described by attendees as 'the best workshop I've ever attended!'
August 24 - 25, Metro Detroit area: Focus on the Urban Classroom
September 24 - 25, Traverse City: Focus Across the Spectrum
November 12 - 13, Upper Peninsula: Focus on the Rural Classroom
If you have questions or would like to obtain an application, please contact Barb at: barb@squareonenetwork.org
7e. Michigan Joint Education Conference
The third annual Michigan Joint Education Conference on Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at Thurston High School in Redford, Michigan, will feature sessions directed at teachers and administrators on integrated education, curriculum and instruction. The Michigan Joint Education Conference provides an invaluable opportunity for educators who teach several disciplines, learn techniques that connect lesson plans, create integrated program scripts and increase personal and professional merit through continued education. Sessions will be presented by educators from different backgrounds and will focus on integrating relevant instruction for the K-12 teacher.
Registration fees are $49 for members of any of the sponsoring and partner organizations and $79 for non members. Lunch is included. A total of 0.5 SB-CEUs will be available for this conference. Exhibitors will also be on hand to showcase teacher resources and new technologies. A complete agenda of sessions and topics will be available at www.mijec.org after May 21, 2010. Featured speakers include Shawn McGirr from Melvindale High School with a presentation on Professional Learning Networks: Micro-blogging, Virtual Environments, and Podcasts; Michael Suckley from MAPs Co. with a presentation on The Scientific Basis of ElectroPollution; Anthony Salciccoli from Clarenceville High School with a presentation on Incorporating Math and Science Into Your Sociology Class; and Kevin Dykema from Mattawan Middle School with a presentation on Centering Your Thinking.
The Michigan Joint Education Conference is hosted by Michigan Council for Social Studies (MCSS), Michigan Council for the Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM), Michigan Science Teachers Association (MSTA), Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) and Michigan Association of Middle School Educators (MAMSE); in conjunction with 11 other Partnering Organizations. Please visit: http://www.mijec.org
for a list of the Partnering Organizations. For more information contact The Michigan Joint Education Conference, (734) 677-2270.
7f. Michigan Tech Summer Teacher Institutes
Michigan Technological University is offering a series of Summer Teacher Institutes. The application deadline is June 1. Institutes include:
June 13 - 19
Ecology of Isle Royale - Wilderness Backpacking ED 5560
June 21-25
Great Lakes Maritime Transportation Teacher Institute at The Maritime Academy of Toledo
June 20 - 26
Advanced Ecology of Isle Royale by Sea Kayak ED 5630
June 28 - July 2
Forestry Teacher Institute at Michigan Tech University
June 28 - July 2
Mathematics & Navigation Teacher Institute at Michigan Tech University (12 participants only)
July 12-16
Future Fuels from Forests Teacher Institute at Michigan Tech University
July 19-23
Global Change Teacher Institute at Michigan Tech University
For more information, contact Joan Chadde at 906-487-3341 or jchadde@mtu.edu. Brochures and application forms at: http://wupcenter.mtu.edu/#institutes
May 28, 2010: Don't Fry Day (Skin Cancer Protection) For more information, please visit: http://skincancerprevention.org/Events/DontFryDay/tabid/113/Default.aspx
June 5, 2010: World Environment Day. For more information, please visit: http://www.unep.org/wed/2010/english/
June 6, 2010: 5th Annual Duck Regatta at the Cranbrook Institute in Bloomfield Hills, MI. For more information visit: http://www.greatlakesguardians.org
June 23, 2010: 2nd Annual Michigan No Child Left Inside Summit at the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus. For more information, please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135-3308_3333---,00.html
June 23, 2010: Michigan JOINT Education Conference at Thurston HS in Redford, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.mijec.org/registration
June 26, 2010: Great American Backyard Campout. For more information, please visit: http://www.backyardcampout.org
July 18 - 23, 2010: Academy of Natural Resources at the Ralph A. MacMullen Conference Center in Roscommon, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/anr
August 9 - 13, 2010: Forensice Science PD for K-12 Teachers at Portage Northern HS in Portage, MI. For more information, please contact Kathy Mirakovits at kjmirakovits@chartermi.net
October 8-10, 2010: MAEOE Conference in Pellston, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.michiganenvironmentaled.org/
8a. The Ultimate Physics Career Guide
The importance of teachers advocating physics studies to high school students is very important. Because of this a campaign has started to help encourage students to enter careers in physics. The purpose of this campaign is really great and could encourage lots of students to decide to choose an education and sooner a career in physics. An article on the Guide to Career Education which focuses on providing Physics students and professionals with the best physics career resources on the internet, has just been released at: http://www.guidetocareereducation.com/tips-and-tools/physics-careers
It is hoped that this article helps students find a great job in the field of Physics.
8b. Study Conservation Ecology and Lemurs this Summer in Florida for Free
The Lemur Conservation Foundation in Myakka City, Florida, is providing a professional development opportunity for high school science teachers this summer. They are a small non-profit organization dedicated to saving lemurs from extinction through captive breeding, education, research and reintroduction. As part of their educational mission, they are excited to be offering, for the fourth year in a row, their Teachers Institute for Conservation Ecology.
The week-long summer institute open to high school teachers across the United States will be held July 26th - July 30th. In a working science environment teachers will learn and share teaching techniques, develop conservation curricula and experience the nature of science through inquiry. Their goal is to get students excited about biodiversity, conservation and careers in science, all within the bounds of national teaching standards. Nationally recognized experts use their lemurs as a jumping off point for sessions as diverse as native plant ecology, conservation and human health, and the connection between science and art.
Through a competitive application process, up to 18 teachers will be invited to attend the week-long institute free of charge. All participants stay in housing on the Reserve. Please see all the details about the course on their website at: http://www.lemurreserve.org/teachersinstitute.html
The deadline to apply is May 30, 2010. Please also take a look at some photos and details about the other work they do at: http://www.lemurreserve.org
May 30, 2010: Deadline to apply for the Free Scholarships, for HS Teachers to attend the 2010 Teachers Institute for Conservation Ecology and Lemurs. For more information, please visit: http://www.lemurreserve.org/teachersinstitute.html
June 18, 2010: Deadline for teachers to apply to attend the AP Summer Institute through the Lapeer Public Schools. For more information, please visit: http://www.lapeerschools.org/LEHS/SummerInstitute/
June 23, 2010: Third Annual Joint Education Conference at Thurston High School in Redford, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.mijec.org/
July 12 - 16, 2010: Teachers Forensic Science Workshop at Lawrence Technological University. For more information, please contact:
248-204-3617 or msedir@ltu.edu
Middle School and High School Science Teachers
9a. Introduce Your Students to Nanoscale Science
Nano concepts represent self-contained instructional materials focusing on the key ideas in nano scale science and engineering (NSE) and their applications. Each Nano concept contains a general user introduction, main concept, notes, images and/or simulations. A usage guide and connections to general science concepts aid integration into the classroom environment. You can get more information by visiting: http://www.nanoed.org/concepts_apps/nanocos
Plus: The interactive Nanocos game encourages students to learn important science concepts and their role at the nanoscale. Combining both the entertainment of popular card games with the educational value of nano concepts, Nanocos will appeal to both students and educators alike. Contained within each card is a scientific concept that forms the basis of modern nanotechnology. Because of the varying levels of complexity that unfold during each game, students will never get bored looking for the perfect strategy. Visit the Nano concepts site to download instructions for playing the game. To play the game, please visit: http://165.124.3.22/card/nanocos.html
9b. MEECS Water Quality Unit Teacher Training Workshop at Cranbrook
Cranbrook Institute of Science invites you to a workshop to learn how to use the MEECS Water Quality Unit in the classroom. The workshop will take place on June 22 from 8:30 am - 3:00 pm. The MEECS Water Quality Unit helps students discover the essential role that water plays in Michigan's economy and in everyone's lives. Students calculate how much water they use, investigate the link between land uses and water quality, and discover how water is monitored and standards are set.
Curriculum activities feature engaging, hands-on lessons that encourage student participation and inquiry. The MEECS Water Quality Unit contains nine core lessons and five extension lessons. All lessons are correlated to Grades 6-8 and High School Science and Social Studies Michigan Content Expectations.
The cost is $45.00 for the workshop, and includes the MEECS Water Quality Unit curriculum binder, activity supplies, snacks and lunch. Please visit the website for more information or to register: http://science.cranbrook.edu/educational/teacher/
If you have questions, please email: water@cranbrook.edu
9c. New Science Teacher Academy
The NSTA New Science Teacher Academy Foundation is a professional development initiative created to promote quality science teaching, enhance teacher confidence and classroom excellence, and improve teacher content knowledge. Program expenses will be paid for qualified middle or high school science teachers entering their second or third year of teaching and working a schedule with more than 50 percent of their classes in science. The deadline to apply is May 30, 2010. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/academy/
9d. Spark Interest in STEM Careers
MWM's inquiry- and design-based STEM program trains teachers on what are called Materials World Modules, teaching units focused on matter and its applications. The idea is to give teachers the lessons and tools to increase student interest and achievement in STEM subjects and careers. The program pairs teachers with scientists and engineers, who will also serve as mentors and resources after the program is completed. Just visit: http://www.materialsworldmodules.org/
Plus, Ask a scientist! Find out answers to your science questions by visiting any of the following Web sites, which house resources about science phenomena and offer ways to contact experts to ask your own questions:
- Argonne National Laboratory
- Cornell Center for Materials Research
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute
- Mad Sci Network
- SCORE (Schools of California Online Resources for Education)
- Windows to the Universe (also in Spanish)
Just visit: http://www.materialsworldmodules.org/science_help/ask_a_scientist.shtml
May 30, 2010: Deadline for 2nd and 3rd year science teachers to apply for the New Science Teacher Academy. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/academy
June 1, 2010: Deadline to post a project for the National Lab Day Video Contest. For more information, visit: http://www.nationallabday.org/contest
June 22, 2010: MEECS Water Quality Unit Workshop at Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills. For more information, please visit: http://science.cranbrook.edu/educational/teacher/
October 16, 2010: Vernier Workshop in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.vernier.com/workshop/directions/directions.html?id=2428
October 18, 2010: Vernier Workshop in Detroit, MI. For more information, please visit: http://www.vernier.com/workshop/directions/directions.html?id=2429
Middle School Science Teachers
10a. You Be the Chemist on TV This Week
Watch Students in Grades 5-8 compete in the Michigan championships of the You Be the Chemist contest. The winner advances to the national YBTC championship in Philadelphia. It will be broadcast on Detroit Public Television on Thursday, May 27 at 12:00 PM, Tuesday, June 1 at 8:00 PM, and Wednesday, June 2 at 1:30 AM. You can view the commercial for the event on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YliqWw99X3s
Elementary and Middle School Science Teachers
11a. Michigan Schools Win Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge Prizes
The Siemens Foundation, Discovery Education and the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) today announced the winners of this year's Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge. Two of the nine winning schools are in Michigan. The national Challenge encourages elementary and middle school students to develop plans to initiate environmental change in their schools and communities.
Middle School Grand Prize Winner:
Novi Middle School students Raj Raina and Yash Sathe, along with mentor Abhinav Raina, focused on reducing community pollution by raising awareness about the environmental impact of vehicle idling among area drivers.
Elementary School 2nd Place Winners, Grades 3-5:
Birmingham Covington School's fifth grade class and their teacher, Pauline Roberts, focused on reducing the amount of trash generated during school lunch.
The middle school grand prize winners will receive a comprehensive prize package, which includes a $10,000 Savings Bond, an appearance on Planet Green-the 24-hour eco-lifestyle television network, a chance to present their program at the United Nations and a Discovery Adventure trip to Yellowstone National Park. Congratulations to all of our schools who entered this challenge and special congratulations to the Michigan winners!!
Elementary School Science Teachers
12a. Nutrients for Life Field Test Curriculum for 3-4 Grade Teachers
BSCS is developing a curriculum supplement for use in grades 3-4 science through funding from the Nutrients for Life Foundation. The new curriculum unit, Nourishing the Planet in the 21st Century, will enhance elementary students' understanding of plant growth, agriculture, and the appropriate use of fertilizers to produce high quality food while protecting the environment. The curriculum will feature an integrated science approach. The unit will include six inquiry-based lessons that align with the National Science Education Standards. Field-testing will take place in August and September of 2010. Selected teachers will receive an honorarium after completing the field test and submitting evaluation materials. They are excited about the opportunity to work with elementary teachers across the country for this new science unit. If you are interested in joining them for this project, please visit: http://bscs.org/nfl2-ft-application.html to request more information and an application.
In May, we gave away six iTunes gift cards. Here is a list of the winners:
David Meyer, West Michigan Lutheran High School, Kentwood, MI
Tamara Biggs, Fordline Elementary, Southgate Community Schools
Karen Pavlich, Fruitport MS, Fruitport Community Schools
Megan Fenech, Plymouth HS, Plymouth-Canton School District
Kelly Shumway, Lakewood MS, Lakewood Public Schools
Becky Gorinac, Port Huron Area School District
Congratulations to all of the winners. If you did not win, keep trying. Next month may be your lucky month.
To subscribe to the Science Matters Network in Michigan e-blast, please visit: http://nsta.org/sciencematters
Click on Teachers, then click on Become a Point of Contact.
To unsubscribe from the Science Matters Network in Michigan e-blast, please contact your Key Leader or email David Bydlowski, Michigan Coordinator for the Science Matters Network, at bydlowd@resa.net.