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October 13 - 26, 2011 Science Matters Network in Michigan eBlast
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In this E-Blast
- Leadership
- The Science Matters Network in Michigan
- Michigan Department of Education
- Information for Parents
- Information for Students (and Parents Too!)
- Grants for K-12 Teachers
- Intel-Wired to Learn
- DCAT "Making a Difference" Award
- Win $10,000 Because You are the Best You Can Be
- Team America Rocketry Challenge
- LOFT Loves Teachers
- Samsung - Solve for Tomorrow - Sharing the Wonder of STEM
- PASCO STEM Educator Awards
- Alan Shepard Technology in Education Awards
- Upcoming Deadlines
- Information for K-12 Science Teachers
- Scientist at the Smithsonian
- YouTube Lets Schools Opt for Educational Video
- 1,000 Scientists in 1,000 Days
- Take the Bird Call Challenge
- National Survey on STEM
- Original and Free Multimedia Resources from NBC Learn
- Grab the Scuba Gear and Go on a Virtual Dive
- MDSTA Fall Conference
- Science Fair Central
- New Michigan Learnport
- Upcoming Deadlines
- Information for High School Science Teachers
- Information for Middle School and High School Science Teachers
- Information for Middle School Science Teachers
- Information for Elementary School Science Teachers
- Science Humor
- October Contest - Starbuck Gift Cards
Here are your science education resources and announcements for October 13 - 26, 2011 provided by the Michigan 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
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or
Sue Campbell
MSTA Representative
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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/pdf version by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 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.
"Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected."
Steve Jobs
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. What is the advantage for a teacher to join Science Matters?
Do you have friends that are thinking about joining the Science Matters Network, but still have not done it? If so, you might like to share the following with them:
As a teacher, you are electronically connected to all teachers within Michigan's individual network. As a member, you are in the forefront of working to provide quality science education for the students within your school system.
To join the network, just visit: http://nsta.org/sciencematters
Click on the "Teachers" button.
Then follow the information to "Become a Point of Contact."
Michigan Department of Education
3a. New MEAP and MME Cut Scores
Last month, the State Board of Education approved new cut scores for the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) and the Michigan Merit Examination (MME). The new cut scores have been posted to the MEAP and MME webpages:
along with a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document. Links to the documents are provided below:
New Cut Scores
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mde/NEW_CUT_SCleORES_365039_7.pdf
Cut Score FAQ:
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mde/New_Cut_Scores_FAQ_365040_7.pdf
3b. Next Generation Science Standards
A website has been developed to provide information and resources on the Next Generation Standards. please visit: http://www.nextgenscience.org
Many U.S. parents are surprised to learn that their children suffer from persistent sleep deprivation - as much as two hours per day. There are numerous reasons: busy schedules, addiction to television and electronic games and lack of knowledge about the amount needed. The reality is American children are spending an average of 7 hour and 38 minutes per day staring at electronic media entertainment. Building some outdoor time into your child's schedule will help them get a better night's sleep and receive the associated physical, emotional and cognitive benefits.
The Three Ways Outdoor Time Improves Your Child's Sleep
- Sleep-inducing natural light -- Regular doses of bright natural light help children stay more alert during the day, elevate their moods and make it easier to sleep at night. Exposure to outdoor light in the morning actually helps set their body clock for a better and earlier night's sleep.
- The soothing dimensions of more time in nature -- Nature has a way of comforting children. It can take away stress and be a haven for kids who are otherwise feeling the pressures of school, family, and social demands Research has found that children who suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) get significant relief from their symptoms and are able to concentrate better if they spend some time outdoors.
- Outdoor exercise is better for children than indoors -- Exercise can release soothing endorphins into the blood stream and can help with the production of melatonin. Outdoor play encourages activities such as climbing, jumping, running and tumbling that promote muscle fitness and flexibility. Research shows that moderate to vigorous physical activity in child care settings increased from 1% indoors to as much as 11% outdoors. When outdoor play was child led, the amount of time further increased to 17%.
Thanks to the National Wildlife Federation for providing this article. For more information, please visit: http://www.nwf.org/Get-Outside/Be-Out-There/Why-Be-Out-There/Benefits/green-time-sleep-time.aspx
Information for Students (and Parents too!)
5a. Real World Design Challenge
Your high school students can soar when they enter the Real World Design Challenge (RWDC). This annual aviation design competition is run by a public-private partnership seeking to sustainably increase the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce. They make it easy for teachers to get involved. Every participating teacher receives $1 million in professional engineering software, along with training, curriculum materials, and access to mentors. Teams of three to seven high school students use these resources to solve an engineering challenge currently faced by industry.
State champions win an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the national finals. For that round, teachers will receive an additional challenge that builds on the state challenge, which teams will present in Washington in April.
Register your team by November 18 and learn more at the RWDC website at: http://www.realworlddesignchallenge.org/
5b. Name a Moon Bound Spacecraft
NASA has a class assignment for U.S. K-12 students: help the agency give the twin spacecraft headed to orbit around the moon (GRAIL A & B) new names. Entries must be submitted by teachers using an online entry form by November 11, 2011. For more information, please visit: http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/grail/namingcontest.cfm?CFID=6865009&CFTOKEN=93461418
5c. 5th Annual SE Michigan Youth Environmental Film Festival
Youth entries are being accepted through November. 1 for the fifth-annual Green Screen Youth Environmental Film Festival sponsored by East Michigan Environmental Action Council. Green Screen provides a forum where students from across southeast Michigan and beyond showcase short films with environmental themes. These films allow young filmmakers to express what they think is most crucial to their health and to the natural environment. Some films also focus on making the world, their school or neighborhood environmentally healthier.
The date for this year's Green Screen is November 17. Details regarding the location and time are still being worked out. Deadline for entries is November 1st, 2011. please visit: http://www.emeac.org
for Green Screen entry guidelines.
Celebrate DNA Day with the American Society of Human Genetics. DNA Day commemorates the completion of
the Human Genome Project in April 2003 and the discovery of the double helix of DNA in 1953.
1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-place students receive $1,000, $600, and $400, respectively, and their teachers receive equal amounts in lab equipment grants. 10 honorable mention awards of $100. The essay question is now online. The essay deadline is March 12, 2012. For information, please visit:
http://www.ashg.org/education/dnaday.shtml
5e. Green Scenes Video Contest
Green Generation is a voluntary renewable energy program available to all Consumers Energy electric customers. The program has been in place since 2005 and currently has over 14,000 customers enrolled. You can visit the website at: http://www.greengeneration.com
Green Scenes is a video contest which allows students in high schools located in Consumers Energy electric territory to produce a short video showing how their school is 'green'. The videos will be two minutes or less and will demonstrate how students and their schools are promoting green initiatives in their schools and communities. Videos will be submitted to a dedicated contest landing page, where students and others can also vote for their favorite video. Videos will be evaluated by a judging panel based upon creativity, quality, theme and voting on the landing page. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place and honorable mention. They will be $5,000, $3,000, $1,000 and $500 respectively.
The contest will be open for video submittals from October 15th through November 15th. Voting will take place during this period, with and additional open voting period running from November 16th through November 30th. Winners are tentatively planned for announcement by December 15th.
5f. Careers in Energy Week Essay Contest
The Michigan American Nuclear Society is sponsoring an essay contest in conjunction with Careers in Energy Week October 17-21 2011. Students need to write a 500 - 1000 word essay describing how nuclear energy workers make a world of difference in our community. Details can be found at: http://local.ans.org/mi
The deadline to enter is October 21.
5g. YouTube SpaceLab Launches Student Experiments Into Space
YouTube and NASA are challenging students to design a science experiment that can be performed in space. Students from 14 to 18 years old can upload videos of their experiments onto YouTube's Space Lab website. A panel of scientists, astronauts, and educators, including Stephen Hawking, will judge the entries, and the two winning experiments will be conducted on the International Space Station 250 miles above Earth and live streamed on YouTube.
"The idea of seeing something you conceive and build in your ordinary classroom being actually flown on a rocket, being actually sent to the International Space Station, being actually carried out by a national, is the stuff of fiction. We think that is going to be the thing that gets kids excited," said YouTube's Zahaan Bharmal, who conceived of the challenge. For full details, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/SpaceLab
The deadline for entry is December 7, 2011.
October 14, 2011: Deadline to enter the American Geological Institute's Ever-Changing Environment Photo Competition. please visit: http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/photography/index.html
October 21, 2011: Deadline for HS Students to enter the Careers in Energy Week Essay Contest. please visit: http://local.ans.org/mi
November 1, 2011: Deadline for 7th - 12th grade students to apply for the Coleopterist's Society's Youth Incentive Award. please visit: http://www.coleopsoc.org/default.asp?Action=Show_SocietyInfo&ID=Youth
November 1, 2011: Deadline for students to enter the 5th Annual SE Michigan Environmental Film Festival. please visit: http://www.emeac.org/
November 4, 2011: Deadline for high school students to enter the Engineering Education Service Center Poster Contest. please visit: http://www.engineeringedu.com/postercontest.html
November 11, 2011: Deadline for K-12 Students to enter the GRAIL Naming Contest. please visit: http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/grail/namingcontest.cfm?CFID=6865009&CFTOKEN=93461418
November 15, 2011: Deadline for High School Students to enter the Green Scenes Video Contest
http://www.greengeneration.com
November 18, 2011: Deadline for high school students to enter the Real World Design Challenge. please visit: http://www.realworlddesignchallenge.org/
December 7, 2011: Deadline for 14 - 18 year olds to enter the YouTube SpaceLab Competition. please visit: http://www.youtube.com/SpaceLab
March 12, 2012: Deadline for high school students to enter the Annual DNA Day Essay Contest. please visit: http://www.ashg.org/education/dnaday.shtml
March 15, 2012: Deadline for K-12 Students to enter the Siemen's We Can Change the World Challenge. please visit: http://www.wecanchange.com/
April 20, 2012: DNA Day. please visit: http://www.genome.gov/10506367
Kids are wired to learn and technology can help them achieve their dreams. Enter the contest by saying in 500 words or less why your favorite K-12 school deserves a technology package, featuring industry-leading technology from Intel, exciting learning and teaching apps, and more. If your story gets the most votes by December 4, your designated school will win a technology package worth $25,000. Second and third place winners receive technology packages valued at $10,000 and $5000. And, every week they will give away a notebook, to reward you for helping your community. For more information, please visit: http://contest.appup.com/#Challenges
The contest runs from October 5 - December 4, 2011.
6b. DCAT "Making a Difference" Award
This award will recognize and honor excellence in a science program developed and implemented by middle- or high school-level science teachers, grades 6-12. Entries must show innovative and effective teaching strategies combined with a science program that has influenced students to explore and investigate science and its application to global problems.
Eligibility: Innovative middle- or high school-level science programs
Award: $2,500 to be used to enhance or expand the winning science program; the winning school's lead science teacher and principal will be awarded coach airfare and two nights' hotel accommodation to attend NSTA's National Conference.
Deadline: November 30, 2011
For more information, please visit: http://nsta.org/pdfs/awards/DCAT.pdf
6c. Win $10,000 Because You Are the Best You Can Be
K-12 classroom science teachers might consider the Shell Science Teaching Award, which recognizes one outstanding classroom science teacher (K-12) who has had a positive impact on his or her students, school, and community through exemplary classroom science teaching. The $10,000 prize also includes an all-expense paid trip to NSTA's National Conference. Two additional finalists will also receive an all-expense paid trip to NSTA's National Conference. The deadline to apply is October 17, 2011. For more information, please visit: http://www.nsta.org/pdfs/awards/Shell.pdf
6d. Team America Rocketry Challenge
Registration is open for the Team America Rocketry Challenge 2012, a national model rocket competition for U.S. students in grades 7-12. Thousands of students compete each year, making TARC the world's largest model rocket contest. Teams of three to 10 students are challenged to design, build, and fly a model rocket that will climb to 800 feet with a payload of two raw eggs and stay aloft for 43 to 47 seconds. The payload must then return to earth unbroken. Cash prizes are awarded to the top finishers. NASA invites top teams to participate in their Student Launch Initiative, an advanced rocketry program. Participation is limited to the first 1,000 teams who register by Nov. 30, 2011. For more information, visit: http://www.rocketcontest.org
LOFT Best In Class applications are now available on the Kids In Need Foundation website:
The grants fund innovative classroom projects between $100 and $500. To be eligible, you must be a certified K-12 teacher of any subject in a public, private, charter, or parochial school in the USA. Application deadline is December 9, 2011. LOFT has donated $50,000 in support of the Kids In Need Foundation and the LOFT Best In Class Grants.
6f. Samsung - Solve for Tomorrow - Sharing the Wonder of STEM
Your school can win a part of $1,000,000 in technology. Samsung is dedicated to helping children share the wonder of life, learning, and our planet. This fall, Samsung is giving public schools nationwide the opportunity to share the wonder of Samsung technology. Samsung and its partners are asking teachers to participate in its contest, which will address a key academic challenge in our country: to increase the pursuit of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. With Samsung and schools joining together, they are looking to foster interest in these subjects among students and illustrate the practical impact applying these subjects can have. The deadline to enter is March 12, 2012. Please visit: https://pages.samsung.com/us/sft/home.htm
6g. PASCO STEM Educator Awards
In partnership with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), PASCO® is proud to announce the PASCO STEM Educator Awards to recognize excellence and innovation among STEM educators at the elementary, middle and high school levels. The PASCO STEM Educator Awards will recognize a total of five educators annually with an award totaling approximately $4,500, including a $1,000 cash award and a $2.000 certificate for PASCO products to further support their STEM program. Each winner will also receive up to $1,500 for travel expenses to attend the NSTA national conference, participate in a STEM "share-a-thon" workshop, and be recognized at the NSTA Awards Banquet. The deadline to apply is November 30, 2011. For more information, please visit: http://www.pasco.com/STEMawards
6h. Alan Shepard Technology in Education Awards
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 2012 at the 28th National Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, Colo. The deadline for applications is Jan. 16, 2012.
Applications and more information are available online at http://www.amfcse.org/Alan%20Shepard%20Award/alan_shepard_award.htm
October 14, 2011: Deadline to apply for the Lowe's Toolbox for Education Grant please visit: http://www.toolboxforeducation.com/
October 14, 2011: Deadline to enter the LEGO Smart Creativity Contest. please visit: http://www.LEGOeducation.us/CreativityContest
October 15, 2011: Deadline for K-12 Educators to apply for the NASA Endeavor Science Teaching Project Fellowships. please visit: http://www.us-satellite.net/nasa/endeavor/index.cfm
October 16, 2011: Deadline to enter the Chiquita Banana Smart Sweeps. please visit: http://www.chiquita.com/bananabrain/default.aspx
October 17, 2011: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for The Shell Science Teaching Award. please visit: http://www.nsta.org/pdfs/awards/Shell.pdf
October 17, 2011: Deadline to enter the Clorox Company's Power a Bright Future Grant Program. please visit: http://www.PowerABrightFuture.com/NSTA
October 17, 2011: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the Walden University $5000 Grant-Educator for a Day. please visit: http://www.waldenu.edu/Colleges-and-Schools/College-of-Education-and-Leadership/33042.htm?utm_medium=email&utm_source=nea_today_express&utm_campaign=20110914FedUpYet&utm_content=EdforaDayGrantsTops
October 21, 2011: Deadline for MS and HS teachers to enter the Shell Science Lab Makeover Challenge. please visit: http://www.nsta.org/shellsciencelab/
November 1, 2011: Deadline to apply for the Engage Youth in Literacy Through STEM grant sponsored by Honda. please visit: http://corporate.honda.com/america/philanthropy.aspx?id=ahf
November 30, 2011: Deadline for Students in Grades 7-12 to apply to participate in the Team America Rocketry Challenge. please visit: http://www.rocketcontest.org
November 30, 2011: Deadline to apply for the PASCO STEM Educator Awards. please visit: http://www.pasco.com/STEMawards
November 30, 2011: Deadline to apply for the Faraday Science Communicator Award. please visit: http://www.nsta.org/about/awards.aspx#faraday
November 30, 2011: Deadline to apply for the DCAT "Making a Difference" Award. please visit: http://nsta.org/pdfs/awards/DCAT.pdf
December 9, 2011: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the LOFT Best in Class Grants. please visit: http://www.kinf.org
December 16, 2011: Deadline for High School Students to enter the Mars Education Challenge. please visit: http://www.exploremars.org/page/mars-education-challenge/
January 16, 2012: Deadline for K-12 teachers to apply for the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Awards. please visit: http://www.amfcse.org/Alan%20Shepard%20Award/alan_shepard_award.htm
February 12, 2012: Deadline for K-12 Teachers to apply for the Toshiba/NSTA Exploravision Program. please visit: http://www.exploravision.org/
March 12, 2012: Deadline to apply for the Samsung: Solve for Tomorrow Grant. please visit: https://pages.samsung.com/us/sft/home.htm
Information for K-12 Science Teachers
7a. Scientist at the Smithsonian
Scientists in action online videos are now available. Students can watch and read about 21 scientists at the Smithsonian including a volcano watcher, a fossil hunter, art scientist, germinator, and zoo vet. please visit: http://www.smithsonianeducation.org/scientist/index.html
7b. YouTube Lets Schools Opt for Educational Videos
Teachers who have been frustrated over blocked access to YouTube educational videos in school can take heart. YouTube is rolling out a pilot a program with schools that will redirect all YouTube links to educational content on: http://YouTube.com/education
In addition, comments will be disabled and related videos will only be educational, both of which are a source of anxiety around exposing kids to inappropriate content.
Each school and district has a different kind of filtering system, but this workaround allows schools that block YouTube at the domain level to access it through:
according to Angela Lin, head of YouTube Edu. Schools interested in participating in the pilot program can sign up at: http://YouTube.com/t/education
7c. 1,000 Scientists in 1,000 Days
1,000 Scientists in 1,000 Days is Scientific American's program to help scientists and educators connect. They are looking to match educators with scientists who want to volunteer, for instance, to visit the classroom to conduct a lab or talk about what it's like to be a scientist, explain the latest science, answer questions or act as a resource in other ways. How scientists and educators choose to collaborate is up to them. Scientific American has launched this program with their parent, Nature Publishing Group, as part of their Change the Equation Initiatives. For more information, please visit: http://www.scientificamerican.com/1000scientists/
7d. Take the Bird Call Challenge
Can you tell a twitter from a tweet? A chirp from a cheep or a buzz from a trill? eNature's Bird Call Challenge will test your knowledge of your local birds or those of any other zip code you choose. And you can choose to quiz yourself on just songbirds or every species of bird in the area. To participate in the Challenge, please visit: http://enature.com/challenge/birdcallchallenge.asp?utm_source=eNature+Master+List&utm_campaign=faf3b59d6a-On_The_Wild_Side_October_201110_5_2011&utm_medium=email
Have fun!
7e. 2011 National Survey on STEM
Earlier this year, the Corporate Edition of the 2011 National Survey on STEM Education was published covering topics such as: STEM funding priorities, professional development, and key issues facing STEM educators. That survey has now been used by dozens of STEM companies to help define the products and services available for STEM students in the United States. please visit: http://www.stemreports.com/
7f. Original and Free Multimedia Resources from NBC Learn
Four award-winning multimedia series for educators and students can now be accessed on the NSF:
http://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports
NBC Learn:
http://www.nbclearn.com/portal/site/learn
and Science360 websites:
http://www.science360.gov/files
These original resources (short videos, documents, images, and activities) are super examples of the application of science in our world today and they're FREE. Check them out.
- "Chemistry Now!" consists of 32 weekly learning packages that break down the chemistry behind things such as cheeseburgers, chocolate, soap, and plastics. Each learning package contains short video stories that illustrate real-world applications of chemistry, current events, and archival news stories and lesson plans.
- From the tropics to the Arctic Ocean, "Changing Planet" explores the impact that climate change is having on our planet. Each of the 15 videos, 3-5 minutes long, follows scientists in the field who are studying the dramatic effects of rising temperatures in the air, in the water, and on land. Designed specifically for classroom use, each report has a lesson plan and activities.
- A fast-paced and informative 10-part video series, the "Science of NFL Football" explores the physics, engineering, materials science, math, and more behind America's popular sport. The series uses the universal appeal of football to drive an understanding of complicated scientific concepts in 3-5 minute videos with lesson plans.
- "Science of the Olympic Winter Games" is a 16-part series that features sports of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games. The 3-5 minute videos illustrate how scientific principles apply to competitive sports. Lesson plans and activities for each video are included.
7g. Grab the Scuba Gear and Go on a Virtual Dive
Summer may be over, but your students can still explore the underwater world of coral reefs. At the Chicago Field Museum's Why Reef site, students will learn the signs of a healthy reef and find out what can make it sick. They'll swim with the different creatures that live in and around a coral reef and play Why Reef's food web game to find out who eats whom on a reef. Encourage students to dive into Why Reef at different times of the day. They never know when a great white shark or a giant sea turtle might swim by! please visit: http://fieldmuseum.org/schools/whyreef
Once again, DACTM and MDSTA are proud to offer mathematics/science educators in Southeast Michigan a combined professional development event! Conference and registration information for this year's joint math/science conference is available NOW! Take a peak at the schedule of presentations -- over 170 sessions/workshops will be offered at this one-day event as well as a wide variety of vendors and the opportunity to network with other education professionals! Sessions address math and science topics at elementary, middle and high school levels as well as many that focus on math/science connections! There is also a special statistics strand supported by the ASA (American Statistical Association).
This year there is special pricing that includes membership in both DACTM and MDSTA if you choose. ALL who register by October 27th will be entered in a raffle for wonderful grade-level appropriate products from sponsor Texas Instruments! Attendees will also receive a registration gift and a bag from Gold sponsors Meritor & Pearson! A raffle of items kindly donated by our vendors will also take place and every attendee will receive a raffle ticket (must be present to win)!
Are you having trouble with funding for the conference? The Michigan Space Grant Consortium is offering an educator incentive to attend a conference for FREE!
They want to invite YOU to be a part of this exciting, valuable and energizing professional development opportunity. Visit the conference page at: http://www.dactm.org
Impress the judges this year with a clever and unique winning science fair display that will turn heads. Visit Science Fair Central for new project ideas, an interactive display board and tips to get started and guide you and your students through the science fair process. At Science Fair Central parents, students and science fair coordinators will find all the resources needed to ensure an exciting and fun-filled science fair season this year.
- Project samples
- Customizable timelines
- Detailed checklists
- Judging criteria
- Shopping lists
- Rebates and special offers
Encourage students to get involved in science fairs and give them the opportunity to practice science investigation and invention. Science fairs can be the first step in developing future young scientists and engineers. Visit Science Fair Central to get started at: http://school.discoveryeducation.com/sciencefaircentral/
On October 3, Michigan Learnport launched some new features. Here are some of the things you will see:
- A new, fresh look including a Welcome Page that provides quick and easy access to five main features, including a homepage that allows direct access to your content, a landing page that you define and a choice of seven languages.
- Content from providers like ed2go will be accessed easier than ever to ensure the best user experience possible. The need to login multiple times to take a course will be a thing of the past.
- Help system provides more relevant information and assistance specific to where you are in the system.
- New universal search tool available on every page. The simple and advanced search tools will help locate anything within the system with ease.
- Blogs replace the old threaded discussions and provide more options to share information with public, moderated and private collaboration spaces.
Along with the many positive changes, the new Michigan LearnPort retains many of the benefits and features you've come to appreciate, including high-quality courses, the netTrekker educational search tool and various collaboration tools. You can visit the new and improved website at: http://www.learnport.org
January 1 - December 31, 2011: International Year of Chemistry. please visit: http://www.chemistry2011.org
October 17 - November 12, 2011: Recycle Bowl Competition. please visit: http://recycle-bowl.org/
October 20 - 21, 2011: iPads in the Classroom Conference at Southfield Christian High School and Oakland Schools. please visit: http://techtools4teaching.org/?page_id=81
October 21, 2011: Deadline to register for the State of the Strait Conference-"Use of Remote Sensing and GIS to Better Manage the Huron-Erie Corridor" which will take place November 2 at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, MI. please visit: http://projects.igre.emich.edu/registration/
October 22, 2011: Make a Difference Day. please visit: http://www.handsonnetwork.org/nationalprograms/signatureevents/MakeADifferenceDay
October 25 - 27, 2011: Project WILD and Project Learning Tree (PLT) Facilitator Training at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon, MI. Please contact:
Natalie Elkins at (517) 373-6919 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
November 12, 2011: MDSTA - DACTM Fall Conference at Lamphere High School in Madison Heights. please visit: http://mdsta.org
November 15, 2011: America Recycles Day. please visit: http://americarecyclesday.org/
November 16, 2011: 27th Annual Fall Science Update Seminar at Grand Valley State University. please visit: http://www.gvsu.edu/rmsc/module-event-view.htm?eventId=1B30A6B0-A218-7C51-C0723A854DCAF30B
December 2, 2011: Deadline to apply for the Teachers in Space: Pathfinder Competition. please visit: http://teachersinspace.org/apply/apply.htm
March 9 - 10, 2012: Michigan Science Teachers Association Conference in Lansing, MI. please visit: http://msta-mich.org
March 29 - April 1, 2012: National Science Teachers Association Conference in Indianapolis, IN. please visit: http://www.nsta.org/conferences/2012ind/?lid=tnavhp
April 15 - 21, 2012: Severe Weather Awareness Week. please visit: http://mcswa.com/default.aspx
Information for High School Science Teachers
8a. Opportunity for High School Students
Science and mathematics teachers are invited to attend the 48th Junior Science and Humanities Symposium that will take place March 1-2, 2012 at Wayne State University. The deadline for submission of student papers and application materials is January 15, 2012. All the application forms, guidelines and other information are available at: http://coe.wayne.edu/ted/science/jshs/
The Symposium is especially useful to students who plan to participate in this year's Science Olympiad and/or Science Fair. Students who present their research at the Symposium have the opportunity to receive significant scholarships at the regional and national levels. For additional information contact Dr. Maria M. Ferreira (JSHS Director) at Wayne State University. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Tel.: 313/577-6370)
October 27, 2011: Michigan Green Chemistry and Engineering Conference at the U of M North Campus Research Complex in Ann Arbor, MI. please visit: http://www.michigan.gov/greenup
January 15, 2012: Deadline for High School Students to submit papers for the Junior Science Symposium. please visit: http://coe.wayne.edu/ted/science/jshs/
March 1 - 2, 2012: 48th Junior Science and Humanities Symposium at Wayne State University. please visit: http://coe.wayne.edu/ted/science/jshs/
Information for Middle School and High School Science Teachers
There will be a free Vernier Workshop for middle and high school teachers. The focus is on data collection.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
12:00 - 4:00 PM
Embassy Suites Detroit-Southfield
28100 Franklin Rd.
Southfield, MI 48034
Register online at: http://www.vernier.com/training/workshop/2830/
9b. Free Science Education Materials from the National Institutes of Health
Enrich your science education curriculum with free materials from one of the National Institutes of Health. Our latest offerings include:
Inside Life Science, a series of short articles about the science of health
The September 2011 issue of Findings magazine, which features two young and interesting scientists
Electronic versions (PDF, HTML and EPUB) of our popular science education booklets
Browse and order free print copies of these and our many other materials at
http://publications.nigms.nih.gov/eblast/ssg/index.html
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) invites you to participate in its fifth annual Drug Facts Chat Day on Tuesday, November 1, 2011. Hosted by top scientists from the NIDA, the lead Federal agency for research on drug abuse and addiction, this annual event is a unique opportunity for teachers and students to ask expert scientists honest questions about drugs and their impact on the brain and body.
Register today! Although Drug Facts Chat Day is open to everyone for use as a learning tool in a view-only, real-time format, only the first 100 schools that register will be able to submit questions. You are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible at: https://www.nidachat.org/register.aspx
October 15, 2011: Vernier Data Collection Workshop in Southfield, MI. please visit: http://www.vernier.com/training/workshop/2830/
October 31 - November 6, 2011: National Drug Facts Week. please visit: http://www.drugfactsweek.drugabuse.gov/booklet.php
Information for Middle School Teachers
In 2008, Siemens Foundation and Discovery Education launched a Website emphasizing the importance of math and science in grades 4-6 through a day of free, fun and engaging hands-on science activities. Now in its fourth year, Siemens Science Day has expanded to reach all elementary students and teachers through engaging digital content and the chance to win an Ultimate Cool School Assembly. New standards-aligned science resources, hands-on activities and videos are available for K-6 classrooms. Entries for school assemblies will be accepted through February 28, 2012. please visit: http://www.siemensscienceday.com/
On September 8, 2011, NASA's Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory, or GRAIL, mission launched to the moon. This mission will use twin spacecraft in a tandem orbit to measure the moon's gravity in unprecedented detail. The GRAIL Moon Knowledge Acquired by Middle school students, or MoonKAM, project is an exciting opportunity that allows middle school students to take pictures of the lunar surface from cameras mounted on the twin spacecraft. Visit the site to find student activities, teacher guides and related educational resources. Observations will begin in March 2012. For more information about the project and to register for the upcoming mission, visit the GRAIL MoonKAM home page:
February 12, 2012: Deadline for 4th - 6th grade teachers to apply for the Siemens Science Day Assembly. please visit: http://www.siemensscienceday.com/
Information for Elementary School Teachers
The Take Me Fishing™ campaign and Discovery Education invite all kids to experience the joy of America's lakes, rivers and streams. Explore the Blue is a comprehensive program that provides you with classroom resources to lead the way. From 28 cross-curricular, standards-aligned lesson plans to Discovery Streaming videos, a regional U.S. habitat map, and Thrill of the Catch, an interactive fishing game. All FREE. please visit: http://discoverylake.discoveryeducation.com/
February 10, 2012: Deadline for 4th and 5th grade students to enter the Michigan Severe Weather Safety Poster Contest. please visit: http://mcswa.com/default.aspx
Q: Did you hear bout the scientist who was reading a book about helium?
A: He couldn't put it down.
Q: What are black holes?
A: What you get in black socks!
Q: What is the difference between chemistry and cooking?
A: In chemistry you should never lick the spoon!
Q: What did the one lab rat say to the other?
A: I've got my scientist so well trained that every time I push the buzzer, he gives me a snack!
13. October Contest - Starbuck Gift Cards
This month we have three great prizes to give away. The prizes are 3 - $10 Starbuck Gift Cards.
To win one of these prizes, send an email to:
David Bydlowski
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
State Coordinator for the Michigan Science Matters Network
You MUST INCLUDE your name AND mailing address AND your school name/district.
You may only enter once and only one entry per email address. Respondents 3, 18, and 33 will receive a prize. We will post all of the winners in our next E-Blast. Good luck to you and thank you for being part of the Michigan Science Matters Network.
If you didn't win, try again next month. Thanks to everyone for being part of the Michigan Science Matters Network.
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 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .