This presentation will explore how the Growing Beyond Earth (GBE) citizen science project has been integrated into a middle school science classroom. GBE, a collaborative effort between NASA and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, offers students a unique opportunity to engage in authentic scientific research by growing plants in controlled environments. By participating in this project, students are exposed to real-world science practices, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Through a series of hands-on activities, students learn about plant biology, environmental factors, and the challenges of growing plants in space. The project aligns with NGSS by addressing core ideas in life science, earth and space science, and engineering design.
This session will delve into the specific activities and lessons implemented to engage students in the GBE project, including: --Plant Growth Experiments --Data Collection and Analysis --Scientific Inquiry Student Learning Objectives --Understand the basic principles of plant growth and development. --Develop data collection and analysis skills. --Apply scientific inquiry to investigate real-world problems. --Appreciate the challenges of growing plants in space. --Develop a deeper understanding of the role of science in society.
Through this project, students have been able to contribute to real NASA research while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
#ScientistMakerI am an award-winning educator with over 18 years of teaching experience and 30 years of curriculum design expertise. I am passionate about integrating real-world problems into the curriculum, fostering authentic learning experiences, and connecting students with professionals... Read More →
Friday April 4, 2025 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Hutchinson
Embark on a hands-on adventure and join marine biologists in their quest to uncover the mystery of Luna's father! Meet Luna, an adorable whale calf, and become part of a passionate team determined to solve this heartwarming puzzle using gel electrophoresis and DNA fingerprinting where you will pour, load, and run a gel, capture gel image, analyze the results, and deduce a probable conclusion for a whale of a forensic mystery.
Both of these activities were developed by a high school teacher in the Teach Quantum fellowship at UW-Madison. Using a bird navigation storyline in chemistry, learn how to incorporate electrons, configurations, and spectrum to understand the Zeeman effect and its role in migratory behaviors of birds and even grazing patterns in cattle. You will also learn how to use quantum physics in an electron escape room using flame tests to explore superposition. I will provide the full lesson plans and list of materials to run activitites. Both activities showcase making chemistry equitable for all learners with basic strategies and promote group discourse and concesus modeling throughout the units. Its a great way to expose students to quantum chemistry in a unit that is difficult to come up with examples for.
Abstract: Unearthing Fossil Discoveries: Engaging Students with Interactive Science Notebooking and a Fossil Museum Project Dive into an interactive journey of paleontological discovery as I share how a generous donation of fossils from the Pit 11 Mazon Creek Formation transformed my classroom into a hub of hands-on scientific exploration. This session will detail how I integrated an original 1970s fossil hunter’s journal—complete with detailed sketches and field notes—into lessons that introduced students to scientific sketching, fossil identification, and museum curation. Participants will learn how students: Reflected on a non-scientist’s authentic field journal to connect with the documentation process. Created detailed scientific sketches of fossils, then engaged in peer-matching activities to hone observational skills. Identified, sorted, and selected fossils to design and curate a school library fossil museum, including 3D-printed models and student-created exhibits. Explored the process of uncovering unopened concretions using the freeze-thaw-bake method, resulting in exciting discoveries like additional Tully Monsters. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities adapted from these lessons, including scientific sketching and fossil identification, and discuss connections to the NGSS, including: MS-LS4-1: Analyze and interpret data for patterns in the fossil record. MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and refinement. This session emphasizes presenter-audience interaction, sharing adaptable strategies for classroom implementation, and fostering inquiry-based learning that inspires students to think like scientists.
Harnessing students’ innate curiosity about the natural world and desire to protect it can be done with hands-on classroom activities that build STEM skills, increase environmental literacy and show sustainable paths forward. In this session, the presenter will facilitate a series of interdisciplinary lessons that involve collecting and analyzing data, creating 3D models and working collaboratively on solving authentic problems. Raise environmental literacy while creating a 3-D model of land use, engaging in a simulation of carrying capacity in a habitat, and using engineering skills in experimenting ways to clean up a local river. The presented lessons are designed to deepen students’ understanding of “Earth and Human Activities” (ESS3) and Ecosystems (LS2) with several Cross-cutting Concepts (Patterns; Cause-and-Effect; Scale, Proportion and Quantity; Systems and System Models; Stability and Change). Participants will receive lesson plans, data sets and links to digital tools.
In today’s diverse classrooms, science teachers must support students learning English as an additional language while fostering their scientific curiosity. This interactive presentation, designed for middle and high school science teachers and support staff, offers a practical approach to meeting this need. Through empathy-building activities, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges multilingual students face, and they’ll leave with actionable tools, resources, and strategies to create a more inclusive learning environment.
Instead of an abstract discussion on ideal solutions, this session is grounded in reality—focused on changes you can implement in your classroom next week. Participants will explore targeted methods for making science and engineering practices accessible, build a network of like-minded educators, and engage in a sample lesson designed to show how phenomena-based teaching can naturally support multilingual learners. Join this session at the 2025 Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers convention to enrich your teaching toolkit and inspire your multilingual students to thrive in science!
The purpose of TIES is to inform interested middle school science teachers about the most up-to-date concepts of evolution for them to confidently cover the topics in their classrooms and fulfill their curriculum requirements. The Disciplinary Core Idea addressed will be Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity. This idea states that, “Evolution and its underlying genetic mechanisms of inheritance and variability are key to understanding both the unity and the diversity of life on Earth.” Our presentation will guide teachers through our website where we have compiled the best evolutionary resources available in one easy-to-access location. Our resources promote the practices in which scientists regularly engage, such as problem-solving, data collection, and making predictions. Because resources are arranged by curriculum standard, teachers can choose what best suits their needs. These resources range from short videos which can be used as phenomena to investigations where students can seek out patterns in nature, see examples of cause and effect, and witness real-life examples of change over time. TIES also connects science teachers with the experts in the field of evolutionary biology by offering live monthly webinars with authors and scientists, such as Nathan Lents and Kenneth Miller. Check out our website at www.tieseducation.org.
You will build a soil moisture sensing system using the Arduino UNO. First you will design and code the project in Tinkercad using the Arduino simulator. Then you will build and code the project using an Arduino UNO and a soil moisture sensor. You will wire your projects and code in C++. You will learn the basics of the electronics behind Arduino connected sensors and the limitless possibilities for your science labs, fairs and national competitions. The workshop will demonstrate 3D learning and how to spark innovation and creativity using the Arduino platform.
Gearbox Labs provides project and problem-based curriculum, kits, and learning experiences that integrate engineering, design, computational thinking, and digital prototyping using C/C++ and physical computing in applied STEM/STEAM contexts for K-12 students.
In this session, participants will interact with Dave Bergerson, Science Coordinator for the Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools on their implementation of Mystery Science. Dave will share strategies that were implemented in his district to provide support for elementary teachers teaching science. Topics will include but not be limited to: Evaluation and Adoption procedures for Mystery Science, professional development options for training teachers in Mystery Science, suggestions for cost effective materials procurement, minimizing teacher prep and management of refilling materials, along with templates for supplementing Mystery Science.
Science Coordinator, Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools
I am the Wisconsin Rapids K-12 Science Curriculum Coordinator for 50% of my job and the other 50% is teaching Physics. I am also an adjunct faculty in Physics with Mid-state Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids.
This workshop will explore the intricate balance between agricultural practices and sustainability. We will delve into the fundamental aspects of plant biology, the impact of water on land, the delicate equilibrium of nutrient cycles, and the strategic application of agricultural technologies. Participants will work through four Nourish the Future activities as part of a mini unit which works to answer the question, "How do farmers grow food and keep our waterways clean?" By examining the similarities and differences between corn and soybean plants, we will gain insights into the underlying principles of plant growth and development. We will then explore the critical role of water in shaping landscapes and the potential for erosion to degrade soil health. Next the workshop will highlight the importance of nutrient management in maintaining healthy ecosystems. We will observe the consequences of nutrient pollution. Finally, we will examine the latest advancements in precision agriculture, focusing on the use of data-driven technologies to optimize crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. Participants will complete activities which can later be done with their students.
Cost $10, Advanced registration required We will start this field experience with breakfast at the Lamartine town hall followed by a tour of a local farm that uses a managed grazing system to raise sheep. There will be some newly born lambs. This field experience will include information on grassland birds, use of rotational grazing to improve water quality, genomics of parasite resistance in sheep and the importance of pollinators. Staff from the Natural Resource Conservation Service, volunteers from Audubon Society and Glacierland Resource Conservation Development organizations will be leading talks and answering questions.
Join us on this hands-on workshop where we will unlock the secrets of Sickle Cell Disease. We will explore the genetics of sickle cell disease and genetic testing. Extend the narrative by becoming medical geneticists conducting newborn screenings for SCD to determine disease inheritance and susceptibility. We can wrap up with modern therapies now available for SCD.
A purrfect introduction to genetics! Track inheritance in cats using Punnett squares, then use gel electrophoresis to examine the gene that controls that trait. Connect Mendelian genetics with our modern understanding of genes! No stains or extra visualization equipment needed. At this hands-on session, you’ll complete a colorful micropipetting art activity to create micropipette art masterpieces. You’ll also learn technique of gel electrophresis using our super affordable Bandit™ STEM Electrophoresis Kit. We will also cover the accompanying high quality curriculum, allowing teachers to perform molecular biology labs on a budget that cover topics such as Mendalian genetics.
Preparing to meet the challenges ahead for people and the planet requires a solid foundation in understanding the trends that shape our world, how we interact with ecosystems and change the physical landscape. Knowing how to determine good sources of data, how to analyze and think critically about data, make reasonable correlations and use data for designing solutions are all skills emphasized in the Wisconsin Standards for Science.
In this hands-on session, the presenter will use interactive strategies (simulations, games and small-group discussion) to present and interpret data in different formats (statistics, photos/videos, narratives) on several key Disciplinary Core Ideas for grades 9-12, especially in Life Sciences and Earth and Space Sciences. Data-rich lessons will address climate change causes and effects, land and water use, biodiversity, and global demographic trends. The presenter will discuss how to implement these activities as part of broadening students’ understanding of “Earth and Human Activities.”. Participants will receive lesson plans and background materials in an electronic format. Presented activities are relevant to Biology, Earth Science, General Science, and AP Environmental Science.
Kevin will share NGSS-aligned resources for teaching climate change, vaccines, and evolution. We'll discuss strategies to teach them to students in ways that will be approachable for all. We'll also discuss how to support general media literacy for students - weeding out the fuzzy from the evidence-based. Finally, we'll discuss the psychological barriers that make people want to believe certain things and keep them believing it despite the evidence. It's important to note that private school teachers also teach these topics!
Science Education Consultant, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Dr. Anderson currently works as the Science Education Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). He enjoys helping educators improve science programs and instruction to support all students in making sense of the world and solving problems. Previously, he... Read More →
We have a 0.5 credit Science Intern Course at Hartford Union High School which allows students the opportunity to learn alongside a science teacher. They are responsible for laboraory set up, preparation and clean-up for our department in addition to being a teaching assistant during labs or activities in our introductory level courses. We have an application and interview process along with a reflection document that is filled out during their internship. Several former students have secured lab interns jobs as freshman at their respective universities. Learn how to propose and execute this course to help develop students as leaders in science.
We will share the research trajectory of a program developed to support multilingual learners to demonstrate their evolving learning in science and spend time looking at examples of the assessments we developed. Participants will discuss the design principles involved in accessible assessments and how to leverage them to develop more robust academic language over time. Participants will leave with 3D assessments and grading rubrics ready for their middle school classrooms, as well as research-based strategies for adapting their existing assessments for struggling readers and English Learners.
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Discover the rich history and cutting-edge technology of aviation by joining a guided tour of the EAA Aviation Museum, where you can explore both modern and historic aircraft from throughout the ages. Join EAA Educators for hands-on activities that you can bring back to your classroom, helping you incorporate the excitement of flight into your lessons. EAA's educational programs, crafted by licensed educators, are designed to engage, and inspire students while challenging them to learn.
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Come visit the Environmental Research and Innovation Center (ERIC) at UW Oshkosh and explore ways you and your students can engage in water testing, renewable energy evaluations, and evaluation of emerging contaminants. The ERIC will host a group from WSST that will perform a rotation of three activities. All are activities that are available to you and your students during the school year and have exercises that you can take back to your own school. The ERIC team will have the visiting group split into three groups to rotate between: 1) an exploration of coliform and E.coli testing of drinking water and surface water using the most used test in the US, the IDEXX defined substrate test, 2) evaluation of renewable energy potential (anaerobic digestion) of various products, and 3) evaluation water processes in coastal situations, lakes, rivers, and streams, and water treatment dynamics using hands-on models.
Help a fictional family obtain a molecular diagnosis for sickle cell disease. Students use gel electrophoresis in a rich activity that can be easily tailored to classrooms ranging from middle school science to AP Biology. Using a case study format, students will understand the physiology and molecular genetics of sickle cell, draw biomedical connections, and review patterns of Mendelian inheritance.
Literacy is often the focus of instruction in elementary classrooms, but it doesn’t have to be at the exclusion of science! Join educator and presenter, Cassondra Kauppi, to explore the mutually supportive aspects of phenomena-based science instruction and literacy skill development. This session will provide you with innovative ideas, tools, research insights, and strategies for teaching students to read, write, and think like scientists. Ultimately, these skills will empower students to enhance their literacy capabilities across all areas of life.
With nearly 20 years in education, Cassondra brings a depth of knowledge spanning literacy, mathematics, and science content. She has worked as a classroom teacher, intervention specialist, curriculum specialist and now STEM Product Specialist. Whether she is teaching in the classroom... Read More →
With the rise of misinformation, a program that teaches students to ask questions and question their own beliefs and opinions is important. It’s ok to be wrong! Intellectual humility and science inquiry are key. Generation Skeptics has dozens of free lessons. In our “Power of Words” lesson, students learn the importance of multiple trials and double-blind protocols when designing experiments. In “How To Sell Pseudoscience,” students learn to identify the gimmicks used to sell pseudoscientific products. It is our hope students will learn to spot nonsense when they see it on TV or social media. We also have lessons teaching students to discern between credible and non-credible sources, and many more. We also have guest speakers who can Zoom into classrooms and discuss and discuss these topics for free. We offer $500 stipends to teacher leaders who are interested are starting GenSkeps clubs at their schools. All our lessons are free. Check out our website at www.generationskeptics.org.
Makerspaces can be found in almost every school, and you can have your own Makerspace in your classroom! Join us to see how easy it is to connect Makerspace activities to your science curriculum by utilizing the materials in your very own classroom makerspace. We will provide lesson ideas that use your trash/treasures to integrate NGSS, while also supporting the Wisconsin Standards for Math, and the Wisconsin Standards for English Language Arts. We will be using the Design Thinking Process to develop creativity through a hands-on approach involving tinkering.
After 20+ years in packaging design and production. I opened a youth-focused makerspace to help develop design thinking and a maker's mindset in our communities. See what the Maker Learning framework looks like and how it brings together makerspace initiatives with well-known learning... Read More →
We will share examples of and have time to work on storyline-based pedagogy. We'll pull form Illinois Storylines, OpenSciEd, and anything else new coming out (hoping on BSCS). It will be interactive, not just listening to us go blah, blah, blah. While it will be the culminating session of the Storylines Book Study this year, people who were not a part of that can still attend and will find it just as valuable. We'll also be drawing from the book, Ambitious Science Teaching.
Science Education Consultant, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Dr. Anderson currently works as the Science Education Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). He enjoys helping educators improve science programs and instruction to support all students in making sense of the world and solving problems. Previously, he... Read More →
Many science educators are using existing High Quality Instructional Materials developed outside of Wisconsin and want to adapt them to be more relevant for our students. Finding the time and resources to make adaptations that do not change the trajectory of the existing storyline can be challenging. During this presentation we will consider the rationale for changing storylines, examine cautions of equating “local” with “relevant” phenomena, and discuss options for the most realistic places to spend our efforts to adapt existing materials to make them more relevant for our students. Suggestions are research-based with recommendations from professional developers.
This interactive workshop introduces the NASA STELLA Q2 Spectrometer, a DIY, handheld tool designed to make scientific exploration accessible to educators, students, and citizen scientists. Participants will learn to build and use the spectrometer for environmental and materials analysis, emphasizing how this technology can support NGSS-aligned learning experiences in Earth and space science.
The session begins with an overview of the spectrometer’s design, components, and capabilities, followed by guided instruction on assembly and calibration. Attendees will then explore real-world applications, such as analyzing light spectra to assess plant growth and monitor environmental pollutants. Activities include hands-on experiments that directly address NGSS practices, like planning investigations (SEP 3) and interpreting data (SEP 4), aligned with performance expectations such as HS-ESS3-6 (Global Climate Change) and MS-PS4-1 (Wave Properties).
Learning objectives for attendees include: Constructing and calibrating the STELLA Q2 Spectrometer. Designing NGSS-aligned lessons integrating spectrometry. Applying spectrometry to engage students in environmental science and critical thinking. Through collaborative exploration and discussion, participants will leave equipped with tools and strategies to inspire curiosity and STEM engagement in their classrooms or outreach programs.
Project Learning Tree’s “Green Jobs: Exploring Forest Careers” guide includes background information and resources related to forest-focused STEM careers, as well as four learning activities designed to give students a taste of a wide range of jobs. In this session, we will work in small groups to do one indoor and one outdoor activity from the guide, practicing skills like data collection and analysis, tree measurement and identification, and scientific discourse. We will have a large group discussion to identify how these skills and activities connect to NGSS SEPs. Participants will then work with a partner to make connections between the activities and the biology, environmental science and/or earth science concepts they teach, then use some individual work time to plan how these activities and other careers education can fit into their existing curriculum. Participants will leave prepared to teach “green” careers education alongside their content. Participants will receive a free copy of the book.
LEAF K-12 Forestry Education Program Outreach Educator, Wisconsin Center For Environmental Education
Nicole has a B.S. in Biology/Ecology, a secondary science teaching certificate, and an M.S. in Science Education from Northern Michigan University. She has been with the Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education since 2013, assisting with professional development for the LEAF... Read More →
Although wildfires can be caused by natural events and provide many valuable ecological services, changes in the environment related to climate change are fueling the growth of large, destructive megafires. In this workshop, participants will explore how the HHMI Resources The Science of Climate Change film and the activity The Impacts of Wildfires can help students understand these changes. We will share how to use increases in megafires as a phenomenon to guide student inquiry into the causes and impacts of climate change. The workshop will emphasize integration of NGSS practices including: asking questions and defining problems, analyzing and interpreting data, constructing explanations, and designing solutions.
In this hands on workshop participants will Discover how to use the phenomena to engage students in the science of climate change Explore evidence to support human causes of climate change Evaluate various lines of evidence for which factors influence wildfire dynamics using a jigsaw strategy. Analyze and interpret scientific figures, such as graphs and maps. Utilize the Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) approach to develop scientific claims supported by evidence and reasoning for why recent wildfires are burning more forest area. Evaluate strategies to reduce the area burned by wildfire and minimize the impacts.
The US Department of Education has recognized the Modeling Instruction program as an exemplary K-12 science program. This pedagogical approach puts students into the role of a scientist planning experiments, gathering and analyzing data, presenting the data and results of an experiment to peers. The participants of this workshop will learn about Modeling Instruction and have an opportunity to experience a number of different aspects of this pedagogical approach. This includes a physics modeling style experiment, a white boarding session and post lab discussion. Participant learning objectives include: gaining a deeper understanding of modeling instruction, participating in a modeling style experiment, learning how modeling instructions aligns with the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices, and learning how modeling instruction can be used with other science content areas.
Introduce students to an essential biotech technique while solving the mystery of who is the father to Molly the Labradoodle’s puppies. Using gel electrophoresis and Punnett squares to track the inheritance of the furnishings trait, your students will decide if it was Zeus the Poodle or Otto the Labradoodle. Upon completion of this presentation, participants will: 1) Learn about gel electrophoresis and understand the science behind how this technique works 2) Learn how to teach Mendelian genetics with an adorable labradoodle puppy case study 3) Have the knowledge and resources they need to bring biotech into their classrooms
Quality literacy and science instruction make a powerful pair. Students have much to gain from classroom instruction that intentionally integrates science and literacy in a way that builds towards rigorous outcomes in both content areas. In this session we will share resources and ideas from a new science leadership tool, hosted by DPI, for implementing quality literacy and science instruction together. Discuss the roles of multiple stakeholders, learn from evidence-based accounts of best practices, and consider the common barriers and pitfalls of integrated instruction.
Science Education Consultant, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Dr. Anderson currently works as the Science Education Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). He enjoys helping educators improve science programs and instruction to support all students in making sense of the world and solving problems. Previously, he... Read More →
After receiving a WSST "Back to School" grant, a small science library consisting of both nonfiction and fiction books. These books were checked out by students throughout the year, used as semester exams, and used for curriculum ties in the classroom. Participants can expect discussion about the use of trade books, a list of those books used in this library, and links to resources to help integrate reading in the classroom to aid with science literacy.
Do you get bored thinking about boards? What if I told you that even a simple board has an interesting story to tell? A tree’s history of experiences is locked away in its wood, every stress and every time of plenty is documented in its rings. Looking at boards and tree cookies, learn how to decode the ecological story of trees from sapling to harvest. The humble board can provide a rich story to enhance cell biology to community ecology. Come get board with me!
When are we ever going to use this? Be prepared to answer that question in your Ag, Math, Science, or Tech class. This session seeks to recruit teachers to a partnership with Madison College to foster connections between high school class content and applications in chemistry of concrete, strength of materials, hydrology, water analysis, soils, and surveying & mapping. Participants will learn about opportunities to receive professional development, curriculum, and lab activities that support instruction in the classroom. In addition to technical content, participating faculty will learn about academic and career pathways in engineering and engineering technology.
Join us this July at the 1200-acre property at Lowenwood in Land O' Lakes, WI. Fuel your drive to deliver high-quality science learning experiences. Dig deeper into what three-dimensional, phenomenon-based instruction looks and feels like. Experience first-hand the type of sense-making intended with the Next Generation Science Standards. Most importantly, recharge your passion by reflecting on the impact that you are having and connect with like-minded science educators from around the state.
Dr. Wilcox is an Assistant Professor in Biology and Science Education at the University of Northern Iowa. He was a high school general science and biology teacher prior to becoming a professor. Jesse has won numerous teaching awards, has presented hundreds of times at science and STEM education conferences, and has published dozens of articles in science and STEM education journals. Jesse is passionate about working with science teachers and helping them strive toward improving their practices. He is the author of grades 6 - 8 Texas Experience Science. Come see practical ways to help students make sense of phenomena and how to authentically integrate phenomena into your curriculum! Using phenomena to explore scientific ideas has been an increasing trend in science education (German, 2016; NGSS Lead States, 2013). While many teachers are finding phenomena to engage students, helping students connect phenomena to science can be more challenging. This keynote will explore numerous ways teachers can transition from a phenomenon to 3D learning
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Discover the rich history and cutting-edge technology of aviation by joining a guided tour of the EAA Aviation Museum, where you can explore both modern and historic aircraft from throughout the ages.
Participants will also have the chance to experience flying on our Cessna 172 Skyhawk Redbird Flight Simulators. These advanced simulators offer an immersive experience and are used by certified pilots for currency and proficiency training.
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Join EAA Educators in building your own FliteTest RC Airplane then get outside (weather dependent) and fly! The airframe you build will be yours to keep and fly on your own at home or school. No prior experience required.
Join us for a collaborative session designed specifically for teachers new to AP Biology (less than five years of experience). This discussion-based session will provide an opportunity to share resources, strategies, and insights while reflecting on what has worked well and what challenges you’ve faced in teaching AP Biology. Topics will include navigating the course framework, engaging students in challenging content, managing labs, and preparing for the AP exam. Bring your questions, ideas, and experiences to contribute to a supportive community of educators eager to grow together. Whether you're refining your approach or looking for new tools, this session is an opportunity to connect with and learn from and with your peers.
With 22 years of experience teaching science, including a mix of Chemistry and Biology, I am dedicated to continuously enhancing my teaching approach. I thrive on exploring new, engaging ideas for the classroom, particularly through innovative labs and activities that keep students... Read More →
Friday April 4, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Lake Poygan
Approximately 30-35% of Americans self-identify as birders. Birds are amazing...and they are EVERYWHERE!!! While many elementary students can identify dozens of species of fictitious or long-extinct organisms, most cannot correctly identify even a handful of local birds. Birding is recognized as a gateway activity for caring about nature; because birds are so diverse, they are present in every possible habitat. Using a WSST Milton Pella grant, we were able to purchase a classroom set of binoculars, field guides, and a heavy-duty carrying case. Students learned about binoculars beginning with classroom and paper activities. We then practiced using our equipment safely and properly in the classroom and in the gym. Once students were comfortable with the equipment, we learned about basic bird anatomy and bird identification. We spent a couple classroom periods out in the school grounds finding and identifying our resident birds. These activities can easily extend over several weeks and were very enthusiastically received by our students. This presentation will provide an outline of our activities as well as paper copies of all lessons. This is a great way to get students outdoors and active in nature while (hopefully) encouraging interest in our local birds.
Thoughtful systems are essential for elementary science programs. Science leaders from across the state worked to develop a series of Science Leadership Tools to help districts consider ways to implement quality science instruction. Join us to learn about and discuss these five new tools; Developing a Vision, Elementary Materials Selection, Assessment and Reporting, Scheduling, and Connecting Science and Literacy.
Science Coordinator, Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools
I am the Wisconsin Rapids K-12 Science Curriculum Coordinator for 50% of my job and the other 50% is teaching Physics. I am also an adjunct faculty in Physics with Mid-state Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids.
Science Education Consultant, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Dr. Anderson currently works as the Science Education Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). He enjoys helping educators improve science programs and instruction to support all students in making sense of the world and solving problems. Previously, he... Read More →
Imagine a land where volcanoes rumble beneath glaciers, where steaming hot springs peak through icy landscapes. This is Iceland, a destination of an extraordinary adventure for two Wisconsin teachers. Join them as they recount their unique opportunity to present to graduate students at the University of Iceland, sharing the explorations, discoveries, and valuable connections they established with educators and students from around the world. Prepare to be inspired by the geological wonder of Iceland and the power of scientific exchange!
7th grade science teacher, Washington Middle School-Oconto Falls School District
I have been a 7th grade science (biology) teacher for 24 years and have been teaching for a total of 29 years. I received my Master's of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Education from UWSP. One of my passions is traveling. I have been to all 50 states, Puerto Rico... Read More →
Friday April 4, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Hutchinson
Step into the future of science education! This collaborative workshop will provide a treasure trove of effective technologies designed to transform your high school science classroom. From simulations to simple data analysis tools, discover how to ignite your students' passion for science like never before. Join us for an interactive session where you'll gain hands-on experience with some educational technology, share current technologies you use, learn from peers, and walk away with practical strategies to implement immediately. Whether you're a tech novice or a digital guru, this workshop will equip you with the tools to make your science lessons more engaging and effective. So, bring your charged device and your list of go-to tech. Let's collaborate and share the technologies that revolutionize our teaching to inspire the next generation of scientists!
Participants will explore Wisconsin’s K-12 Energy Education Program’s BRAND NEW, inquiry -based Building Energy Detectives Lessons. Lessons follow a 5E structure, include a career connection, and provide opportunities for climate change conversations. Participants will work hands-on with tools from KEEP’s Energy Audit Kit exploring the anchor phenomenon: What energy actions can I take at school, at home, and in my community to create a more sustainable future? The presentation will guide participants through the following essential questions: How much energy is used by appliances in the classroom when turned on and off? How can I reduce energy consumption of appliances at school? What can I do to help my school’s HVAC system operate well and conserve energy? How can we achieve recommended light levels throughout the school while decreasing the amount of electricity used for lighting? What does an energy bill look like and how can actions we take to conserve energy at school impact it? How can actions we take to conserve energy at school affect our carbon dioxide emissions? All lessons are designed to align with NGSS standards, WI Standards for Science, and WI Standards for Environmental Literacy and Sustainability.
WI Standards for Science/NGSS CC2: Cause and Effect CC4: Systems and System Models SEP1.A: Asking Questions SEP1.B: Defining Problems SEP3: Planning and Conducting Investigations SEP4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data SEP5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking SEP6.A: Constructing an Explanation SEP6.B: Designing Solutions SEP7: Arguing from Evidence SEP8: Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information SCI.ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems SCI.ESS3.D: Global Climate Change SCI.ETS2.B Influence of Engineering, Technology, and Science on Society and the Natural World
WI Standards for Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Strand 1: Connect, Standard 1: Students develop and connect with their sense of place and well-being through observation, exploration and questioning.
We invite you to participate in an entomological workshop designed for science educators, focusing on the craft of insect pinning and curation. Insects are fascinating creatures that play many crucial roles in ecosystems and are found almost everywhere. This hands-on session will guide teachers through the essentials of building an insect collection and offer practical insights on how to incorporate these activities into the classroom. We will explore the importance of recording specimen data, emphasizing its role in scientific research and education. Participants will engage in activities, including practicing insect pinning, adding specimens to a collection box, and labeling. Attendees will have developed an understanding for how an insect display box can be used to teach ecosystem services and biodiversity, food webs, classification & taxonomy, life cycles, adaptations to environments and environmental stewardship. All supplies will be provided for free and participants can take the collection boxes back to their classrooms for continued development, display, and teaching.
In this workshop, attendees will build replicas of human anatomy using clay and a specially designed skeletal model in a classroom setting. Educators will learn how to implement a unique curriculum system which helps students create a kinesthetic map of the human anatomy. They will acquire the knowledge to engage science students with immediate, hands-on learning using a proven method that is nationally recognized to increase student retention and test scores.
Cross-Cutting Concepts are like the roots of a tree—essential for growth but often hidden from view. Explore how CCCs enhance sensemaking in science classrooms by aligning with the brain’s natural methods for organizing and retaining information. This interactive workshop offers hands-on activities, collaborative discussions, and practical classroom applications. Participants will learn how CCCs connect big ideas across disciplines, fostering critical thinking and deeper understanding. The session will highlight how CCCs leverage the brain’s tendency to form interconnected knowledge networks, making learning more accessible and transferable. Attendees will gain strategies to help students organize and retrieve complex concepts effectively, strengthening their ability to understand and explain scientific phenomena. This workshop is ideal for educators looking to enhance their teaching practices and empower students to build connections and think critically in science.
Join us for a hands-on workshop and experience firsthand Engineering Tomorrow's innovative labs.
During this session, you'll: --Dive into a real-world engineering challenge through participation in a hands-on engineering activity led by experienced mentors. --Connect with industry professionals --Learn effective teaching strategies to integrate engineering design into your classroom curriculum.
This workshop will introduce educators to the Engineering Tomorrow program, a free resource designed to inspire the next generation of engineers. Through this experience, educators will gain practical knowledge and skills in STEM education and be introduced to the NGSS aligned labs of ET.
ET STEM labs are developed by engineers and modeled on the cutting-edge work of experts in the field. During each lab, ET brings professional engineers and students from the nation’s top colleges and universities to mentor middle and high school students as they solve real-world problems at no cost to students, schools, or teachers. Over 8,900 middle and high school students in Wisconsin and over 15,000 students in the Midwest have participated in ET labs!
During the workshop, participants will learn about ET, interact with Zoom lab hosts, participate in a lab, and get advice from a veteran teacher who uses these labs in the classroom.
#ScientistMakerI am an award-winning educator with over 18 years of teaching experience and 30 years of curriculum design expertise. I am passionate about integrating real-world problems into the curriculum, fostering authentic learning experiences, and connecting students with professionals... Read More →
As a former educator, with over thirty years of classroom experience, I am excited to be bringing Engineering Tomorrow STEM labs to Wisconsin 6-12 classrooms.
As a Wisconsin certified STEM educator, with over 25 years of combined public education and private work experience, I am excited to bring the Engineering Tomorrow STEM labs to Wisconsin 6-12 classrooms. Engineering Tomorrow introduces students to the field of engineering through... Read More →
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Just a short walk from the conference, Fifth Ward Brewing offers a closer look at the science and creativity behind their craft beers. Explore their brewing techniques, fermentation process, and commitment to bold flavors. End the tour with a tasting of their signature brews, perfect for science enthusiasts!
Cost $10, Advanced registration required Explore the science and craft of distillation at Sturgeon Spirits! This tour highlights their sustainable practices, fermentation process, and cutting-edge equipment, perfect for science teachers. Conclude with a tasting of their handcrafted vodka.
Delve into the fascinating world of protein structure and function, focusing on the principles of protein folding and the critical role of active sites in enzymes. Participants will explore these complex topics through hands-on molecular models. This session will feature our Amino Acid Starter kit and a first look at the newly redesigned Acetylcholinesterase Active Site Model!
I was a classroom teacher for 25 years. I am now the National SMART team coordinator and Science Educator for 3D Molecular designs.In my free time, I am an avid fisherman and obsessive vinyl record collector.
Presentation will consist of going through a mini lesson run as a storyline where the audience are the students. Present or will then walk through how each step would be taught, how this connects to NGSS, where to find storylines, how to edit storylines to try for yout classroom. We will also discuss data on storylines, pluses and minuses and address any questions around storylining. Learning objective would be audience feeling like they are engaged and feel confident in learning how to storyline and feel confident with resources given trying it out in thier own classrooms.
This session will introduce participants to engaging activities from KEEP—Wisconsin’s K-12 Energy Education Program—that are included in the Elementary Energy Explorations kit and lesson series. These activities delve into the science and processes behind the phenomenon of flipping a light switch and the complex energy systems that make it possible. The presentation will address essential questions, including: How does electrical energy reach our homes? How do circuits function? How are energy fuel resources obtained? What are the environmental impacts of energy resource extraction? What alternatives are available?
Participants will actively engage in the following KEEP lessons: Evidence of Energy, Digging for Coal, and Renewable Energy Resources. Each lesson is designed to align with NGSS standards and utilizes the 5E model of experiential learning, fostering a hands-on, inquiry-driven approach to understanding energy concepts. Participants will also be introduced to the Elementary Energy Explorations kit, available for checkout from KEEP to any Wisconsin educator.
Curriculum Integration: Educators will learn strategies to effectively incorporate the Agriculture Pen Pal and Exchange Box activities into their existing curriculum, enhancing subjects like science, social studies, and language arts through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. Facilitation Techniques: Teachers will develop skills to facilitate meaningful discussions and reflections among students regarding their agricultural exchanges, promoting critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness in the classroom.
We will explain how educators can sign up and become a Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Member. We will explain all the benefits of being a member. We will also explain all the free things you are entitled to as a member. After the first year you renew as a member for free annually. There are stem kits, Lessons for your classroom, free teacher orientation flights.
Lessons have NSSG objectives and areas listed. Our goal is to get teachers teaching aerospace education lessons to give students a taste for learning more about aviation. We have frees stem kits and lessons for their classrooms. We try to show them how they can maximize their efforts in getting stem kits. We also demonstrate the ease in which you can get free materials and a flight in a Civil Air Patrol plane.
We explain how you pay only once, and can then sign up annually free of charge every year after the first year. We also like to give Teachers Airplane rides. When you get a chance to fly it becomes an experience you want to share with your students.
The main focus of the presentation is encouraging students to lead discourse in the elementary classroom, using the skills and ideas from the book Ambitious Science Teaching. The key elements we will focus on are planning for engagement, student discourse, and eliciting ideas from the Ambitious Science Teaching framework. Teachers learn how to lead conversations, the next step to aspire to is to teach students to lead the discussion. By doing so, a teacher can encourage the student’s intellectual engagement while also attending to equity issues teachers face. We plan to share and discuss successful examples in the elementary classroom. Younger students require more scaffolding, reinforcement, and encouragement to be successful in the classroom. We will share how to plan for student conversation using an anchor chart, talk scaffolds, and talking circles. In this presentation, we will also allow time for educators to practice the shared strategies with each other.
The Milton O. Pella Banquet is named in memory of the individual responsible for the birth of the Wisconsin Society of Science teachers during the 1957 - 1958 academic year at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Not only did Dr. Pella bring together enthusiastic, science-minded individuals to start the organization, he cultivated it with people called "Pella Fellas." This was to ensure continued programs designed to "Improve Science Education in Wisconsin." He willed nearly $200,000 to the WSST Foundation to provide grants to individuals for academic pursuits, individual science initiatives, attending professional conferences, purchasing science equipment, special school science programs, and the Front and Center Grants.
Dr. Pella, a native of Wisconsin, was born in Wilmont in 1914 and lived his entire adult life in the Madison area. He attended elementary and high school in Burlington, earned his B.E. Degree at the Milwaukee State College and both his M.S. and Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After completing his Master of Science degree, Dr. Pella spent three years in the military. Starting in 1939, Dr. Pella (known as "Doctor" to his students) taught at Wisconsin High School on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1948, Dr. Pella became a member of the university faculty and retired as a full professor in 1980. While teaching at the university, Dr. Pella was much sought after as an education consultant and teacher. He served as Science Education Consultant to Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Nigeria, Costa Rica, Mexico, and India. In addition, he was active as a consultant and board member to a variety of federally funded science programs during the 1960s and 1970s.
Milton Pella was an active professional educator involved in many organizations such as the National Association for Research in Science Teaching. He also authored science textbooks and A History of the North Central Association of Math and Science Teachers (also known as The Association of Math and Science Teachers). His many achievements and publications are outlined in different editions of Who's Who. Milton Pella was at the forefront of modern science curricular design; his students were constantly reminded not to embrace change without a critical eye. The Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers was one of Dr. Pella's major professional interests. After providing the impetus that launched WSST, he provided years of advice and support to the organization. In addition, many of his former students have occupied positions of influence within WSST, keeping it pointed at its goal of improving science education in Wisconsin. We are very proud to celebrate Dr. Pella's devotion to science education and his contributions to WSST by naming our annual spring conference banquet in his memory.
