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.
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.
