2018-2019 Division Level ProfessionalDevelopment WorkshopsGrades K-12

CONTENTSGrades K-5

Tools for Teaching and Learning STEM Content ... Page 1Mathematics ... Page 2 Science ... Page 3-4

Grades 6-12Tools for Teaching and Learning STEM Content ... Page 5Mathematics ... Page 6-7Physical Science ... Page 7Life Science, Biology ... Page 8-9Earth & Environmental Science ... Page 9

We are proud to offer our 2018-2019 Division Level Workshops to your divisions and schools. These workshops are a blend of old favorites and new workshop offerings providing important, cutting-edge content. The MSiC Division Level Workshops meet regional and state learning goals for K-12, higher education, and industry.

GRADES K-5Tools for Teaching and Learning STEM Content

Enhancing Active Learning Using the 5E Model of Instruction – NEWK-5th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 6th-12th)The 5E Model of Instruction promotes collaborative, active learning in which students work together to solve problems and investigate new concepts by asking questions, observing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions. During this session you will be Engaged as you Explore the components of the 5E model, Explain how they are used, Elaborate as you categorize the components of existing 5E lesson plans, and Evaluate an existing lesson plan and determine how to make it more student centered.

Quests, Questions, and Queries K-5th Grade Science and Mathematics (also grades 6th-12th)Why are schools often the only place where the people who have the answers, also ask the questions? Participants will explore ways to enrich their curricula by implementing a more inquiry-based pedagogical stance. Through a variety of hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, participants will discuss concrete ways to engage students in the wonder of “why”.

Projects with Purpose3rd-5th Grade Integrated Science (also grades 6th-8th)Project Based Learning is a pedagogical approach to engaging students inquiry-based tasks over an extended period of time. Come explore how project-based learning works in tandem with standards-based curricula and how it can be used to inspire a deeper understanding of content. Participants will develop project ideas to take back to the classroom that will challenge students at every level.

Curiosity Creates Questions3rd-5th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 6th-12th)Curiosity won’t kill the cat! -- But it will spark ideas when you have students ask the questions! Learn how to enhance student engagement through the use of the Question Focus Technique and primary sources (photographs, maps, manuscripts and other artifacts). You will be introduced to activities which incorporate the 21st century skills of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking in science, social studies, math and language arts.

Data Driven Differentiation – NEW K-5th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 6th-12th)Unlock the power of data to drive instruction and deepen student learning as you analyze student work to reveal student thinking and misconceptions. Participants will work collaboratively, exploring the use of formative assessments to identify misconceptions, identifying the gaps between expectations and actual performance, and planning next steps to steer instruction toward increased student understanding and engagement.

K-5 MATHEMATICSNumber Sense Investigations Using Children’s LiteratureK-2nd Grade Computation and Estimation; InterdisciplinaryReading and math are a perfect pair when it comes to teaching young children. In this session, we will explore how to introduce number sense investigations through mathematically rich children’s books. Participants will come away with new ways to guide students as they tackle problem-solving tasks and deepen their mathematical and literacy understandings.

Once Upon a STEM LessonK-2nd Grade Mathematics; Science;InterdisciplinaryInterdisciplinary lessons support concept development by making connections between different content areas; deepening student understanding. During this session, we will showcase a variety of STEM lessons developed by educators at the MathScience Innovation Center which model how to incorporating literature and other disciplines into your lessons. Participants will leave with ideas for using literature to pose problems that can be solved using STEM activities.

Guide Your Students to Mathematical Success!K-5th Grade MathematicsNow is the time to redesign your math block to teach the way students learn. A guided math approach to teaching and learning will help your students become better independent problem solvers, mathematical communicators, and critical thinkers. In this session, we will discuss ways to tackle scheduling, rotations, management, grouping and assessment during guided math by applying the same fundamentals that you use in your guided reading groups and literacy stations.

Living the G-Suite Dream: Teaching Math with Google® Apps – NEWK-5th Grade Mathematics (also grades 6th-12th)Interested in learning more about how to integrate technology and the use Google® apps in the math classroom? Then this workshop is for you! Come explore activities and resources designed to help you make the transition from traditional paper and pencil to using more digital tools. Let the technology help you interact with students in a whole new way. Ideas presented can be adapted to your specific content, grade level, and students.

Mathematical ModelingK-5th Grade Mathematics (also grades 6th-12th)Mathematical Modeling is a process that uses math structures and manipulatives to represent real-world problems and situations. Come learn about this process by examining the difference between mathematical modeling and simply using manipulatives. We will discuss how to provide scaffolding for students in order to support them in deepening their content knowledge through mathematical modeling.

Math Mindsets: Visualizing and Investigating Big Ideas – NEW3rd-5th Grade MathematicsVisualize. Play. Investigate. Discover how using Low Floor, High Ceiling Tasks can completely change the learning dynamics in your classroom. These tasks are accessible by all students, but can be extended to high levels of mathematics. Activities are based on the work of Dr. Jo Boaler, Stanford University professor and faculty director of youcubed.org. Come explore these activities that will help your students make connections between the big ideas in mathematics. Participants will walk away with activities that they can use immediately, as well as resources to further enrich student tasks in the classroom.

The Great Sandwich Dilemma3rd-5th Grade MathematicsThat’s not fair! In this workshop, come learn how to engage students in proportional reasoning with authentic situations that require rational numbers. Participants will leave with strategies which challenge students’ understanding of equivalence, unit fractions, and adding, subtracting and comparing fractions.” How can we prove the division of sandwiches is fair? Fractions of course.

What’s the Problem? – NEW3rd-5th Grade Mathematics (also grades 6th- 8th)“Why do we have to learn this?” How often do we hear this in the classroom? Project-Based Learning and math modeling help students make the connection between curriculum content and the authentic application of student knowledge. Students engaged in inquiry-based activities that span the math curriculum will find a clear purpose for their learning. Participants will come away with activities and strategies that will flip the question to, “How can I use this to find a solution to my problem?”

Algebraic Thinking in the Elementary Classroom3rd-6th Grade Patterns; Functions; AlgebraIf algebra is the gateway to advanced mathematics; arithmetic is its foundation. In this workshop, algebraic thinking will be explored through a variety of math tasks that will open a window into student thinking. Participants will learn how to analyze student work to inform instruction and make the connection between arithmetic and algebraic thinking.

What’s Your Angle?4th-5th Grade Force, Motion, and Energy; GeometryCome explore how mathematics can predict the behavior of reflected light using mirrors and lasers. Participants will investigate various angles created through reflection using physical and virtual protractors. Also, participants will engage in a periscope challenge using this new understanding of how scientists and engineers use reflected light in practical applications.

K-5 SCIENCEA Classroom that ROCKs! – NEWK-5th Grade ScienceRocks provide a diary of the Earth; reveal the processes that formed them; and give us clues to what our future holds. In other words, rocks help us to better understand our world, which in turn helps us to better coexist with nature and reap the benefits that it has to offer. From classification based on observations, predictions and inferences, to a detailed study of the characteristics of rocks, you will be able to turn up the volume in your classroom as we “rock out” in our study of rocks!

Birding in Your ClassroomK-5th Grade Science (also grades 6th-12th)No matter where you are on the planet you can find birds. A source of wonder for everyone from home bird feeder enthusiasts to ornithologists, birds are also a key indicator of the health of our ecosystems. Participants will increase their own birding knowledge, learn various strategies for engaging students in learning about the ecosystem through bird observations in the field, and come away with activities that can be done in the classroom. All participants will receive resources from Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

How Much Do Plants Need Animals?K-5th Grade Living Systems Many plants use animals as pollinators, seed dispersers, fertilizers and propa-gators, but plants have also “learned” to use animals as a means to encourage growth or change habitat so that they may survive. Look at plants with a new perspective in this hands-on session and come away with a deeper understanding of the relationship between plants and animals.

Investigating Arthropods in Your ClassroomK-5th Grade Science (also grades 6th-8th)Ignite the sense of wonder in your students by using living organisms from the phylum arthropoda to teach the scientific method, needs of living organisms, and the importance of the most abundant animals on Earth. Using living examples of arthropods, participants will determine the niche preference of these organisms by designing experiments, observing behaviors, and interpreting the data that is collected. This hands-on experience will unleash the power of research and actively engage participants in deeper learning and understanding of arthropods.

Let’s Celebrate Earth DayK-5th Grade ScienceCan one person impact the Earth’s natural resources? Yes, each person has a positive role to play in protecting the Earth’s natural resources! We will investigate the impact that discarded items have on the environment. What happens to trash once it is thrown out? Do all products break down the same way? Prepare yourself to face the ultimate challenge of creating a zero waste lunch box! Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the impact that waste has on the Earth’s natural resources, and classroom activities that will make this connection meaningful for students.

“Point One” Every Day of the Year! – NEWK-5th Grade ScienceDo you struggle with coming up with experiments that go along with science content in your pacing guide and fulfill the “.1” SOL for your grade level? Struggle no more! We have put together a variety of experiments that will challenge your students to classify; make predictions/inferences/conclusions; identify variables/constants and characteristics/properties; along with collecting data that will then be recorded, analyzed and communicated using the proper graphical representations and measurements. Check out these long- and short-term experiments that will have your students clamoring for more all year long!

Seeds of DiscoveryK-5th Grade ScienceQuestions are seeds that form the foundation of scientific inquiry. Participants will discuss ways to further cultivate students’ inquiries, and provide the tools and nurture the dispositions students need to engage in independent research projects. Strategies for bringing out student creativity and collaboration in the research process and methods for developing rubrics will also be discussed.

Everyday Life Science Mysteries2nd-6th Grade Science Strands will be Covered.How do tiny bugs get into oatmeal? What happens to rotten apples after they fall off the tree? How can squirrels find the nuts they buried in the summer/fall? These everyday mysteries will motivate your students as they conduct hands-on, inquiry based investigations to discover the answers. But, don’t expect to walk away with an answer key because your students will guide the direction of each investigation. These investigations allow for multi-leveled, multi-interest groups to successfully collaborate. So are you ready for a good mystery?

K-5 Science continued on next page

K-5 Science continued

Step Right Up Folks!3rd-4th Grade Force, Motion, and EnergyCome and explore the intersection between circus acts and physical science. Participants will explore how an understanding of force and motion and simple machines is vital to the success of many circus acts such as the The Cirque du Soleil® Teeterboard Act. You will leave with resources for creating STEAM experiences for your students that challenge them to combine their understanding of science concepts with the excitement and beauty of the circus performing arts.

DIY-Fish – NEW3rd- 5th Grade Science (also grades 6th- 12th)Koi! Trout! Tilapia! Aquaculture is the fastest growing opportunity in agriculture. Learn how you can grow fish for food, fun and profit as we investigate the biology, chemistry, statistics and engineering of aquaculture and hydroponics in a portable DIY fish farm. Participants will learn how to establish and maintain an aquaculture tank in their own schools.

Soil Sustains Us!3rd-5th Grade Interrelationships in Earth/Space SystemsWhy is soil so important? The simple answer is that we are what we eat. Soil is not just dirt under our feet, but a home for living organisms. Soil also provides nutrients and stability for plants to grow. Without soil, we would not be! Come and get your hands in the dirt and learn more about the importance of soil!

Light: What’s Your Angle?4th-5th Grade Force, Motion, and Energy; Geometry Come explore how the behavior of reflected light can be predicted based on scientific principles and geometry. Participants will investigate various angles created through reflection using physical and virtual protractors, as well as participate in a periscope challenge that will surely be a hit with students! Activities will help students develop new understandings of scientific applications of geometry and the ways that scientists and engineers use reflected light in practical applications.

Tell me and I forget.Teach me and I remember.

Involve me and I learn.- Benjamin Franklin

GRADES 6-12Tools for Teaching and Learning STEM Content

Enhancing Active Learning Using the 5E Model ofInstruction – NEWK-5th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 6th-12th)The 5E Model of Instruction promotes collaborative, active learning in which students work together to solve problems and investigate new concepts by asking questions, observing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions. During this session you will be Engaged as you Explore the components of the 5E Model, Explain how they are used, Elaborate as you categorize the components of existing 5E lesson plans, and Evaluate an existing lesson plan and determine how to make it more student centered.

Projects with Purpose6th-8th Grade Integrated Science (also grades 3rd–5th)Project Based Learning is a pedagogical approach to engaging students inquiry-based tasks over an extended period of time. Come explore how project-based learning works in tandem with standards-based curricula and how it can be used to inspire a deeper understanding of content. Participants will develop project ideas to take back to the classroom that will challenge students at every level.

Much To Do With Data 6th-8th Grade MathematicsData is everywhere, but what do we do with it? Come join in for some exciting data collecting activities and explore ways to express your results. After actively collecting data, participants will discuss why, when, and how to organize and display data using Microsoft Excel® and Google Sheets®. Please bring your own laptop to save your work!

Curiosity Creates Questions6th-12th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 3rd-5th)Curiosity won’t kill the cat! -- But it will spark ideas when you have students ask the questions! Learn how to enhance student engagement through the use of the Question Focus Technique and primary sources (photographs, maps, manuscripts and other artifacts). You will be introduced to activities which incorporate the 21st century skills of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking in science, social studies, math and language arts.

Hows and Whys of Research Projects 6th-12th Grade ScienceAre you interested in getting your students involved in a rigorous science competition? Come discover the exciting opportunities provided by scientific competition and the guidelines for a well-researched STEM project. This session will include an overview of the Metro Richmond STEM Fair, along with classroom timelines and resources for teachers and students who wish to participate in this event.

Data Driven Differentiation – NEW K-5th Grade Interdisciplinary (also grades 6th-12th)Unlock the power of data to drive instruction and deepen student learning as you analyze student work to reveal student thinking and misconceptions. Participants will work collaboratively, exploring the use of formative assessments to identify misconceptions, identifying the gaps between expectations and actual performance, and planning next steps to steer instruction toward increased student understanding and engagement.

Giving Life to Mathematics with Project-Based Learning – NEW6th-12th Grade MathematicsThis session will provide an overview of the essential elements of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and share evidence that supports its use. Participants will work through abbreviated versions of some classroom tested PBL units focusing on secondary mathematics. All aspects of the process will be discussed including planning, delivery, assessment, and reflection.

The Power of Pedagogy6th-12th Grade MathematicsIs your teaching stuck in a rut? Come learn how to transform your pedagogical approach from, “Why Change?” to “Wise Change”. During this session, participants will participate in activities introducing powerful pedagogical techniques that are sure to both challenge and engage your students. Through new pedagogical approaches, including the 5E Instructional Model, you will discover the spark needed to create a dynamic learning environment in your mathematics classroom.

Quests, Questions, and Queries 6h-12th Grade Science and Mathematics (also grades K–5th)Why are schools often the only place where the people who have the answers, also ask the questions? Participants will explore ways to enrich their curricula by implementing a more inquiry-based pedagogical stance. Through a variety of hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, participants will discuss concrete ways to engage students in the wonder of “why”.

6-12 MATHEMATICSGoing “C.R.A.zy” for Pre-Algebra6th - 8th Grade MathematicsHave you ever heard, “How could they have failed, I taught them that!” Maybe you did, but were you speaking their language? Come learn how the concrete, representational, and abstract continuum of learning mathematics can help improve student understanding. Shared activities will give participants the tools to help students first develop a concrete understanding of math concepts, making it more likely that they will be able to successfully perform more advanced math skills and truly understand math concepts at the representational and abstract level.

Middle School Math Games6th-8th Grade Mathematics Do you need some new and exciting games to invigorate instruction and learning in your middle school classroom? Come experience math-based games that reinforce middle school math topics and engage students immediately. You will go home with a packet of new ideas that will make your students beg for game time next year!

What’s the Problem? – NEW6th-8th Grade Mathematics (also grades 3rd-5th)“Why do we have to learn this?” How often do we hear this in the classroom? Project-Based Learning and math modeling help students make the connection between curriculum content and the authentic application of student knowledge. Students engaged in inquiry-based activities that span the math curriculum will find a clear purpose for their learning. Participants will come away with activities and strategies that will flip the question to, “How can I use this to find a solution to my problem?”

Blocks, Beans, and Brainstorming,Oh, My!7th- 8th Grade Mathematics; Algebra I; GeometryWe all know that problem solving skills are an integral part of everyday life, but how often do we group students together to solve a problem where each student holds a crucial piece of the puzzle? Based on the “Get It Together” model, participants work collaboratively using critical thinking skills and logic to solve algebra and geometry problems. Participants will also discuss ways to incorporate more group work into their classroom instruction.

Potpourri of Algebra IAlgebra IDo you need some new ideas for teaching, reviewing, or enriching Algebra I topics? You will learn new ways to present numerous algebra units including slope, systems of equations, polynomial operations, and factoring in an engaging and interactive environment. Participants will get a packet of all activities to use in their classroom.

Living the G-Suite Dream: Teaching Math with Google® Apps – NEW 6th-12th Grade Mathematics (also grades K–5th)Interested in learning more about how to integrate technology and the use Google® apps in the math classroom? Then this workshop is for you! Come explore activities and resources designed to help you make the transition from traditional paper and pencil to using more digital tools. Let the technology help you interact with students in a whole new way. Ideas presented can be adapted to your specific content, grade level, and students. Mathematical Modeling 6th-12th Grade Mathematics (also grades K–5th)Mathematical Modeling is a process that uses math structures and manipulatives to represent real-world problems and situations. Come learn about this process by examining the difference between mathematical modeling and and simply using manipulatives. We will discuss how to provide scaffolding for students in order to support them in deepening their content knowledge through mathematical modeling.

Raising the Curtain on 3-Act Tasks 6th-12th Grade MathematicsHave you ever heard the statements, “Math is too hard!”, “Who cares?”, or my personal favorite, “When are we ever going to use this?” Students are looking for relevance in their learning; giving their work meaning through real world applications. During this workshop, we will engage in a 3-Act Math lesson and apply this concept to mathematical topics that will engage students in meaningful mathematics. Participants will also be introduced to some of the many resources that are available to help you raise the curtain on 3-Act Tasks! What’s in Your Deck of Cards?Algebra IDid you know that a deck of cards can be a great way for your students to create and manipulate polynomial expressions? Learn how to make the instruction of polynomials fun by using decks of cards! You will experience each activity first hand so you will be ready to use decks of cards in your own classroom in the fall. Most activities can be completed individually or with a partner, so you can tailor them to meet your students’ needs. The students will have fun without realizing they are gaining a deeper understanding of polynomials. Can we deal you a hand?

High School Math Games – NEW9th-12th Grade MathematicsDo you need some new and exciting games to invigorate instruction and learning in your high school classroom? Come experience math-based games that reinforce Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry topics and engage students immediately. All of the games can easily be adapted for Trig, Math Analysis, and Calculus classes. You will go home with a packet of new ideas that will make your students beg for game time next year! SOLs will be added once games are finalized.

Potpourri of Algebra II9th-12th Grade Mathematics; Algebra IIDo you need some new ideas for teaching, reviewing or enriching Algebra II topics? Well, this is the place for you! You will learn new ways to present quadratics, factoring, and complex numbers in an engaging and interactive environment. Participants will get a packet of activities, games, journals, and projects for their classroom.

Potpourri of Geometry GeometryDo you need some new ideas for teaching, reviewing, or enriching Geometry topics? You will learn new ways to present numerous geometric units including polygons, circles, volume, and surface area in an engaging and interactive environment. Participants will get a packet of all activities to use in their classroom. The Cookie Conundrum AFDA; StatisticsAre Double Stuf Oreos® as stuffed as they claim to be? Based on the conclusions of one statistics class, many large media outlets concluded that cookie maker Nabisco® may have been misleading in their advertisements. Come conduct your own statistical experiment to find the real answer and discuss ways of engaging students in these types of authentic problems.

6-12 SCIENCEPhysical ScienceR-E- A-C- T-I- O-N! Enhancing Student Un-derstanding of Chemical Reactions with Simulations and Online Applications! – NEW6th-12th Grade Physical ScienceIn this exciting workshop, participants will experience the difficulties and misconceptions students have in understanding the basics of chemical reactions. We will also reflect on the impact a teacher’s role can have on student learning. Each participant will walk away with a better understanding of how being a “guide on the side” enables students to take ownership of their learning and moreeffectively use higher order thinking and 21st century skills to demonstrate R-E- A-C- T-I- O-N! mastery. Google Classroom® integrations will be used.Wet lab required for workshopMinimum of 10 participants/Maximum 24 participants

Snap, Crackle, Pop a Question! Using the Question Formulation Technique (QFT) in Physics and Chemistry Classes9th-12th Grade Physical SciencePiqué your students’ interest in exploring Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion with a picture of a fierce tug-o-war battle. Imagine starting a unit on chemical reactions with a simple statement, “ All reactions are not the same.” The Question Formulation Technique (QFT) uses STEM best practices to engage students in deeper knowledge acquisition through student driven questions. Based on Dan Rothstein, Ed.D. and and Luz Santana’s transformational text, Make Just One Change, this session is designed for participants to explore how the QFT can be used in Chemistry and Physics classes to create a dynamic classroom that challenges student creativity, problem solving, and collaboration skills.

DIY-Fish – NEW6th- 12th Grade Science (also grades 3rd- 5th)Koi! Trout! Tilapia! Aquaculture is the fastest growing opportunity in agriculture. Learn how you can grow fish for food, fun and profit as we investigate the STEM (biology, chemistry, statistics and engineering) of aquaculture and hydroponics in a portable DIY fish farm. Participants will learn how to establish and maintain an aquaculture tank in their own schools.

Neural Pathways: Using Your Brain! – NEW6th-12th Grade Life Science; BiologyBrain science should not make you nervous! Get psyched up as your students use their heads to study the transmission of information from cells to systems through brain neurons to the nervous system. See how your students can test their cognitive abilities and analyze how their brain is capable of executing a variety of challenging tasks. They’ll be making all kinds of new neural connections! “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”: Making Science Relevant Through Literature7th-12th Grade ScienceThe Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is the true story of a woman who unknowingly saved millions of lives after losing her own. This book is a scientific story, but also a human story which will have your students engaged in vigorous classroom discussions exploring the nature of scientific research and ethical practice. Participants will discover the power of scientific book studies as tools of inquiry that allow all students to move beyond memorization; building foundational knowledge through engagement in the text and classroom collaborations and discussions.

Zombie-ology 101Life Science; BiologyDo you ever wonder what is fact and what is fiction when looking at the STEM concepts embedded in the current Hollywood pop culture of zombies? This workshop will introduce our Zombie-ology 101 lesson which focuses on the transmission of information through the nervous system from the cellular level to the entire body system. See how your students can test their cognitive abilities and analyze how their brain is capable of executing a variety of challenge station tasks. Discover where nature and Hollywood part ways!

Evolution: The Biology of Change9th-12th Grade BiologyIs evolution “just” a theory? Examine some common misconceptions about biological evolution and explore some of the evidence that led to the formulation of one of the most controversial theories in science. A hands-on simulation will demonstrate the relevance of Darwin’s finches to a fundamental aspect of evolution: that variation emerges independently of the environmental “forces” that act on it. Come away with new tools for engaging students in the study of evolution.

LIFE SCIENCE, BIOLOGYBirding in Your Classroom6-8th Grade Science (also grades K–5th)No matter where you are on the planet you can find birds. A source of wonder for everyone from home bird feeder enthusiasts to ornithologists, birds are also a key indicator of the health of our ecosystems. Participants will increase their own birding knowledge, learn various strategies for engaging students in learning about the ecosystem through bird observations in the field, and come away with activities that can be done in the classroom. All participants will receive resources from Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Investigating Arthropods in Your Classroom6-8th Grade Science (also grades K–5th)Ignite the sense of wonder in your students by using living organisms from the phylum arthropoda to teach the scientific method, needs of living organisms, and importance of the most abundant animals on Earth. Using living examples of arthropods, participants will determine the niche preference of these organisms by designing experiments, observing behaviors, and interpreting the data that is collected. This hands-on experience will unleash the power of research and actively engage participants in deeper learning and understanding of arthropods.

Bioluminescence: Living Light – NEW6th-12th Grade Life Science; BiologyDoes the fish that almost ate Dory really exist? Bioluminescence is truly a wonder of the seas. What kind of organisms produce light and why? Get the answers to these and other questions as we explore the phenomenon of bioluminescence. You’ll be able to bring this wonder to your students as you observe luminescing organisms in the classroom and examine ways some marine creatures use glowing to their advantage.

Birds Without Borders: Investigating Population Trends and Conservation of Migratory Birds – NEW7th-12th Grade Life Science; BiologyWhy do birds matter? From insect control to pollination, birds are a driving force of our ecological systems. In this session, we will explore how students can investigate scientific, data-driven questions using an online resource, ebird. Using web-based mapping tools and mobile technologies, your students will dive into real-world biodiversity issues that range from the local to international scale, bringing relevant learning to your science classroom.

Cuttin’ Up in Class6th-12th Grade ScienceThis time it is your turn to be “Cuttin’ Up in Class”! Bring your life science, bio, A&P, and even Sports Med classrooms alive as you engage in hands-on, cost effective ways to introduce dissection to your students. Not only will the study of structure and function in living organisms make more sense, but students will experience a heightened appreciation for the fascinating nature of living things.

Looking at Medicine Through a Different Lens– NEW9th-12th Grade BiologyNanoscience gives us a view of the world that defies traditional logic. Our understanding of the science of the small has fueled medical research’s development of targeted treatments for many of our world’s most deadly maladies. Join us as we peer through the lens of nanotechnology and discover the innovations in medicine that are bringing the future to today. Participants will leave with activities that will bring both relevance and intrigue to the biology classroom.

Outbreak at Middlin High9th-12th Grade BiologyThis simple activity uses student “interviews” and a 10-step protocol developed by the CDC to track the source of an outbreak of gastroenteritis among students at “Middlin High School”. We’ll also explore an activity that traces a fictitious legionnaires disease outbreak modeled after an actual one in Lynchburg, VA, in 1996. Students can even develop their own simulated “outbreaks” to track. Also, we’ll take a quick look at some classic disease outbreaks and consider whether another one is right around the corner.

Sensitivity 101: Detecting and Responding to Stimuli – NEW9th-12th Grade BiologyHow sensitive is your skin at distinguishing touch sensations? Why do you stop noticing smells after a short exposure time? Can you accurately judge the difference between two weights held in your hands? Come explore the touchy-feely world of physical senses. Activities for your classroom will explore the world of reflex arcs, two-point discrimination, proprioceptors, and Weber-Fechner ratios. All of these activities can be done easily (and cheaply!) and will challenge your students’ understanding of of the body’s response to stimuli. Get in touch with your sensitive side. Literally.

EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCEEarth vs Mars – A Planetary Workshop6th–12th Grade Science; Earth ScienceCome explore the relationships between Earth and our closest neighbor in the solar system, Mars. We will discuss the atmosphere and geology of Earth and Mars and use remote satellite images to compare and contrast the physical processes that occur on these planets. Additionally, we will classify images of Earth and Mars by observing the physical features in each image. Digital resources for participants to use in the classroom will be shared.

Geocaching Using GPS Units or Mobile Devices6th–12th Grade Science; Earth Science; Envi-ronmental Science; AP Environmental Sci-ence; Ecology; OceanographyGeocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants will navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at the location. Discover the different types of geocaches and how to use them with your students in this treasure filled workshop!

Meaningful Watershed Schoolyard Expe-riences6th–12th Grade SciencePrepare for a Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) with your students by engaging in hands-on activities including: land use mapping, water chemistry, benthic macroinvertebrates, bathymetric profiles, flow rate of lentic and lotic ecosystems. Learn how you can conduct a MWEE at your school site. An extended field study option at the James River Park System and including an ecology study at Reedy Creek is also available. Planet Hunters-The Search for Exoplanets6th-12th Grade ScienceWhy are astronomers looking for planets around other stars? In this workshop we will discuss exoplanets, and why they’re so fascinating to the scientific community. You’ll learn why it’s so difficult to observe exoplanets directly and find out about the different methods for discovering new exoplanets indirectly. We will discuss concepts behind gravitational methods, including astrometry, the Doppler method, and an innovative technique for measuring tiny changes in a star’s light intensity. Plus, you’ll find out about an exciting new way to observe exoplanets by measuring their infrared radiation. Together, we will work through labs that you can share with your “planet hunters” in 6th-12th grade science classrooms.

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