Get ready for Spring with these great workshops and trainings. Below are links to some upcoming programs all over the state. For a more complete list visit the NCSTA Professional Development Calendar.
- The NCCAT Experience
- The Science House, NC State University
- DataStreme Courses
- Museum of Natural History
- Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute
- Sustainable Forestry Teachers' Tour
- Summer Institute in Biotechnology and Genomics
- NSELA Short Course
Teacher
Renewal Seminars: The NCCAT Experience
The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching, NCCAT offers
a full continuum of professional development for teachers from support
to beginning teachers to renewal seminars designed to give teachers creative
experiences, opportunities for research or scholarly pursuits, and fresh
vitality for the important career of education. Teachers of all grade
levels and subjects who have been employed full-time in North Carolina
public schools for at least three years may choose any seminar of interest.
There is no cost to the teacher, but a brief essay and a recommendation
from your principal are required. All professional development offerings
are available on the NCCAT web page - www.nccat.org.
NASCAR:
Science on the Race Track, January 31–February 5: Randleman
NASCAR, is a staple of Southern life. Originating in the bootleg whiskey
industry as the back-roads mode of transport for moonshine, motor sports
in the modern age have created a fast-moving career path for specialists
not only in automotive design and performance, but technology, economics,
marketing, public relations, art, finance, accounting, and tourism. Visit
NASCAR team shops and motor speedways. Explore the ways in which math
and physics work together on the speedway. The seminar will be held at
Victory Junction Gang Camp with bunk house style lodging. (Yellow Flag:
This seminar will have several road trips including extended bus rides
and will be highly interactive physically. If you do not travel well or
can not be on your feet for long periods of time this may not be the seminar
for you.) (#4570)
Left
Behind: Children in Poverty, February 7–11: Cullowhee
The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 ushered in a period of unprecedented
change for our nation’s education system. One aspect of this legislation
is that now learning in the classroom will be assessed based on the success
of all children, no matter what gender, race or socioeconomic status.
Research informs us that a key correlate of school performance is socioeconomic
status. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that in 2002, there were 12.1 million
children living in poverty. Thus, the question for America is: Can we
afford to leave 12.1 million children behind? Utilizing resources including
Payne’s research, A Framework for Understanding Poverty, we will
increase our awareness of this condition and build resources for addressing
these children’s academic needs. (#4600)
Zoos:
The Modern Ark, February 28–March 4: Asheboro
“Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” The North Carolina Zoo
in Asheboro provides spectacular habitats for animals from many continents.
Get up close and personal with the animals as we explore their habitats.
Learn about the operation and maintenance of one of the best zoos in the
United States as we step behind the scenes to examine some of the facets
of zoo-keeping that are usually hidden from the general public. Grapple
with some of the philosophical and bioethical issues involved in taking
care of the animals. Come prepared to take away deeper knowledge of the
vital role zoos play in maintaining biodiversity, educating the public
and scientists, and providing a spark for children to gain an appreciation
of the biological sciences. (Two participants to a room.) (#4650)
In the
Company of Animals, March 14–18: Cullowhee
Animals play a major role in almost all aspects of human life. We love,
play with, and eat them. Young people are captivated by animals, from
Old Yeller to Hedwig the Owl. History, psychology, sociology, and philosophy
each tell part of their story. Join a community of authentic inquiry to
explore topics such as why people keep pets, the psychology of animal
activism, the debate over the use of animals in science, and why breeds
of dog rise and fall in popularity. Learn how scientists research the
human/animal bond and the role of animals in human culture. As we turn
our multidisciplinary lens on our relationship with animals, we will ultimately
be highlighting the overarching question, “What does it mean to
be human?” (#4690)
To Love
the Land: Sustainable Development in the Mountains, April 4–8: Cullowhee
Does “development” always have to equal “destruction?”
Go behind the scenes to learn how a major developer plans and creates
a new human neighborhood with a vision of environmental excellence. Our
field site, Balsam Mountain Preserve, is a private residential community
in the very early stages of design and construction located on 4,400 acres
of which 3,000 acres are permanently protected by a land trust. Led by
a team of land use, wildlife, and environmental professionals, take part
in hands-on study of topics such as soil erosion, stream life, and the
identification of plants and geological formations. Meet with housing
and landscape architects to learn about the planning process for energy-efficient
structures and their natural surroundings. Learn how it is possible to
create a human settlement within a park whose members share a strong sense
of place and an ethos of stewardship of the natural systems that support
all life. (#4750)
The
Age of Sail, April 11–15: Salter Path
Humans have been going down to the sea in ships for thousands of years—to
fish, explore, trade with others, hunt whales, and wage war. Until the
late nineteenth century, the ships were built of wood and propelled by
sail. Now you can return to those lost-but-not-forgotten times. Learn
the language and the songs of the sea, share hardtack with your messmates,
practice the sailor’s arts of scrimshaw and marlinespike seamanship,
wake with the salt-smell in your nostrils, and tune your ear to the bosun’s
pipe and the ship’s bell. We’ll study nautical artifacts at
the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Beaufort and spend a day on the
briny deep, under sail. Through our adventures we will rediscover our
heritage as a maritime nation and become more aware of how our history
shapes our present. (Two participants to a room.)(#4780)
Bringing
Back the Wild: Wildlife Recovery in North Carolina, April 18–22:
Cullowhee
How are animal populations indicators of a healthy environment? What considerations
are essential for the successful re-entry of animals into a critical habitat?
Where can teachers find accurate information regarding wildlife management?
Come explore the history of wildlife management in the United States.
We will spend two days in the field exploring the habitats of recently
reintroduced species and others that are now considered successfully recovered
and stable. We will discuss unsuccessful reintroduction attempts to clarify
what went wrong and what can be done to ensure success with other animal
groups in the future. In this thematic approach to wildlife conservation,
we will travel across the curriculum with activities to entice our students.
Field study will include short hikes in the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
(#4790)
Crime
Scene Investigator: The New Sherlock Holmes, April 18–22: Cullowhee
Today’s crime-scene investigations might cause Sherlock Holmes,
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary sleuth, to retract his analysis
of, “Elementary, my dear Watson.” Investigations require a
keen sense of observation, extensive use of the scientific method, and
physical and biological expertise. Become detectives as we don the hat
of the forensic scientist and the criminalist and use all of the available
information to determine the facts in a simulated crime scene during this
seminar. Analyze the smallest traces of human evidence using DNA fingerprinting
as we become molecular scientists aboard “Destiny,” UNC-Chapel
Hill’s state-of-the-art traveling science laboratory. Work with
a world famous forensic anthropologist who will help us “leave no
bone unturned.” (#4800)
Appalachian
Spring Wildflowers, April 25–29: Cullowhee
Come to the mountains at the peak of the spring blooming season and learn
how to identify, record, and enjoy the wildflower bounty native to western
North Carolina. Take field trips to various wildflower habitats in the
region, under the able guidance of botanists. Delve into issues related
to species diversity, habitat destruction, and wildflower conservation.
The nature of this seminar makes outdoor hiking a necessity, perhaps even
during soggy or chilly weather, but offers the rare opportunity to gain
knowledge of wildflowers while enjoying the beauty of spring in the Great
Smoky Mountains. (#4810)
The Rainforest
and Story of Chocolate, May 2–6: Cullowhee
Explore tropical plants and flowers on tranquil walks in the Great Smoky
Mountains. Discover the living rain forest, its plants, animals, and the
implications of its destruction for our planet. The tropical rain forest
evergreen plant Theobroma cacao gives us the cocoa beans used in making
chocolate. During this seminar you will hear about the cocoa bean’s
history and processing, study (and taste!) different types of chocolate,
and bake heavenly gourmet chocolate recipes. (#4820)
Rainbows
and Tornadoes: Nature’s Beauty and Fury, May 9–13: Cullowhee
Mark Twain once said “Climate is what we expect, weather is what
we get.” Unexpected weather can erupt violently and with dramatic
consequences. Learn about how weather happens—how land temperatures,
air currents, and topography give birth to it. Investigate the ways that
mountain ranges, sea breezes, and bodies of water interact to bring us
rain and wind. Analyze the formation of various types of clouds and discuss
their relation to weather systems. Use various meteorological tools to
predict and record the weather. Experience firsthand how weather is forecast
and develop your own ability to evaluate situations, rain or shine. (#4830)
The Ecology
of Barrier Islands, May 9–13: Salter Path
North Carolina’s precious barrier islands protect our coastlines
from severe storm damage. They harbor habitats that are essential refuges
for wildlife. But the attraction of “beach-front property”
is accelerating development of these fragile geological and ecological
systems. What will our students need to know to become responsible stewards
of our Outer Banks? Learn about the formation and stability of land forms,
the seasonal effects of storms, and how land forms change over time. Explore
the ecology of barrier islands by contrasting the interface of land with
the sound and with the sea. We will use various techniques to investigate
and collect marine species as we gain understanding and appreciation for
the barrier islands that shelter our coast. (Two participants to a room.)
(#4840)
Teacher
Scholars in Residence, April 11–15: Cullowhee
The Teacher Scholar program offers educators an excellent short-term residential
experience for study and research. Teachers pursuing projects of outstanding
intellectual or artistic promise are invited to apply. Teams of up to
four educators who seek time and space for collaboration also may apply.
The Teacher Scholars in Residence program provides five days devoted to
independent study in a scholarly, supportive environment. Preference is
given to teachers with outstanding proposals who are applying to the program
for the first time. For more information e-mail tscholars@nccat.org
or dial 800-922-0482. (#4770)
How do
I apply?
Registration for January through April 2005 seminars is ongoing. Registration
for May through August seminars begins on February 1 for teachers who
have never attended an NCCAT renewal seminar and on March 1 for NCCAT
alumni. Teachers of all grade levels and subjects who have been employed
full-time in North Carolina public schools for at least three years may
choose a seminar. There is no cost to the teacher. Call NCCAT Teacher
Services at 1-800-922-0482 or email registrar@nccat.org
submitting your name, home telephone number, social security number, and
seminar choice. Or visit the NCCAT Website at www.nccat.org
to download an application. If you have any questions about particular
seminars, please feel free to contact Renée Coward, 2005 NCSTA
President and NCCAT representative.
Teacher
and Student Programs at The Science House
Biotechnology
Workshop
Biology teachers are invited to a free workshop on Saturday, February
19, 2005 at The Science House. Participants will learn cutting edge techniques
and receive a manual of activities that can be used to teach genetics
in their classrooms. All activities are correlated with the North Carolina
Standard Course of Study. Scientists will share their expertise, answer
questions, and be available to schedule classroom visits. In addition,
participants will have an opportunity to check out kits of materials necessary
to perform lab activities presented in the workshop. For details and to
register visit http://www.science-house.org/fungal/northcarolina/
Expanding Your
Horizons Conference
This year's EYH Conference will be held Tuesday, March 8, 2005, 8 am to
1 pm on the NCSU campus. In celebration of the World Year of Physics we
will be exploring careers in the physical sciences. Schools in NC are
invited to bring seven 7th grade girls to this free conference including
lunch. We are also seeking volunteers to help run the event and lead hands-on
presentations for the girls. The deadline for registration is January
14. Visit http://www.science-house.org/student/eyh/
for details and registration.
Spring Math and
Science Workshops
This spring we are hosting monthly open registration workshops for all
math and science teachers. These 6 hour, Saturday workshops will be held
at The Science House office in Raliegh and include topics such as GIS
in the Classroom, Countertop Chemistry, VPython and Physics from the Junk
Drawer. Register today as these workshops fill up fast!
http://www.science-house.org/workshops/open//
Physics Course
for Teachers
The second semester of Matter & Interactions with a focus on Electricity
and Magnetism is now open for registration. This distance learning course
is available for teachers who want to deepen their understanding of basic
physics and to earn graduate credits. The courses may count for technology
credit since the course makes heavy use of the programming language VPython.
Visit the web site for more details and registration information - http://www.science-house.org/teacher/course.html.
Emerging Science
and Technology Short Course
How small can we go? What do you know about Nanotechnology? Join experienced
high school teachers for three days, July 12-14, 2005 at NC State University
and explore how nanotechnology will be influencing our future. Visit campus
research laboratories, attend content lectures, discuss the ethical issues
of nanotechnology, talk with scientists and technicians about their work,
and receive curriculum materials. Participants will receive a $200 stipend,
2.0 CEUs and housing. Visit the web page for details and to register http://www.science-house.org/student/hhmi/est/.
Satellite Offices
Span the State
Did you know the Science House has six offices across North Carolina?
The mission of the Science House includes reaching all science teachers
in the state. Satellite offices hold regional workshops and programs and
are located in Asheville, Lenoir, Fayetteville, Jacksonville, Edenton,
and of course, the home office in Raleigh. Visit www.science-house.org/info/satellite.html
for links to each of the offices to find programs near you!
Bring the Science
House Teacher Workshops to Your School
The Science House also provides one or two-day programs to update and
refresh teachers' mathematics, science, and Internet skills. These workshops
have been taught many times in schools across North Carolina. Our workshop
participants learn skills and activities that they can immediately use
in their own classrooms. We especially emphasize programs to help meet
teacher technology competencies. Each workshop can be tailored to fit
local needs. Please visit the workshop web page (www.science-house.org/workshops/)
for more information on our workshop or contact Scott Ragan (scott_ragan@ncsu.edu)
at The Science House or call (919) 515-6118.
The American Meteorological Society is offering three different graduate courses next semester, spring 2005. Each of these courses offers 3 FREE hours of graduate credit through the State University of New York - Brockport. These courses are delivered online in weekly installments, and all materials and texts are provided. There are three required face-to-face meetings in Raleigh. Check out the web site (http://www.ametsoc.org/amsedu) for details about the courses and for applications.
DataStreme Atmosphere's main goal is the training of Weather Education Resource Teachers who will promote the teaching of science, mathematics and technology using weather as a vehicle, across the K-12 curriculum in their home school districts. Contact Fanette Entzminger if you're interested in DS Atmosphere.
DataStreme Ocean explores the ocean with special emphasis on (1) the flow and transformations of water and energy into and out of the ocean; (2) the internal properties and workings of the ocean; (3) interactions between the ocean and the other components of the Earth system; and (4) the human/societal impacts on the response to those interactions. Contact Terri Kirby Hathaway if you're interested in DS Ocean .
DataStreme Water in the Earth System (WES) incorporates inquiry-based instructional strategies and a holistic concept of Earth from oceanic, atmospheric and terrestrial water and problem-focused perspectives. Contact Frankie Vann if you're interested in WES.
Museum
of Natural HistoryBackyard Bird Bonanza,
NC Museum of Natural Sciences and Prairie Ridge, Raleigh, NC, Saturday,
January 8, 2005, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Cost: $15
Birds are an ideal topic for classroom study - they are easy to attract
to school grounds, fun to watch, and offer many opportunities for scientific
observation. Learn to identify species common to school grounds and
woodlands in Piedmont North Carolina. Get tips on creating bird feeding
and observation areas. Participate in activities you can share with
students. Learn about citizen science programs such as the Great Backyard
Bird Count, nest box surveys, and eBird. We will begin at the Museum
and have a field portion at our nearby environmental education field
station, Prairie Ridge.
Natural History Collections: Museum Techniques, NC Museum of Natural
Sciences, Raleigh, NC, Thursday, January 13 - Friday, January 14, 2005,
Cost: $55 (includes dissecting kit, preparation manual, insect and mammal
specimens
Learn basic preparation and preservation techniques for natural history
specimens. Prepare a study skin, pin insects, preserve reptiles and
amphibians, press plants, and learn ways top protect collections from
pests and from wear and tear. This workshop is ideal for small museums,
state and local parks, and science resource educators.
Where Swans Fly and Bears Walk, Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge,
near Plymouth, NC, Friday, January 28 (depart 4:30 p.m. from Museum)
- Saturday, January 29, 2005, Cost: $70 (includes lodging, breakfast,
and lunch)
Experience one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in North Carolina
- thousands of Tundra Swans and Snow Geese overwintering in an area
rich in other wildlife including black bear, gray fox, bobcat, and red
wolves. Learn to identify waterfowl and other winter birds. Pick up
practical tips on observing wildlife tracks and other animal signs.
Learn how you can incorporate wild creatures into your curriculum.
To register, contact Mike Dunn
919.733.7450 ext. 620
The School of Galactic Radio Astronomy (SGRA) offers teachers and students in grades 8-12 a unique live, hands-on inquiry based approach to learning through Internet control of a 4.6 meter radio telescope, nicknamed Smiley, located at PARI southwest of Asheville. PARI will offer 4 workshops during 2004-2005 that last a day and half. Teachers may stay at PARI and are provided room and board during the workshop. The workshop is free and provides 1.0 to 3.0 CEUs. Workshop dates are March 19, April 23 and July 30, 2005. For details visit www.pari.edu or email mblake@pari.edu.
Cost: FREE! Lodging, all meals, admission fees, transportation and refreshments during the tour are provided.
The Teachers' Tour is a four-day residential program that focuses on the social, economic, and environmental aspects of sustainable forestry. Participants should expect a fast-paced week, with extended moderate walking, great food, and lots of networking and fun! The first afternoon provides a short orientation to the tour and introduces teachers to the science of forestry, followed by a gourmet dinner and presentation about local history. Over the next three days, teachers don hard hats to visit a variety of mills (paper, solid wood, furniture, plywood) and forests (private industrial, non-industrial, private, public) and are taken on a variety of educational stops (museums, state forests, experimental forests, learning centers, Biltmore Estate/Tryon Palace). After reviewing the tour and sharing some insights, teachers head home with lots of new friends, information, concepts, and materials that can be used in the classroom. Multiple teachers from the same school can apply.
To apply print off the Request for Consideration form. Fill out the form and send it in to the address on the form.Or contact Lindy to request a form be sent to you: Lindy Allen 919-733-2162 x 260
NSELA Short Course - "A Science Leader's Toolkit: Preparing for Reform"
This short course
will be held Saturday, April 2, 2005 9:00 AM-5:00 PM in Trinity 2,
Adam’s Mark Hotel in Dallas during NSTA with a limit of 40 participants.
This course will assist the new or emerging science leader in a school
or district. To prepare educators for reform, a science leader must
be knowledgeable and skilled in curriculum, instruction, assessment,
safety, budget planning, and group dynamics. Come learn how to lead
and support science education reform efforts. We will break for lunch
(not included in the ticket price). NSTA will charge a $59 fee for
those who enroll in advance and $64 on-site. The ticket price includes
the cost of materials, audiovisual equipment rental, and a token “handling”
fee to NSTA.
Contact Kenn Heydrick with questions at KKWWHH@aol.com
Current Issue | Archives | NCSTA
The Science
Reflector
Newsletter of the North Carolina Science Teachers Association
PO Box 1783, Salisbury, NC 28145
Elizabeth Snoke Harris, Editor