Because teachers deserve it!• Establish a classroom culture to support STEAM instruction

• Explore standards-aligned lessons by grade level with STEAM integration

• Network with like-minded educators in your grade and interest area

• Nurture your own curiosity and personal growth

• Win up to $5000 to supercharge your classroom at Pitch Tank!+

Science on the GrandA STEAM Conference for Inquiry-Based InstructionJuly 16–17, 2018 | Grand Rapids, MIGrades K–12

Registration includes…• Two days of inspiration, exploration, and practical take-aways.

• One full-year access to NexGen Inquiry—A $48 value!

• Opportunities to network with like-minded teachers.

• Breakfast, lunch, and a special brewery tour with dinner!

PRINCIPALS CAN ATTEND FREE! With the paid registration of a staff member, a principal from the same building may attend for FREE! *

Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) honors the person and the profession! We know teachers have the most important job in the world; that’s why we support the whole teacher. This conference was designed by experts and current classroom teachers to provide research-based and classroom-tested content that supports your classroom expectations, your content standards, and you

as a person.

Join us and see how to create a classroom culture that supports STEAM instruction, discover new science concepts and strategies to help you implement inquiry-based lessons in your classroom, and nurture your own curiosity for personal growth and enjoyment. Plus, you’ll see that you’re not alone with many networking opportunities for you to engage with teachers by grade level and content area.

Top 5 Outcomes You’ll Gain at Science on the Grand:

1. Discover strategies to establish a rich learning environment and to develop strong habits of mind.

2. Acquire the content knowledge you need to support inquiry-based STEAM content integration at your grade level.

3. Connect with like-minded educators for an open and honest dialogue about instruction challenges including NGSS, project-based learning, critical thinking, and student engagement in the classroom.

4. Engage in optional sessions to nurture your own curiosity for your personal growth and enjoyment.

5. Apply what you learn in a customized take-away action plan ready for you to implement in the next school year!

Event DetailsWhen:Monday, July 16, 2018 – Tuesday, July 17, 20187:30 AM – 3:30 PM**

Where:Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) Campus333 Bostwick Ave., NEGrand Rapids, MI 49503(616) 234-5528**Optional sessions and events to support personal growth and enjoyment will be offered beyond 3:30PM.

TopicsYour favorite topics within a structured content framework:

Monday, July 16

Create a Classroom Culture to Support STEAM Instruction

Tuesday, July 17

Lessons to Support Inquiry-based STEAM Content

• Project-Based Learning

• Feedback

• Student Motivation

• Literature & Science Connection

• Social & Emotional Learning

• Collaboration

• Technology

• Growth Mindset

• Classroom Culture

• Student Ownership

• Discourse

• Critical Thinking

• Inquiry-Based Instruction

• Student Engagement

• Life Science

• Physical Science

• Life & Earth Science

• Biology

• Data Analysis

• NGSS

• Literature & Science Connection

• Earth & Space Science

• Chemistry

• STEAM Integration

• Cross-Curricular Connections

• Modeling

• Inquiry-Based Instruction

• Technology

• Engineering Design

Presenters Get access to a line-up of leading speakers, authors, and classroom practitioners who know what it takes to increase your effectiveness and enjoyment as a teacher.

Mary Abma Gary Abud, Jr. Luke Anderson Cheryl Blackington Amanda Ervin Michael Fine Monica Genta

Peter Grostic Brian Haab Tracy Horodyski Janyce Huff Amy Kam Cory Kavanagh Susan Koppendrayer

B. Gentry Lee Taylor Mali Chelsea McWainKarsten Melcher Kathleen Mohr Catherine MolloseauPatti Richardson

Randy SchregardusTamica StubbsLuke WilcoxJanie Winn Robin VanderwelWendi Vogel Joyce Zimmer

1

Session topics subject to change without notice.

7:30-8:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker Taylor Mali

• Acclaimed Performance Poet• Education Advocate• Author of What Teachers Make

Keynote: Because Teachers Deserve It“I am not a master teacher,” Taylor Mali says. “I just write poems that make it sound as if once upon a time, I liked to think I was.” Be reminded of why you chose to walk this noble path in the first place from the author of “What Teachers Make” and other anthemic teacher poems.

About Taylor Mali Taylor Mali is one of the most well-known poets to have emerged from the poetry slam movement. He is one of the few people in

the world to have no job other than that of “poet.” Articulate, accessible, passionate, and downright funny, Mali studied drama in

Oxford with members of The Royal Shakespeare Company and puts those skills of presentation to work in all his performances.

He was one of the original poets to appear on the HBO series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry and was the “Armani-clad

villain” of Paul Devlin’s 1997 documentary film SlamNation. His poem “What Teachers Make” has been viewed over 4 million times

on YouTube and was quoted by the New York Times’ Thomas Friedman in one of his commencement addresses.

For more information on Taylor Mali, go to https://taylormali.com/

9:00-10:00 a.m.Project Approach…What exactly does that look like in an elementary classroom? Speaker: Janie Winn Project-Based Learning

This session will highlight the foundational components needed to create a project approach unit with young children. The project approach works around three phases to assist teachers in developing a solid experience. We will discuss teacher anticipatory webs, student anticipatory webs, literature selection, student/teacher discussions, field trips, documentation, and presentation ideas.

Feedback that Gets Students Begging for More!Speaker: Chelsea McWainFeedback

We all went into teaching because we are the “masters” of our trade, but at what point do we share too much? We will talk about how difficult it is to provide feedback that guides the students thinking without telling them what to do or giving them information. We will discuss responding to a question with more questions and teaching research methods in order to make learning the students’ responsibility.

Science Fair as Project Based LearningSpeaker: Mary AbmaProject-Based Learning

From driving question to authentic audience, science fair projects are the perfect vehicle for project-based learning in the classroom. In this workshop, I will share log sheets, rubrics, judging forms, timelines, stories (the good, the bad, and the hilarious), and more. What has traditionally been a home project is now done at school, and the learning is infectious.

Build a Bridge Not a Wall: Creating Ridiculously Strong Relationships on an SEL LevelSpeaker: Monica GentaSocial and Emotional Learning

Strong relationships with students are the backbone to all learning! Sometimes it feels like students are building walls around growing in this relationship. But where there is a wall, teachers can learn to build a bridge! Come explore how creating an atmosphere that is open, exciting, and fun for students allows them to discover their unique interests, skills, and strengths as individuals. Let’s build a level of trustworthiness among students and learn how to turn a class into a family!

Let’s Play! Lessons from Sports for the ClassroomSpeaker: Peter GrosticProject-Based Learning

This session responds to the conundrum that we see in schools on a daily basis: kids that succeed in sports but not in the classroom. This session will discuss principles of organized sports that every classroom should work to employ: Teacher as coach, performance-based objectives, authentic audiences, and consistent feedback. These principles are also tenets of Project-Based Learning and can be applied K-12.

Inspiring Authentic Student MotivationSpeaker: Luke WilcoxStudent Motivation

In this session, I outline my framework for becoming a Jedi teacher. The key element that pushes great teachers to Jedi level is becoming a master of motivation. Based on real experience, I discuss my top five strategies for getting a student to work beyond their potential: 1) Promote growth mindset over fixed mindset. 2) Develop meaningful and respectful relationships with students. 3) Grow a community of learners in your classroom. 4). Establish high expectations and clear goals. 5) Be inspirational!

10:30-11:30 a.m.Using Trade Books to Support Science Learning

Speaker: Janie WinnLiterature and Science Connection

Using children’s literature promotes deeper learning and understanding in young children, especially in the area of language development and vocabulary. This session will explore utilizing children’s literature as a teaching tool to facilitate scientific learning in young children. Additionally, this session will discuss the importance of making connections between printed materials and the real world through experiments, observations, and documentation.

What’s the Secret to Social & Emotional Learning? Hint: It’s Something You Get to Do Less Of.Speaker: Tracy HorodyskiSocial and Emotional Learning

We will create a learning community in this session by practicing our ability to park our own thinking in order to listen to seek understanding vs. listening to respond. Not only will we practice true listening and be listened to with simple strategies that will enable us to do so, we’ll reflect on the experience and uncover the myriad critical thinking processes that are part of such an experience. We will begin to uncover how listening is the key to social and emotional learning and SEL is the key to collaborative cultures and the critical and creative thinking within them.

Learning Collaboration through Classroom DesignSpeaker: Mary AbmaCollaboration

We strive to get students to collaborate effectively, but how do we teach them to work well in small groups? My students begin each year by collaborating to design their own classroom learning space. I will share strategies for teaching group learning and for creating a well-designed learning environment. I will share a thematic approach to this and an open approach. In both cases, student work has always exceeded my expectations.

Yada Yada Yada: Bring a Little More Seinfeld into your ClassroomSpeaker: Peter GrosticClassroom Culture

Ever wonder why Seinfeld was so compelling? This session will connect lessons from one of the greatest TV shows ever made to the student-centered classroom. Rewatch some of your favorite clips and dive into the wisdom underneath! This session connects lessons from Seinfeld that will help teachers design a student-centered classroom: A class about nothing (but experience!), building trust and dependability, constant collaboration and communication, and beginning with the end in mind.

Formative Assessment Using Tech ToolsSpeaker: Michael FineTechnology

How do you check for student understanding and make sure students are engaged in their own learning? This session will focus on easy to use electronic formative assessment applications that will make assessment more fun and more engaging for your students. Come learn how to use these tools to help improve your instructional practice and ensure that your students are learning on the first day of school. By attending this session, you will have access to a Google Folder that will contain complete set-up instructions for each tool demonstrated (Quizizz, Google Forms, Plickers, Padlet).

This Shift Is Crazy! It’s Time to Get Gritty!Speaker: Monica Genta

Growth Mindset

I can’t do this! The famous four words from students, right? What if all the frustration from kids, parents, and teachers could be eliminated with one simple word. “Yet!” I can’t do this... yet! Come explore how changing the way we think about thinking can change everything! Whoa. Sound too deep for you? We promise this session will be highly engaging, positive, and will leave you headed down the road to Growth-town. Not only that, you will walk away with ideas of how to implement the growth mindset in your classroom to create some grit in your kiddos... and you!

Monday, July 16, 2018, Morning Sessions

2

K-5

K-5

6-12

7:30-8:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker Taylor Mali

• Acclaimed Performance Poet• Education Advocate• Author of What Teachers Make

Keynote: Because Teachers Deserve It“I am not a master teacher,” Taylor Mali says. “I just write poems that make it sound as if once upon a time, I liked to think I was.” Be reminded of why you chose to walk this noble path in the first place from the author of “What Teachers Make” and other anthemic teacher poems.

About Taylor Mali Taylor Mali is one of the most well-known poets to have emerged from the poetry slam movement. He is one of the few people in

the world to have no job other than that of “poet.” Articulate, accessible, passionate, and downright funny, Mali studied drama in

Oxford with members of The Royal Shakespeare Company and puts those skills of presentation to work in all his performances.

He was one of the original poets to appear on the HBO series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry and was the “Armani-clad

villain” of Paul Devlin’s 1997 documentary film SlamNation. His poem “What Teachers Make” has been viewed over 4 million times

on YouTube and was quoted by the New York Times’ Thomas Friedman in one of his commencement addresses.

For more information on Taylor Mali, go to https://taylormali.com/

9:00-10:00 a.m.Project Approach…What exactly does that look like in an elementary classroom? Speaker: Janie Winn Project-Based Learning

This session will highlight the foundational components needed to create a project approach unit with young children. The project approach works around three phases to assist teachers in developing a solid experience. We will discuss teacher anticipatory webs, student anticipatory webs, literature selection, student/teacher discussions, field trips, documentation, and presentation ideas.

Feedback that Gets Students Begging for More!Speaker: Chelsea McWainFeedback

We all went into teaching because we are the “masters” of our trade, but at what point do we share too much? We will talk about how difficult it is to provide feedback that guides the students thinking without telling them what to do or giving them information. We will discuss responding to a question with more questions and teaching research methods in order to make learning the students’ responsibility.

Science Fair as Project Based LearningSpeaker: Mary AbmaProject-Based Learning

From driving question to authentic audience, science fair projects are the perfect vehicle for project-based learning in the classroom. In this workshop, I will share log sheets, rubrics, judging forms, timelines, stories (the good, the bad, and the hilarious), and more. What has traditionally been a home project is now done at school, and the learning is infectious.

Build a Bridge Not a Wall: Creating Ridiculously Strong Relationships on an SEL LevelSpeaker: Monica GentaSocial and Emotional Learning

Strong relationships with students are the backbone to all learning! Sometimes it feels like students are building walls around growing in this relationship. But where there is a wall, teachers can learn to build a bridge! Come explore how creating an atmosphere that is open, exciting, and fun for students allows them to discover their unique interests, skills, and strengths as individuals. Let’s build a level of trustworthiness among students and learn how to turn a class into a family!

Let’s Play! Lessons from Sports for the ClassroomSpeaker: Peter GrosticProject-Based Learning

This session responds to the conundrum that we see in schools on a daily basis: kids that succeed in sports but not in the classroom. This session will discuss principles of organized sports that every classroom should work to employ: Teacher as coach, performance-based objectives, authentic audiences, and consistent feedback. These principles are also tenets of Project-Based Learning and can be applied K-12.

Inspiring Authentic Student MotivationSpeaker: Luke WilcoxStudent Motivation

In this session, I outline my framework for becoming a Jedi teacher. The key element that pushes great teachers to Jedi level is becoming a master of motivation. Based on real experience, I discuss my top five strategies for getting a student to work beyond their potential: 1) Promote growth mindset over fixed mindset. 2) Develop meaningful and respectful relationships with students. 3) Grow a community of learners in your classroom. 4). Establish high expectations and clear goals. 5) Be inspirational!

10:30-11:30 a.m.Using Trade Books to Support Science Learning

Speaker: Janie WinnLiterature and Science Connection

Using children’s literature promotes deeper learning and understanding in young children, especially in the area of language development and vocabulary. This session will explore utilizing children’s literature as a teaching tool to facilitate scientific learning in young children. Additionally, this session will discuss the importance of making connections between printed materials and the real world through experiments, observations, and documentation.

What’s the Secret to Social & Emotional Learning? Hint: It’s Something You Get to Do Less Of.Speaker: Tracy HorodyskiSocial and Emotional Learning

We will create a learning community in this session by practicing our ability to park our own thinking in order to listen to seek understanding vs. listening to respond. Not only will we practice true listening and be listened to with simple strategies that will enable us to do so, we’ll reflect on the experience and uncover the myriad critical thinking processes that are part of such an experience. We will begin to uncover how listening is the key to social and emotional learning and SEL is the key to collaborative cultures and the critical and creative thinking within them.

Learning Collaboration through Classroom DesignSpeaker: Mary AbmaCollaboration

We strive to get students to collaborate effectively, but how do we teach them to work well in small groups? My students begin each year by collaborating to design their own classroom learning space. I will share strategies for teaching group learning and for creating a well-designed learning environment. I will share a thematic approach to this and an open approach. In both cases, student work has always exceeded my expectations.

Yada Yada Yada: Bring a Little More Seinfeld into your ClassroomSpeaker: Peter GrosticClassroom Culture

Ever wonder why Seinfeld was so compelling? This session will connect lessons from one of the greatest TV shows ever made to the student-centered classroom. Rewatch some of your favorite clips and dive into the wisdom underneath! This session connects lessons from Seinfeld that will help teachers design a student-centered classroom: A class about nothing (but experience!), building trust and dependability, constant collaboration and communication, and beginning with the end in mind.

Formative Assessment Using Tech ToolsSpeaker: Michael FineTechnology

How do you check for student understanding and make sure students are engaged in their own learning? This session will focus on easy to use electronic formative assessment applications that will make assessment more fun and more engaging for your students. Come learn how to use these tools to help improve your instructional practice and ensure that your students are learning on the first day of school. By attending this session, you will have access to a Google Folder that will contain complete set-up instructions for each tool demonstrated (Quizizz, Google Forms, Plickers, Padlet).

This Shift Is Crazy! It’s Time to Get Gritty!Speaker: Monica Genta

Growth Mindset

I can’t do this! The famous four words from students, right? What if all the frustration from kids, parents, and teachers could be eliminated with one simple word. “Yet!” I can’t do this... yet! Come explore how changing the way we think about thinking can change everything! Whoa. Sound too deep for you? We promise this session will be highly engaging, positive, and will leave you headed down the road to Growth-town. Not only that, you will walk away with ideas of how to implement the growth mindset in your classroom to create some grit in your kiddos... and you!

Monday PM sessions on the next page—>

3

6-12

K-12

K-12

2:30-3:30 p.m.Developing and Using Models With Young LearnersSpeaker: Gary Abud, Jr.Critical Thinking

Take your science demonstrations to the next level using the Science & Engineering Student Practice of modeling. Come see how constructivist approaches to teaching can engage some of the youngest learners and how teachers can teach content through interactive experiences. Participants will know how to help students develop models using discrepancy events, understand how models are developed and deployed in scientific study, and be able to engage elementary school learners in one of the most vital of the NGSS Student Practices.

Using Trade Books to Support Science LearningSpeaker: Janie WinnLiterature and Science Connection

Using children’s literature promotes deeper learning and understanding in young children, especially in the area of language development and vocabulary. This session will explore utilizing children’s literature as a teaching tool to facilitate scientific learning in young children. Additionally, this session will discuss the importance of making connections between printed materials and the real world through experiments, observations and documentation.

Using Inquiry to go from Traditional to TransformedSpeaker: Patti RichardsonInquiry-based Instruction

Participants will think about what the habits of mind are and how they are necessary for students to think and act as scientists. They will be exposed to the VAEI Inquiry model in their planning to transform units in order to create content storylines and allow students to discover the content and build their knowledge through questions and class discourse. Participants will learn how notebooks/journals can help students see their thinking and build their skills in inquiry. Scaffolding will be shared to get students to the point of doing independent research.

Inspiring Authentic Student MotivationSpeaker: Luke WilcoxStudent Motivation

In this session, I outline my framework for becoming a Jedi teacher. The key element that pushes great teachers to Jedi level is becoming a master of motivation. Based on real experience, I discuss my top five strategies for getting a student to work beyond their potential: 1. Promote growth mindset over fixed mindset. 2. Develop meaningful and respectful relation-ships with students. 3. Grow a community of learners in your classroom. 4. Establish high expectations and clear goals. 5. Be inspirational!

Transforming Education from Average to Awesome—Game Changing Ideas that Engage & MotivateSpeaker: Monica GentaStudent Engagement

Every student who walks into your classroom deserves to LOVE that experience. In order to do that we have to reflect on the everyday practices we have in place and transform them from average to awesome. A bell ringer is average, but a learning attack is awesome! Collecting homework is average, but Olympic sprinting to gather them is awesome! Small tweaks to the great things we are already doing makes a big difference. Come learn how to be a game changer for kids and for education! Based on Genta’s 2015 book, Game Changers.

Academic Discourse for AllSpeaker: Wendi VogelDiscourse

Students engaging in academic discourse requires a teacher to have strong classroom norms and emotional safety in the classroom; however, the payoff is higher classroom engagement and students thinking critically around one another’s ideas. In this session, gain examples of talk formats and reasoning behind how academic discourse, no matter the subject area, will benefit students.

4:00-5:00 p.m. Curiosity Sessions Just For You! (Optional)Grading? Done! Planning? Done! Family? Fed! Time for Your Writing? Not!Speaker: Taylor Mali

How many great novels, memoirs, and even poems has the world been deprived of because the person who was to write them was a teacher who THOUGHT she’d be able to do so late at night after everything else was done? Come to a real poetry workshop with Taylor Mali and remind yourself that you are more than “just” a teacher. This workshop will be generative (no need to bring a poem you have already written).

Introduction to the Zentangle® Drawing MethodSpeaker: Amy Kam

Come discover the wonderful benefits of the Zentangle® Drawing Method! No art experience is necessary. An easy-to-learn way of creating beautiful images by drawing structured patterns that provides fun, relaxation, expanded awareness, and enhanced focus. All supplies are included!

Van Andel Research Institute (VARI) TourSpeakers: Brian Haab, PhD & Karsten Melcher, PhD

Ever wonder what a scientist does during their day? Interested in sharing those experiences with your students? Learn the ins and outs of life for a biomedical research scientist as you explore the inner workings of VARI, a research facility committed to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular, and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s, and other diseases and translating those findings into effective therapies.

Exploring Grand Rapids: A STEAM Walk-AboutSpeaker: Cory Kavanagh

Bring your walking shoes to discover evidence of STEAM all around you with a downtown stroll of Grand Rapids.

Meditation and MindfulnessSpeaker: Cheryl Blackington

This workshop will introduce participants to mindfulness. We will explore the benefits of mindfulness and learn some practices to help bring a bit more peace and calm into one’s life.

1:00-2:00 p.m.180 Days of Awesome— Celebrating Every Day of EducationSpeaker: Monica GentaClassroom Culture

Teachers carry 3 P’s with them everyday: Passion, Purpose, Positivity. Because of those essential elements, teachers naturally want to celebrate awesome in their classrooms, but that can be hard. Let’s learn to focus on those little amazing moments that have the power to change everything. Because sometimes it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. This session is full of tips, tricks, stories, solid ideas on how to celebrate education with your students & staff on a daily basis. It is bound to transform the climate and culture of your classroom and school! Based on Genta’s 2017 book, 180 Days of Awesome.

Student Ownership Starting in ElementarySpeaker: Chelsea McWainStudent Ownership

I will be talking about how I use the idea of student choice and learning ownership in all grades (k-8) in order to teach responsibility of learning and intrinsic motivation. When given the challenge of making decisions and guiding the learning, there is a more genuine take to the topic and there is more excitement felt in the classroom. I will share how to gradually release more and more responsibility as the grade level increases as well as what the structure of the responsibilities looks like. Early elementary teachers no longer have to have all of the answers, along with upper elementary and secondary teachers only having questions to follow up questions.

Every Day DiscourseSpeaker: Patti RichardsonDiscourse

Discourse should be used nearly every day in a classroom to do things like: engage in argument using evidence, develop models, ask questions, obtain and evaluate information. There should always be discourse around labs but it also needs to be used when students are just working with content. Participants will act as students and participate in discourse activities. Several strategies will be shared including card sorts, whiteboard prompts, research in progress, mini posters, Post-it® Note walks, gallery walks, and present and defends.

Creating a Collaborative Cooperative Curious Classroom CultureSpeaker: Susan KoppendryerClassroom Culture

What five words would students use to describe your science classroom? What practices create a learning environment that is engaging, fostersstudent ownership while allowing students to implement science practices? This session will provide you with classroom ideas, lessons, and activities to help you create a classroom culture that values evidence-based discussions, fosters inquiry practices and STEAM exploration, and promotes student ownership of learning.

Fixing Our Minds on Growth MindsetSpeaker: Tracy HorodyskiGrowth Mindset

There are many factors that influence students’ mindsets including our own. We’ll examine assumptions about mindsets and our ability to influence them. We’ll explore and expand our views of how to influence students’ mindsets by examining our own behaviors that might be inadvertently shutting student thinking down and what we can do differently to foster students’ beliefs about their ability to learn and do hard things.

Fun with Flipgrid: Student Engagement Made Easy Through VideoSpeaker: Gary Abud, Jr.Technology

Do you wonder how to best unleash all your students’ potential? Consider the possibilities with Flipgrid. Whether new or experienced with the tool, join us as we explore total participation techniques with video expression across content areas. Bonus:Learn how teachers may offer constructive feedback to drive student learning. Participants will know what Flipgrid is and how it works, understand the value of using video as an engagement strategy in the classroom, and be able to use Flipgrid as a teacher or student to participate in various activities.

Monday, July 16, 2018, Afternoon Sessions

4

K-5

K-5

6-12

2:30-3:30 p.m.Developing and Using Models With Young LearnersSpeaker: Gary Abud, Jr.Critical Thinking

Take your science demonstrations to the next level using the Science & Engineering Student Practice of modeling. Come see how constructivist approaches to teaching can engage some of the youngest learners and how teachers can teach content through interactive experiences. Participants will know how to help students develop models using discrepancy events, understand how models are developed and deployed in scientific study, and be able to engage elementary school learners in one of the most vital of the NGSS Student Practices.

Using Trade Books to Support Science LearningSpeaker: Janie WinnLiterature and Science Connection

Using children’s literature promotes deeper learning and understanding in young children, especially in the area of language development and vocabulary. This session will explore utilizing children’s literature as a teaching tool to facilitate scientific learning in young children. Additionally, this session will discuss the importance of making connections between printed materials and the real world through experiments, observations and documentation.

Using Inquiry to go from Traditional to TransformedSpeaker: Patti RichardsonInquiry-based Instruction

Participants will think about what the habits of mind are and how they are necessary for students to think and act as scientists. They will be exposed to the VAEI Inquiry model in their planning to transform units in order to create content storylines and allow students to discover the content and build their knowledge through questions and class discourse. Participants will learn how notebooks/journals can help students see their thinking and build their skills in inquiry. Scaffolding will be shared to get students to the point of doing independent research.

Inspiring Authentic Student MotivationSpeaker: Luke WilcoxStudent Motivation

In this session, I outline my framework for becoming a Jedi teacher. The key element that pushes great teachers to Jedi level is becoming a master of motivation. Based on real experience, I discuss my top five strategies for getting a student to work beyond their potential: 1. Promote growth mindset over fixed mindset. 2. Develop meaningful and respectful relation-ships with students. 3. Grow a community of learners in your classroom. 4. Establish high expectations and clear goals. 5. Be inspirational!

Transforming Education from Average to Awesome—Game Changing Ideas that Engage & MotivateSpeaker: Monica GentaStudent Engagement

Every student who walks into your classroom deserves to LOVE that experience. In order to do that we have to reflect on the everyday practices we have in place and transform them from average to awesome. A bell ringer is average, but a learning attack is awesome! Collecting homework is average, but Olympic sprinting to gather them is awesome! Small tweaks to the great things we are already doing makes a big difference. Come learn how to be a game changer for kids and for education! Based on Genta’s 2015 book, Game Changers.

Academic Discourse for AllSpeaker: Wendi VogelDiscourse

Students engaging in academic discourse requires a teacher to have strong classroom norms and emotional safety in the classroom; however, the payoff is higher classroom engagement and students thinking critically around one another’s ideas. In this session, gain examples of talk formats and reasoning behind how academic discourse, no matter the subject area, will benefit students.

4:00-5:00 p.m. Curiosity Sessions Just For You! (Optional)Grading? Done! Planning? Done! Family? Fed! Time for Your Writing? Not!Speaker: Taylor Mali

How many great novels, memoirs, and even poems has the world been deprived of because the person who was to write them was a teacher who THOUGHT she’d be able to do so late at night after everything else was done? Come to a real poetry workshop with Taylor Mali and remind yourself that you are more than “just” a teacher. This workshop will be generative (no need to bring a poem you have already written).

Introduction to the Zentangle® Drawing MethodSpeaker: Amy Kam

Come discover the wonderful benefits of the Zentangle® Drawing Method! No art experience is necessary. An easy-to-learn way of creating beautiful images by drawing structured patterns that provides fun, relaxation, expanded awareness, and enhanced focus. All supplies are included!

Van Andel Research Institute (VARI) TourSpeakers: Brian Haab, PhD & Karsten Melcher, PhD

Ever wonder what a scientist does during their day? Interested in sharing those experiences with your students? Learn the ins and outs of life for a biomedical research scientist as you explore the inner workings of VARI, a research facility committed to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular, and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s, and other diseases and translating those findings into effective therapies.

Exploring Grand Rapids: A STEAM Walk-AboutSpeaker: Cory Kavanagh

Bring your walking shoes to discover evidence of STEAM all around you with a downtown stroll of Grand Rapids.

Meditation and MindfulnessSpeaker: Cheryl Blackington

This workshop will introduce participants to mindfulness. We will explore the benefits of mindfulness and learn some practices to help bring a bit more peace and calm into one’s life.

1:00-2:00 p.m.180 Days of Awesome— Celebrating Every Day of EducationSpeaker: Monica GentaClassroom Culture

Teachers carry 3 P’s with them everyday: Passion, Purpose, Positivity. Because of those essential elements, teachers naturally want to celebrate awesome in their classrooms, but that can be hard. Let’s learn to focus on those little amazing moments that have the power to change everything. Because sometimes it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. This session is full of tips, tricks, stories, solid ideas on how to celebrate education with your students & staff on a daily basis. It is bound to transform the climate and culture of your classroom and school! Based on Genta’s 2017 book, 180 Days of Awesome.

Student Ownership Starting in ElementarySpeaker: Chelsea McWainStudent Ownership

I will be talking about how I use the idea of student choice and learning ownership in all grades (k-8) in order to teach responsibility of learning and intrinsic motivation. When given the challenge of making decisions and guiding the learning, there is a more genuine take to the topic and there is more excitement felt in the classroom. I will share how to gradually release more and more responsibility as the grade level increases as well as what the structure of the responsibilities looks like. Early elementary teachers no longer have to have all of the answers, along with upper elementary and secondary teachers only having questions to follow up questions.

Every Day DiscourseSpeaker: Patti RichardsonDiscourse

Discourse should be used nearly every day in a classroom to do things like: engage in argument using evidence, develop models, ask questions, obtain and evaluate information. There should always be discourse around labs but it also needs to be used when students are just working with content. Participants will act as students and participate in discourse activities. Several strategies will be shared including card sorts, whiteboard prompts, research in progress, mini posters, Post-it® Note walks, gallery walks, and present and defends.

Creating a Collaborative Cooperative Curious Classroom CultureSpeaker: Susan KoppendryerClassroom Culture

What five words would students use to describe your science classroom? What practices create a learning environment that is engaging, fostersstudent ownership while allowing students to implement science practices? This session will provide you with classroom ideas, lessons, and activities to help you create a classroom culture that values evidence-based discussions, fosters inquiry practices and STEAM exploration, and promotes student ownership of learning.

Fixing Our Minds on Growth MindsetSpeaker: Tracy HorodyskiGrowth Mindset

There are many factors that influence students’ mindsets including our own. We’ll examine assumptions about mindsets and our ability to influence them. We’ll explore and expand our views of how to influence students’ mindsets by examining our own behaviors that might be inadvertently shutting student thinking down and what we can do differently to foster students’ beliefs about their ability to learn and do hard things.

Fun with Flipgrid: Student Engagement Made Easy Through VideoSpeaker: Gary Abud, Jr.Technology

Do you wonder how to best unleash all your students’ potential? Consider the possibilities with Flipgrid. Whether new or experienced with the tool, join us as we explore total participation techniques with video expression across content areas. Bonus:Learn how teachers may offer constructive feedback to drive student learning. Participants will know what Flipgrid is and how it works, understand the value of using video as an engagement strategy in the classroom, and be able to use Flipgrid as a teacher or student to participate in various activities.

Join the group for an optional brewery dinner and tour at New Holland Brewing Company’s Grand Rapids location, The Knickerbocker, where they will deconstruct the making of beer ... it’s in the name of science, of course! Dinner and drink tickets are included with your registration; however, space is limited and available to paid registrants only. You will need to reserve your seat prior to the engagement.

Dinner and Drinks Are On Us!The Science of Brew6:30-9:00 p.m.

5

6-12

K-12

K-12

7:30-8:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker B. Gentry Lee About B. Gentry Lee B. Gentry Lee is chief engineer for the Solar System Exploration Directorate at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. In that position, Lee is responsible for the engineering integrity of all the robotic planetary missions managed by JPL for NASA. His major recent work includes the engineering oversight of the fantastically successful and popular Curiosity rover mission to Mars in August 2012, the Dawn mission to the asteroids Vesta and Ceres, the Juno mission to Jupiter and the GRAIL missions to the Moon. Previously, Lee provided guidance and oversight for the engineering aspects of the Phoenix and twin rover missions to Mars as well as NASA’s successful Deep Impact and Stardust missions.

Lee was chief engineer for the Galileo project from 1977-1988 and, after working in a variety of positions on the Viking project from 1968-76, was Director of Science Analysis and Mission Planning during the Viking operations. The historic Viking mission was mankind’s first successful landing on another planet.

From 1976 until 1981, Lee was the late Carl Sagan’s partner in the creation, design, development and implementation of Cosmos, the highly successful science documentary series for television that won several Emmys and the prestigious Peabody Award. In July 2009, Gentry Lee was the featured performer/narrator in Are We Alone?, a two-hour Discovery Channel documentary about life in the solar system.

For more information on B. Genry Lee, go to https://www.apbspeakers.com/speaker/b-gentry-lee/

• Chief Engineer for Solar System Exploration• Partner for Carl Sagan’s Cosmos • Renowned science fiction novelist

Keynote: The Power and Wonder of Science in EducationUsing his fifty years of working with NASA and his experience with stimulating and inspiring audiences with science documentaries, Gentry Lee will bring the excitement and wonder of exploring new worlds to Grand Rapids.

By sharing his work on space programs, such as the Mars exploration program, Lee will inspire and challenge educators to an-swer the question: How can I inspire wonder and excitement for science in my classroom?

9:00-10:00 a.m.I wonder what a light bulb looks like as it grows... Speaker: Janie Winn Life Science

An actual question presented during a discussion on growing seeds and bulbs with a group of kids. Have you ever thought about how to handle this question or others that seem easy to dismiss? How do you keep the interest alive without shutting children down? In this session, lessons and activities on growing plants will be provided to encourage children as they learn about plants and how they grow. It will include science standards for grades K-3 and incorporate the Project Approach method.

Energy-Yes Your Kindergarten Ice Shade and 4th Grade Balloon Plane Matter!Speaker: Chelsea McWain

Physical Science

Energy is one of the most used words with the least understood definitions. But that could all change, if vocabulary is inserted into your labs. When you do your creating shade lab, talk about thermal energy! When you create a balloon plane, talk about transforming potential and kinetic energy! Start the vocabulary early! I will be going through the energy standards, looking at how STEAM projects at each grade level build off of the last one, creating repetition, getting students using the language more often. I will share examples of lessons for how the different types of energy can be scaffolded for inquiry at each grade level, providing the ability to build each year.

Climate Change and Increased Infections: Are they Connected?Speaker: Tamica StubbsLife and Earth Science

Why does climate change matter to me? There have been increased reports of infections with symptoms such as gastroenteritis, bloody stools, fever, and dark blisters around the world as temperatures have meandered upward. Learn how to transform your students into epidemiologists whose objective is to assess the impact of global warming on the proliferation of Vibrio (agents of these symptoms). Become acclimated to modern techniques utilized by the CDC that specifically track Vibrio strains over time and their conclusions on population expansions and changing sea surface temperatures. Come and draw your own conclusions with historical data and your simulated results!

A Taste of Genetics: Part OneSpeaker: Joyce ZimmerBiology

In this session, participants will extract their own DNA, purify their DNA, and then use PCR to amplify the part of their DNA that is responsible for their genotype for the PTC tasting trait. This is a fast-paced, lab-based, hands-on session. Participants will use micropipets, microcentrifuges, and a Mini-One PCR system that is programmed through a phone app. The session will end with amplified DNA in a PCR tube, but the real results come from attending Taste of Genetics: Part Two, where participants visualize the results of their tasting gene genotype. Thanks to this fast and affordable system, PCR no longer has to be out of reach in the biology classroom!

Engaging Students in Meaningful Data AnalysisSpeaker: Luke AndersonData Analysis

Two guiding questions will be asked and discussed at the beginning of this session...How do your students make sense of data? How long does this take? This session will focus on strategies (highlighting, identifying, reorganization, finding trends, calculations, graphing, and interpreting data). A Google sheet of yeast fermentation data will be provided for each participant and will be used to model the process. Additional technology strategies on Google sheets will be shared. Developing and planning inquiries that promote meaningful data analysis will be discussed.

Shift Happens! How to Meet—and Exceed— NGSS ExpectationsSpeaker: Randy SchregardusNGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards intend to transform science instruction so that our students learn to think and act like actual scientists. Learn the shifts required by NGSS, and discover the VAEI model for inquiry-based instruction that will ensure you meet--and exceed--NGSS expectations.

10:30-11:30 a.m.STEAM and Literature in K-2Speaker: Kathleen MohrLiterature and Science Connection

Classical children’s literature and informational reading books can bring about a large supply of in-depth STEAM learning. We will be discussing: Dino’s for Kindergarten (fossils), First Grade Fairy Tale Engineering, and 2nd Grade Sound and Light.

Inquiry is Elementary: Creating Earth Science Lesson Experiences in the 3-5 ClassroomSpeaker: Janyce HuffEarth and Space Science

Engage your students to think and act like scientists. Explore the key elements of a 3-5 inquiry-based lesson while experiencing an earth science lesson that you can try with your students. Come with a willingness to inspire learning; leave with strategies and tools to make it happen.

Forces of FlightSpeaker: Amanda ErvinPhysical Science

No one is too old to enjoy making gliders! In this session, Amanda will share how students can use gliders to investigate unbalanced forces and how they impact flight. Students begin by investigating how to control pitch, roll, and yaw, before designing their own inquiry-based investigations to improve a glider.

Taste of Genetics: Part TwoSpeaker: Joyce ZimmerBiology

In this continued session, participants will use restriction digest and gel electrophoresis to determine their genotype for the PTC tasting gene. The real surprise in this session is the utilization of a gel electrophoresis system that is much quicker, easier to use, and allows for real time visualization of the bands all within one “class period.” Note: Participants who could not attend the first Taste of Genetics session are encouraged to attend and will be given some DNA to work with in order to use the gel electrophoresis system.

Thermochemistry Phenomena and StorylinesSpeaker: Luke AndersonChemistry

This session will focus on developing storylines that are useful to explore and explain chemistry phenomena. Discussion and activities will incorporate VAEI and NSGX training topics including messing about activities, student-designed inquiry, developing and critiquing models, student talk, present and defend, and summary tables. A developed thermochemistry storyline will be shared, explored, and discussed.

Art/Science Collaborations in the ClassroomSpeaker: Mary AbmaSTEAM Integration

I will take participants through two STEAM projects that I have completed. Both projects, major science-based art installations, designed and completed by students, led to multi-disciplinary, collaborative learning. Twenty-first century learning is at the forefront of such projects, which foster curiosity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. They usually unfold over several weeks. They incorporate the knowledge and assistance of local experts, have real-world applications, and authentic audiences. I will provide practical information, rubrics, timelines, and scaffolding tips.

Tuesday, July 17, 2018, Morning Sessions

6

K-2

3-5

6-126-8

7:30-8:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker B. Gentry Lee About B. Gentry Lee B. Gentry Lee is chief engineer for the Solar System Exploration Directorate at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. In that position, Lee is responsible for the engineering integrity of all the robotic planetary missions managed by JPL for NASA. His major recent work includes the engineering oversight of the fantastically successful and popular Curiosity rover mission to Mars in August 2012, the Dawn mission to the asteroids Vesta and Ceres, the Juno mission to Jupiter and the GRAIL missions to the Moon. Previously, Lee provided guidance and oversight for the engineering aspects of the Phoenix and twin rover missions to Mars as well as NASA’s successful Deep Impact and Stardust missions.

Lee was chief engineer for the Galileo project from 1977-1988 and, after working in a variety of positions on the Viking project from 1968-76, was Director of Science Analysis and Mission Planning during the Viking operations. The historic Viking mission was mankind’s first successful landing on another planet.

From 1976 until 1981, Lee was the late Carl Sagan’s partner in the creation, design, development and implementation of Cosmos, the highly successful science documentary series for television that won several Emmys and the prestigious Peabody Award. In July 2009, Gentry Lee was the featured performer/narrator in Are We Alone?, a two-hour Discovery Channel documentary about life in the solar system.

For more information on B. Genry Lee, go to https://www.apbspeakers.com/speaker/b-gentry-lee/

• Chief Engineer for Solar System Exploration• Partner for Carl Sagan’s Cosmos • Renowned science fiction novelist

Keynote: The Power and Wonder of Science in EducationUsing his fifty years of working with NASA and his experience with stimulating and inspiring audiences with science documentaries, Gentry Lee will bring the excitement and wonder of exploring new worlds to Grand Rapids.

By sharing his work on space programs, such as the Mars exploration program, Lee will inspire and challenge educators to an-swer the question: How can I inspire wonder and excitement for science in my classroom?

9:00-10:00 a.m.I wonder what a light bulb looks like as it grows... Speaker: Janie Winn Life Science

An actual question presented during a discussion on growing seeds and bulbs with a group of kids. Have you ever thought about how to handle this question or others that seem easy to dismiss? How do you keep the interest alive without shutting children down? In this session, lessons and activities on growing plants will be provided to encourage children as they learn about plants and how they grow. It will include science standards for grades K-3 and incorporate the Project Approach method.

Energy-Yes Your Kindergarten Ice Shade and 4th Grade Balloon Plane Matter!Speaker: Chelsea McWain

Physical Science

Energy is one of the most used words with the least understood definitions. But that could all change, if vocabulary is inserted into your labs. When you do your creating shade lab, talk about thermal energy! When you create a balloon plane, talk about transforming potential and kinetic energy! Start the vocabulary early! I will be going through the energy standards, looking at how STEAM projects at each grade level build off of the last one, creating repetition, getting students using the language more often. I will share examples of lessons for how the different types of energy can be scaffolded for inquiry at each grade level, providing the ability to build each year.

Climate Change and Increased Infections: Are they Connected?Speaker: Tamica StubbsLife and Earth Science

Why does climate change matter to me? There have been increased reports of infections with symptoms such as gastroenteritis, bloody stools, fever, and dark blisters around the world as temperatures have meandered upward. Learn how to transform your students into epidemiologists whose objective is to assess the impact of global warming on the proliferation of Vibrio (agents of these symptoms). Become acclimated to modern techniques utilized by the CDC that specifically track Vibrio strains over time and their conclusions on population expansions and changing sea surface temperatures. Come and draw your own conclusions with historical data and your simulated results!

A Taste of Genetics: Part OneSpeaker: Joyce ZimmerBiology

In this session, participants will extract their own DNA, purify their DNA, and then use PCR to amplify the part of their DNA that is responsible for their genotype for the PTC tasting trait. This is a fast-paced, lab-based, hands-on session. Participants will use micropipets, microcentrifuges, and a Mini-One PCR system that is programmed through a phone app. The session will end with amplified DNA in a PCR tube, but the real results come from attending Taste of Genetics: Part Two, where participants visualize the results of their tasting gene genotype. Thanks to this fast and affordable system, PCR no longer has to be out of reach in the biology classroom!

Engaging Students in Meaningful Data AnalysisSpeaker: Luke AndersonData Analysis

Two guiding questions will be asked and discussed at the beginning of this session...How do your students make sense of data? How long does this take? This session will focus on strategies (highlighting, identifying, reorganization, finding trends, calculations, graphing, and interpreting data). A Google sheet of yeast fermentation data will be provided for each participant and will be used to model the process. Additional technology strategies on Google sheets will be shared. Developing and planning inquiries that promote meaningful data analysis will be discussed.

Shift Happens! How to Meet—and Exceed— NGSS ExpectationsSpeaker: Randy SchregardusNGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards intend to transform science instruction so that our students learn to think and act like actual scientists. Learn the shifts required by NGSS, and discover the VAEI model for inquiry-based instruction that will ensure you meet--and exceed--NGSS expectations.

10:30-11:30 a.m.STEAM and Literature in K-2Speaker: Kathleen MohrLiterature and Science Connection

Classical children’s literature and informational reading books can bring about a large supply of in-depth STEAM learning. We will be discussing: Dino’s for Kindergarten (fossils), First Grade Fairy Tale Engineering, and 2nd Grade Sound and Light.

Inquiry is Elementary: Creating Earth Science Lesson Experiences in the 3-5 ClassroomSpeaker: Janyce HuffEarth and Space Science

Engage your students to think and act like scientists. Explore the key elements of a 3-5 inquiry-based lesson while experiencing an earth science lesson that you can try with your students. Come with a willingness to inspire learning; leave with strategies and tools to make it happen.

Forces of FlightSpeaker: Amanda ErvinPhysical Science

No one is too old to enjoy making gliders! In this session, Amanda will share how students can use gliders to investigate unbalanced forces and how they impact flight. Students begin by investigating how to control pitch, roll, and yaw, before designing their own inquiry-based investigations to improve a glider.

Taste of Genetics: Part TwoSpeaker: Joyce ZimmerBiology

In this continued session, participants will use restriction digest and gel electrophoresis to determine their genotype for the PTC tasting gene. The real surprise in this session is the utilization of a gel electrophoresis system that is much quicker, easier to use, and allows for real time visualization of the bands all within one “class period.” Note: Participants who could not attend the first Taste of Genetics session are encouraged to attend and will be given some DNA to work with in order to use the gel electrophoresis system.

Thermochemistry Phenomena and StorylinesSpeaker: Luke AndersonChemistry

This session will focus on developing storylines that are useful to explore and explain chemistry phenomena. Discussion and activities will incorporate VAEI and NSGX training topics including messing about activities, student-designed inquiry, developing and critiquing models, student talk, present and defend, and summary tables. A developed thermochemistry storyline will be shared, explored, and discussed.

Art/Science Collaborations in the ClassroomSpeaker: Mary AbmaSTEAM Integration

I will take participants through two STEAM projects that I have completed. Both projects, major science-based art installations, designed and completed by students, led to multi-disciplinary, collaborative learning. Twenty-first century learning is at the forefront of such projects, which foster curiosity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. They usually unfold over several weeks. They incorporate the knowledge and assistance of local experts, have real-world applications, and authentic audiences. I will provide practical information, rubrics, timelines, and scaffolding tips.

Tuesday PM sessions on the next page—>

7

9-12

K-12

9-126-12

1:00-2:00 p.m.Inquiry is Elementary: Creating Earth Science Lesson Experiences in the K-2 ClassroomSpeaker: Janyce HuffEarth and Space Science

Engage your students to think and act like scientists. Explore the key elements of a K-2 inquiry-based lesson while experiencing an earth science lesson that you can try with your students. Come with a willingness to inspire learning; leave with strategies and tools to make it happen.

All in the Family—Save Time by Teaching Across the CurriculumSpeaker: Chelsea McWainCross-Curricular Connections

I will take NGSS standards and align them with reading and math standards to show how using science content and strategies to teach other standards allows for learning on many levels, and how students can gain responsibility for their learning in reading and math, which are generally less inquiry-based topics. Math and reading can have student-driven inquiry too!

Revising Models: Where the Learning Really HappensSpeaker: Wendi VogelModeling

Engage in a Physical Science Activity in order to show how an initial model might be revised after unit and lesson phenomenon are engaged in by students. The use of Science and Engineering Practice #2 (Developing and Using Models) will be the focus; however, others will be utilized.

Capturing Curiosity by Pairing Inquiry InvestigationSpeaker: Luke AndersonInquiry-based Instruction

Sequencing and planning inquiry activities can be overwhelming. This session will focus on a practical strategy that uses a teacher-guided activity to introduce a specific concept which is then followed by a student generated inquiry. Three examples and demonstrations will be shared. 1) A dialysis bag demonstration followed by a dialysis bag design challenge. 2) A potato core guided inquiry followed by an open fruit/vegetable inquiry. 3) A guided cell size agar activity followed by an agar design challenge.

Using the Bundle Model to Incorporate Engineering & Earth Sciences into an Integrated Science Class

Speakers: Cathrine Molloseau & Robin VanderWelEarth and Space Science

While striving to bring more engineering into the high school science classroom and also incorporating the NGSS Earth and Space Science Standards, a freshman level integrated science class was redeveloped using a “Bundle” model. The new curriculum incorporates the VAEI inquiry model, engineering principles, and other standards that support the mission of the school. You will hear from both the STEAM director involved with the redevelopment as well as the teacher that has used the curriculum in order to learn more about student engagement and success as well as techniques for creating alternative assessments as well as encouraging collaboration and student choice.

Capturing Student Voice with Flipgrid, SeeSaw, and Anchor.fmSpeaker: Peter GrosticTechnology

Student reflection is vital to solidify new learning. Too often, learning is lost after the best of lessons because students are not given the opportunity to reflect on what they’ve learned. Come discuss how to leverage technology to capture student reflections! Tools include Flipgrid, a video discussion tool, SeeSaw, an online journal, and Anchor.fm, a podcast creation tool. Participants will experience each tool and discuss applications for the classroom.

Tuesday, July 17, 2018, Afternoon Sessions

2:30-3:30 p.m.This is a particle accelerator... Excuse me?Speaker: Janie WinnEngineering Design

This session will look at 4 different lessons for teaching simple machines and include model design and simple documentation and the “defense” or sharing of designs with others. Additionally, discussion will be focused on child-lead exploration and sharing of ideas with their peers. The lessons will incorporate science standards for engineering design, mathematical standards for shapes, and literacy standards for student documentation.

Inventing by DesignSpeaker: Kathleen MohrInquiry-based Instruction

In this lesson, we will cover the lessons I use to solidify the design process for my students in grades 3-5. This challenge is based on the recycling and repurposing of products that are usually thrown away to make the models of inventions. The inventions must serve a purpose and perform a task. In grade 3, we research and create designs of historical landmarks with castles, 4th grade is challenged to create a project with electrical circuitry, and in fifth grade the students can combine repurposed, deconstructed, or new inventions from common household materials.

Newton’s Laws and Egg CarsSpeaker: Amanda Ervin Engineering Design

In this session I will show how a well-known project of building an egg car can be used to intentionally guide students through inquiry-based investigations to discover Newton’s Laws of Motion on their own and use what they learn to design an egg car that will not only pass a distance test, but also a collision test. Math is used to calculate speed and take accurate measurements. Cars will need to appeal to a buyer.

Build a Box: Engineering Food Dye Electrophoresis for NGSSSpeaker: Tamica StubbsEngineering Design

In this hands-on workshop, participants will use science and engineering practices to study something from their everyday lives – food dyes! They will learn how to navigate students into engineering a protocol that separates and identifies food dyes using a do-it-yourself electrophoresis box. In doing so, they will gain practical insights and develop strategies to integrate NGSS into their regular classroom practices. This interactive learning opportunity includes modeling, explanation, argumentation, and engineering practices. It’s a colorful way to introduce pipetting and electrophoresis skills in addition to chemistry and physics concepts to a biological technique with well-known applications (DNA Fingerprinting, etc.)

Helping Students Become Computational ThinkersSpeakers: Cathrine Molloseau & Robin VanderWelTechnology

In recent years, the need for students to understand basic computer science principles has become evident. As such, there are many products available on the market devoted to teaching these skills, yet it can be difficult to know which will work best for a particular class or subject. This session will provide examples of how one school has tackled this challenge in order to meet both NGSS and ISTE standards. This session will require the use of a digital device (laptop, Chromebook, or IPad) with internet access. Come prepared to “amp” up your own coding skills in order to be a “rock star” in the classroom (no prior experience necessary).

Shift Happens! How to Meet—and Exceed— NGSS ExpectationsSpeaker: Randy SchregardusNGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards intend to transform science instruction so that our students learn to think and act like actual scientists. Learn the shifts required by NGSS, and discover the VAEI model for inquiry-based instruction that will ensure you meet—and exceed—NGSS expectations.

4:00-5:00 p.m. Pitch Tank (Optional)

Pitch TankJerry Callahan, Terra Tarango, Temple RosenbergerCome watch as selected teachers pitch their ideas to transform their classroom. The teacher with the winning idea will win up to $5,000!

Interested in a chance to win up to $5,000?See page 11 for details!

8

K-2

3-5

6-86-12

1:00-2:00 p.m.Inquiry is Elementary: Creating Earth Science Lesson Experiences in the K-2 ClassroomSpeaker: Janyce HuffEarth and Space Science

Engage your students to think and act like scientists. Explore the key elements of a K-2 inquiry-based lesson while experiencing an earth science lesson that you can try with your students. Come with a willingness to inspire learning; leave with strategies and tools to make it happen.

All in the Family—Save Time by Teaching Across the CurriculumSpeaker: Chelsea McWainCross-Curricular Connections

I will take NGSS standards and align them with reading and math standards to show how using science content and strategies to teach other standards allows for learning on many levels, and how students can gain responsibility for their learning in reading and math, which are generally less inquiry-based topics. Math and reading can have student-driven inquiry too!

Revising Models: Where the Learning Really HappensSpeaker: Wendi VogelModeling

Engage in a Physical Science Activity in order to show how an initial model might be revised after unit and lesson phenomenon are engaged in by students. The use of Science and Engineering Practice #2 (Developing and Using Models) will be the focus; however, others will be utilized.

Capturing Curiosity by Pairing Inquiry InvestigationSpeaker: Luke AndersonInquiry-based Instruction

Sequencing and planning inquiry activities can be overwhelming. This session will focus on a practical strategy that uses a teacher-guided activity to introduce a specific concept which is then followed by a student generated inquiry. Three examples and demonstrations will be shared. 1) A dialysis bag demonstration followed by a dialysis bag design challenge. 2) A potato core guided inquiry followed by an open fruit/vegetable inquiry. 3) A guided cell size agar activity followed by an agar design challenge.

Using the Bundle Model to Incorporate Engineering & Earth Sciences into an Integrated Science Class

Speakers: Cathrine Molloseau & Robin VanderWelEarth and Space Science

While striving to bring more engineering into the high school science classroom and also incorporating the NGSS Earth and Space Science Standards, a freshman level integrated science class was redeveloped using a “Bundle” model. The new curriculum incorporates the VAEI inquiry model, engineering principles, and other standards that support the mission of the school. You will hear from both the STEAM director involved with the redevelopment as well as the teacher that has used the curriculum in order to learn more about student engagement and success as well as techniques for creating alternative assessments as well as encouraging collaboration and student choice.

Capturing Student Voice with Flipgrid, SeeSaw, and Anchor.fmSpeaker: Peter GrosticTechnology

Student reflection is vital to solidify new learning. Too often, learning is lost after the best of lessons because students are not given the opportunity to reflect on what they’ve learned. Come discuss how to leverage technology to capture student reflections! Tools include Flipgrid, a video discussion tool, SeeSaw, an online journal, and Anchor.fm, a podcast creation tool. Participants will experience each tool and discuss applications for the classroom.

2:30-3:30 p.m.This is a particle accelerator... Excuse me?Speaker: Janie WinnEngineering Design

This session will look at 4 different lessons for teaching simple machines and include model design and simple documentation and the “defense” or sharing of designs with others. Additionally, discussion will be focused on child-lead exploration and sharing of ideas with their peers. The lessons will incorporate science standards for engineering design, mathematical standards for shapes, and literacy standards for student documentation.

Inventing by DesignSpeaker: Kathleen MohrInquiry-based Instruction

In this lesson, we will cover the lessons I use to solidify the design process for my students in grades 3-5. This challenge is based on the recycling and repurposing of products that are usually thrown away to make the models of inventions. The inventions must serve a purpose and perform a task. In grade 3, we research and create designs of historical landmarks with castles, 4th grade is challenged to create a project with electrical circuitry, and in fifth grade the students can combine repurposed, deconstructed, or new inventions from common household materials.

Newton’s Laws and Egg CarsSpeaker: Amanda Ervin Engineering Design

In this session I will show how a well-known project of building an egg car can be used to intentionally guide students through inquiry-based investigations to discover Newton’s Laws of Motion on their own and use what they learn to design an egg car that will not only pass a distance test, but also a collision test. Math is used to calculate speed and take accurate measurements. Cars will need to appeal to a buyer.

Build a Box: Engineering Food Dye Electrophoresis for NGSSSpeaker: Tamica StubbsEngineering Design

In this hands-on workshop, participants will use science and engineering practices to study something from their everyday lives – food dyes! They will learn how to navigate students into engineering a protocol that separates and identifies food dyes using a do-it-yourself electrophoresis box. In doing so, they will gain practical insights and develop strategies to integrate NGSS into their regular classroom practices. This interactive learning opportunity includes modeling, explanation, argumentation, and engineering practices. It’s a colorful way to introduce pipetting and electrophoresis skills in addition to chemistry and physics concepts to a biological technique with well-known applications (DNA Fingerprinting, etc.)

Helping Students Become Computational ThinkersSpeakers: Cathrine Molloseau & Robin VanderWelTechnology

In recent years, the need for students to understand basic computer science principles has become evident. As such, there are many products available on the market devoted to teaching these skills, yet it can be difficult to know which will work best for a particular class or subject. This session will provide examples of how one school has tackled this challenge in order to meet both NGSS and ISTE standards. This session will require the use of a digital device (laptop, Chromebook, or IPad) with internet access. Come prepared to “amp” up your own coding skills in order to be a “rock star” in the classroom (no prior experience necessary).

Shift Happens! How to Meet—and Exceed— NGSS ExpectationsSpeaker: Randy SchregardusNGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards intend to transform science instruction so that our students learn to think and act like actual scientists. Learn the shifts required by NGSS, and discover the VAEI model for inquiry-based instruction that will ensure you meet—and exceed—NGSS expectations.

4:00-5:00 p.m. Pitch Tank (Optional)

Pitch TankJerry Callahan, Terra Tarango, Temple RosenbergerCome watch as selected teachers pitch their ideas to transform their classroom. The teacher with the winning idea will win up to $5,000!

Interested in a chance to win up to $5,000?See page 11 for details!

by: VAN ANDEL EDUCATION INSTITUTE®

One full year of NexGen Inquiry—A $48 Value! • Save time and engage students with 65+ NEW NGSS-aligned lessons

• Support inquiry-based science and critical thinking with hundreds of teacher-tested strategies

• Assign lessons and connect with your students with our interactive Teacher Classroom and Student Science Journal

• Extend learning and share lessons with our Resource Library and Teacher Community

9

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Also included in your registration

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Curiosity Sessions Just For You! We want to honor the profession…and the person! As a thank you for all that you do, we’ve built in some unique sessions and experiences to the event. Upon registering, we will send you an email to opt in. All expenses are included with your registration.

Dinner and drinks on us! The Science of Brew

Join the group for an optional brewery dinner and tour where they will deconstruct the making of beer…it’s in the name of science, of course! Dinner and drink tickets are included with your registration; however, space is limited and available to paid registrants only. You will need to reserve your seat prior to the engagement.

Sessions to nurture your own curiosity for personal growth and enjoyment:

Grading? Done! Planning? Done! Family? Fed! Time for Your Writing? Not!Presented by: Taylor MaliHow many great novels, memoirs, and even poems has the world been deprived of because the person who was to write them was a teacher who THOUGHT she’d be able to do so late at night after everything else was done? Come to a real poetry workshop with Taylor Mali and remind yourself that you are more than “just” a teacher. This workshop will be generative (no need to bring a poem you have already written).

Introduction to the Zentangle® Drawing MethodPresenter: Amy Kam, CZTCome discover the wonderful benefits of the Zentangle® Drawing Method! No art experience is necessary. An easy-to-learn way of creating beautiful images by drawing structured patterns that provides fun, relaxation, expanded awareness, and enhanced focus. All supplies are included!

Meditation and Mindfulness Presenter: Cheryl BlackingtonThis workshop will introduce participants to mindfulness. We will explore the benefits of mindfulness and learn some practices to help bring a bit more peace and calm into one’s life.

Van Andel Research Institute (VARI) Tour Presenters: Brian Haab, PhD & Karsten Melcher, PhDEver wonder what a scientist does during their day? Interested in sharing those experiences with your students? Learn the ins and outs of life for a biomedical research scientist as you explore the inner workings of VARI, a research facility committed to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular, and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s, and other diseases and translating those findings into effective therapies.

Exploring Grand Rapids: A STEAM Walk-AboutPresenter: Cory Kavanagh Bring your walking shoes to discover evidence of STEAM all around you with a downtown stroll of Grand Rapids.

10

Homewood Suites by Hilton161 Ottawa Ave. NWGrand Rapids, MI 49503Rate: $159/night + tax conference rate available until June 15, 2018.

Courtyard by Marriot11 Monroe Ave. NWGrand Rapids, MI 49503Rate: $173/night + tax conference rate available until June 15, 2018.

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel187 Monroe Ave. NWGrand Rapids, MI 49503Rate: $193/night + tax conference rate available until June 15, 2018.

Visit www.vaei.org/science18, and click on Location Tab for accommodation details.

Parking Validated parking for both days is available in the Grand Rapids Community College parking ramp. The parking ramp entrance is located on Bostwick Street NE, just North of Lyon St.

Shuttle Service Complimentary shuttle service will be provided between campus buildings and parking lot.

Overnight Accommodations Guests have their choice of lodging options in downtown Grand Rapids with special conference pricing available until June 15, 2018.

You now have a chance to make this a reality! Be a part of our Pitch Tank at this year’s Science on the Grand Conference. Submit an application and pitch your ideas to transform your classroom. The teacher(s) that are most convincing can leave with up to $5000 to turn their classroom dreams into realities!

If you’d like to participate, please let us know! Download VAEI’s Pitch Tank Submission Form for more information. Individuals and/or teams will be selected to enter the tank. Submissions are due by June 15, 2018. Entries may be sent to information@vaei.org.

If selected as a finalist, you will state your case to a panel of judges at the Science on the Grand Conference on July 17, 2018. The intent is to have fun while sharing your ideas in front of the judges and a live audience!

Three Steps to Enter:

1. Register for the conference.

2. Tell us what you would do with the money via VAEI’s Pitch Tank Submission Form by June 25, 2018.

3. If selected as a finalist, present your case

to a panel of judges in front of a live audience on July 17, 2018!

+ Concept is based on a popular tv show, but is not affiliated with it in any way, shape, or form. This is just an effort to put some fun in funding! By submitting, you agree to all rules and regulations.

What would you do with $5,000 to supercharge your classroom?+

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Registration Form 4 Ways to Register—1. Phone: (616) 234-5528

2. Online: Go to vaei.org/science18 to register!

3. Email your registration with purchase order to information@vaei.org

Please do NOT email VAEI your credit card information. Please call or register online.

Registration Information

Name

E-mail Phone

Title Grade(s)

School Name Billing Name (if different)

School Mailing Address Billing Mailing Address (if different)

City City

State Zip State Zip

Dietary Needs

Accessibility

Tuition & Payment Information Tuition $200 per person

Registration Total $

m Check enclosed (payable to Van Andel Education Institute)

m Purchase Order attached #

m Personal Credit Card m School Credit Card

m MasterCard m Visa m Discover m Am Ex

Card number

CVV# (www.cvvnumber.com/cvv.html) Exp. Date

Cardholder Signature

Name on Card (please print)

© Van Andel Education Institute. All rights reserved.

4. Mail your registration with payment or purchase order to:

Van Andel Education Institute333 Bostwick Ave. NEGrand Rapids, MI. 49503

Plus, principals can attend FREE! *

All prices per person. Registrations cannot be shared.

* Free principal registrations are nontransferable. With the paid registration of a staff member, a principal from the same building may attend for free. To receive free principal offer, principals must register by phone with name of paid registrant. Call 1-616-234-5528.

Policies & InformationPayment Types

VAEI accepts personal and school credit cards, checks (made payable to Van Andel Education Institute), and purchase orders.

Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to attend an event you have registered for, 100% of your paid registration will be refunded if you notify VAEI more than seven days in advance of the event date. Notifications after this time will result in a 50% refund. Cancellations received within 48 hours of the event date will not be refunded. A paid registrant may send a substitute to participate in the scheduled event.

VAEI makes every effort to hold scheduled events. If circumstances require that a program be cancelled or rescheduled by VAEI, you will be notified via email.

Substitution Policy

A paid registrant may send a substitute. Free principals are non-transferable.

*Free Principal Offer

With the paid registration of a staff member, a principal from the same building may attend for free. Free principal registrations are nontransferable. To receive free principal offer, principals must register by phone with name of paid registrant. Call 1-616-234-5528.

ADA Statement

If you have a disability for which you require accommodation under the terms of ADA/504, or if you have a medical condition that requires specific attention, please notify VAEI no later than 45 days prior to the program date by calling 1-616-234-5528.

SCECHs approved!

Up to 11 hours available. Information provided at event.

Questions? information@vaei.org*Tickets: During the registration process, please be sure to enter conference attendee’s name(s) in Ticket fields located below credit card billing information.

There should be one ticket for each attendee.

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