9:40-10:40

We will go through a general concept of Science, but instead of the same old boring process, we will apply fun activities, music, and dance to get the students involved. The teacher will be able to take it to their classroom and apply the fundamentals of the concept to almost any lesson. 

Earth is the only known planet with life, yet we live in a solar system filled with other worlds, a galaxy of hundreds of billions of stars, and there are more galaxies in the known universe than stars in our Milky Way. From better understanding life on Earth to exploring worlds in our solar system and beyond, what are scientists looking for? Through discussions, activities, and resources, come to learn what makes a habitable world!

Phenomenon-based instruction can make learning experiences more relevant and equitable for students. Come learn how to foster student sense-making after you introduce a phenomenon today and then leave with a library of high-quality instructional materials that you can use for years to come. 

Unleash deep learning potential by embracing challenge and struggle. Providing appropriate struggle is more than "wait-time" - because face it, our students have better wait-time skills than most of us! Let's uncover how appropriately structured challenges stimulate cognitive development. This interactive presentation is designed to recognize the value of student struggle as a pathway to content mastery, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. We will share strategies to guide students through productive struggle, ensuring a balance between support and autonomy. 

Unleash the power of wonder with real-world, phenomenon-based lessons that nicely integrate the 5E instructional model.  We’ll explore how hands-on investigations can strengthen conceptual understanding. Door prizes will be given!

How do the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) and Recurring Themes and Concepts (RTCs) influence what Texas teachers are doing NOW in their classrooms? Use elements of our current platform to bridge the gap from now to future instruction and assessments. We will provide insights with tools, resources, and updates that will help you be prepared for the future. Let's help students adapt to the increased rigor of the new 2024 TEKS standards. 

Not sure how to mesh RTCs & SEPs PLUS revised content as next fall looms on the horizon? Come practice with some FREE, downloadable student-friendly tools THIS spring to feel way ahead of the curve! 

Atoms are too small for us to touch, leading to the creation of models we can hold in our hands. While every model has its limitations, each model has its strengths. In this workshop, we will build and discuss three different atom models for you to use in your classroom. We will explore a scale model atom for size and another scale model atom for mass and make a fun atom model best for explaining periodic trends. Limitations and strengths will be discussed, and each attendee will go home with an example set and instructions for a classroom set. Materials are inexpensive—most can be found at a dollar store!