Computational Thinking Modules 

Smithsonian Science for Computational Thinking is a set of two elementary learning modules developed by the Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC). The modules—available in both English and Spanish—integrate science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and computational thinking (CT) through a phenomenon- and problem-driven pedagogy. Modules include a downloadable Teacher Guide with supplementary materials such as Series Pedagogy, Unit Overview (including standards information), and Student Sheets.

In Protecting Whales (third grade), students investigate the real-world problem of humpback whales getting hit by ships. The module contains 11 tasks for students to learn about whales, investigate whale migration patterns, consider how heavy ship traffic might affect whale migration, research solutions to help ships avoid whale strikes, and propose a possible solution based on collected data. 

A Weighty Problem (fifth grade) helps students explore the law of conservation of mass, a fundamental law of science, as they investigate what happens to the weight of two materials when they combine a powdered drink mix with water. Throughout the 10-task module, students learn about cause-and-effect relationships as they design, write, and conduct investigations to gather evidence they can use to develop a and support a claim about the drink mix weight. 

Learn more here: (LINK)

CIA Mission Possible Operation Advance Technology Competition

The competition will place $60,000 computer and coding laboratories in five schools across the country. Winning educators will be able to select from among several suites of coding or design equipment based on their needs and wishes for their classrooms. The CIA sponsors the competition to promote learning in STEAM fields; ORISE administers the program. To be eligible, educators must

Educate K–8 students in a STEAM subject.

Work for a public school in any of the 50 United States.

Submit a three- to four-minute video creatively illustrating the need for and possible uses of a computer and coding lab.

Apply by March 24. Learn more here: (LINK)

NASA Ames Exploration Encounter 

Are you interested in providing your students with interactive STEM lessons provided by NASA? The NASA Ames Exploration Encounter (AEE) is now open for the Spring 2023 semester. Facilitated by a NASA STEM Education Specialist, AEE is a free, one-hour interactive program for classes of grades 1–6 students to experience science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in action. Teachers and students are invited to join AEE virtually or in person at its Mountain View, California, location for a two-hour program. Learn more here: (LINK)

Open Source (Free) Aligned High School Units Released

Three high school units have recieved the Achieve badge for high quality allignment and design. Learn more about each unit below;

Science Discipline: Chemistry, Thermodynamics in Earth's Systems (LINK)

Science Discipline: Physics, Energy Flow from Earth's Systems (LINK)

Science Discipline: Biology, Ecosystems and Dynamics (LINK)

Please let me know if you have questions regarding these resources or the approach utilized in instruction.

DIG Field School

The DIG Field School provides a unique opportunity for teachers to join paleontologists from the University of Washington and the Burke Museum during one week (July 21–25) of their summer field season. Teachers will engage in prospecting for fossils, identifying microfossils and extracting or protecting larger bones. A special day is included to plan how to take the experience back to classes. This is supported by the DIG box, which has lesson plans, resources and even the microfossils that are part of the research, so that your students can also participate in this experience. This area of Montana—Hell Creek State Park—is the area where the very first T-Rex was found and has more than a 100 years of dinosaur discoveries.  

Credits and continuing learning hours are available to those who want them. Apply by March 10. Learn more here: (LINK)

Summer Teacher Institute at the Exploratorium

Secondary science teachers seeking ways to introduce more inquiry into their classrooms can spend three weeks (July 17–August 3) immersed in hands-on, inquiry-based science activities and discussions at San Francisco’s Exploratorium. There is no fee to attend the Summer Institute; teachers must only pay for their travel, food, and lodging. Each participant will be awarded a $2,500 stipend after completing the institute. 

Applicants must be current in-classroom science teachers for grades 6–12 and should have at least three years of experience teaching science in a classroom. Educators of color and educators working in public schools, especially Title I schools, are encouraged to apply. 

Apply by March 12. Learn more here: (LINK)

Stanford Program for Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Physics (SPINWIP)

Administered by Stanford University, SPINWIP is an outreach opportunity for high school girls interested in physics and coding. Students will learn how to code in python and study a variety of physics concepts. This three-week program (July 10–28) is free to participants and is held through video chat. 

Female and gender-minority students in grades 9–11 at the time of application are eligible. Students from countries outside the United States also may apply. Preference will be given to first-generation students, students from underrepresented backgrounds in physics, and rising seniors. 

Apply by May 1. Learn more here: (LINK)