C o n f e r e n c e • P r e v i e w

Phoenix
Area Conference on Science Education
dECEMBER 6–8, 2012

Keynote Speaker
Col. Eileen Collins,
First Woman to Pilot and
Command an American
Spacecraft
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Wednesday, December 5, 2012, in Phoenix, AZ

Full-day Preconference Event

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Want More Details?

Visit www.nsta.org/phoenixpp for more information
on this fee-based workshop.
Who Should Attend and Why? 3
It’s simple. This premier conference brings together science
education leaders and experts with educators who are interested Who should attend this
in personal and professional growth. Our sessions, presentations, conference?
and workshops are designed to provide you with content, • PreK–12 Science Teachers
concepts, and strategies that you can take back to your classroom,
• Science Coordinators
your school, or your district.
• Curriculum Specialists
This is the forum to start discussions about science education
• Administrators
from the broadest perspective of the highly anticipated Next
Generation Science Standards to the very specifics of skills and • Principals
techniques that improve performance in the classroom. Teachers • College Education Methods
from every grade band and discipline—preservice to the most Professors
experienced curriculum administrator—are encouraged to at-
• College Science Educators
tend and let your voice be heard. You can count on compelling
and relevant information, techniques, and resources to energize • Policy Makers
your instruction and invigorate your career. • Industry Advocates
We invite you to think big and expand your mind. Experience • International Educators
new ideas, network with your peers, gather educational • College Science Education Students
materials, view the newest products, and get inspired by an
extraordinary group of science educators. Share your passion
as you continue on your journey to becoming the best educator
you can be.

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 President’s Invitation
Build the Scaffolding for 21st-Century Science Literacy

T
his December explore Phoenix, known as The Valley of the Sun
for its 300-plus days of sunshine every year. Located in the So-
noran Desert with its iconic saguaro cactus, Phoenix boasts not
only a gorgeous landscape but also a science center, art galleries, and
museums. Each December, the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix
celebrates Las Noches de las Luminarias, a Southwest holiday tradi-
tion with gardens displaying desert flowers and trees along walking
The environment is important to science
trails lit by the glow of luminarias. Join us at the NSTA Phoenix Area educators. These programs are recyclable
Conference on Science Education to explore this revitalized city and and were printed on recycled paper.
participate in an exemplary professional development experience!
I invite you to build on the past successes in science education to prepare
for the future. Scientific literacy is a necessity to survive and thrive in the
21st century. The Phoenix Conference Planning Committee has built the NSTA and the Phoenix Planning Com-
conference program around the theme, Honor the Past; Prepare the Future. The professional develop- mittee are extremely grateful to the
ment strands supporting this theme focus on the following topics: “The STEM Puzzle—Putting It following companies and associations
Together,” “Sustainability: Growing, Nurturing, and Ensuring Our Future,” and “Literacy: Commu- for their generous contributions to the
nicating and Understanding Science.” The conference offers an impressive array of workshops, fea- NSTA Phoenix Area Conference on
tured speakers, field trips, exhibits, and networking opportunities. There are also a variety of special Science Education.
programs and ticketed events to choose from to enhance your professional development experience.
We are at a pivotal point to move science education forward in the 21st century with the
publication of A Framework for K–12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Arizona Science Teachers Association
Ideas and the release of the draft of the Next Generation Science Standards. These significant Carolina Biological Supply
documents have the potential to restructure the teaching and learning of science. Be part of the
Texas Instruments, Inc.
change process by participating in the conversation during this conference. As science educa-
tors, we need to ensure that every child acquires the skills and knowledge to survive and thrive
4 in the 21st century. Let’s become equipped with the tools necessary to meet the challenges
and take advantage of the opportunities to inspire our diverse student population to achieve
success in the 21st century. After the conference, I hope you will be energized with science
activities and ideas that will provide the scaffolding for your efforts to help all students attain
21st-century science literacy.
I look forward to meeting you and sharing ideas and information throughout the confer-
ence to see how we can build the scaffolding for 21st-century science literacy for all!

Karen L. Ostlund
2012–2013 NSTA President

Meeting Location/Times
—Photo courtesy of the Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau

The conference hotels are the Shera-

ton Phoenix Downtown Hotel (head-
quarters) and the Hyatt Regency
Phoenix.
The Phoenix conference will be
held at the Phoenix Convention Cen-
ter. Short courses and some events
are scheduled at the Sheraton Down-
town. In addition, a symposium is
scheduled at the Arizona Science
Center.
The conference will begin on
Thursday, December 6, at 8:00 AM,
and end on Saturday, December 8, at
12 Noon.

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

Contents
Conference
Keynote Speaker..............................................................6 Picture-Perfect Science Workshop................................17
Strands .......................................................................7–9 NSTA Symposium .........................................................17
Special Programming (AAPT, ACS, ASEE, NABT) ........10 Networking Events ........................................................18
Concurrent Sessions..................................................... 11
Resources
NSTA Press Sessions ................................................... 11
Exhibitors .....................................................................19
First-Timers Session...................................................... 11
Science Bookstore.........................................................21
Conference at a Glance ........................................... 12–13
Graduate Credit, Transcripts .........................................21
Field Trips ............................................................... 14–15
Registration and Travel
Short Courses ...............................................................16
Registration and Travel Arrangements .........................22
Cover photo courtesy of Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Conference Committee Leaders 5

Janey Kaufmann
Conference Chairperson
Retiring President, National Science
Education Leadership Association
PreK–12 Science Academic Coach
Coronado PDC at Coronado High
School
7501 E. Virginia
Janey Kaufmann, Cheryl Dunham, and John A. Giacobbe Scottsdale, AZ 85257
jkaufmann@susd.org
The 2012 Phoenix Area Conference Plan- Whether a first-timer or veteran confer-
ning Committee is delighted to invite ence attendee, you are sure to be engaged John A. Giacobbe
you to Arizona for what promises to in STEM, literacy, and sustainability pro- Program Coordinator
be an extraordinary NSTA conference. fessional development strands that will in- Science Department Chair
Arizona is celebrating 100 years of state- spire innovative science teaching practices. South Pointe High School
hood in 2012. The Valley of the Sun is a In addition, a wide range of unique and 8325 S. Central Ave.
perfect place in December with beauti- engaging featured presentations, sessions, Phoenix, AZ 85042
ful weather and stunning sunsets. Like and field trips will combine a wealth of jgiacobbe_southpointe@cox.net
the mythical bird for which it is named, a research, teaching strategies, and network-
revitalized downtown Phoenix is a great ing opportunities to provide the founda- Cheryl Dunham
conference destination with a state-of- tion for our nation’s interest in science. Local Arrangements Coordinator
the-art convention center, a science cen- Please join us in Phoenix in December Past President, Arizona Science
ter featuring a planetarium and IMAX for a rich professional development expe- Teachers Association
theater, museums, and art galleries all rience as we “honor the past; prepare the Science Teacher
within walking distance. future.” Arcadia High School
4703 E. Indian School Rd.
2012 Phoenix Conference Committee Leaders Phoenix, AZ 85018
Janey Kaufmann, John A. Giacobbe, and Cheryl Dunham cdunham@susd.org

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Program Section: Keynote Speaker
F or complete descriptions and biographical information, visit
www.nsta.org/phoenixspeakers. Additional featured speakers are
listed in this preview in the individual strand sections (pages 7–9).
Leadership Lessons from Apollo to Discovery
Thursday, December 6  •  9:15–10:30 AM
Col. Eileen Collins, First Woman to Pilot
and Command an American Spacecraft
As a highly sought-after diversity speak-
er, astronaut Eileen Collins discusses the
leadership and personal qualities neces-
sary for success. She shares how her career
as an astronaut took shape, from her early
years in the Air Force, to becoming the first
6
woman to command a shuttle mission. She
includes projections on the future of NASA
and its ability to focus on exciting new space ventures. Collins
discusses key factors for successful leadership, focusing on deal-
ing with people and mistakes, safety, and creative management.
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Recognized as one of America’s most admired women, astronaut
Col. Eileen Collins is now sharing her experiences as a test pilot, as-
tronaut, and space flight commander with audiences around the world.
In July 2005, Eileen commanded space shuttle Discovery’s histor-
ic “Return to Flight” mission. This was NASA’s first manned flight
following the February 2003 loss of the space shuttle Columbia.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and economics
at Syracuse University, Eileen entered the Air Force Undergraduate
Pilot Training Program in 1978, the same year that NASA opened
the shuttle program to women. Following her graduation from the
program, she spent several years in the Air Force and earned master’s
degrees in operations research from Stanford University and space
systems management from Webster University.
In 1990, she was selected for NASA’s astronaut program. She flew
on her first shuttle mission, STS-63 Discovery, in February 1995,
as the first woman ever to pilot a space shuttle. In July 1999, Eileen
became the first woman ever to command a shuttle mission, STS-93
Columbia.
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CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

Strand: Literacy: Communicating and Understanding
Science
C ommunication is critical in a global society. Students need to acquire
and practice skills necessary to effectively communicate. Literacy tools
(reading, writing, listening, and speaking) empower students to make sense
More sessions on
of science content and concepts, and to deepen conceptual understanding literacy…
about the world. This strand will improve participants’ skills to plan op- Building Academic
portunities for students to process their learning through literacy tools and Vocabulary Through
will focus on learning protocols for accountable exchanges, citing claims Science
Thursday, Dec. 6, 8:00–9:00 AM
and evidence, argumentation and scientific discourse, and critical thinking/
questioning. Discussion and Writing:
Making Meaning of Science
Learning Activities
Thursday, Dec. 6, 12:30–1:30 PM

Featured Presentation Diandra has extensive experience

Building SPEED: Science in
the Real World (at 200 mph)
Friday, December 7
2:00–3:00 PM
Diandra L.
Leslie-Pelecky,
Professor of
Physics,
West Virginia
University,
Morgantown
A group of race-
cars piloted by
the best drivers in
NASCAR are turning a corner. With-
out warning, one of the cars suddenly
hits the outside wall. None of the cars
touched and there were no engine fail-
ures or flat tires…so what happened?
This is the question that sparked Di-
andra Leslie-Pelecky’s interest in the
science of motorsports. Finding the an-
swers to this and other questions took
the physics professor from behind the
scenes at top race shops to the asphalt at
Texas Motor Speedway.
Diandra Leslie-Pelecky is currently
a professor of physics at West Virginia
University. Her research focuses on
magnetic nanomaterials, structures that
are a few thousandths the width of a
human hair. The materials she and her
research group develop are fundamen-
tally interesting, but also have potential
applications in improving magnetic res-
onance imaging and cancer treatment.
with science education in K–12 schools,
at the college level, and for the general
public, including working with inser-
vice and preservice teachers. She blogs
about science and cars (at www.building
speed.org/blog) and is a weekly guest on
the Sirius Speedway on SiriusXM NAS-
CAR radio, where she debunks common
myths about NASCAR using science
and scientific reasoning. Diandra holds
a PhD in physics from Michigan State
University.
One of the problems science teachers face
is a perception (by our students and some-
times ourselves) that science only happens
in science classrooms. In reality, virtually
everything is profoundly affected by science,
including a lot of things we don’t normally
think of as “science.” Motorsports (NASCAR
in particular) depend on science for safety
and speed—and race commentary often dis-
cusses the science concepts we teach using
everyday language. You simply cannot win
a race without getting the science right. I’ll
talk about my experiences with motorsports
scientists and engineers, translating com-
plex scientific ideas to make it understand-
able. Science is more fun at 200 mph!
Short Course
See page 16 for details.
Literacy Tools for Science
Learning (SC-3)
Kindergarten Science and
Literacy
Thursday, Dec. 6, 3:30–4:30 PM
Kindergarten Science
Illustrations and Recordings
Thursday, Dec. 6, 5:00–6:00 PM
Incorporating Common
7
Core into Science
Friday, Dec. 7, 8:00–9:00 AM
Authentic Writing in Science:
Get Kids to Write Children’s
Books
Friday, Dec. 7, 9:30–10:30 AM
The Role of “Drawing” in
Supporting Critical Thinking
and Science Processes
Friday, Dec. 7, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
Big Cat Controversy: Issues
Provide Context for Rich
Learning and Community
Building
Friday, Dec. 7, 2:00–3:00 PM
Science + Literacy = Student
Achievement
Saturday, Dec. 8, 8:00–9:00 AM
Science Literacy and Those
Accountable Lines of
Communication
Saturday, Dec. 8, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
Visit the Phoenix Session Browser/
Personal Scheduler (www.nsta.org/
phoenixbrowser) for a complete list
of events.

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Strand: The STEM Puzzle—Putting It Together
T here are many pieces of the preK–20 STEM puzzle, including integra-
tion of the disciplines, policy, partnerships, college and career readiness,
workforce pathways, classroom implementation, and real-world application.
This strand will explore the different facets of STEM education, focusing on
the practice and practicality within the classroom.
Featured Presentation
STEM Curriculum—Moving
Beyond the Acronym and into
Classroom Practice
Thursday, December 6
2:00–3:00 PM
8
Jo Anne Vasquez,
1996–1997 NSTA
President, and
Vice President and
Program Director,
Arizona Transition
Years, Teacher and
Curriculum STEM
Initiatives, Helios
Education Founda-
tion, Phoenix
Jo Anne Vasquez has been a classroom
teacher, district science specialist for Mesa
Public Schools, adjunct professor of sci-
ence education at Arizona State Univer-
sity, and director of professional develop-
ment and outreach for ASU’s Center for
Research on Education in Science, Mathe-
matics, Engineering, and Technology. She
is currently vice president and program
director, Arizona Transition Years, Teach-
er and Curriculum STEM Initiatives, for
Helios Education Foundation.
A recognized leader in science educa-
tion, Jo Anne is past president of both the
National Science Teachers Association and
the National Science Education Leader-
ship Association. She was a Presidential
Appointee to the National Science Board,
the governing board of the National Sci-
CONFERENCE PREVIEW
More sessions on
STEM…
Building a STEM Program:
Successes and Challenges
Thursday, Dec. 6, 8:00–9:00 AM
STEM Immersion Matrix:
A Guide to STEM Program
Development and
Implementation
Thursday, Dec. 6, 12:30–1:30 PM
ence Foundation, becoming the first and
only K–12 educator to hold a seat on this
Engineers Serving
Education
prestigious board. Her extraordinary Thursday, Dec. 6, 2:00–3:00 PM
contributions to the advancement of sci-
ence education have won her numerous It Can Be Done
awards, including NSTA’s highest award, Friday, Dec. 7, 8:00–9:00 AM
the 2006 Robert H. Carleton Award for
GIS: Is It the Last Piece of
Leadership in Science Education.
the STEM Puzzle?
Jo Anne holds a PhD in curriculum and
instruction from Northern Arizona Uni- Friday, Dec. 7, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
versity.
Teaching Engineering Design
to Middle and High School
STEM education is an interdisciplinary
approach to learning, which removes the tra- Students Using Chain
ditional barriers separating the disciplines Reaction STEAM Machines™
and integrates them into meaningful, rel- Friday, Dec. 7, 12:30–1:30 PM
evant learning experiences for students.
Developing a Steady Diet of
The main goal of STEM teaching and
STEM Education Is E.A.S.I.
learning is to increase student engagement,
Friday, Dec. 7, 2:00–3:00 PM
deepen their understanding, raise achieve-
ment, and help them see the relevancy in
what they are learning. But where do we Understanding Nuclear
begin? It requires integration. Is all integra- Energy
tion the same? Are there different approach- Friday, Dec. 7, 5:00–6:00 PM
es? We will be addressing these questions STEM Activities: Animal
and providing a scaffolding of how to go
Pictures, WebQuest,
about thinking of STEM curriculum design.
Boat Constructions, and
Pumpkingrams
Short Courses Saturday, Dec. 8, 9:30–10:30 AM
See page 16 for details. Robotics in Middle School:
How Do We Make That
SANITY, BLAST, and Research Work?
Methods: Programs That Engage Saturday, Dec. 8, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
Students in Science! (SC-1)
Visit the Phoenix Session Browser/
Integrating Mathematics and Science Personal Scheduler (www.nsta.org/
phoenixbrowser) for a complete list
Through a Problem-solving Approach of events.
with LEGO® Robotics (SC-2)
Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education
Strand: Sustainability: Growing, Nurturing, and
Ensuring Our Future
I ncreased pollution, habitat destruction, energy utilization, competition for
limited resources, and decreased ecological diversity are a few of our cur-
rent global challenges. Today’s students will be responsible for designing and More sessions on
innovating new solutions for these and future global challenges. Students sustainability…
need knowledge and the ability to think creatively to have a positive impact
Growing Sustainability in
on the quality of the planet. This strand will focus on how to expose students the High School from the
to the wonder of nature, provide opportunities for students to analyze envi- Grass Roots
ronmental degradation occurring around the globe, discover current research Thursday, Dec. 6, 8:00–9:00 AM
on sustainability, model the scientific and engineering practices behind the Developing Simple
solutions, and explore career options within the discipline of environmental Sustainability Lessons
science. Thursday, Dec. 6, 12:30–1:30 PM

Featured Presentation
Phosphorus, Food, and
Our Future
Friday, December 7
9:30–10:30 AM
James J. Elser,
Fulbright
Senior Lecturer,
Universidad
de Comahue,
Bariloche,
Argentina; and
Regents’ Professor
and Parents
Association
Professor, Ecology,
Evolution, and Environmental Science;
and Distinguished Sustainability
Scientist, School of Life Sciences,
Arizona State University, Tempe
James Elser’s research involves the inte-
grative field of biological stoichiometry,
the study of balance of energy and mul-
tiple chemical elements in living systems.
While this work is primarily ecological in
focus and includes studies of both aquatic
and terrestrial ecosystems and biota, the
approach uses an evolutionary perspec-
tive to integrate levels of organization
from the molecule and cell to the ecosys-
tem. Specific studies involve observational
and experimental studies, including labo-
ratory cultures, short-term field experi-
ments, and sustained whole-ecosystem
manipulations. Field sites have included
the Experimental Lakes Area in Ontario,
Canada; lakes of the Arctic; lakes, forests,
Plants—From Seed to
Seed
and grasslands of the upper Midwest; des-
ert springs in Mexico’s Chihuahuan Des- Thursday, Dec. 6, 2:00–3:00 PM
ert; and the surrounding Sonoran Desert.
He also collaborates extensively with math- Camp Colley Goes Green:
ematicians in developing quantitative the- An Energy Lesson Plan
oretical approaches to these questions. Thursday, Dec. 6, 5:00–6:00 PM
Recently, James received the G. Evelyn
Forests, Carbon, and
Hutchinson Award from the Association
Climate Change
9
for the Sciences of Limnology and Ocean-
Friday, Dec. 7, 8:00–9:00 AM
ography (ASLO) and will serve as its next
president. In addition, James is an active Teaching Younger Students
member of ASU’s NASA-funded Astrobi- About Energy Outside the
ology project “Follow the Elements” and Science Classroom
a co-organizer of ASU’s Sustainable Phos- Friday, Dec. 7, 9:30–10:30 AM
phorus Initiative. He holds a PhD in ecol-
ogy from University of California, Davis. Teaching Sustainability
Competencies Through
The 15th element in the periodic table,
Community Projects
phosphorus is essential for formation of our
Friday, Dec. 7, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
genes and our bones. It also limits produc-
tivity in ecosystems and for crops. However, Inquiry-based Sustainability
runoff of phosphorus from farms and cities
Activities
pollutes lakes and oceans while concerns have
Friday, Dec. 7, 12:30–1:30 PM
recently been raised about how much longer
humanity can continue to mine cheap phos- Facing the Future: Fueling
phorus for fertilizer production. This talk will the Future
deal with both sides of the sustainability co- Friday, Dec. 7, 3:30–4:30 PM
nundrum for phosphorus and discuss ways to
a sustainable food system based on nutrient- How Does Your Garden
efficient crops and “alternative fertilizers” Grow?
from recycling nutrients in our food chain. Saturday, Dec. 8, 8:00–9:00 AM
Concept Mapping
Short Course Environmental Sciences
See page 16 for details. Saturday, Dec. 8, 11:00 AM–12 Noon
Developing a “Naturalist” Visit the Phoenix Session Browser/
Personal Scheduler (www.nsta.org/
Approach in the Teaching of phoenixbrowser) for a complete list
Science Concepts and Inquiry of events.
(SC-4)

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Special Programming
Biology Day
Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Sponsored by the National Association of Biology
Teachers
NABT is proud to present Biology Day. Join us for hands-on and
informative sessions that highlight the resources and tools you
need to excel as a biology and life science teacher. Sessions will
include activities on biodiversity, evolution, and the revised AP
Biology course. From free resources to expert tips, Biology Day
provides relevant information and pedagogy for every biology
teacher at every level. Enhance your teaching, engage your stu-
dents, and enjoy NABT Biology Day in Phoenix!
Physics Day
Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Sponsored by the American Association of Physics
Teachers (AAPT) and the American Modeling Teachers
Association (AMTA)
The American Association of Physics Teachers offers a full day
10 of physics content at the Phoenix area conference. Physics Day
consists of presentations on physics topics of current interest,
physics demonstrations for the precollege classroom, and a
make-and-take session where participants can construct a piece
of physics apparatus for use as a demonstration or laboratory
experiment. Physics Day in Phoenix is being organized by the
American Modeling Teachers Association.
Engineering Day
Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Sponsored by the American Society for Engineering
Education
The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) has put
together a public/private partnership to develop ways of engaging
elementary, middle school, and high school students and teachers
in engineering. Participants will learn about innovative, hands-
on, project-based engineering activities, courses, curriculum op-
tions, events, outreach programs, professional development, and
competitions designed to increase engineering and technological
literacy of all students; encourage more and more diverse students
to pursue engineering careers; and enable teachers to learn about
and experience engineering. Presenters will share lessons learned
and examples of inquiry and design activities that have been de-
veloped in partnership with K–12 science teachers for use in the
classroom and in informal educational settings. The materials re-
sult from a collaboration of engineering educators and STEM pro-
fessionals working with NASA, Teachengineering.org, Engineering
is Elementary, and Colleges of Engineering across the nation who
actively engage in K–12 engineering in collaboration with partner
teachers and schools.
CONFERENCE PREVIEW
Chemistry Day
Two American Chemical Society–sponsored programs,
one for grades 9–12 and the other for middle level edu-
cators, will take place at the Phoenix conference.
Equilibrium, Le Chatelier, and Rate
(For Grades 9–12)
Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Engage in activities, discussion, analyses, and assessment that
help understanding of the relationships among equilibria, Le
Chatelier’s principle, and rates and their roles in moving toward a
more sustainable use of Earth’s resources.
Education research indicates a positive correlation between
teacher content knowledge and student learning. The goals of this
workshop are to enhance and enrich secondary chemistry teach-
ers’ knowledge of and interrelationships among equilibria, Le
Chatelier, and rates through engagement in activities, discussion,
and analyses that demonstrate how lessons on these concepts
can be presented in a way that stimulates student thinking and
prompts exploration of the complexity of the concepts as they re-
late to sustainability.
The content and structure of the workshop draw on several de-
cades of experience the American Chemical Society (ACS) has in
activity-based curricula development that includes incorporation
of sustainability and Green Chemistry principles. The workshop
is a daylong series of lessons on equilibria, Le Chatelier’s prin-
ciple, and rates—topics central to understanding the behavior
of matter and chemical change. A complementary theme of the
workshop is incorporating activities as part of the assessment of
student learning.
Middle School Chemistry—Big Ideas About
the Very Small
Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Come to one, two, or as many sessions as you like during this
full day of activities and information for teaching and learning
middle school chemistry. ACS staff will introduce participants to
the new free online resource middleschoolchemistry.com. Each of
the six sessions will include hands-on activities and explanations
from the website that participants can easily incorporate into their
teaching to support their current textbook and curriculum. Hand-
outs of the session activities will be available for all participants.
For more information on these events, visit our
website at www.nsta.org/phoenixprograms.
Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education
Concurrent Sessions NSTA Press Sessions
Teacher Sessions NSTA Press® offers new classroom ideas and standards-
based strategies, from Earth science to nanoscience and
Close to 300 presentations and workshops have been sched- from preK to college. Join NSTA Press authors for these ses-
uled. Sessions are classified by subject matter—Biology/Life sions linked to the topics of their books. Visit us online at
Science, Chemistry/Physical Science, Earth/Space Science, www.nsta.org/phoenixbrowser for details (search for keyword
Environmental Science, Integrated/General, or Physics/ “NSTA Press Session”).
Physical Science. Sessions are further identified by audience
level (Preschool, Elementary, Middle Level, High School, Thursday, December 6
College, Supervision/Administration, Informal Educa- 8:00–9:00 AM
tion, or some combination of levels). Generally one hour in Uncovering Physical Science Core Ideas in the NGSS Using
length, all are open to registrants at no additional cost. Pop- Formative Assessment Probes
ular sessions fill quickly, however, and it is recommended
12:30–1:30 PM
that you arrive early to ensure a seat. Visit us online at www.
Using Science Mystery Stories—The Details
nsta.org/phoenixbrowser for details (search for session type
“presentation” or “workshop”). 2:00–3:00 PM
Uncovering Earth and Space Core Ideas in the NGSS Using
Exhibitor Workshops Formative Assessment Probes
Jump in and take part—exhibitors sponsor workshops for 3:30–4:30 PM
you to try out the newest equipment and teaching materials Rise and Shine: A Practical Guide for the Beginning Science Teacher
in breakout rooms where you can actually use the products. 5:00–6:00 PM
You’ll take home lesson plans to bring fresh ideas into your Authors Share Favorite Lessons from Teaching Science Through
classroom, and you’ll learn how new curricula can enhance Trade Books
your instruction and send your students’ test scores soaring!
Workshops are conducted on a continuous basis throughout
the conference, so make sure to take time to attend. Visit us
Friday, December 7
8:00–9:00 AM
11
online at www.nsta.org/phoenixbrowser for details (search for Teaching and Learning Biology Through Scientific
session type “exhibitor workshop”). Argumentation
9:30–10:30 AM
Picture-Perfect Science Lessons: Using Children’s
Books to Guide Inquiry, 3–6

Is This Your First 11:00 AM–12 Noon

Classroom Activities for
NSTA Conference? Stop Faking It! Energy
Thursday, Dec. 6, 8:00–9:00 AM 12:30–1:30 PM
Stop Faking It! Finally Understand
Feeling overwhelmed by all there is to see and do Chemistry Basics So You Can Teach Them
at an NSTA conference on science education? Join
us for an interactive walk through the conference 2:00–3:00 PM
Bringing Outdoor Science In
program. By the end of the session, we guarantee
you’ll know just how to get the most from your 3:30–4:30 PM
conference participation. Refreshments courtesy of Writing Stories for Teaching Science Practices
Carolina Biological Supply. Door prizes! Saturday, December 8
8:00–9:00 AM
Classroom Activities for
Stop Faking It! Force & Motion
11:00 AM–12 Noon
More Picture-Perfect Science Lessons:
Using Children’s Books to Guide Inquiry, K–4

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Chemistry / Physical Science

Physics / Physical Science

Conference at a Glance

Environmental Science
Biology / Life Science

Earth / Space Science

Integrated / General

Presentation
Sample Schedules

workshop
Thurs., 8:00–9:00 AM—Cosmetics, OTC Drugs,
Environmental Issues, and the BP Oil Spill—Let’s Go Green! • •
Thurs., 12:30–1:30 PM—CESI Session: Experimental
Design Just for PreK–5 • •
Thurs., 2:00–3:00 PM—Inquiry in Action: Investigating
Matter Through Inquiry • •
Thurs., 5:00–6:00 PM—NSTA Press Session: Authors Share
Favorite Lessons from Teaching Science Through Trade • •
Elementary

Books
Fri., 9:30–10:30 AM—Bringing Astronomy Activities and
Science Content to Girls Locally and Nationally: A Girl • •
Scout and NIRCam Collaboration
Fri., 12:30–1:30 PM—Raising Chickens in the Grade 1
Classroom and Literature • •
Fri., 3:30–4:30 PM—In the Wake of the Wallow Fire • •
12 Fri., 5:00–6:00 PM—MY NASA DATA: Earth Systems Data
Visualization Tool for Students • •
Sat., 9:30–10:30 AM—Read Like a Novelist, Record Like a
Writer, Think as a Scientist! Connecting Learning, Literacy, • •
and Science in the Classroom
Thurs., 8:00–9:00 AM—Urban Heat Island: Linking
Science, Society, and Engineering • •
Thurs., 12:30–1:30 PM—Going to the Dogs • •
Thurs., 3:30–4:30 PM—Using GIS Online in the Classroom • •
Thurs., 5:00–6:00 PM—What You Can Gain from Genetic
Testing in Your Classroom • •
Fri., 9:30–10:30 AM—Chemistry of Food • •
Middle Level

Fri., 11:00 AM–12 Noon—AAPT Session: The Physics Bus • •

Fri., 2:00–3:00 PM—Forensic Anthropology: Teaching with
Bones • •
Fri., 3:30–4:30 PM—ACS Middle Level Session: Chemical
Change: Breaking and Making Bonds • •
Fri., 5:00–5:30 PM—Critical Thinking Through Science via
Technology • •
Sat., 8:00–9:00 AM—Using Inquiry to Teach Plate Tectonics • •
Sat., 9:30–10:30 AM—Understanding the School Building
as a System • •
Sat., 11:00 AM–12 Noon—Robotics in Middle School: How
Do We Make That Work? • •

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

 Chemistry / Physical Science

Physics / Physical Science

Conference at a Glance

Environmental Science
Biology / Life Science

Earth / Space Science

Integrated / General

Presentation
Sample Schedules

workshop
Thurs., 8:00–9:00 AM—Growing Sustainability in the
High School from the Grass Roots • •
Thurs., 12:30–1:30 PM—Andes Homework System for
Introductory Physics • •
Thurs., 3:30–4:30 PM—Scientific Literacy and
Communication in the New AP Chemistry Course • •
Thurs., 5:00–6:00 PM—Camp Colley Goes Green: An
Energy Lesson Plan • •
Fri., 8:00–9:00 AM—ACS Session One: Equilibrium and
Concentration • •
High School–College

Fri., 9:30–10:30 AM—Teaching Biological Processes

Using Modules Based on 3-D Computer Animations • •
Fri., 11:00 AM–12 Noon—NABT Session: Using HHMI’s
Bones, Stones, and Genes: The Origin of Modern • •
Humans
Fri., 2:00–3:00 PM—Using WISE Images in the
• •
13
Classroom
Fri., 3:00–4:00 PM—AAPT Session: Engineering
Wind Turbines: A STEM Application for Physics and • •
Engineering Students
Fri., 3:30–4:30 PM—Focus on Forests: Project Learning
Tree’s New Secondary Curriculum • •
Sat., 9:30–10:30 AM—Teaching Climate and Energy
with the CLEAN Collection: Peer-reviewed Climate and • •
Energy Resources at Your Fingertips!
Sat., 11:00 AM–12 Noon—Seeing the Invisible
Universe • •

Personal Scheduler
Make your own conference schedule using the
Phoenix Session Browser/Personal Scheduler
(www.nsta.org/phoenixbrowser). Browse events
by day, format, subject, grade level, conference
strand, sponsor, or keyword. When you see an event
you like, simply click the button to add it to your
schedule. View and revise your personal schedule
as often as you like—plan ahead!

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Field Trips
D iscover what Phoenix has to offer on one of our tick-
eted field trips. Visit our website (www.nsta.org/phoenix
fieldtrips) for complete descriptions and to purchase tickets.
F-1: Grand Canyon Railway Resort
and Bus Tour
(Tickets Required.)

Phoenix Crime Lab (T-1)

Date: Thursday, December 6, 9:15–11:45 AM
Registration Fee: $10 advance; $15 on-site
Take a look inside the Phoenix Police Department’s Crime
Laboratory. See forensic scientists at work as they analyze fin-
gerprints and other biological evidence. FTIR spectroscopy,
capillary electrophoresis, general X-ray theory, and polarized
light microscopy are among the scientific principles factoring
into their analysis. Randy Leister, our tour guide, works at the
lab as a forensic scientist supervisor and will provide a Q&A.
Note: All attendees must bring a valid government-issued pho-
to ID, i.e., a driver’s license. Participants will walk to/from the
Phoenix Police Department.
Biosphere 2 (T-2 and F-4)
Dates: Thursday, December 6, 11:15 AM–6:15 PM
14
Friday, December 7, 9:15 AM–4:15 PM
Registration Fee: $29 advance; $34 on-site
Biosphere 2 was opened to the public in 1990. This unique
structure was created to better understand how natural envi-
ronments create habitable conditions for human sustainability.
It is a unique facility that can be used to understand the role
of life on Earth and the effects of climate change. Biosphere 2
contains re-creations of five of Earth’s biomes, plus a human
habitat and a large ecological experiment facility. Sorry, no pets
are allowed at Biosphere 2. Bring your lunch or grab a snack at
Biosphere 2 from the Snack Shop. NSTA will provide bottled
waters to participants. Travel time is two hours each way. Note:
Be sure to wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Participants will
be walking 1.5 miles, including inclines and stairs in warm and
humid conditions. The Biosphere 2 is not walker, stroller, or
wheelchair accessible.
Cadaver and DNA Lab (T-3 and F-2)
Dates: Thursday, December 6, 12:15–4:15 PM
Friday, December 7, 8:15 AM–12:15 PM
Registration Fee: $19 advance; $24 on-site
Grand Canyon University™ is offering the unique opportuni-
ty to tour the University’s brand-new state-of-the-art Forensic
DNA Analysis Laboratory and established cadaver lab. The
DNA lab opened in August 2012; the lab is built according
to the requirements set forth by the Federal Bureau of Inves-
tigation and includes two separate analysis rooms. The lab
also contains new instrumentation allowing students to ob-
tain hands-on experience with the instruments they will en-
counter while working in their new profession. Participants
will have the opportunity to analyze a garment in an attempt
—Photo courtesy of Grand Canyon Railway
to identify an unknown biological stain and become famil-
iar with the layout, instrumentation, and sample processing
within forensic DNA labs. In addition, participants will tour
the cadaver lab, which has 12 cadavers. An anatomy presenta-
tion of the cadavers and discussion on the use of cadavers in
undergraduate degree programs will follow.
Pueblo Grande Museum (T-4)
Date: Thursday, December 6, 1:30–4:30 PM
Registration Fee: $23 advance; $28 on-site
A National Historic Landmark, the 1,500-year-old Hohokam
village ruin is a fascinating glimpse of an ancient people who
used extensive canal irrigation to cultivate varieties of cot-
ton, tobacco, maize, beans, squash, and an assortment of wild
plants and later used dry-farming systems to grow agave. For
more than 80 years, the Pueblo Grande Museum has been
dedicated to the study and interpretation of the Hohokam
culture. Visitors can explore the ruin of an 800-year-old plat-
form mound possibly used by the Hohokam for ceremonies
or as an administrative center. An excavated ballcourt and
two full-scale reproductions of prehistoric Hohokam homes
can be viewed along the ruin trail. The site also includes rem-
nants of Hohokam irrigation canals.
Grand Canyon Railway Resort and Bus Tour (F-1)
Date: Friday, December 7, 5:45 AM–9:00 PM
Registration Fee: $164 advance; $169 on-site
All aboard to Grand Canyon National Park! The Grand Canyon
Railway made its first journey to the South Rim of the Grand
Canyon in 1901, long before Arizona was dubbed “The Grand
Canyon State.” Today, you can travel to the Grand Canyon along
the same rail line as these early visitors and enjoy one-of-a-kind
vintage train service. We’ll depart from historic Williams Depot,
the southern terminus of the railway, and travel north across

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

65 miles of classic Wild West territory, including high-desert
plains, arroyos, and ponderosa pine forest. Our destination is F-3: Lost Dutchman
the Grand Canyon Depot, the last operating log depot in the State Park and
U.S. A Wild West shootout at the depot starts our adventure off Day Hike
with a bang. Aboard the train, we’ll enjoy live-action Wild West
entertainment, including strolling musicians and a train rob-
bery by the infamous Cataract Creek Gang. At the canyon, we’ll
board a bus for a narrated rim tour of canyon highlights and
enjoy a hot buffet lunch, included in the tour price, at Maswik
Lodge. Nestled in a forest of pines, the lodge is just a quarter
mile from the canyon’s edge. Don’t forget your camera! NSTA
will provide a breakfast snack with juice. Travel time from the
Convention Center to Williams Depot is three hours each way.
Note: Participants must be at least 16 years old.

Lost Dutchman State Park and Day Hike (F-3)

Date: Friday, December 7, 8:45 AM–2:15 PM
Registration Fee: $52 advance; $57 on-site
The Superstition Mountains have been a source of mystery and
legend since early times. Named after a fabled lost gold mine,
Lost Dutchman State Park is located in the Sonoran Desert, 40
miles east of Phoenix. Several trails lead from the park into the
Superstition wilderness and surrounding Tonto National For-
est. Take a two- to three-hour guided stroll along one of the
many trails and learn about native plants, animals, and the
15
legends of the Superstition Mountains. A variety of desert ani-
mals inhabit the park. Keep your eye out for deer, coyote, jave-
lina, bobcat, lizards, snakes, and jackrabbits. Be sure to bring
your camera! Box lunch included. Travel time is an hour each
way. Note: Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and dress in
layers. Hiking boots or walking shoes are recommended. Bring
a water bottle. —Photo courtesy of Tim Kristof/Lost Dutchman State Park

T-2 and F-4: Biosphere 2

—Photo courtesy of The University of Arizona Biosphere 2

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Short Courses
T hese intensive workshops explore topics from robot-
ics to exploring local biodiversity. All short courses are
filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so act now! Visit our
website (www.nsta.org/phoenixshortcourses) for complete de-

—Photo courtesy of Tucson High Magnet School

scriptions and to purchase tickets. (Tickets Required.)

SANITY, BLAST, and Research Methods: Programs

That Engage Students in Science! (SC-1)
Date: Thursday, December 6, 12:30–3:00 PM
Registration Fee: $20 advance; $25 on-site
Level: High School–College
Strand: The STEM Puzzle—Putting It Together
Frustrated that your students do not get outside and explore the nat-
ural world? This short course will focus on three Tucson High Mag-
net School programs that bring students together to ask relevant and
novel research questions and then use available resources to scientifi-
cally answer those questions. For the past six summers, more than a
hundred students have participated in Science and Nature in Tan-
dem for Youth (SANITY) and a summer course called “Genes, Bio-
technology and the Environment,” taught through the Biotechnol-
ogy Laboratory for Arizona Students and Teachers (BLAST). These
16 programs get students outside, learning about their environment,
and into the laboratory where they use molecular techniques to
answer real-world questions. Both programs help prepare students
for a yearlong capstone course called Honors Research Methods.
Research students present their work at regional, state, and national
science competitions. Learn how to develop similar programs and
receive strategies for funding and supporting such programs and for
collaborating with universities. Come away with ideas for creating
innovative Project Based Learning (PBL) experiences at your school.
Integrating Mathematics and Science Through
a Problem-solving Approach with LEGO® Robotics
(SC-2)
Date: Friday, December 7, 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
Registration Fee: $29 advance; $34 on-site
Level: K–12
Strand: The STEM Puzzle—Putting It Together
This short course will illustrate methods to integrate LEGO
Mindstorms® NXT robots with a thought process–based prob-
lem-solving approach to teach a wide variety of curricula, in-
cluding mathematics, physics, and engineering. Participants
will collaboratively build a robot, program it with Mindstorms
software, and learn how to predictably and accurately move
their robot by creating various multilevel mathematical mod-
els. Various challenges will test their skills. Practical methods
to implement a robotics curriculum will be discussed, includ-
ing gathering materials, fostering a problem-solving approach
and tailoring it to various ages, creating cross-curricular con-
nections, and determining evaluation tools. Bring your laptop if
possible, although not necessary.
Tucson High Magnet School students examine a Sceloporus virgatus, a striped
plateau lizard. SC-1: SANITY, BLAST, and Research Methods: Programs
That Engage Students in Science!
Literacy Tools for Science Learning (SC-3)
Date: Friday, December 7, 2:00–5:00 PM
Registration Fee: $16 advance; $21 on-site
Level: K–8
Strand: Literacy: Communicating and Understanding Science
Literacy supports the development of conceptual understand-
ings in science. Join us as we explore several strategies. Find out
how science notebooks can develop reading, writing, listening,
and speaking skills as well as provide a jump-start for several
genres of formal writing. We will examine academic vocabulary
development and group discussions that build argumentation,
evidence, and critical thinking. We’ll also look into the use of
graphic organizers to assist students in determining important
concepts in science texts. Take away scaffolded reading strate-
gies that provide multiple ways to actively engage in text.
Developing a “Naturalist” Approach in the Teaching
of Science Concepts and Inquiry (SC-4)
Date: Friday, December 7, 2:00–5:00 PM
Registration Fee: $71 advance; $76 on-site
Level: General
Strand: Sustainability: Growing, Nurturing, and Ensuring Our
Future
Many of today’s students lack knowledge of the natural world,
with some educators labeling them “nature deficient.” Because
they have never studied firsthand the most common organisms,
students frequently have difficulty correlating concepts de-
scribed in their texts with actual life cycles and adaptations/be-
haviors of living organisms. Discover hands-on inquiry activi-
ties and strategies that you can use to enhance comprehension of
science concepts for all learners—visual, aural, tactile, and ELL.
Take home handouts, teaching strategies, and a CD.

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

Picture-Perfect Science
Workshop
D o you want to improve your science instruction
and enjoy yourself at the same time? Then this pre-
conference workshop is for you! Visit our website (www.
nsta.org/phoenixpp) for a complete description and to pur-
chase tickets. (Tickets Required.)
Picture-Perfect Science Preconference Workshop
(C-1)
Date: Wednesday, December 5, 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
Registration Fee: $71; by preregistration only
Level: Elementary
Presenters
Karen Ansberry and Emily Morgan
are classroom veterans and award-
winning authors of Picture-Perfect
Science Lessons, Expanded 2nd Edition:
Using Children’s Books to Guide Inquiry,
3–6 and More Picture-Perfect Science
Lessons: Using Children’s Books to Guide
Inquiry, K–4.
Karen Ansberry
Who Should Attend?
• Classroom Teachers
• Science Specialists
• Instructional Coaches
• Administrators
• Science Methods Instructors
• Media Specialists
• Reading Specialists
Emily Morgan
STEM education begins in elementary school, but it can be
difficult for elementary teachers to fit science into the school
day. Picture-Perfect Science (www.nsta.org/publications/press/
picture.aspx) integrates science and reading in a meaningful
way, so you can teach both subjects at once. In this work-
shop, you will participate in model lessons that integrate
science and reading, learn the benefits and cautions of us-
ing children’s picture books in science, become familiar
with the BSCS 5E model, and receive a bibliography of rec-
ommended science-related picture books. All participants
will also receive a copy of Picture-Perfect Science Lessons,
Expanded 2nd Edition: Using Children’s Books to Guide Inquiry,
3–6, a $36.95 value containing 20 classroom-ready lessons
for grades 3–6. Come to this Picture-Perfect Science Work-
shop and rejuvenate elementary science instruction in your
district or school!
Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education
NSTA Symposium
P resented by the Maryland Science Center in con-
junction with Monarchs in the Classroom at the
University of Minnesota and made possible by a grant
from the National Science Foundation, this half-day
symposium is a high-quality learning experience designed
to enhance teachers’ knowledge of both science content and
best teaching practices. This blended professional devel-
opment opportunity is followed by two NSTA follow-up
sessions, which extend the interactivity between the par-
ticipants and presenters at the conference. Also included
are two public NSTA Web Seminars that will take place
in December and January. For more information, visit the
NSTA Learning Center website (www.nsta.org/symposia).
(Tickets Required.)
Flight of the Monarch Butterflies (SYM-1)
Date: Friday, December 7, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM
Registration Fee: $47 advance; $54 on-site
17
Level: Grades K–12
Join us at the Arizona Science Center to view the latest
IMAX film Flight of the Butterflies and engage in classroom
activities focused on the monarchs’ amazing migration
across North America, as well as their habitats and life cycle.
Hear from experts in the field of monarch study about how
you and your students can become involved in citizen science
projects to help the monarchs. Educational materials will be
provided for classroom use, and a drawing for door prizes
will take place at the end of the program. Breakfast will
be served! Each participant will receive a $75 stipend for
attendance.
The Arizona Science Center is located two blocks from the
Phoenix Convention Center. For directions and to purchase
tickets, visit www.nsta.org/phoenixsymposium.
—Courtesy of Jim O’Leary/Maryland Science Center
CONFERENCE PREVIEW
 Networking Events
I n addition to this ticketed event, some NSTA affiliated
groups sponsor meetings and social events that do not
require a ticket. For complete details, visit www.nsta.org/
phoenixnetworking.

Council for Elementary Science International

(CESI) Breakfast (M-1)
The “Take Away” in Elementary Science: Kids Say
the Darndest Things!
Date: Saturday, December 8, 8:30–10:30 AM
Registration Fee: $36 advance; $41 on-site

Julie Thomas
CESI President Elect, 2011–2013, and
the Frank and Carol Morsani Endowed
Chair of Science Education,
Oklahoma State University,
18 Stillwater
Drawing on her years of experience in
teaching elementary science and profes-
sional development with elementary sci-
ence teachers, Julie Thomas conceived
of a longitudinal study of third- and fifth-graders. Data from
these students’ surveys, focus group discussions, achievement,
and scientist-drawings document the ways in which children
make sense of their science learning. Just as Art Linkletter (in
the 1970s) and Bill Cosby (in the 1990s) showed us, gathering
the child’s perspective can be very revealing when it comes to
helping us understand what we are actually teaching them. This
profound “feedback” can help us to assess our science teaching
curricula: what do we intend, what results do we actually get,
and how can we improve?
Julie Thomas is the Frank and Carol Morsani Endowed Chair of Sci-
ence Education at Oklahoma State University. Thomas earned both
her master’s and her doctorate from the University of Nebraska.
Learning about NSTA during her master’s coursework, Thomas has
been an active member presenting at conferences and serving on com-
mittees. She currently serves as president-elect of CESI. Her research
and teaching focus on developing teachers’ knowledge and skills for
teaching elementary science.

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

Resources Section: NSTA Exhibitors
www.nsta.org/phoenixresources
T he NSTA Exhibit Hall is a must-see! NSTA brings you
the leading science education companies and orga-
nizations to showcase products, services, curricula, and
much more. You’ll discover something new and exciting
in the world of science teaching.

Exhibit Location
The exhibits are located in the Phoenix Convention Center.
Registration badges are required for admission.

Exhibit Hours
Thursday, December 6 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Friday, December 7 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Saturday, December 8 9:00 AM–12 Noon

Virtual Exhibitor Show

Preview and create your own “must-see” list of Phoenix

19
exhibitors before the conference using the Phoenix Virtual
Show. It’s available any time, day or night, at www.nsta.org/
phoenixvirtualshow.

A.D.A.M. Education eCYBERMISSION PASCO scientific

Achieve3000 Educational Innovations, Inc. Pearson
Adam Equipment Edvotek, Inc. PEPCO, Inc.
American Chemical Society ExploreLearning Pitsco Education
American Lab Design & Manufacturing Fisher Science Education Project Learning Tree
American Nuclear Society Flinn Scientific, Inc. Sangari Active Science/IQWST
Apperson DataLink Forestry Suppliers Inc. School Tours of America, LLC
Arbor Scientific Frey Scientific/School Specialty Science Science First/STARLAB
Ask an Astronomer/Big Kid Science Grand Classroom Shell Science Lab Challenge
Bedford, Freeman & Worth Publishers It’s About Time Siemens We Can Change the World
and W.H. Freeman Japan Artec Inc. Challenge
Bio-Rad Laboratories Ken-A-Vision Simulation Curriculum
Capstone Classroom LAB-AIDS, Inc. Society for Science & the Public
Carolina Biological Supply Learning A–Z The STEM Academy, Inc.
Carolina Curriculum LEGO Education STR—School & Science Technology
Catalyst Learning Curricula: Daily The Markerboard People Resources
Lesson Plans Minerals Education Coalition Swift Optical Instruments, Inc.
CPO Science/School Specialty Science Mississippi State University Texas Instruments, Inc.
Crosscutting Concepts, LLC Nasco Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision
Delight’s Earthly Delights National Geographic Education Vernier Software & Technology
Delta Education/School Specialty Natural Science for Teachers Program at W.H. Freeman
Science The University of Arizona Wavefunction, Inc.
Dinah-Might Adventures, LP NOAA Education Western Governors University
Discovery Education NSTA Learning Center Wireless Generation
Discovery Student Adventures Nutrients for Life Foundation YMIR, Inc./The Ultimate Puzzle
The DuPont Challenge© Science Essay OHAUS Corp.
Competition
This is a partial list of exhibitors.

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 What do these have in common?
All are included in design challenges in NSTA Press’s NEW book
Integrating Engineering and Science in Your Classroom.
Its 30 chapters include STEM lessons to help K–12 teachers blend authentic and
meaningful engineering activities into instruction. The lessons reinforce important
skills and science content while illustrating a wide range of
STEM skills and opportunities.

To order, learn more, or check out our other STEM books, visit

www.nsta.org / store
NSTA Science Bookstore
Attendees are invited to browse the
newly redesigned NSTA Science Book-
store, where you’re sure to find hun-
dreds of books that uniquely blend
accurate scientific content with sound
teaching strategies for science educa-
tors of all grade bands and disciplines.
Not only do we offer a wide range of
topics to sharpen your content knowl-
edge and expand your teaching meth-
ods, we also carry dozens of wonderful
NSTA Gear items—such as T-shirts,
mugs, and pencils—as reminders of
your conference experience or as gifts
for your family, colleagues, and stu-
dents. We also offer free shipping on
both books and gear when you place
your order online in the store.
• Examine some of our latest books—
Integrating Engineering and Science
in Your Classroom; The Everyday Sci- • Show your love of science and pride • REMEMBER—All attendees enjoy
ence Sourcebook, Revised 2nd Edition; in teaching with shirts, hats, and discounts of 20% on NSTA Press
and Teaching Science Through Trade
Books—and check out our brand-
more from our “Science Matters”
and “I Love Science” NSTA Gear
items and 10% on books from other
publishers.
21
new line of children’s books. product lines.

Graduate Credit/Transcripts
Graduate Credit Sponsored by Grand Canyon University™
Graduate Credit
Earn one graduate-level credit in pro-
fessional development through Grand
Canyon University at the NSTA Phoe-
nix Area Conference on Science Edu-
cation. To obtain credit, you must
complete a Grand Canyon University
Registration Form, attend a minimum
of 15 hours of programs, submit a writ-
ten report and an NSTA transcript,
and pay a fee of $100. This registration
form is available at www.nsta.org/phoenix
graduatecredit and at the Arizona Sci-
ence Teachers Association booth at the
conference. Note: Credit is by pass/fail
option only.
For additional information, e-mail
continuingeducation@gcu.edu or call 602-
639-6808.
Transcripts
Attendees can evaluate sessions while
simultaneously tracking professional
development certification (based on
clock hours). Attendees will be able to
evaluate sessions using their smart-
phones…while the session is fresh in
their minds! Or attendees can visit www.
nsta.org/conferences/evaluations at a later
time to complete a short online session
evaluation for each session they attend.
Three weeks after the last day of the
conference, an attendee can view his
or her transcript at the NSTA Learn-
ing Center (learningcenter.nsta.org) by
clicking on “My PD Record and Cer-
tificates.” Attendees can also document
credit for other activities that are not
being evaluated (e.g., field trips, short
courses, exhibit hall visits, featured
We’re giving
a Kindle Fire to
one lucky attendee
who evaluates
sessions that he or
she attends. Details
at www.nsta.org/
phoenixresources.
speakers, General Session, and meet-
ings). Each attendee is responsible for
tracking his or her own attendance at
such events. The transcript can be print-
ed here and presented to an adminis-
trator who requires documentation of
participation in the conference. All in-
formation in these transcripts will be
maintained (and can be accessed) indefi-
nitely as part of an attendee’s individual
profile.

Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education CONFERENCE PREVIEW

 Registration and Travel Arrangements
Save on your registration fees by taking advantage of special earlybird and
Registration Information
advance rates! Also—save $90 on your registration fees when you become
How to Register an NSTA member!
 Online Earlybird Advance Full Rate
The fastest way to register 24 hours a Category (Oct. 26) (Nov. 16) (after Nov. 16)
day—register online at www.nsta.org/
phoenixregistration with a credit card. Current NSTA member or applicant $160 $170 $195
ASTA member $160 $170 $195
 Fax AAPT, ACS, or NABT member $160 $170 $195
Fax your registration form (available at
www.nsta.org/phoenixregistration as a PDF)
Nonmember $250 $260 $285
with credit card or purchase order infor- Retired NSTA Member $105 $115 $135
mation to 703-243-3924.
Full-time Student $85 $95 $115
* Mail Nonteaching Spouse/Guest $85 $90 $110
Mail your registration form (available at One Day Only, Nonstudent $145 $150 $170
www.nsta.org/phoenixregistration as a PDF)
One Day Only, Full-time Student $60 $65 $80
and payment to:
National Science Teachers Association Last Day–Saturday, Nonstudent $95 $100 $110
Conference Department Last Day–Saturday, Full-time Student $35 $45 $65
PO Box 90214
Washington, DC 20090-0214 For a description of the categories listed above, please visit www.nsta.org/phoenix.
22 Membership Information
NSTA members enjoy significantly
lower registration rates than nonmem-
bers. Become a member at www.nsta.org/ Housing Information * Mail
Mail CHECKS ONLY—one form per
membership or by completing the mem- Housing Deadline: Nov. 5, 2012 room request to:
bership application online (part of the
registration form packet at www.nsta. Make your hotel reservations now and NSTA Housing Bureau
org/phoenixregistration). save! NSTA has negotiated special dis- c/o Greater Phoenix CVB
Joint NSTA/ASTA (Arizona Science counted room rates with two hotels near 400 E. Van Buren St., #600
Teachers Association) memberships are the Phoenix Convention Center. Visit Phoenix, AZ 85004-2290
available on the membership application www.nsta.org/phoenixhousing for com-
online (part of the registration form pack- plete details. Housing reservations can Housing forms are available online at
et at www.nsta.org/phoenixregistration). be made in one of the following ways: www.nsta.org/phoenixhousing as a PDF.
Do not mail to NSTA.
Discounted Airfares  Online
Visit www.nsta.org/phoenixhousing and
NSTA has made arrangements with sev-
have your credit card and arrival/
eral major airlines to offer discounted
departure information ready. For complete travel informa-
fares to NSTA conference attendees. For
complete details on these discounts as tion—including parking and
well as the best way to get around town, getting around town—visit
visit www.nsta.org/phoenixtravel. www.nsta.org/phoenixtravel.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Air-
port (PHX) is located four miles from the
Phoenix Convention Center. Rates for a
one‐way taxi fare to downtown from the
airport are $15 (minimum) and higher.

CONFERENCE PREVIEW Phoenix Area Conference on Science Education

 SEE YO U I N
TEXAS
For Expert Professional Development at
the National Conference
on Science Education

San Antonio
April 11–14, 2013
Attendees can access:
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Visit www.nsta.org for updates

or call 800.722.6782
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