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Why Teach Evolution?

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Why Teach Evolution?

Why teach evolution? Evolution isn’t just a unifying concept that connects elements of the natural world: It’s also the link among science, our students, and their world. Why is that important? Evolution can be used as a “hook,” a way to show...

By Beth Allan

Nature of science: a new NSTA position statement

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Nature of science: a new NSTA position statement

Winter weather often makes us wonder how wild animals survive without a heated environment....

By Peggy Ashbrook

“Where did we leave off?”

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“Where did we leave off?”

I was wondering how to reintroduce a lesson interrupted by unexpected days off (such as due to weather). Also, if the majority of the class is absent do you do an alternative lesson and finish the planned one when all the students are back? — L., ...

By Gabe Kraljevic

Reading a Class

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Reading a Class

A quarter of my grade 7 students are at a beginning reading level. None are on grade level for reading. Can you help me help them? — K., Alaska Unfortunately, this is not uncommon. To answer your question, I consulted with a colleague, Rita Mac...

By Gabe Kraljevic

Making Sense of Science and Religion

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Making Sense of Science and Religion

In the science classroom, the rigorous discussion of certain scientific concepts may challenge the religious beliefs of students as well as educators....

By Carole Hayward

History and Social Studies Integration with STEM

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History and Social Studies Integration with STEM

NGSS, STEM, STEAM, and Common Core all speak of the importance of the integration of science with ELA, math, and art. However, we are missing one more layer needed to achieve the goal of total integration. We should also look at the integration of so...

By Judy Boyle

Play—outdoor, in-door recess, and science

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Play—outdoor, in-door recess, and science

Children move eagerly to get their winter wear gear, stream out the door, across the street and onto the playground....

By Peggy Ashbrook

What Makes a Good STEM Trade Book?

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What Makes a Good STEM Trade Book?

This is a question a lot of people are asking. Since 2016 NSTA has published the Best STEM Books a companion piece to the Outstanding Science Trade Books list....

By Carrie Launius and Christine Anne Royce

Tackling Tall Tales

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Tackling Tall Tales

I am looking for some opinions how handle situations where there are misconceptions on the material. I was wondering how to know the amount of time that is needed to clear up a misconception and when to move on to other material? — R., New Jersey M...

By Gabe Kraljevic

Teach about science in the news in 2020

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Teach about science in the news in 2020

What do wildfires, drought, and extreme weather have in common? All these events in the news can be doorways to exploring weather, climate, and more with your students. NSTA’s Book Beat issue this month features lessons by NSTA Press authors that ...

By Claire Reinburg

STEM For All Multiplex Launches by Joni Falk

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STEM For All Multiplex Launches by Joni Falk

This new, interactive video platform will enable researchers, educators, and parents to access federally funded innovative programs aimed at improving STEM teaching and learning. TERC is pleased to announce the launch of the STEM for All Multiplex...

By Kate Falk

Congress Passes Funding for FY20 Federal Programs

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Congress Passes Funding for FY20 Federal Programs

Prior to adjourning for the holidays Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the spending bill that funds the government for the remainder of fiscal 2020. The bill largely rejects the Trump administration’s proposal to cut approximat...

By Jodi Peterson

School Facility Safety/Security!  (Part 1)

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School Facility Safety/Security! (Part 1)

I. Unsecured School Facilities...

By Kenneth Roy

Safety

Inspiring Young Geoscientists With Fossils

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Inspiring Young Geoscientists With Fossils

Troy J. Simpson’s students at Glenn Raymond School in Watseka, Illinois, use a limestone slab with brachiopods and trilobite fossils to make claims of past geologic environments. Photo courtesy of Jasmine Essington “I have an extensive fossil...

By Debra Shapiro

Book clubs, professional learning communities, and resources on equity

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Book clubs, professional learning communities, and resources on equity

One of my favorite professional learning opportunities was an informal Professional Learning Community (PLC) organized by a colleague before the term “PLC” came into common usage....

By Peggy Ashbrook

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