NEWS

The Power of a Parking Lot

Read how one teacher made mathematics more accessible through a real-life problem that integrated multiple disciplines.

Grade-wide PBL Integrates Several Disciplines

Teachers can collaborate to create a student-centered projects that incorporate key concepts and learning standards from several disciplines. Here is one example.

High-leverage Science Teacher Practices Among Novice Elementary School Teachers

This study highlights six high-leverage science teaching practices that support students' sensemaking in elementary science and some of the limitations and successes experienced by elementary teachers.

Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Nominate a 7th - 12th grade STEM teacher for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching at PAEMST.org.

Nominations accepted through January 9, 2023. Completed applications must be submitted by February 6, 2023.

EVENTS

Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics Annual Conference - October 29, 2022 (Naperville)

ICTM meets every October, gathering pre-K through College educators from across Illinois for professional development, collaboration, and community. Join us for the 71st annual ICTM conference!

Illinois Education and Technology Conference - November 2-4, 2022 (Springfield)

Learn, explore, and connect with other innovative educators to harness the power of technology and prepare future-ready students. Schedule and registration information here.

STEM Celebrations

Below is a sampling of opportunities that invite you and your students to recognize STEM contributions while integrating theme-oriented lessons and projects to honor the contributors.

National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15
Earth Science Week, October 9-15
National Chemistry Week, October 16-22
National Apply Day, October 21
Native American Heritage Month, November 1-30

RESOURCES

Spotlight on STEM Trunks

Use Snap Circuits - Green Energy kits in Grades 2-12 to help students learn about electronics and explore topics such as electric cars, windmills, and hand-generated power as they complete projects. Access guides to learn more about possible activities. Questions about our STEM Trunks? Email Mary Biniewicz.

Engineers Week and Introduce a Girl to Engineering Funding Opportunities

Discover Engineering invites you to apply for an outreach grant, now through November 4. And, if you are looking for additional engineering outreach resources, check out the Discover Engineering best practices for achieving diversity in engineering and how to be a role model.

Halloween Tricks, Treats, and More

Icky slime, candy coatings, fake blood, wearable LEDs, fire snakes, and things that foam, light up, or glow in the dark, and more. Science Buddies provides some great ideas for Halloween science and engineering activities.

You Can Still Make Fat Bear Week Part of Your Classroom Learning Plan

Though the actual week has ended, this initiative gives students a peek into the lives of brown bears. This is a fun way to shake up science and math lessons and to invite students to explore the world of animal conservation.

Practical Engineering

Looking for new ways to integrate engineering concepts into your curriculum? Twice a month you will find new videos about engineering problems and marvels that you can use to spark interest, conversation, and study.

Science Olympiad - More than Just the Competitions You've Heard About

Take a look at the website to explore middle school and high school learning opportunities, with added focus on fun activities for elementary students and career exploration, too!

on Instagram and our website!

Direct newsletter questions, comments, and suggestions to Dr. Mary Biniewicz.