National geographic recently instituted an educator certification program. Completion gives you access to lots of Nat Geo opportunities.
Wild webcams
Last week I was at the regional NSTA conference in Charlotte (always a great experience!). I attended a great session with Krista Brinchek, the science specialist at Abbots Creek Elementary in Raleigh, NC. She talked about her experiences using live wildlife webcams with her classes, and has generously agreed to let me share some of … Continue reading Wild webcams
AAAS/ Subaru SB&F Finalist!
I'm so excited! Dog Science Unleashed has moved from long-listed to short-listed for the AAAS/Subaru SB&F prize for hands-on science! Which gives me a chance to tell a favorite story of mine. Several years ago, I was teasing with my family that I wanted to win some award--any award--just so that when I went to … Continue reading AAAS/ Subaru SB&F Finalist!
STEM Tuesday
I have joined the STEM Tuesday team over at the From the Mixed Up Files of Middle Grade Authors blog. I'll be posting every other month (alternating with the delightful Carolyn DeCristofano) on using STEM books in the classroom. My first post is up today, on using Botany Books for Bellringers! Also, don't forget their … Continue reading STEM Tuesday
CoSTEM Contest for Your Book Parade!
Does your school hold a book parade in October? Encourage your kids to dress like their favorite STEM book, and they could win great prizes!
STEM Tuesday CosSTem contest
Starting next month, I will be joining the STEM Tuesday bloggers at From the Mixed Up Files of Middle Grade Authors. And I'm just in time for the 1st Annual CosSTEM contest! Dress up like your favorite STEM book and win fun prizes!
Island of the Blue Dolphins
This classic Newbery winner by Scott O'Dell was based on a true story--and the island involved is now a National Park. (Well, the exact island is not, but the one next to it is!) The National Park Service has put together a rich collection of material related to the book and the true story--including historical … Continue reading Island of the Blue Dolphins
Bug-Out Educators!
I have a good friend and excellent educator who wants to help bug-tastic teachers apply for entomology grants--if you use bugs (or would like to give it a go), see below: The Entomological Society of America is offering President's Prizes for Outstanding Achievement in Primary and Secondary Education. If you are a primary or secondary … Continue reading Bug-Out Educators!
Ride along on the Iditarod
I went to Alaska this summer. It was a grand adventure. Among other things, we visited some mushers who compete in the Iditarod and heard about their adventures. I came across a truly unique teacher adventure--apparently, there is an official "Teacher on the Trail" each year, and you can apply to be that teacher here. … Continue reading Ride along on the Iditarod
Melissa Stewart, On Chocolate Cake
About this time last year, Melissa Stewart wrote an excellent series on children's book preferences in which she argued that we are underserving a group of children who enjoy expository nonfiction: casting it as broccoli, when kids see it as chocolate cake. I was thrilled to see her strong research basis for an idea that … Continue reading Melissa Stewart, On Chocolate Cake
Once Upon a Science Book 