We understand that some classrooms are experiencing a failure with a
Condor power supply (PLTW part no. 30173-RB) that was included in the
POE kits sold before January, 2010, when the power supply is used
with the 9V outputs on the Intelligent interface or fischertechnik
Robo interface to perform activities 1.23 and 1.25 in the POE
curriculum. If these activities are not completed as described in the
POE materials, then students may create a short in their circuit and
the power supply may heat up and fail.
POE kits sold after January, 2010 include an updated Condorpower
supply (PLTW part no. 30173-TX), which has a protective mechanism
that will shut down the power supply so there is no damage to the
power supply unit. Also, as of April, 2008, PLTW updated to a
fischertechnik Robo TX controller which includes a similar protective
mechanism.
PLEASE BE SURE TO CAREFULLY FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE POE
CURRICULUM WHEN PERFORMING ACTIVITIES 1.23 AND 1.25 TO AVOID THE UNIT
HEATING UP.
If you have any comments or questions, please let us know as your
input is helpful and appreciated. You should direct any comments or
questions to: Shannon Kete, Chief Operating Officer, skete@pltw.org
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Fleming Scholarship
Teachers,
Please share this wonderful opportunity with your students. Jana Greetings Oklahoma Science Educators, Applications are now being accepted for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation’s (OMRF) Fleming Scholar Program.
If you know any scientifically passionate students, will you please encourage them to apply ([ http://www.omrf.org/fleming ]www.omrf.org/fleming)? This program grants selected students an opportunity to work side-by-side with real life research scientists for eight weeks during the summer. Scholars also get paid and housing is provided for those who qualify. Applicants do NOT need to have any prior science experience or formal education. The application deadline is February 1, and forms are available at [ http://www.omrf.org/fleming ]www.omrf.org/fleming.
Requirements: · Submit application packets by February 1 · Possess strong enthusiasm for science · Be a high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior · Be a graduate or soon-to-be graduate from an Oklahoma high school Flyers for the fantastic Fleming Scholar Program are on the way to your school now. Will you please post them in your area and help us spread the word?
If you need extra flyers or additional information, please feel free to contact me directly (405-271-7434, 800-522-0211, 405-919-3437 cell, [ mailto:courtney-stevens@omrf.org ]courtney-stevens@omrf.org). Thank you!
Courtney Stevens, SPHR Human Resources Advisor OMRF
825 NE 13th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73104
(800)522-0211 toll free (405)271-7434 office
(405)919-3437 cell (405)271-7016 fax
[ mailto:stevensc@omrf.org ]courtney-stevens@omrf.org
Please share this wonderful opportunity with your students. Jana Greetings Oklahoma Science Educators, Applications are now being accepted for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation’s (OMRF) Fleming Scholar Program.
If you know any scientifically passionate students, will you please encourage them to apply ([ http://www.omrf.org/fleming ]www.omrf.org/fleming)? This program grants selected students an opportunity to work side-by-side with real life research scientists for eight weeks during the summer. Scholars also get paid and housing is provided for those who qualify. Applicants do NOT need to have any prior science experience or formal education. The application deadline is February 1, and forms are available at [ http://www.omrf.org/fleming ]www.omrf.org/fleming.
Requirements: · Submit application packets by February 1 · Possess strong enthusiasm for science · Be a high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior · Be a graduate or soon-to-be graduate from an Oklahoma high school Flyers for the fantastic Fleming Scholar Program are on the way to your school now. Will you please post them in your area and help us spread the word?
If you need extra flyers or additional information, please feel free to contact me directly (405-271-7434, 800-522-0211, 405-919-3437 cell, [ mailto:courtney-stevens@omrf.org ]courtney-stevens@omrf.org). Thank you!
Courtney Stevens, SPHR Human Resources Advisor OMRF
825 NE 13th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73104
(800)522-0211 toll free (405)271-7434 office
(405)919-3437 cell (405)271-7016 fax
[ mailto:stevensc@omrf.org ]courtney-stevens@omrf.org
SAVE THE DATE: March 4 & 5, 2011 – Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
Dear Science Teachers,
Oklahoma State University is pleased to announce the 9th Annual (Kansas,
Nebraska, Oklahoma) Regional Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
(JSHS). JSHS is designed to challenge, engage, and support students
(Grades 9-12) who participate in STEM research. Individual students will
compete for scholarships and recognition by presenting the results of
their original research efforts before a panel of judges and an audience
of their peers. Please see the attached SAVE THE DATE flier for
information on application deadlines, competition dates, and event
location. For additional information about JSHS visit: [
http://www.jshs.org ]http://www.jshs.org.
Oklahoma State University is pleased to announce the 9th Annual (Kansas,
Nebraska, Oklahoma) Regional Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
(JSHS). JSHS is designed to challenge, engage, and support students
(Grades 9-12) who participate in STEM research. Individual students will
compete for scholarships and recognition by presenting the results of
their original research efforts before a panel of judges and an audience
of their peers. Please see the attached SAVE THE DATE flier for
information on application deadlines, competition dates, and event
location. For additional information about JSHS visit: [
http://www.jshs.org ]http://www.jshs.org.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
OK Women in Science Conference Tuesday, Feb 8th- OKC:REGISTRATION OPEN
Women in Science Conference 2011
Tuesday February 8 2011, 9:00am-2:00pm
Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, Oklahoma City OK 73111
http://www.okepscor.org/calendar/women-science-conference
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
Please feel free to forward this note to the appropriate people.
Students in grades 6-12, science/math teachers, and counselors are
invited to attend this FREE conference that is designed to show
students that careers in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics are exciting, attainable & rewarding!
The free, one-day conference is designed to allow students to engage
in hands-on science activities; learn first-hand about science and
technology career opportunities from Oklahoma's top female scientists
and engineers; and receive college preparation information from
Oklahoma college, university and outreach representatives.
HANDS-ON SCIENCE SESSIONS!
INTERACTIVE PANEL SESSIONS!
Students ask successful women scientists and engineers questions
about education, careers and how they achieved their goals!
DEVELOP A PLAN FOR COLLEGE!
Students learn how personal interests, aptitude, college degrees and
careers all come together, as well as important scholarship
information!
RECRUITMENT & OUTREACH BOOTHS!
Visit with recruiters and educational outreach representatives from
Oklahoma colleges & organizations!
BREAKOUT SESSIONS!
Teachers will attend breakout sessions to learn about summer research
opportunities and classroom resources!
KEYNOTE SPEAKER!
Dr. Katie Siek, University of Colorado professor of computer science:
"Live, Love, Research: Creating Technologies that Improve Health"
Schools may bring up to 10 students and 2 adults (per school)
* Deadline to register is Sat Jan 15 2011 or when maximum occupancy is
reached
* Breakfast, lunch and museum admission are provided free of charge
* Space is limited, so register today:
http://www.okepscor.org/calendar/women-science-conference
For more information, visit our Web site at:
http://www.okepscor.org/
Questions or comments?
E-mail us at gmiller@okepscor.org or call 405-744-7645
Tuesday February 8 2011, 9:00am-2:00pm
Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, Oklahoma City OK 73111
http://www.okepscor.org/calendar/women-science-conference
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
Please feel free to forward this note to the appropriate people.
Students in grades 6-12, science/math teachers, and counselors are
invited to attend this FREE conference that is designed to show
students that careers in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics are exciting, attainable & rewarding!
The free, one-day conference is designed to allow students to engage
in hands-on science activities; learn first-hand about science and
technology career opportunities from Oklahoma's top female scientists
and engineers; and receive college preparation information from
Oklahoma college, university and outreach representatives.
HANDS-ON SCIENCE SESSIONS!
INTERACTIVE PANEL SESSIONS!
Students ask successful women scientists and engineers questions
about education, careers and how they achieved their goals!
DEVELOP A PLAN FOR COLLEGE!
Students learn how personal interests, aptitude, college degrees and
careers all come together, as well as important scholarship
information!
RECRUITMENT & OUTREACH BOOTHS!
Visit with recruiters and educational outreach representatives from
Oklahoma colleges & organizations!
BREAKOUT SESSIONS!
Teachers will attend breakout sessions to learn about summer research
opportunities and classroom resources!
KEYNOTE SPEAKER!
Dr. Katie Siek, University of Colorado professor of computer science:
"Live, Love, Research: Creating Technologies that Improve Health"
Schools may bring up to 10 students and 2 adults (per school)
* Deadline to register is Sat Jan 15 2011 or when maximum occupancy is
reached
* Breakfast, lunch and museum admission are provided free of charge
* Space is limited, so register today:
http://www.okepscor.org/calendar/women-science-conference
For more information, visit our Web site at:
http://www.okepscor.org/
Questions or comments?
E-mail us at gmiller@okepscor.org or call 405-744-7645
Friday, September 17, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
PLTW Assessment Training
Check the training schedule here- and when teachers sign up, they might win a brand new Amazon Kindle!
As you know PLTW is very excited about transitioning to our new Assessment System and our partnership with the Northwest Evaluation Association. I am writing you to seek your support in helping us ensure that 100% of the PLTW teachers get trained on the new system and administer Growth Assessments. We have put together the top four reasons for teachers to take the time from their busy schedules to complete the assessments for you to use in your communication to them. We would love it if you would send out a communication to your email list of PLTW teachers to encourage those who have not yet done so - to register, get trained, and administer assessments. The top 4 reasons for administering the assessment program are:
1. The combination of pre-and post-growth assessments will provide teachers with detailed information that can be used to inform instruction and help students reach their potential. Teachers will benefit from hard data on where each student is in their academic progress in math and science. PLTW will also be able to leverage these results to improve the curriculum and programming.
2. PLTW partners - from teachers and school districts to philanthropists and corporations - have expressed a desire for data on student performance to help with securing funds to implement the program. The new Assessment System will help address those needs, which will help all of us achieve our goal of creating the next generation of innovators.
As you know PLTW is very excited about transitioning to our new Assessment System and our partnership with the Northwest Evaluation Association. I am writing you to seek your support in helping us ensure that 100% of the PLTW teachers get trained on the new system and administer Growth Assessments. We have put together the top four reasons for teachers to take the time from their busy schedules to complete the assessments for you to use in your communication to them. We would love it if you would send out a communication to your email list of PLTW teachers to encourage those who have not yet done so - to register, get trained, and administer assessments. The top 4 reasons for administering the assessment program are:
1. The combination of pre-and post-growth assessments will provide teachers with detailed information that can be used to inform instruction and help students reach their potential. Teachers will benefit from hard data on where each student is in their academic progress in math and science. PLTW will also be able to leverage these results to improve the curriculum and programming.
2. PLTW partners - from teachers and school districts to philanthropists and corporations - have expressed a desire for data on student performance to help with securing funds to implement the program. The new Assessment System will help address those needs, which will help all of us achieve our goal of creating the next generation of innovators.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Engineering, Go For It!
FOURTH EDITION NOW AVAILABLE!
Lesson Plan: Explorations in Energy
Alternative energy offers advantages over shrinking fossil-fuel supplies, but harnessing it is a complex process. Here, middle school students learn about extracting hydrogen from water. In a separate activity, high school classes create ethanol from fermented foods.
Lesson: Hydrogen Electrolysis of Water
Class Activity: Ethanol Fermentation
Lesson Plan: Explorations in Energy
Alternative energy offers advantages over shrinking fossil-fuel supplies, but harnessing it is a complex process. Here, middle school students learn about extracting hydrogen from water. In a separate activity, high school classes create ethanol from fermented foods.
Lesson: Hydrogen Electrolysis of Water
Class Activity: Ethanol Fermentation
Monday, September 13, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Deadline to Register for PLTW Training
The deadline to register for PLTW's 30-minute, online Assessment training is rapidly
approaching. We know you have busy schedules and appreciate the time you are taking for these training sessions. As a token of our appreciation, PLTW will be giving away a host of prizes to training participants, including the Amazon® Kindle®, a Nintendo® Wii®with the Wii Fit Plus® and the iPodTouch®.
Training is available Monday through Friday between now and September 24 at the times
listed below. When registering for training, please use your PLTW Extranet/Virtual
Academy login email. Your new PLTW Assessment System login will be sent to this
email address ONLY!
PLTW Online Training 10 a.m. EST
PLTW Online Training 12pm EST
PLTW Online Training 2pm EST
PLTW Online Training 4pm EST
PLTW Online Training 6pm EST
Each week, one training participant will be selected at a random drawing to be conducted by PLTW as the recipient of a new Amazon Kindle. Teachers who have already completed training are already included. In addition, at the end of the final session on September 24, one winner will be randomly drawn by PLTW from the list of all training participants and awarded a Nintendo Wii with Wii Fit Plus. Finally, in June, five of the teachers that have administered all growth and end of course assessments will be randomly selected by PLTW to receive an iPod Touch.
Don't miss your
chance to win these exciting prizes - register for training today!
approaching. We know you have busy schedules and appreciate the time you are taking for these training sessions. As a token of our appreciation, PLTW will be giving away a host of prizes to training participants, including the Amazon® Kindle®, a Nintendo® Wii®with the Wii Fit Plus® and the iPodTouch®.
Training is available Monday through Friday between now and September 24 at the times
listed below. When registering for training, please use your PLTW Extranet/Virtual
Academy login email. Your new PLTW Assessment System login will be sent to this
email address ONLY!
PLTW Online Training 10 a.m. EST
PLTW Online Training 12pm EST
PLTW Online Training 2pm EST
PLTW Online Training 4pm EST
PLTW Online Training 6pm EST
Each week, one training participant will be selected at a random drawing to be conducted by PLTW as the recipient of a new Amazon Kindle. Teachers who have already completed training are already included. In addition, at the end of the final session on September 24, one winner will be randomly drawn by PLTW from the list of all training participants and awarded a Nintendo Wii with Wii Fit Plus. Finally, in June, five of the teachers that have administered all growth and end of course assessments will be randomly selected by PLTW to receive an iPod Touch.
Don't miss your
chance to win these exciting prizes - register for training today!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Student Showcase
The STEM division and OKACTE officers will be hosting the Project Lead the Way Counselor Conference on October 26, 2010. We would like to invite several schools to participate in the PLTW Student Showcase. Schools interested would set up an interactive display/booth educating counselors about their program; counselors would walk around and visit each booth. The set up time would be 8:30 and the display could be taken down after lunch. Each school is limited to bring three students and lunch will be provided. We are looking for Pre-Engineering, Biomedical or Gateway programs. If your school is interested please fill out the attached registration and return it to me by September 15. If you have any questions feel free to give me a call. We are hoping sending school counselors, technology center counselors and administrators across the state will be in attendance. Registration:
Project Lead the Way Student Showcase
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Tulsa Southern Hills Marriott
1902 E. 71st Street
Tulsa, OK
8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon
Project Lead the Way Student Showcase
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Tulsa Southern Hills Marriott
1902 E. 71st Street
Tulsa, OK
8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
We're Looking For A Few Good Teachers and Students.
Actually, we're looking for the best of the best. A few great teachers and students from middle and high schools across the country doing great things in the area of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). We want to honor them for developing the most imaginative student projects and the most innovative instructional programs related to STEM with some outstanding scholarships and cash prizes.
It's all part of the PLTW Innova Awards, which will be presented at The First Annual PLTW National Innovation Summit on October 20th in the nation's capital.
The Innova Award For Learning - For Teachers.
If you, or you and a group of colleagues, can demonstrate an "innovative approach" to teaching and learning STEM to help ignite imagination and innovation in students, then we encourage you to enter to win the PLTW Innova Award For Learning and receive a $5,000 cash prize. It's a great opportunity to be recognized for the great things you do for STEM education. > find out more
The Innova Award For Imagination - For Students.
Know any students who have done some thinking outside the box lately? Students who have created a brilliant STEM-related project that demonstrates a high degree of critical thinking and imaginative problem solving? If so, then you should tell them about the PLTW Innova Award For Imagination and help them sign up for the chance to win a $10,000 scholarship. It would be a great thing to do for some deserving students. > find out more
Hurry, The Deadline For Entries Is September 15th.
It's all part of the PLTW Innova Awards, which will be presented at The First Annual PLTW National Innovation Summit on October 20th in the nation's capital.
The Innova Award For Learning - For Teachers.
If you, or you and a group of colleagues, can demonstrate an "innovative approach" to teaching and learning STEM to help ignite imagination and innovation in students, then we encourage you to enter to win the PLTW Innova Award For Learning and receive a $5,000 cash prize. It's a great opportunity to be recognized for the great things you do for STEM education. > find out more
The Innova Award For Imagination - For Students.
Know any students who have done some thinking outside the box lately? Students who have created a brilliant STEM-related project that demonstrates a high degree of critical thinking and imaginative problem solving? If so, then you should tell them about the PLTW Innova Award For Imagination and help them sign up for the chance to win a $10,000 scholarship. It would be a great thing to do for some deserving students. > find out more
Hurry, The Deadline For Entries Is September 15th.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Pre-Engineering agreement with OSU IT
We are excited to announce our Pre-Engineering agreement with OSU IT. Thanks to Mike Taylor/OSU IT for the countless hours he worked to align the PLTW Pre-Engineering curriculum with the engineering college curriculum.
For CareerTech's two year Pre-Engineering career major students could earn up to 13 college credits and up to 25 college credits through our Advanced Pre-Engineering Career Major. See additional information.
For CareerTech's two year Pre-Engineering career major students could earn up to 13 college credits and up to 25 college credits through our Advanced Pre-Engineering Career Major. See additional information.
PLTW Pre-Engineering
OSU Institute of Technology
Technology Center
ETD 1101 - Safety Applications
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.1]
ETDG 1143 - Introduction to Design/Drafting
Introduction to Engineering Design [Lessons 1.1-1.4, 2.1, 2.3-2.4, 3.1-3.3]
ETDE 1133 - Introduction to Electrical/Electronics
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.1] AND
Principles of Engineering [Lessons 1.1-1.2, 1.4]
ETDE 1263 - AC Electronics and Photonics
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.2]
ETDE 1373 - Digital Systems and Microcontrollers
Digital Electronics [Lessons 1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.1-3.4, 4.1-4.2] AND
Principles of Engineering [Lesson 3.1]
Total Credit Hours Available: 13
Advanced PLTW Pre-Engineering
OSU Institute of Technology
Technology Center
ETD 1101 - Safety Applications
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.1]
ETDM 1153 - Introduction to Manufacturing
Introduction to Engineering Design [Lesson 2.2] AND
Computer Integrated Manufacturing [Lessons 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.3, 4.1-4.2]
ETDG 1143 - Introduction to Design/Drafting
Introduction to Engineering Design [Lessons 1.1-1.4, 2.1, 2.3-2.4, 3.1-3.3]
ETDG 1333 - Residential Design
Civil Engineering and Architecture [Lessons 1.1, 2.2-2.3]
ETDG 2102 - Architectural Modeling
Civil Engineering and Architecture [Lesson 2.1]
ETDG 2683 - Commercial Architecture
Civil Engineering and Architecture [Lessons 3.1-3.3, 4.1-4.2]
ETDE 1133 - Introduction to Electrical/Electronics
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.1] AND
Principles of Engineering [Lessons 1.1-1.2, 1.4]
ETDE 1263 - AC Electronics and Photonics
Digital Electronics [Lesson 1.2]
ETDE 1373 - Digital Systems and Microcontrollers
Digital Electronics [Lessons 1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.1-3.4, 4.1-4.2] AND
Principles of Engineering [Lesson 3.1]
SURV 1011 - Introduction to Surveying
Civil Engineering and Architecture [Lesson 3.4]
Total Credit Hours Available: 25
Monday, August 9, 2010
Great New Pre-Engineering Video
This video is great for pre-engineering. See video. I believe this video could be used to build lessons plans on the where, what, how, careers, salaries, etc on aerospace. I just met with 48 middle school science and math teachers here at our OSSM summer workshop.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Project Lead the Way National Summit-Washington DC
Please encourage everyone to consider the PLTW summit October 20-22 and the USA Science and Engineering Festival on the National Mall is scheduled October 22-24. Please find the attached agenda.
PLTW Summit Alert: Early Registration Ends August 21st
Gaming the System: Connecting Entertainment & Education
Community Colleges: STEM's Secret Weapon
Humanitarian Projects: The Next Sputnik
A Compass For Best Practices: Creating a Roadmap for Model Programs
The significant price break for early registration ends soon. And space is limited. So the perfect time to secure your spot at this much anticipated event and save some money is -Now! See the link below for additional information.
http://beta.pltw.org/innovationsummit
PLTW Summit Alert: Early Registration Ends August 21st
Gaming the System: Connecting Entertainment & Education
Community Colleges: STEM's Secret Weapon
Humanitarian Projects: The Next Sputnik
A Compass For Best Practices: Creating a Roadmap for Model Programs
The significant price break for early registration ends soon. And space is limited. So the perfect time to secure your spot at this much anticipated event and save some money is -Now! See the link below for additional information.
http://beta.pltw.org/innovationsummit
To All FIRST Robotics Participants and Supporters:
Writing to remind you of our two Informational Meetings on August 7 in Oklahoma City and on August 14 in Broken Arrow. Attached is a copy of the announcement with the details of meeting times and locations.
Anyone interested in learning more about this awesome opportunity to motivate students to become interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is invited. (see www.usfirst.org)
During these times of limited budgets, it is exciting to note that the State Legislature understands the importance of this initiative and has made grant money available for new teams.
Please contact any superintendent, principal, teacher, student, parent, etc., that you think might be interested.
Anyone interested in learning more about this awesome opportunity to motivate students to become interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is invited. (see www.usfirst.org)
During these times of limited budgets, it is exciting to note that the State Legislature understands the importance of this initiative and has made grant money available for new teams.
Please contact any superintendent, principal, teacher, student, parent, etc., that you think might be interested.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
First Robotics Information
First Lego League Body Forward Session Registration
Junior First Lego League Information, until June 30 for Smart Move season; Body Forward season registration opens August 2, 2010.
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Approved for NASSP National Advisory List of Contests and Activities for 2010-2011
FIRST could receive $200,000 with your help! See how you can help-
FIRST is Just Awesome, Video by FRC Team 862 and guests
USA Science and Engineering Festival Information
FIRST in the News
"It's Your Future" was the theme at the FIRST® Championship, where 20,000FIRST supporters – mentors, students, volunteers, sponsors, and fans – gathered April 15-17 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta to experience the ultimate heart-pounding, high-energy celebration of science and technology. read more.
Sponsoring Our Mission
FIRST is made possible by the generosity of corporations, educational and professional institutions, foundations, and individuals. These include new Strategic Partners: Time Warner Cable and Penneys.
Alliances Corner
FIRST announces a five-year alliance agreement with Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) ... and alliance partner, MIT Alumni Association, helps recruit new FLL teams. read more.
FIRST Robotics Competition Seniors Win Top Honors at International Science and Engineering Fair
Two was the lucky number for Yale Fan and Kevin Ellis, FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 1540 members who won the “Intel Foundation Young Scientist Award.” Next, they head to Harvard and MIT, read more.
Junior First Lego League Information, until June 30 for Smart Move season; Body Forward season registration opens August 2, 2010.
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Approved for NASSP National Advisory List of Contests and Activities for 2010-2011
FIRST could receive $200,000 with your help! See how you can help-
FIRST is Just Awesome, Video by FRC Team 862 and guests
USA Science and Engineering Festival Information
FIRST in the News
"It's Your Future" was the theme at the FIRST® Championship, where 20,000FIRST supporters – mentors, students, volunteers, sponsors, and fans – gathered April 15-17 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta to experience the ultimate heart-pounding, high-energy celebration of science and technology. read more.
Sponsoring Our Mission
FIRST is made possible by the generosity of corporations, educational and professional institutions, foundations, and individuals. These include new Strategic Partners: Time Warner Cable and Penneys.
Alliances Corner
FIRST announces a five-year alliance agreement with Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) ... and alliance partner, MIT Alumni Association, helps recruit new FLL teams. read more.
FIRST Robotics Competition Seniors Win Top Honors at International Science and Engineering Fair
Two was the lucky number for Yale Fan and Kevin Ellis, FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 1540 members who won the “Intel Foundation Young Scientist Award.” Next, they head to Harvard and MIT, read more.
Limeades for Learning is Back!
SONIC and DonorsChoose.org are partnering again to help public school
teachers inspire their students to learn. By October of this year, SONIC
will have donated more than $1 million in supplies and learning materials
to public school teachers and their students across the country.
Teachers, register your projects on DonorsChoose.org by Aug. 15 to ensure
your project is reviewed in time to be posted when voting begins on Aug.
30. You can even upload your project now for individual donations before
voting begins. During September, anyone can come to the website and vote
for their favorite teacher's classroom project. Do you need an idea of
what type of project is eligible for funding? Click here to find out more
specifics on how you can be successful.
For everyone else, it's even easier to participate in Limeades for
LearningSM this year. Come to the website in September and vote for the
public school teacher's project you want SONIC to fund. There is no
purchase necessary; all you need is a valid email address to vote. Check
back in every day and vote throughout September.
Last year, SONIC donated more than $600,000 to more than 1,400 classroom
projects across 40 states. More information-
teachers inspire their students to learn. By October of this year, SONIC
will have donated more than $1 million in supplies and learning materials
to public school teachers and their students across the country.
Teachers, register your projects on DonorsChoose.org by Aug. 15 to ensure
your project is reviewed in time to be posted when voting begins on Aug.
30. You can even upload your project now for individual donations before
voting begins. During September, anyone can come to the website and vote
for their favorite teacher's classroom project. Do you need an idea of
what type of project is eligible for funding? Click here to find out more
specifics on how you can be successful.
For everyone else, it's even easier to participate in Limeades for
LearningSM this year. Come to the website in September and vote for the
public school teacher's project you want SONIC to fund. There is no
purchase necessary; all you need is a valid email address to vote. Check
back in every day and vote throughout September.
Last year, SONIC donated more than $600,000 to more than 1,400 classroom
projects across 40 states. More information-
Limeades for Learning is Back!
SONIC and DonorsChoose.org are partnering again to help public school
teachers inspire their students to learn. By October of this year, SONIC
will have donated more than $1 million in supplies and learning materials
to public school teachers and their students across the country.
Teachers, register your projects on DonorsChoose.org by Aug. 15 to ensure
your project is reviewed in time to be posted when voting begins on Aug.
30. You can even upload your project now for individual donations before
voting begins. During September, anyone can come to the website and vote
for their favorite teacher's classroom project. Do you need an idea of
what type of project is eligible for funding? Click here to find out more
specifics on how you can be successful.
For everyone else, it's even easier to participate in Limeades for
LearningSM this year. Come to the website in September and vote for the
public school teacher's project you want SONIC to fund. There is no
purchase necessary; all you need is a valid email address to vote. Check
back in every day and vote throughout September.
Last year, SONIC donated more than $600,000 to more than 1,400 classroom
projects across 40 states.
teachers inspire their students to learn. By October of this year, SONIC
will have donated more than $1 million in supplies and learning materials
to public school teachers and their students across the country.
Teachers, register your projects on DonorsChoose.org by Aug. 15 to ensure
your project is reviewed in time to be posted when voting begins on Aug.
30. You can even upload your project now for individual donations before
voting begins. During September, anyone can come to the website and vote
for their favorite teacher's classroom project. Do you need an idea of
what type of project is eligible for funding? Click here to find out more
specifics on how you can be successful.
For everyone else, it's even easier to participate in Limeades for
LearningSM this year. Come to the website in September and vote for the
public school teacher's project you want SONIC to fund. There is no
purchase necessary; all you need is a valid email address to vote. Check
back in every day and vote throughout September.
Last year, SONIC donated more than $600,000 to more than 1,400 classroom
projects across 40 states.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
K-12 Teachers, Educators, Administrators:
Register now for ASEE's workshop, "Discovering Engineering in the Classroom," and learn fun ways to get students excited about math and science. This energizing, highly informative event will introduce you to innovative, effective engineering education lessons, best practices, and take-away tools. Kentucky teachers who participate will be eligible for continuing professional education credits. Out-of-state teachers will get a certificate to use in seeking credits through their own state authorities.
When: Saturday, June 19, 2010, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where: Kentucky International Convention Center, 221 South 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202-2903
Free to all who register by June 4. For details and to register.
When: Saturday, June 19, 2010, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where: Kentucky International Convention Center, 221 South 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202-2903
Free to all who register by June 4. For details and to register.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
SAVE THE DATE
Project Lead the Way Counselor Conference, October 26, 2010, Southern Hills Marriott in Tulsa.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Math and Science Teachers
Space Math problems (NASA) Grades 6-12
(Look at the science topics addressed)
Problem 339: Terra Satellite Spies the Great Gulf Oil Catastrophe of 2010 Students use a Terra satellite image of the oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico to calculate its area, mass and thickness.
[Grade: 6-8 | Topics: image scales; area of a circle; metric conversions; current events]
Go tolink
Problem 338:
Asteroids and Ice - Students calculate how much ice may be present on the asteroid 24-Themis based on recent discoveries by NASA.
[Grade: 9-12 | Topics: mass=density x volume; volume of a spherical shell]
Go to link.
NASA INSPIRE program for High School students
Applications are being accepted from Monday, May 3 through Wednesday, June 30.
NASA will make selections for the program in September. Selectees and their parents will participate in an online learning community with opportunities to interact with peers, NASA engineers and scientists. The online community also provides appropriate grade level educational activities, discussion boards and chat rooms for participants to gain exposure to careers and opportunities available at NASA.
Students selected for the program will have the option to compete for unique grade-appropriate experiences during the summer of 2011 at NASA facilities and participating universities. INSPIRE is designed to encourage students in ninth through 12th grades to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. The summer experience provides students with a hands-on opportunity to investigate education and careers in those disciplines.
INSPIRE is part of NASA's education strategy to attract and retain students in the STEM disciplines critical to NASA's missions. For information about INSPIRE, visit:
To apply for the program, visit:
(Look at the science topics addressed)
Problem 339: Terra Satellite Spies the Great Gulf Oil Catastrophe of 2010 Students use a Terra satellite image of the oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico to calculate its area, mass and thickness.
[Grade: 6-8 | Topics: image scales; area of a circle; metric conversions; current events]
Go to
Problem 338:
Asteroids and Ice - Students calculate how much ice may be present on the asteroid 24-Themis based on recent discoveries by NASA.
[Grade: 9-12 | Topics: mass=density x volume; volume of a spherical shell]
Go to link.
NASA INSPIRE program for High School students
Applications are being accepted from Monday, May 3 through Wednesday, June 30.
NASA will make selections for the program in September. Selectees and their parents will participate in an online learning community with opportunities to interact with peers, NASA engineers and scientists. The online community also provides appropriate grade level educational activities, discussion boards and chat rooms for participants to gain exposure to careers and opportunities available at NASA.
Students selected for the program will have the option to compete for unique grade-appropriate experiences during the summer of 2011 at NASA facilities and participating universities. INSPIRE is designed to encourage students in ninth through 12th grades to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. The summer experience provides students with a hands-on opportunity to investigate education and careers in those disciplines.
INSPIRE is part of NASA's education strategy to attract and retain students in the STEM disciplines critical to NASA's missions. For information about INSPIRE, visit:
To apply for the program, visit:
Teacher Opportunties
National Lab Day
National Lab Day is more than just a day - it's a movement. NLD is bringing hands-on, exciting, and experiment-based learning to kids all over the country.
NLD is the ultimate educational matchmaker. Teachers and educators can post a project on our website to request scientists, volunteers or even financial support (through Donorschoose.org). Volunteers, university students, scientists, engineers, other STEM professionals and, more broadly, members of the community are working together with educators and students to bring discovery-based science experiences to students in grades K-12. When an educator posts a project ( http://www.nationallabday.org/projects/all ), our system will help them get the resources needed to bring that project to fruition. NLD is already underway!
Go to <> for information, ideas, or to register a project.
2010 Science Safety Summit
Sponsored by the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association, the Oklahoma Science Safety Summit is designed to focus on the topic of safety in science classrooms and will bring sharp focus to needs, practices, and responsibilities of teachers and schools. This is designed as a Trainer of Trainers workshop and will provide the tools and knowledge to enable participants to lead the yearly training required in every school district in Oklahoma.
Science Laboratory Safety: A Training of Trainers (Grades K–12)
One-day session, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This session is designed to help teachers and administrators understand the Oklahoma science safety laws and requirements for Oklahoma public schools.
Participants will use a laboratory checklist to analyze safety conditions in their schools and receive materials designed to assess and support laboratory safety in elementary, middle, and high schools.
In this session, you will:
• Analyze sample laboratory and classroom facilities.
• Determine responses to common laboratory accidents.
• Learn how to select and maintain appropriate science safety equipment and materials.
• Engage in activities that lead to an understanding of current safety laws, rules, and regulations.
Analyze events that lead to common accidents and determine how to respond to them.
Presenter for the summit is Jim Collins of the Charles Dana Center at the University of Texas.
Jim’s extensive research in safety practices and procedures in Texas resulted in a recent strengthening of the Texas state laws regulating school safety and safety practice in Texas. His work includes the Texas Safety Standards for Kindergarten–Grade 12 and An Analysis of Laboratory Safety in Texas.
Go to the Dana Center (http://www.utdanacenter.org/sciencetoolkit/safety/) for more information about the science safety toolkit.
Summit At-A-Glance
Location: Friday,July 30, 2010 – Howell Hall (science building) on the campus of the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond.
Time: 9 am until 4: pm (8:30 Registration and continental breakfast)
Cost:$50 per person. Purchase orders to OSTA are accepted. Space is limited to a maximum of 30 participants. All participants receive a copy of a CD of Safety Kit resources, continental breakfast, lunch, and a 1 year complimentary new membership in OSTA (not good toward OSTA membership renewals). Registration Deadline: July 23, 2010
Online Registration is Open NOW at
If you prefer to pay for Registration by check or Purchase Order you may print and mail in the online form or use the registration form on the Conference page on this website.
National Lab Day is more than just a day - it's a movement. NLD is bringing hands-on, exciting, and experiment-based learning to kids all over the country.
NLD is the ultimate educational matchmaker. Teachers and educators can post a project on our website to request scientists, volunteers or even financial support (through Donorschoose.org). Volunteers, university students, scientists, engineers, other STEM professionals and, more broadly, members of the community are working together with educators and students to bring discovery-based science experiences to students in grades K-12. When an educator posts a project ( http://www.nationallabday.org/projects/all ), our system will help them get the resources needed to bring that project to fruition. NLD is already underway!
Go to <> for information, ideas, or to register a project.
2010 Science Safety Summit
Sponsored by the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association, the Oklahoma Science Safety Summit is designed to focus on the topic of safety in science classrooms and will bring sharp focus to needs, practices, and responsibilities of teachers and schools. This is designed as a Trainer of Trainers workshop and will provide the tools and knowledge to enable participants to lead the yearly training required in every school district in Oklahoma.
Science Laboratory Safety: A Training of Trainers (Grades K–12)
One-day session, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This session is designed to help teachers and administrators understand the Oklahoma science safety laws and requirements for Oklahoma public schools.
Participants will use a laboratory checklist to analyze safety conditions in their schools and receive materials designed to assess and support laboratory safety in elementary, middle, and high schools.
In this session, you will:
• Analyze sample laboratory and classroom facilities.
• Determine responses to common laboratory accidents.
• Learn how to select and maintain appropriate science safety equipment and materials.
• Engage in activities that lead to an understanding of current safety laws, rules, and regulations.
Analyze events that lead to common accidents and determine how to respond to them.
Presenter for the summit is Jim Collins of the Charles Dana Center at the University of Texas.
Jim’s extensive research in safety practices and procedures in Texas resulted in a recent strengthening of the Texas state laws regulating school safety and safety practice in Texas. His work includes the Texas Safety Standards for Kindergarten–Grade 12 and An Analysis of Laboratory Safety in Texas.
Go to the Dana Center (http://www.utdanacenter.org/sciencetoolkit/safety/) for more information about the science safety toolkit.
Summit At-A-Glance
Location: Friday,July 30, 2010 – Howell Hall (science building) on the campus of the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond.
Time: 9 am until 4: pm (8:30 Registration and continental breakfast)
Cost:$50 per person. Purchase orders to OSTA are accepted. Space is limited to a maximum of 30 participants. All participants receive a copy of a CD of Safety Kit resources, continental breakfast, lunch, and a 1 year complimentary new membership in OSTA (not good toward OSTA membership renewals). Registration Deadline: July 23, 2010
Online Registration is Open NOW at
If you prefer to pay for Registration by check or Purchase Order you may print and mail in the online form or use the registration form on the Conference page on this website.
FIRST Robotics
Know anyone that is interested in participating in FIRST Robotics Competition? This is a great informational meeting to introduce them to what it's all about.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Creative Oklahoma Logo
CareerTech STEM Academies have been recognized with a Great Inspirations Award from Creative Oklahoma! These awards are given for innovative endeavors and for creating a positive impact in helping transform Oklahoma into a state of creativity. This recognition also gives us the opportunity to add the Creative Oklahoma logo on our website to show that we are a part of the ever-growing network of creative Oklahoma projects being spotlighted.
STEM Webinar: Pink Brain, Blue Brain? Females and Males in Math and Science
Hear the latest science related to female brain development, including the role of genes, hormones, and environmental influences, and how social factors are proving to be far more powerful than popularly conceived. Learn concrete ways educators can help females and rein in harmful stereotypes. As a parent of two sons and one daughter, she understands the difficulty of confronting gender expectations and the value of doing so.
Goals: During the webinar:
Understand what is known about the roles of hormones and learning in shaping the cognitive skills underlying STEM performance Hear the latest science on sex differences in the brain as they relate to STEM performance. Think about new ways to engage both females and males in STEM fields.
Register for the webinar
Goals: During the webinar:
Understand what is known about the roles of hormones and learning in shaping the cognitive skills underlying STEM performance Hear the latest science on sex differences in the brain as they relate to STEM performance. Think about new ways to engage both females and males in STEM fields.
Register for the webinar
Monday, May 10, 2010
OU/ Summer Engineering Camps
Oklahoma Aerospace Summit June 3-4, 2010
Dear Educators,
The Oklahoma Aerospace Summit & Expo supports teachers throughout the state of Oklahoma and the educational advancements in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The Oklahoma Aerospace Alliance, Oklahoma Aerospace Institute and the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics have taken a cooperative leadership role in providing a venue for the aerospace industry and education to come together and help revive an interest in the opportunities that aerospace has to offer. The hope is that by inspiring educators and providing them with tools to use in the classroom, a base of students will grow to fill the job opportunities and much needed skill sets throughout the state of Oklahoma.
During the 2010 Summit, two days are dedicated to workforce and educational development. This year we welcome teachers from 3 to 12 grades to participate in this program by enrolling for June 3-4 of the Summit & Expo to be immersed with the aerospace industry’s finest mentors.
The June 3rd kick-off program allows teachers to join general and breakout sessions in which the industry will participate. That evening, there will be a special educator’s reception and tour of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center at Tinker Air Force Base. June 4th, called Education and Training Day, hosted on the campus of the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics, will be focused on enhancing the delivery of STEM education in your classroom and to inform you about exciting opportunities for your students to excel. Both general and breakout sessions will offer information, curriculum and/or tactics for you to take back to the classroom and employ. You will be paired with a mentor from the aerospace industry that can provide insight and guidance at the conference as well as a contact to help you throughout the next school year.
Teachers are provided with FREE summit and education training day registration, complimentary hotel stay for the evening of June 3, and will be given a stipend at the conference to help cover the cost of travel or for whatever you want to use it for (a total value of $600). To register, please click on New Registration to the right.
We look forward to seeing you, helping you and growing our state’s educational goals in aerospace!
Ben T. Robinson-Education & Training Day ChairBrigadier General, USAF, RetiredVP for Institutional AdvancementOK School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For additional information visit the webiste.
https://www.eiseverywhere.com/ehome/index.php?eventid=7765&tabid=7702&
The Oklahoma Aerospace Summit & Expo supports teachers throughout the state of Oklahoma and the educational advancements in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The Oklahoma Aerospace Alliance, Oklahoma Aerospace Institute and the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics have taken a cooperative leadership role in providing a venue for the aerospace industry and education to come together and help revive an interest in the opportunities that aerospace has to offer. The hope is that by inspiring educators and providing them with tools to use in the classroom, a base of students will grow to fill the job opportunities and much needed skill sets throughout the state of Oklahoma.
During the 2010 Summit, two days are dedicated to workforce and educational development. This year we welcome teachers from 3 to 12 grades to participate in this program by enrolling for June 3-4 of the Summit & Expo to be immersed with the aerospace industry’s finest mentors.
The June 3rd kick-off program allows teachers to join general and breakout sessions in which the industry will participate. That evening, there will be a special educator’s reception and tour of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center at Tinker Air Force Base. June 4th, called Education and Training Day, hosted on the campus of the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics, will be focused on enhancing the delivery of STEM education in your classroom and to inform you about exciting opportunities for your students to excel. Both general and breakout sessions will offer information, curriculum and/or tactics for you to take back to the classroom and employ. You will be paired with a mentor from the aerospace industry that can provide insight and guidance at the conference as well as a contact to help you throughout the next school year.
Teachers are provided with FREE summit and education training day registration, complimentary hotel stay for the evening of June 3, and will be given a stipend at the conference to help cover the cost of travel or for whatever you want to use it for (a total value of $600). To register, please click on New Registration to the right.
We look forward to seeing you, helping you and growing our state’s educational goals in aerospace!
Ben T. Robinson-Education & Training Day ChairBrigadier General, USAF, RetiredVP for Institutional AdvancementOK School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For additional information visit the webiste.
https://www.eiseverywhere.com/ehome/index.php?eventid=7765&tabid=7702&
Project Lead the Way Educators:
MAJOR PRICE REDUCTIONS & ORDER TIMING
COURSE REVISIONS, REVIEW & MATERIALS UPDATES
SPRING EXAM PROCEDURES
CORE TRAINING REGISTRATION
NEW SCHOOL REGISTRATION DEADLINE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SAVE THE DATE
PLTW 2010 National Symposium
Washington, DC | October 20-22
Followed by the USA Science & Engineering Festival, Oct 23-24
DETAILS TO FOLLOW
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
____________________________
Welcome to our first PLTW Action Bulletin email.
The goal of this new email series is to combine major updates into one place
and as a result send fewer emails while better summarizing major action items,
updates and deadlines. We will send these as often as we have a small
collection of key new updates to share, which will vary depending on the time
of year. This is a new endeavor for us, so we hope that you will share feedback
to help improve this over time. Please send comments to info@pltw.org [mailto:info@pltw.org]with
"Bulletin Feedback" in the subject line. Thank you!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Major Price Reductions - Place Your Orders for Fall Equipment and Supplies Soon
Given the challenging budget environment for schools, we have worked very hard to
achieve major price reductions, specifically:
* 10%+ reduction in overall cost for each of High School Engineering, Middle School
Engineering and Biomedical Sciences programs
* Autodesk dropped the pricing of its software by more than 20%
* The price of POE, GTT, and DE kits are down 10%
* RNG costs are down more than 25% per kit
* Most other software titles are down 8-10%In order to
ensure the arrival of all necessary materials for the beginning of the
2010-2011 school year, we encourage you to place your orders as soon as possible.
The Purchasing Manual has been completely revised as of
February 2010 to improve the ease of ordering to support all courses. It is very
important that you review the Purchasing Manual
and Purchasing Manual Instructions closely
given the extent of the changes, but we've summarized some major elements below:
* There
is one workbook for each PLTW program: BMS, GTT, and PTE.
* Items
that are commonly required across many courses have been collected into
one place, a new Core Class and Lab Inventory worksheet. Course specific
items are in individual course worksheets - all of which are found in each
program workbook.
* All purchase order forms have been consolidated into vendor workbooks for
each program.
* All of this should make it easier to inventory your current materials and
determine what materials are needed.
* We encourage you to review the "2010 KEY COURSE SPECIFIC UPDATES" section of
the website Purchasing Manual for specific materials requirements based on course revisions.
* Please be sure to read the instructions (see link above) to be sure you
understand the new design.
* Please send any feedback on the new design to pmfeedback@pltw.org [mailto:pmfeedback@pltw.org].
* PLTW-supplied materials require 6-8 weeks for delivery, so order before school
lets out if you are able!We are continuing to look for ways to reduce the
costs of the PLTW programs and expect to deliver more savings for the
2011 school year.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Course Revisions - New Curriculum to Review & Associated Updates in Required Materials
There have been course within the Gateway to Technology, Pathway to Engineering
and Biomedical Sciences programs. Please see the specific courses affected listed
below. You will have access to the new curricula via the PLTW Virtual Academy
beginning on June 1, 2010. You must review the course revisions prior to training and/or fall classes. Also, these revisions require updates to your classroom materials and equipment. Please
review the Purchasing Manual for all changes and place your orders as soon as possible. In order to be sure PLTW-supplied items arrive before the beginning of your school year, you must place orders 6-8 weeks prior.
ENGINEERING COURSE REVISIONS
A summer Core Training version of the curriculum will be available after June 1
via the PLTW Virtual Academy with a final version posted after August 1.
Gateway to Technology
* All units for GTT have undergone major revisions. A sixth unit, Energy and the
Environment, has been added.
* If you are already teaching GTT, a virtual update for this course will be available
via the PLTW Virtual Academy in early July.
* In order to teach the Energy and the Environment unit, additional training is
required. Please refer to the information on Core Training in this bulletin to learn
more.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped. Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the required 6-8 week lead time.
Principles of Engineering (POE), Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA), and Computer
Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
* While the overall concepts of these courses remain in place, new and exciting
projects and problems have been created to engage students. Several teacher support
documents have also been created to aid in instruction.
* If you are already teaching POE, CEA, or CIM, a virtual update for these courses
will be available via the PLTW Virtual Academy in early July.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped. Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the required 6-8 week lead time.
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES COURSE REVISIONS
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences (PBS), Human Body Systems (HBS), and Medical
Interventions (MI)
* Revised course materials will be available via the PLTW Virtual Academy
after June 1.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped.
Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the
required 6-8 week lead time.
Biomedical Innovation (BI)
The capstone course for the Biomedical Sciences program will be implemented for
the first time this fall. During the first year of the field test, it is essential
that teachers provide feedback so revisions can be made for the next school year.
* All teachers implementing this course must attend Core Training at Stevenson University
(MD) and contribute feedback to the curriculum team.
* The Beta version of this course will be provided to teachers during the Core Training
and those teachers should download the finalized first-year version after August
1.
* The Purchasing Manual for this course will be posted after May 9.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Overview of Spring Exam Procedures
End of course exam procedures have been modified for the
Spring window. You can access all Assessment and Evaluation information via the
PLTW Virtual Academy
Please review these materials frequently as it will provide the guidance you need
to successfully complete the process.
THE SPRING EXAM WINDOW WILL BE OPEN FROM APRIL 15 - JUNE 30
* IED, POE, and DE exams will be delivered
and scored 100% online, no print versions of Part C
* Your Site Readiness Process should be completed no later than May 31.
* Please review this instructional podcast if you have not completed Site Readiness or require more help. You can also access the video via the PLTW Virtual Academy
NB: Prometric IBT will be off-line on from 10am- 2pm
(Eastern), Sunday, May 2nd and again on Sunday, May 9th
for routine maintenance and updates. The outage
will not affect testing.
* If you experience technical difficulties following routine
outages, please contact the Prometric help desk, via the Ichat. (Directions for
accessing Ichat are available in the IBT
User Guide.)
* Rev 2.1 of the PLTW Prime/IBT User Guide and Quick
Start Guide are available via the PLTW Virtual Academy. These revisions
include IMPORTANT changes in the test administration and reporting process
(e.g. Gated Test Delivery and Student Reports).Please contact Kristin Donlon [mailto:kdonlon@pltw.org]
or John Hansen [mailto:jhansen@pltw.org] if you have questions or require assistance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Registration for Core Training
CORE TRAINING REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
Register today for the course you need. For
specific offerings, please visit your local Affiliate's page.
* Core Training Information
* Find out which courses your local Engineering Affiliate
or Biomedical Sciences Affiliate
is offering.
* Register for Core Training in the professional development area of your teacher console.
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT CORE TRAINING
With the addition of the new unit in Gateway To Technology program, Energy and the
Environment, stand-alone Core Training will be offered at select sites
throughout the nation. Find out if your local Engineering Affiliate offering training.
CORE TRAINING INSTRUCTOR APPLICATIONS
Apply to be a Core Training Instructor! We are now accepting applications for the
summer of 2011. For more information, visit the Program Support
page.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New School Registration Period is Closing Soon
THE 2010-2011 ONLINE REGISTRATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO MAY 1. SCHOOL DISTRICT
AGREEMENTS ARE DUE MAY 15.
* If your school district wishes to implement a PLTW program for the first
time in one or more schools, you must register online
* If your school belongs to an existing PLTW district, but wishes to implement for the
first time, contact your School District Delegate. The Delegate must login to
the PLTW Extranet and
complete the registration from within the Delegate Console.
* If your school already has a PLTW program, but would like to add either the Biomedical
Sciences or Engineering programs, a short registration is required by the
Delegate by logging into the PLTW Extranet.
* Schools from brand new districts or those adding a new program will need to have a
School District Agreement signed and returned before May 15, 2010.
* Teachers will not be able to register for a spot at Core Training until the agreement
has been returned.
COURSE REVISIONS, REVIEW & MATERIALS UPDATES
SPRING EXAM PROCEDURES
CORE TRAINING REGISTRATION
NEW SCHOOL REGISTRATION DEADLINE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SAVE THE DATE
PLTW 2010 National Symposium
Washington, DC | October 20-22
Followed by the USA Science & Engineering Festival, Oct 23-24
DETAILS TO FOLLOW
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
____________________________
Welcome to our first PLTW Action Bulletin email.
The goal of this new email series is to combine major updates into one place
and as a result send fewer emails while better summarizing major action items,
updates and deadlines. We will send these as often as we have a small
collection of key new updates to share, which will vary depending on the time
of year. This is a new endeavor for us, so we hope that you will share feedback
to help improve this over time. Please send comments to info@pltw.org [mailto:info@pltw.org]with
"Bulletin Feedback" in the subject line. Thank you!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Major Price Reductions - Place Your Orders for Fall Equipment and Supplies Soon
Given the challenging budget environment for schools, we have worked very hard to
achieve major price reductions, specifically:
* 10%+ reduction in overall cost for each of High School Engineering, Middle School
Engineering and Biomedical Sciences programs
* Autodesk dropped the pricing of its software by more than 20%
* The price of POE, GTT, and DE kits are down 10%
* RNG costs are down more than 25% per kit
* Most other software titles are down 8-10%In order to
ensure the arrival of all necessary materials for the beginning of the
2010-2011 school year, we encourage you to place your orders as soon as possible.
The Purchasing Manual has been completely revised as of
February 2010 to improve the ease of ordering to support all courses. It is very
important that you review the Purchasing Manual
and Purchasing Manual Instructions closely
given the extent of the changes, but we've summarized some major elements below:
* There
is one workbook for each PLTW program: BMS, GTT, and PTE.
* Items
that are commonly required across many courses have been collected into
one place, a new Core Class and Lab Inventory worksheet. Course specific
items are in individual course worksheets - all of which are found in each
program workbook.
* All purchase order forms have been consolidated into vendor workbooks for
each program.
* All of this should make it easier to inventory your current materials and
determine what materials are needed.
* We encourage you to review the "2010 KEY COURSE SPECIFIC UPDATES" section of
the website Purchasing Manual for specific materials requirements based on course revisions.
* Please be sure to read the instructions (see link above) to be sure you
understand the new design.
* Please send any feedback on the new design to pmfeedback@pltw.org [mailto:pmfeedback@pltw.org].
* PLTW-supplied materials require 6-8 weeks for delivery, so order before school
lets out if you are able!We are continuing to look for ways to reduce the
costs of the PLTW programs and expect to deliver more savings for the
2011 school year.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Course Revisions - New Curriculum to Review & Associated Updates in Required Materials
There have been course within the Gateway to Technology, Pathway to Engineering
and Biomedical Sciences programs. Please see the specific courses affected listed
below. You will have access to the new curricula via the PLTW Virtual Academy
beginning on June 1, 2010. You must review the course revisions prior to training and/or fall classes. Also, these revisions require updates to your classroom materials and equipment. Please
review the Purchasing Manual for all changes and place your orders as soon as possible. In order to be sure PLTW-supplied items arrive before the beginning of your school year, you must place orders 6-8 weeks prior.
ENGINEERING COURSE REVISIONS
A summer Core Training version of the curriculum will be available after June 1
via the PLTW Virtual Academy with a final version posted after August 1.
Gateway to Technology
* All units for GTT have undergone major revisions. A sixth unit, Energy and the
Environment, has been added.
* If you are already teaching GTT, a virtual update for this course will be available
via the PLTW Virtual Academy in early July.
* In order to teach the Energy and the Environment unit, additional training is
required. Please refer to the information on Core Training in this bulletin to learn
more.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped. Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the required 6-8 week lead time.
Principles of Engineering (POE), Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA), and Computer
Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
* While the overall concepts of these courses remain in place, new and exciting
projects and problems have been created to engage students. Several teacher support
documents have also been created to aid in instruction.
* If you are already teaching POE, CEA, or CIM, a virtual update for these courses
will be available via the PLTW Virtual Academy in early July.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped. Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the required 6-8 week lead time.
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES COURSE REVISIONS
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences (PBS), Human Body Systems (HBS), and Medical
Interventions (MI)
* Revised course materials will be available via the PLTW Virtual Academy
after June 1.
* Review the Purchasing Manual to be sure your classrooms are properly equipped.
Please place orders for PLTW-supplied materials as soon as possible, given the
required 6-8 week lead time.
Biomedical Innovation (BI)
The capstone course for the Biomedical Sciences program will be implemented for
the first time this fall. During the first year of the field test, it is essential
that teachers provide feedback so revisions can be made for the next school year.
* All teachers implementing this course must attend Core Training at Stevenson University
(MD) and contribute feedback to the curriculum team.
* The Beta version of this course will be provided to teachers during the Core Training
and those teachers should download the finalized first-year version after August
1.
* The Purchasing Manual for this course will be posted after May 9.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Overview of Spring Exam Procedures
End of course exam procedures have been modified for the
Spring window. You can access all Assessment and Evaluation information via the
PLTW Virtual Academy
Please review these materials frequently as it will provide the guidance you need
to successfully complete the process.
THE SPRING EXAM WINDOW WILL BE OPEN FROM APRIL 15 - JUNE 30
* IED, POE, and DE exams will be delivered
and scored 100% online, no print versions of Part C
* Your Site Readiness Process should be completed no later than May 31.
* Please review this instructional podcast if you have not completed Site Readiness or require more help. You can also access the video via the PLTW Virtual Academy
NB: Prometric IBT will be off-line on from 10am- 2pm
(Eastern), Sunday, May 2nd and again on Sunday, May 9th
for routine maintenance and updates. The outage
will not affect testing.
* If you experience technical difficulties following routine
outages, please contact the Prometric help desk, via the Ichat. (Directions for
accessing Ichat are available in the IBT
User Guide.)
* Rev 2.1 of the PLTW Prime/IBT User Guide and Quick
Start Guide are available via the PLTW Virtual Academy. These revisions
include IMPORTANT changes in the test administration and reporting process
(e.g. Gated Test Delivery and Student Reports).Please contact Kristin Donlon [mailto:kdonlon@pltw.org]
or John Hansen [mailto:jhansen@pltw.org] if you have questions or require assistance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Registration for Core Training
CORE TRAINING REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
Register today for the course you need. For
specific offerings, please visit your local Affiliate's page.
* Core Training Information
* Find out which courses your local Engineering Affiliate
or Biomedical Sciences Affiliate
is offering.
* Register for Core Training in the professional development area of your teacher console.
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT CORE TRAINING
With the addition of the new unit in Gateway To Technology program, Energy and the
Environment, stand-alone Core Training will be offered at select sites
throughout the nation. Find out if your local Engineering Affiliate offering training.
CORE TRAINING INSTRUCTOR APPLICATIONS
Apply to be a Core Training Instructor! We are now accepting applications for the
summer of 2011. For more information, visit the Program Support
page.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New School Registration Period is Closing Soon
THE 2010-2011 ONLINE REGISTRATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO MAY 1. SCHOOL DISTRICT
AGREEMENTS ARE DUE MAY 15.
* If your school district wishes to implement a PLTW program for the first
time in one or more schools, you must register online
* If your school belongs to an existing PLTW district, but wishes to implement for the
first time, contact your School District Delegate. The Delegate must login to
the PLTW Extranet and
complete the registration from within the Delegate Console.
* If your school already has a PLTW program, but would like to add either the Biomedical
Sciences or Engineering programs, a short registration is required by the
Delegate by logging into the PLTW Extranet.
* Schools from brand new districts or those adding a new program will need to have a
School District Agreement signed and returned before May 15, 2010.
* Teachers will not be able to register for a spot at Core Training until the agreement
has been returned.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Teacher Training for AP* Science Using Hands-on Activities
AP* Biology and AP* Environmental Science Summer Workshops - Come Join Us!
If you are looking for a way to:
* firm up your understanding of concepts you are expected to teach
* integrate the unifying themes of AP Biology or APES and weave content areas together
* identify and correct students' misconceptions
* incorporate hands-on methods for teaching difficult topics
* utilize models, games, puzzles or activity-based teaching techniques
* add new lab and field exercises
* introduce your students to meaningful experiences that are both memorable and revealing
...then come join us for a week of experiential learning! We will be doing all of these things as well as collaborating to create new activities, sharing useful web resources and discovering affordable ways to borrow/acquire/create equipment, models and other teaching tools for your AP Biology and AP Environmental Science classroom.
Summer Workshop Dates: Price (includes one unit of lesson plans from the AP*ES or
AP* Biology Daily Lesson Plans curricula)
Genetics June 21-June 25 $490
Cell Biology June 28-July 2 $490
Ecology July 5-July 9 $490
Click on this link and scroll down to the subtitle "5-Day Summer Workshops 2010" for more information on travel and accommodations, or to download an application:
There are still spaces available in each 5-Day Summer Workshop. Please send me an email if you would like me to hold your place for any particular week.
Sincerely,
Kristen Dotti
Catalyst Learning Curricula
828-687-0807
Kristen.Dotti@CatalystLearning ( mailto:Kristen.Dotti@CatalystLearningCurricula.com )Curricula.com
If you are looking for a way to:
* firm up your understanding of concepts you are expected to teach
* integrate the unifying themes of AP Biology or APES and weave content areas together
* identify and correct students' misconceptions
* incorporate hands-on methods for teaching difficult topics
* utilize models, games, puzzles or activity-based teaching techniques
* add new lab and field exercises
* introduce your students to meaningful experiences that are both memorable and revealing
...then come join us for a week of experiential learning! We will be doing all of these things as well as collaborating to create new activities, sharing useful web resources and discovering affordable ways to borrow/acquire/create equipment, models and other teaching tools for your AP Biology and AP Environmental Science classroom.
Summer Workshop Dates: Price (includes one unit of lesson plans from the AP*ES or
AP* Biology Daily Lesson Plans curricula)
Genetics June 21-June 25 $490
Cell Biology June 28-July 2 $490
Ecology July 5-July 9 $490
Click on this link and scroll down to the subtitle "5-Day Summer Workshops 2010" for more information on travel and accommodations, or to download an application:
There are still spaces available in each 5-Day Summer Workshop. Please send me an email if you would like me to hold your place for any particular week.
Sincerely,
Kristen Dotti
Catalyst Learning Curricula
828-687-0807
Kristen.Dotti@CatalystLearning ( mailto:Kristen.Dotti@CatalystLearningCurricula.com )Curricula.com
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
National Lab Day Set for May 12, 2010
Summer Science Workshops for Educators
Five week-long NASA-related science workshops are offered to K-12 educators.
Applications are currently being accepted.
July 12 - August 6, 2010
Penn State University Park campus
See
State Superintendent's Regional Curriculum Conferences: 2010 A PASS Odyssey
Date: Tuesday, June 15
Location: Central Middle School, Lawton
Date: Tuesday, June 15
Location: McAlester High School, McAlester
Date: Wednesday, June 16
Location: Del City High School, Del City
Date: Wednesday, June 16
Location: Fulton Learning Center, Tulsa
Date:Thursday, June 17
Location: Grove High School, Grove
Date: Thursday, June 17
Location: Woodward High School, WoodwardAll content and all grade levels will have presentations available in addition to a keynote speaker. Online registration is available at
April 22nd marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, and gives teachers an opportunity to encourage environmental stewardship. Events and resources are available from a number of organizations, and NABT makes your search for classroom ideas easy. NABT supports both the teaching of environmental ( http://www.nabt2008.org/procs/CLink.php?c=240&s=418&m=2&r=mjrow@classicnet.net&lid=1808 )and sustainability ( http://www.nabt2008.org/procs/CLink.php?c=240&s=418&m=2&r=mjrow@classicnet.net&lid=1809 )topics in the biology classroom. Official statements can be found at NABT Position Statements ( http://www.nabt2008.org/procs/CLink.php?c=240&s=418&m=2&r=mjrow@classicnet.net&lid=1810 ). The NABT Ecology/Environment Resource Page ( http://www.nabt2008.org/procs/CLink.php?c=240&s=418&m=2&r=mjrow@classicnet.net&lid=1811 )at http://www.nabt.org/websites/institution/index.php?p=107 ( http://www.nabt2008.org/procs/CLink.php?c=240&s=418&m=2&r=mjrow@classicnet.net&lid=1812 )has what you need to address the important themes of Earth Day with your students.
OKSDE Technology Workshop Opportunities
The calendar for instructional technology trainings has been created and is now located for viewing and registering in one simple location. The URL below lists all training opportunities beginning in May and ending in August. Early enrollment is highly encouraged for these trainings because they do fill quickly. Please note if registering multiple participants for a training, separate computers will need to be utilized for each registration.
See
Toshiba America Foundation Grants
Toshiba America Foundation (TAF) is currently accepting applications for grants to support innovative projects designed by math and science teachers – grades K-6 and grades 7-12 to make their own classrooms more exciting and successful for students.
Deadline:August 01, 2010
Separate applications for K-6 and 7-12 can be found at:
May 12 will be the first official National Lab Day! Not signed up yet? Not to worry: even if May 12 doesn’t work for you, National Lab Day is more than just a day. Whether you are looking for help with your science fair, or maybe someone to host a field trip, advise an after-school program, help with a hands-on activity, or supply some cool lab equipment, National Lab Day can help.
At the NLD website ( http://www.nationallabday.org/ )you simply sign up then submit your idea for a project (or what you need in your classroom) and the website matches your request with a STEM professional who has also joined the NLD hub. (And you can also get funding for your classroom or project by registering on Donors Choose on the NLD site!)
Learn more and to sign up your project for National Lab Day at www.nationallabday.org ( http://www.nationallabday.org/ )today.
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