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CATCA 2023 has ended

CATCA recognizes that convention is situated on Treaty 7, South of Red Deer River, the traditional territory of the Blackfoot, Tsuu T’ina, and Stoney Nakoda peoples, and that the North of Red Deer River Treaty 6, traditional Métis, Cree, and Saulteaux territory. We honour the First Peoples who have lived here since time immemorial, and we give thanks for the land.

The POST CONVENTION VIDEOS are going to be available until May 30th, and here is the link: CLICK HERE
Science (TQS 3) [clear filter]
Thursday, February 23
 

9:00am MST

Engaging Experiments For Any Grade Level
Every convention you want to leave with someone that you do the next week that will impact student learning. This session will give you just that. Jason presents at conventions and puts on science shows for kids and In this session he will go through some of the easiest experiments you can demo or do with your class for maximum engagement. Science should be fun, loud, silly, and messy. Come have fun and get your science on! THIS SESSION WILL BE HELD AT École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School (4204 58 St, Red Deer, AB T4N 2L6) in room 1208.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Zackowski

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science
Jason Zackowski is a science/chemistry teacher with LTCHS and currently the curriculum leader for Science there. He has done “Extreme-Science” videos with a local radio station, delivers science shows (pre-COVID) and has been featured on The History Channel as a presenter on History... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School-1208

9:00am MST

Optics and the Human Eye
Have you wondered how the lens in your eye works to create a focused image? Have you wondered why your peripheral vision can sense motion? Explore these questions and more! In this session participants will get to explore how their eyes work and how focused images are formed. They will get to use hands-on classroom ready resources developed by the Perimeter Institute. These resources are available for free from resources.perimeterinstitute.ca in English and in French.


Thursday February 23, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2905

9:00am MST

Teslas in the Wild
We are in the middle of a transportation transformation. The electrification of transportation represents a huge revolution in more than just how we move things. How society views transportation, energy and efficiency will be permanently changed in the next decade. The changes that exist as society pursues electric cars represent a socio-scientific issue that is fertile ground for education. There are many subject-specific connections like energy, efficiency, battery chemistry, and motion that will be discussed, but Ian will also explore how electric vehicles can be used to explore aspects of the nature of science like data gathering, evidence, skepticism, and complexity.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Doktor

Ian Doktor

Ian graduated from the U of A in 2002 and began his teaching career in Red Deer. Since then he has taught math and science in Japan, Mexico, China, Vancouver and Edmonton. He has spent over 15 years teaching AB and IB Physics and Calculus and completed a Masters in Education at UBC... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2906

9:00am MST

Do Marks Make the Grade?
As our world has been turned upside down, how do we effectively assess students through a growth mindset? Dave has successfully removed grades from his own high school and middle school math classes. He has then lead entire schools on this transition. Moving away from a fixed mindset around assessment and towards a growth mindset. Come and learn how to lead this transition in your school community. Dave will discuss 5 simple changes you can make that will transform your assessment practices.

Speakers
avatar for Dave Martin

Dave Martin

Mathematics Council
Dave Martin has a Masters of Mathematics, a Degree in Education, and a love for prime numbers. He has been teaching for 12 years, during which time, he was nominated for Teacher of Excellence in Alberta, has spoken across North America, and has successfully removed grades in most... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-B501 (Basement)

9:00am MST

Ocean, Freshwater, & Us Giant Floor Map and Augmented Reality App
Imagine walking on a giant map, following the local river all the way to the ocean. What connections could you make? What questions would you ask about the places you observe? Join the Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition and Ocean Week Canada partners as we explore the foundational connections between ourselves and the water that surrounds and sustains us. This life-sized cartographic lens of the 'Ocean, Freshwater and Us' giant map, helps raise public awareness offering opportunities to celebrate our connection to coastal areas, the ocean, and watersheds in Canada. The augmented reality (AR) extension combines powerful storytelling techniques, immersive technologies, and interactive media to strengthen ocean knowledge. **A portion of the session is BYOD. A personal laptop or smart device will facilitate access to digital resources & AR app.**

Speakers
avatar for Janice Williams

Janice Williams

Learning and Engagement Specialist, Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition | Ocean Week Canada
Janice (jae) Williams is a twice-certified science teacher who applies her talents in the global education ecosystem as an educational consultant without borders. Her pedagogical expertise resides at the nexus of science, sustainability and competency-based education. She has worked... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 9:00am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-AC146 Studio A

10:20am MST

Gamification: Turn Your Classroom Into Hogwarts
Jason has spent the last eight years perfecting turning his classroom into Hogwarts for an entire unit of chemistry. In this session Jason will explain how he sets up the game, sorts the students, keeps it fair, and maximizes engagement! A good game done right is something students will talk about for days. You'll learn what not to do from Jason's humorous failures, and the exciting highs of just how amazing gamification is when it's done right. Wingardium Leviosa!!! THIS SESSION WILL BE HELD AT École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School (4204 58 St, Red Deer, AB T4N 2L6) in room 1208.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Zackowski

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science
Jason Zackowski is a science/chemistry teacher with LTCHS and currently the curriculum leader for Science there. He has done “Extreme-Science” videos with a local radio station, delivers science shows (pre-COVID) and has been featured on The History Channel as a presenter on History... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School-1208

10:20am MST

Literature to Engage Your Students (cross curricular K-9) and Build Your Capacity with TQS #5 Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit
This session features literature and resources to engage your First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, while supporting First Nations, Métis and Inuit education and perspectives in your classroom for all students. We will also explore why it is so important to show our students that our First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people are not just a part of history, and using literature can be a great way to spark inquiry and engagement in students and make connections that are more meaningful to their learning. Additionally, "Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit" is part of our updated Teaching Quality Standard, and this session will support teachers in meeting this addition to our standard. Participants will get access to valuable resources, activities, and annotated literature lists linking to their program of studies.

Speakers

Thursday February 23, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2901B

10:20am MST

How to Host A Hackathon! Learning Design in Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning Spaces
Callysto has offered open and freely available online and in-person hackathon experiences to Grades 5-12 students. Come and learn about data science and computational thinking challenges, and how to inspire student and staff learning through hackathons.

Speakers
avatar for Jordan Swanson

Jordan Swanson

Data Scientist at Cybera, Cybera
Jordan has a Masters of Data Science and Analytics from the University of Calgary. He is a data scientist on the Callysto team with a background in health research, and a passion for sports analytics and data privacy. He enjoys educating students and adults alike about the capabilities... Read More →
avatar for Bobbi Belsek

Bobbi Belsek

Education Specialist, Callysto
Bobbi has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Education After Degree from Concordia University of Edmonton. He is an Education Specialist on the Callysto team, and has spent much of his teaching career thus far in Grade 5. Bobbi enjoys helping students and educators to build... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-Arts Centre AC160

10:20am MST

The Space for Science
Astronomy was the first formal science, having been a human endeavor for thousands of years. Modern Astronomy is a discipline that involves physics, chemistry, biology, and 'Earth' sciences in combination with scientific reasoning, problem-solving, and data gathering. In this session, Ian will discuss the latest (and less recent but still exciting!) discoveries in science, explain where Astronomy connects with the science curriculum, and provide examples of how to bring Astronomy into your classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Doktor

Ian Doktor

Ian graduated from the U of A in 2002 and began his teaching career in Red Deer. Since then he has taught math and science in Japan, Mexico, China, Vancouver and Edmonton. He has spent over 15 years teaching AB and IB Physics and Calculus and completed a Masters in Education at UBC... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2906

11:40am MST

Bringing Agriculture into the Classroom
From gate to plate, we educate! As the Alberta representative of Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, Agriculture for Life provides K-12 teachers with engaging programming materials to bring agriculture to life in the classroom! Join us to explore our collection of curriculum-linked resources including on-line and downloadable lesson plans, student publications, hands-on activities, and more. From classroom garden manuals and seed kits, to career exploration events and sustainability youth challenges, our student programs are designed to get students thinking critically about where their food comes as well as their place/role in the food system. We hope to engage, educate, and inspire both rural and urban students of all ages to understand the incredible depth and opportunity that agriculture affords in the province of Alberta and beyond.

Speakers
avatar for Nanita Blomquist

Nanita Blomquist

Education Manager, Agriculture For Life
Nanita grew up on a farm in central Alberta, where she still resides and farms with her family. With a passion for Agriculture, Nanita completed her B.Sc in Agriculture at the University of Alberta. With over 20 years of experience in the Agriculture industry, Nanita had the opportunity... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2304

11:40am MST

The Cell Deck Building Game
If you are looking for something a bit different than making a model cell out of candy OR doing a cell analogy project come try this game.
Jason has developed a deck building game in which you gather resources each round to build a cell. Players must manage waste and growth and VIRUS ATTACKS to build the best cell and survive! THIS SESSION WILL BE HELD AT École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School (4204 58 St, Red Deer, AB T4N 2L6) in room 1208.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Zackowski

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science
Jason Zackowski is a science/chemistry teacher with LTCHS and currently the curriculum leader for Science there. He has done “Extreme-Science” videos with a local radio station, delivers science shows (pre-COVID) and has been featured on The History Channel as a presenter on History... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School-1208

1:00pm MST

Incorporating Data Visualization Exercises into your Lessons
In this session, educators will be introduced to Callysto Data Visualization Exercises, which provide a meaningful and authentic way of bringing data literacy into classrooms across all subject areas. These activities will provide opportunities for students to communicate in a variety of contexts, purposes, audiences, and given a variety of situations, and encourage them to use data to communicate their understanding.

Speakers
avatar for Jordan Swanson

Jordan Swanson

Data Scientist at Cybera, Cybera
Jordan has a Masters of Data Science and Analytics from the University of Calgary. He is a data scientist on the Callysto team with a background in health research, and a passion for sports analytics and data privacy. He enjoys educating students and adults alike about the capabilities... Read More →
avatar for Bobbi Belsek

Bobbi Belsek

Education Specialist, Callysto
Bobbi has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Education After Degree from Concordia University of Edmonton. He is an Education Specialist on the Callysto team, and has spent much of his teaching career thus far in Grade 5. Bobbi enjoys helping students and educators to build... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-Arts Centre AC160

1:00pm MST

From Anxiety to Empowerment: Engaging Secondary Students in Climate Solutions
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues we face, and students know this. A 2020 survey of over 500 Alberta youths revealed that a strong majority of students are concerned about their future as a result of climate change and want to learn what we can do to address it. In this interactive session designed specifically for secondary teachers, learn how to steer clear of gloom and doom and instill confidence and optimism about the future by focusing on climate solutions. In the words of climate activist Greta Thunberg, "The climate crisis has already been solved. We already have all the facts and solutions. All we have to do is to wake up and change." Join us as we demonstrate how exploring real-world climate solutions is a fun and engaging way to build hope and agency in your students, equip them with the knowledge and skills to become the environmental leaders of tomorrow, and introduce them to exciting careers of the future. We’ll also share connections to the Alberta curriculum and many high-quality resources you can use immediately with your students.

Speakers
avatar for Marie Tremblay

Marie Tremblay

Alberta Council for Environmental Education / French
Dr. Marie Tremblay joined the Alberta Council for Environmental Education in 2018 as senior education advisor, bringing to her role a dual passion for education and the environment. With university degrees in engineering, education, environmental design (Master's) and ecology (PhD... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2216

1:00pm MST

The Shop Your Pantry Meal Challenge!
Attention all Elementary Math, Science, Health, CTF and Social teachers! Are you looking for a great idea to help you work with some of the new curriculum? In this interactive session, we will show you tips and tricks to share with your students in the ultimate Shop-Your-Pantry Meal Challenge to see who the savviest junior chef in the kitchen is! We will explore a food labelling activity, apply some math skills in the kitchen, learn about budgeting using foods you might have on hand in the fridge and pantry, and explore the health benefits, science, and sustainability linked to growing canola and pulses.

Speakers
avatar for Debra McLennan

Debra McLennan

Food & Nutrition Coordinator, Alberta Pulse Growers Commission
Debra McLennan is a Registered Dietitian with over three decades of experience in health care, education and industry.  Debra now brings her passion for food and nutrition to her role as Food & Nutrition Coordinator with Alberta Pulse Growers where she shares science based information... Read More →
avatar for Louise Labonte

Louise Labonte

Public Engagement and Promotions Coordinator, Alberta Canola Producers Commission


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2905

1:00pm MST

Let's Clear the Air
The benefits of clean air in the classroom go beyond sniffles and coughs: the air we share has wide-reaching implications in education, both from the health and well-being of staff and students and in enhancing learning and educational outcomes.

This session will explore the science behind indoor air quality in schools and some surprisingly easy solutions that also make great in-class science projects. High indoor air quality is proven to boost cognitive functioning, concentration, test scores, and positive health outcomes while reducing headaches, brain fog, illness, and fatigue.

Speakers
DW

Dorothy Wigmore

Dorothy Wigmore still has her early 1990s “Fresh air” enscribed brick from the Canadian Union of PublicEmployees (CUPE). One of her filing cabinets has at least one-and-a-half drawers full of materials aboutindoor air hazards and solutions. These days, her work includes building... Read More →
avatar for Joe Vipond

Joe Vipond

Joe Vipond is an ER doc, past-president of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, and the co-founder of #masks4Canada & ProtectOurProvinceAB.He is an ardent advocate for strong, evidence-based COVID policy, including public masking and the mitigation of airborne... Read More →
JO

John Oudyk

John has been involved with indoor air quality (IAQ) since the 1980’s (when background CO 2  levels were 330 ppm – now they’re 420 ppm). He participated on the tripartite committee that wrote the FederalIAQ regulation. He has done about 150 IAQ investigations. Since 1991 he... Read More →
DM

Dr. Malgorzata (Gosia) Gasperowicz

Dr. Malgorzata (Gosia) Gasperowicz is a developmental biologist and a researcher at the University ofCalgary. She earned her Masters at the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology in Gdansk, Poland, and a PhD in biology at Albert Ludvig University of Freiburg, Germany. Dr. Gasperowicz... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1435

1:00pm MST

Dungeons And Dragons but with Plants. Using Game Theory to teach Plant Systems
The Plant (and leaf cross section) isn't the most exciting thing to teach kids in the world. Let's be honest, you probably get more kids buying in if you talk about Giraffes or Sharks. However, for those science teachers that have to teach the curriculum it's always a struggle for engagement. SO- this activity might be for you. Come experience what it feels like to be a DERMAL WARRIOR (if that's your chosen character class) to grow and dominate the forest, either choking sunlight out from your friends, defending pest attacks or clogging up the root system.Come join the session to have fun and learn a fun activity to teach the plant system. THIS SESSION WILL BE HELD AT École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School (4204 58 St, Red Deer, AB T4N 2L6) in room 1208.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Zackowski

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science
Jason Zackowski is a science/chemistry teacher with LTCHS and currently the curriculum leader for Science there. He has done “Extreme-Science” videos with a local radio station, delivers science shows (pre-COVID) and has been featured on The History Channel as a presenter on History... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
École Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School-1208

1:00pm MST

The Science of the Flat Earth
Most people consider the notion of a flat earth to be comically or silly. In this session, Ian will talk about how misconception's like a Flat Earth can be profoundly useful in teaching contexts. Ian will provide examples of how and why scientific approaches to these issues can provide students with a better understanding of the nature of science, and empirical evidence and help students develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate other socio-scientific problems.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Doktor

Ian Doktor

Ian graduated from the U of A in 2002 and began his teaching career in Red Deer. Since then he has taught math and science in Japan, Mexico, China, Vancouver and Edmonton. He has spent over 15 years teaching AB and IB Physics and Calculus and completed a Masters in Education at UBC... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2906

1:00pm MST

Using Online Simulations to Improve Conceptual Understanding in Math and Science
Learn how online simulations help teachers take advantage of research-proven instructional strategies and help students of all ability levels develop conceptual understanding in math and science. Teachers can supplement and enhance instruction with powerful interactive visualizations of concepts. Students can manipulate key variables, generate and test hypotheses, and engage in extensive “what-if” experimentation.

Speakers
avatar for Josee Desmeules

Josee Desmeules

Implementation Coordinator, ExploreLearning
Josée Desmeules has over 25 years of experience in education.  She began her career in Montreal as a special education teacher, then as an educational consultant, before moving to Alberta in 2005.  She taught math and science for a few years and became the Educational Technology... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-B501 (Basement)

1:00pm MST

Immersive Wildlife Education for Your Classroom!
Immerse yourself in the world of teaching wildlife, ecosystems, and land use with Inside Education! This interactive session will guide you through hands-on activities to engage students in meaningful learning about Alberta’s wildlife species, habitats, species at risk, and human interactions, while inspiring an environmental stewardship mentality. This session not only leaves you with inspiration and new ideas to use in your classroom, but you will also gain access to newly developed interactive games that allow students to experience ecosystems by traveling through the Westcastle and Boreal regions of Alberta. Through the eyes of different organisms in the games, students immerse themselves in the wilderness and complete quests to experience life cycles, habitats, interspecific relationships, and human interactions firsthand.Come along for the wild ride!

Speakers
avatar for Braeden Elenko

Braeden Elenko

Inside Education
Inside Education is an Alberta-based, environment and natural resource education charity. We have been supporting teachers and students to think critically about environmental topics since 1985! With our no-cost teaching resources, youth summits, in-class and field programs, and professional... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2305

1:00pm MST

Sustainable Agriculture - Soil Microorganisms and Growing Mushrooms in Your Classroom
This talk done by Tatenda Mambo will address the vital role soil microorganisms play in the development and support of soil health for the growth of plants. The talk will highlight the relationships plants and microorganisms form that supply plants with nutrients, protect plants from predators and provide vital ecosystem services. Additionally, participants will have an opportunity to observe live soil microbes in different trophic levels to highlight the diversity found in healthy soils.
The second part of this talk will have hands on components and address how to grow mushrooms using byproducts (straw, sawdust) and food waste (spent coffee grounds, spent brewery grains). Discussed will be the mushroom life cycles and the various cultivation steps from inoculation to harvest. Also addressed will be the role fungi play in nature and their vital role in nutrient cycling, supporting healthy soils and sequestering carbon in the soil.

Speakers
avatar for Dagmar Knutson

Dagmar Knutson

Executive Director, Dagmar Knutson
Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance Inc. is a not for profit organization, hosting annual educat
avatar for Tatenda Mambo

Tatenda Mambo

Postdoc
Tatenda Mambo is a postdoc in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape and an Instructor in the Sustainability Studies program at the University of Calgary. As part of his postdoc, Mambo’s research explores sustainability, sustainable food systems, regenerative agriculture... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 1:00pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2301

2:20pm MST

Bottoms Up – Understanding Canola and Pulses from the Soil Up!
Hey Science, Health, CTS Foods, and CTS Agriculture teachers! Are you looking for a new approach to explaining sustainability and the health benefits of canola and pulses to students from the soil up? During this interactive session, we will explore the health benefits and science of canola and pulses specifically as to how they affect our cell development and overall health of our body systems. We will be getting our hands dirty as we explore how soil chemistry can impact the health of canola and pulse growth, and discuss the sustainable practices that farmers use to ensure optimum soil health to feed an ever-increasing global population. Last of all, we will demonstrate how Alberta pulses and canola can be incorporated into a tasty farm to table recipe!

Speakers
avatar for Debra McLennan

Debra McLennan

Food & Nutrition Coordinator, Alberta Pulse Growers Commission
Debra McLennan is a Registered Dietitian with over three decades of experience in health care, education and industry.  Debra now brings her passion for food and nutrition to her role as Food & Nutrition Coordinator with Alberta Pulse Growers where she shares science based information... Read More →
avatar for Louise Labonte

Louise Labonte

Public Engagement and Promotions Coordinator, Alberta Canola Producers Commission


Thursday February 23, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2908

2:20pm MST

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence for Educators
What do we mean by artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning? What are the potential impacts on education and society, and how do we talk to students about all of this? In this (session or panel discussion) we will explore these topics, try out some examples, and talk about the potentials and pitfalls of AI and related technologies.

Speakers
avatar for Jordan Swanson

Jordan Swanson

Data Scientist at Cybera, Cybera
Jordan has a Masters of Data Science and Analytics from the University of Calgary. He is a data scientist on the Callysto team with a background in health research, and a passion for sports analytics and data privacy. He enjoys educating students and adults alike about the capabilities... Read More →
avatar for Bobbi Belsek

Bobbi Belsek

Education Specialist, Callysto
Bobbi has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Education After Degree from Concordia University of Edmonton. He is an Education Specialist on the Callysto team, and has spent much of his teaching career thus far in Grade 5. Bobbi enjoys helping students and educators to build... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-Arts Centre AC160

2:20pm MST

Getting at the Nature of Science by Doing!
Getting at the Nature of Science by Doing! In this session participants will engage in three hands-on activities that explore the relationships between observations and inferences and model building and model testing. The activities can be modified for any learning setting in which the unique nature of science is being developed by students. The session will be conducted in English but the classroom ready resources are available for free in both French and English from the Perimeter Institute at resources.perimeterinstitute.ca.

Speakers
avatar for Laura Pankratz

Laura Pankratz

Western Canada Teacher Network Coordinator, Perimeter Institute
Laura Pankratz has been actively interested in helping students be successful for many years. She has been working with the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics for the last 8 years to develop classroom-ready resources that teachers can use for general science and for high... Read More →
avatar for Lindsay Unland

Lindsay Unland

After teaching high school sciences (physics, biology AND chemistry) for 15 years Lindsay took on a new role last year as the lead Science and Technology teacher at Glendale Sciences and Technology School, a Kindergarten to Grade 8 school, in Red Deer, AB.  She is passionate about... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2905

2:20pm MST

Looking for Scientific Literacy in the 21st Century
In 2019 the SARS-CoV2 virus first appeared and within six months it radically changed how society functioned. In this session, Ian will talk about how the pandemic has highlighted the need for improving Scientific Literacy in students (and society!). He will discuss current research, and suggest classroom practices and approaches that can help foster critical thinking, evidence-based decision making, and lifelong engagement with science.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Doktor

Ian Doktor

Ian graduated from the U of A in 2002 and began his teaching career in Red Deer. Since then he has taught math and science in Japan, Mexico, China, Vancouver and Edmonton. He has spent over 15 years teaching AB and IB Physics and Calculus and completed a Masters in Education at UBC... Read More →


Thursday February 23, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2906
 
Friday, February 24
 

9:00am MST

Students interests and Curriculum topics – How to blend them
The generational “interests” gap will always be an issue for teachers and students. How can we try to stay a step ahead of it? Join this workshop on discussing strategies that will give teachers a leverage on how to understand students likings and how to use them in the teacher’s favour. We will talk about Pokémon, Fortnite, Youtubers, trendy technology and more! Learn to see science/math/arts when children only see “zaps” and “gleams”. Understand good leveraging points to keep students engaged on boring topics and, most importantly, how to find/have fun while doing it.

Speakers

Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2205

9:00am MST

Integrated Units and Assessment in Middle School
There are so many possibilities when you can collaborate with your fellow teachers to plan integrated lessons, units and assessments. This session will focus on integrating curriculum in grades seven to nine and show how effective collaboration and strong relationships are a common byproduct. Often times in division three we find ourselves subject specific and this can isolate us from others and from different and innovative teaching strategies. In the past I have been focused on math and science but when I discovered that working with the humanities teachers I learned so much more about my students and was able to brainstorm many more teaching strategies to help engage kids and strengthen our middle years team. In my experience a strong team in these tough years can make the world of difference. If you are interested in integrating curriculum, project based learning, fostering effective relationships and weaving in indigenous education knowledge and strategies please come learn with me! This session is geared towards middle years teachers, department heads, administrators, and more!
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TGli_wWq1wGQG5PKBkxBQKTGuJYANZ_MTsDtoL20xvA/edit?usp=sharing

Speakers
avatar for Tia Vandermeer

Tia Vandermeer

Teacher, Wolf Creek School Division
My teaching philosophy is based heavily around delivering a classroom environment that reaches every single learner in a 21st-century teaching style. We work heavily together figuring out our learning styles. Once we find our strengths we continue to grow in these areas. Next, we... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2905

9:00am MST

Introduction to Computational Thinking with the Northern Coding Academy
What does it mean to think like a computer? How can coding concepts help students across subjects? From the applications on our smartphones to the life-saving equipment in our hospitals, technology plays a vital role in our lives. Students exposed to computational thinking concepts early on will have an easier time learning the computer science skills which will allow them to succeed later in life. Teachers of all subjects can benefit from incorporating these concepts into their curriculum.

Join us as we explore the core computational thinking concepts and how to apply them in your own classroom, across curriculums and grades. Dive into hands-on computational thinking and coding activities for you and your students. Teachers of all subjects welcome -- no coding experience required!

Speakers
avatar for Whitney Horban

Whitney Horban

Whitney Horban (she/her) has worked in both formal and informal education and enjoys bridging the gap between the two. She has been atthe TELUS World of Science Edmonton for 8 years, traveling to schools around Alberta with the Science in Motion team and now heading up the Northern... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2901B

9:00am MST

Introduction to EcoSchools in Alberta for Elementary Teachers
In this session, learn about how your school can become an EcoSchool by engaging students in curriculum-linked, environmental and action through a choice of over 50 actions including schoolyard greening, water and energy conservation, active transportation, and waste reduction - most of which are also climate solutions. We will also demonstrate how EcoSchools’ powerful and fully bilingual on-line platform allows you to create a customized action plan for your school, track your progress, and measure the impact of your actions. Join us to learn about the many benefits of being part of the growing EcoSchools Canada in Alberta sustainability movement. Best of all, EcoSchools is free for all publicly funded schools. This is one invitation you won’t want to miss!

Speakers
avatar for Dixie Taylor

Dixie Taylor

Director of Programs, Alberta Council for Environmental Education
Dixie Taylor joined ACEE in 2022 as the EcoSchools in Alberta Program Director after serving over a decade delivering, designing, and managing various youth programs and leading successful partnerships with school districts and community partners. Dixie attended the University of... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2305

9:00am MST

Ocean, Freshwater, & Us Giant Floor Map and Augmented Reality App-Second Run
Imagine walking on a giant map, following the local river all the way to the ocean. What connections could you make? What questions would you ask about the places you observe? Join the Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition and Ocean Week Canada partners as we explore the foundational connections between ourselves and the water that surrounds and sustains us. This life-sized cartographic lens of the 'Ocean, Freshwater and Us' giant map, helps raise public awareness offering opportunities to celebrate our connection to coastal areas, the ocean, and watersheds in Canada. The augmented reality (AR) extension combines powerful storytelling techniques, immersive technologies, and interactive media to strengthen ocean knowledge. **A portion of this session is BYOD. A personal laptop or smart device will facilitate access to digital resources and AR app.**

Speakers
avatar for Janice Williams

Janice Williams

Learning and Engagement Specialist, Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition | Ocean Week Canada
Janice (jae) Williams is a twice-certified science teacher who applies her talents in the global education ecosystem as an educational consultant without borders. Her pedagogical expertise resides at the nexus of science, sustainability and competency-based education. She has worked... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-AC146 Studio A

9:00am MST

The Importance of Science History integrated into Science Lessons
What do we often love to do in science? Labs, activities, presentations, and experiments. These are certainly wonderful ways to pique the curiosity of students in science, but how many students understand how science has arrived at its status quo? Within the context of science, science fiction writer Robert A. Heinlein may have said it best when he declared that "A generation which ignores history has no past and no future." So how can you get your students engaged in the history of science? How can you bring in the discussion of both historical science figures and scientific discoveries as an integration of the science curriculum? The first half of this session discuss the importance of history's integration into science classes; the second half will be demonstrations of various activities that promote the instruction of history in science.

Speakers
avatar for Nate Siler

Nate Siler

Science Coordinator, Red Deer Public School Division
Nate Siler is the science coordinator for Red Deer Public School Division. He also teaches science education courses for the University of Alberta at Red Deer Polytechnic. There's nothing that he loves more than some people attending his sessions that have some great questions, especially... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 9:00am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-B505 (Basement)

10:20am MST

Pathways Alliance-Pathway to Net Zero emissions or Oil and Gas in a Net Zero World – Reducing emissions through technology and collaboration
Long-term future of oil and gas industry in a net zero world, as a partner in reducing GHG emissions. Discussion on how Canadian Natural and industry are collaborating towards net zero through the Pathways Alliance and what it means to Canada. There’s a bright future for oil and gas and students can drive change from within the industry. Simon Davies, VP Technology and Innovation, Canadian Natural Resources Limited, and Dagmar Knutson, CPA, CA, is the Executive Director of Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance Inc will have an engaging presentation where we ask questions to the audience and in return, it will be an animated discussion.

Speakers
avatar for Dagmar Knutson

Dagmar Knutson

Executive Director, Dagmar Knutson
Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance Ten Peaks Innovation Alliance Inc. is a not for profit organization, hosting annual educat
avatar for Simon Davies

Simon Davies

Simon Davies is a pragmatic engineer and team builder with over 37 years of experience working in the petrochemical and oil and gas sectors. As the VP of Technology and Innovation for Canadian Natural Resources Limited, he ensures that existing and upcoming technologies are considered... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2908

10:20am MST

How to engage the "Board" students-Board Games in the Classroom-Part 1
Are you a teacher looking to expand on your practices? Are you hoping to bring some hands on activities into your classroom? Come learn about how to incorporate board games into your lessons and tie them to curriculum.

Speakers
avatar for Evelyn Chan

Evelyn Chan

Middle School Teacher, Red Deer Public School
I have been teaching for over 14 years with Red Deer Public School. I started teaching Medical Studies, Sports Medicine and Biology at Hunting Hills, then moved to North Cottage and the Alternative Programs teaching Math and Science. Currently, I am teaching Health and Science at... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1500 (Cornerstone)

10:20am MST

Introduction to EcoSchools in Alberta for Secondary Teachers
In this session, learn about how your school can become an EcoSchool by engaging students in curriculum-linked, environmental and action through a choice of over 50 actions including schoolyard greening, water and energy conservation, active transportation, and waste reduction - most of which are also climate solutions. We will also demonstrate how EcoSchools’ powerful and fully bilingual on-line platform allows you to create a customized action plan for your school, track your progress, and measure the impact of your actions. Join us to learn about the many benefits of being part of the growing EcoSchools Canada in Alberta sustainability movement. Best of all, EcoSchools is free for all publicly funded schools. This is one invitation you won’t want to miss!

Speakers
avatar for Dixie Taylor

Dixie Taylor

Director of Programs, Alberta Council for Environmental Education
Dixie Taylor joined ACEE in 2022 as the EcoSchools in Alberta Program Director after serving over a decade delivering, designing, and managing various youth programs and leading successful partnerships with school districts and community partners. Dixie attended the University of... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 10:20am - 11:20am MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2305

10:20am MST

Intro to Scratch and Scratch Jr
Block coding is one of the trendiest educational tools used by many teachers. Developed by the MIT, Scratch and Scratch Jr lead block coding apps because they are free, intuitive and can be used in a multitude of projects. This workshop aims to introduce Scratch and Scratch Jr to teachers, navigate them through the user interface, teach how to develop from simple to complex projects and to give a “step-by-step” tool that will allow teachers to create their own projects. Come prepared for a interactive, conversational workshop full of experimentation and hands-on activities. Teachers are encouraged to bring their own laptop (but up to 20 Chromebooks can be provided).

Speakers

Friday February 24, 2023 10:20am - 12:40pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2205

11:40am MST

How to engage the "Board" students - Board Games in the Classroom - Part 2
How to engage the "Board" students - Board Games in the Classroom - Part 2 This session continues from the first session with detailed explanation and demonstrations of the games described in the first session. Attending Session Part 1 is highly recommended.

Speakers
avatar for Evelyn Chan

Evelyn Chan

Middle School Teacher, Red Deer Public School
I have been teaching for over 14 years with Red Deer Public School. I started teaching Medical Studies, Sports Medicine and Biology at Hunting Hills, then moved to North Cottage and the Alternative Programs teaching Math and Science. Currently, I am teaching Health and Science at... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1500 (Cornerstone)

11:40am MST

Fostering Scientific Literacy: Empower Student Decision Making in Today’s Society
Our hope as educators is that we can equip and empower our students with the skills necessary to navigate this world, especially in times of urgency and of uncertainty. When it comes to science related topics, we see a lack of science literacy in the general population, and in turn it affects their ability to make crucial decisions in their day to day lives. We must effectively equip students with science literacy skills to help them navigate crucial decision making moments. Teachers will receive support on how to foster scientific literacy in their classrooms, especially on topical controversial science topics like vaccines and climate change. Teachers will walk away with tips and tricks on how to approach these subjects with their students and will be given a guide with relevant resources.

Speakers
avatar for Helen Yip

Helen Yip

Outreach Coordinator, WISEST
Helen Yip is the Outreach Coordinator at WISEST, Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology, based at the University of Alberta. Helen has both a BSc and MSc in biology. She has worked at several informal educational settings including the City of Edmonton, Marine Life... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1800

11:40am MST

Science fiction and science non-fiction in science classes.
Teachers in Alberta have many resources for reading in the science classroom; all too often the first resource we reach for is a textbook. But what other resources might we begin to tap into to truly promote the development of science literacy within students? This question will be answered in this session. The first half of this session will give a review of the many periodicals that you can make use of in science; we will discuss periodicals that can be used from grade three to grade twelve. More importantly, we will look at how to engage the students who find it difficult to find motivation to read a one- or two-page article from one of these periodicals. The second half of this session will focus on the many pieces of science fiction that can be integrated with our curricula in Divisions II, III, and IV, and will also discuss how to keep students engaged in the reading of science fiction while not taking too much of your science class time.

Speakers
avatar for Nate Siler

Nate Siler

Science Coordinator, Red Deer Public School Division
Nate Siler is the science coordinator for Red Deer Public School Division. He also teaches science education courses for the University of Alberta at Red Deer Polytechnic. There's nothing that he loves more than some people attending his sessions that have some great questions, especially... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 11:40am - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-B505 (Basement)

1:00pm MST

Heart-based meditation in a classroom setting
After many years of studying many forms of meditation, Matt is pleased to present one that is not only easy to teach, but easy to learn! Heart-based meditation has the benefit of being cultivated by a passionate group of scientists and independently studied in almost 500 papers. After 3 minutes of heart-based meditation, the body produces over 1,300 biochemicals that include: auto-immune, SIGAS, Stem cells, telemerase enzymes and more. Widely used for stress/anxiety reduction with children, police service, ptsd soldiers, high-stress front-line workers and others... this session will teach you this powerful form of meditation, how it works, why it works and how you can easily apply it to your own classroom.

Speakers
avatar for Matt Boisvert

Matt Boisvert

Matt Boisvert has been working with children of various ages for 20 years. He is an artist, early childhood educator and lectures on meditation and sound. He has spoken at almost every Alberta convention since 2015 and is greatly looking forward to presenting his lectures in person... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1500 (Cornerstone)

1:00pm MST

PVC Science: Stomp Rockets, Marshmallow Blasters and the Science of Flight
Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Come and construct a stomp rocket launcher (with paper rocket) and marshmallow blaster with PVC pipes to explore projectile motion, rocketry and the science of flight. Once constructed participants can then test and evaluate their designs which is all part of STEM education. These activities can be modified for use in the Grade 1, 3, 4 “Building” units in science, the Grade 6 Flight and Sky Science unit, Grade 7 Structures and Forces, Grade 8 Mechanical Systems, Grade 9 Space Exploration and the Physics 20 kinematics unit. 3, 2, 1 blast off!

Participants will explore projectile motion, rocketry and the science of flight. Once constructed participants can then test and evaluate their designs which is all part of STEM education. These activities can be modified for use in the Grade 1, 3, 4 “Building” units in science, the Grade 6 Flight and Sky Science unit, Grade 7 Structures and Forces, Grade 8 Mechanical Systems, Grade 9 Space Exploration and the Physics 20 kinematics unit. 3, 2, 1 blast off! Gr 1 – Building Things Gr 3 – Building things with a variety of materials; Testing Materials and Design Gr 4 – Building Devices and Vehicles that Move Gr 6 – Flight and Sky Science Science 10 – Physics – motion Physics 20 – Projectile Motion

There is a cost associated with this session for the take-aways for teachers. You can still participate in this session if you don't want the kit. The cost is $30 per kit which includes a marshmallow blaster and stomp rocket apparatus. Send an email transfer to kristian.basaraba@gmail.com

Speakers
KB

Kristian Basaraba

Next Step High School
Kristian Basaraba is presently a high school science teacher at Next Step High school in Sherwood Park. He has a Master’s of Science in Science Education from Montana State University and has taught all levels of high school science, including International Baccalaureate and non-academic... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2905

1:00pm MST

Community Science in the Classroom: How to turn your students into real scientists
Anyone can be a community scientist (aka citizen scientist), which is a non-professional scientist that contributes real scientific research data. Community science fosters scientific literacy by engaging students in meaningful science research that addresses real-world issues and leads to scientific advancement. Through direct participation in scientific inquiry and exploration, students develop critical mindsets about the nature of scientific discovery. Community science engages many students that might not otherwise care by having them contribute to meaningful research. Teachers will get an introduction to community science, access resources to find projects that fit their curricula and go through an exercise to help integrate these projects into their classroom. Teachers will also leave with a digital toolkit that will enable them to take the lessons learned and apply them to their learning objectives in their classroom. Integrating community science in your classrooms can also help girls and gender diverse students better envision themselves as scientists and can be a tool to help address barriers to their participation in STEM fields. We will talk a bit about that in our presentation.

Ideally, participants would bring their own laptops or smartphones/tablets but the session will be doable without them.

Teachers will walk away with a basic understanding of what community science is, an introduction to some projects that they can integrate into their classes (with a detailed handout to take home with them), and how community science can help to engage students (especially those who are underrepresented in STEM fields) in real science.

Speakers
avatar for Helen Yip

Helen Yip

Outreach Coordinator, WISEST
Helen Yip is the Outreach Coordinator at WISEST, Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology, based at the University of Alberta. Helen has both a BSc and MSc in biology. She has worked at several informal educational settings including the City of Edmonton, Marine Life... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1800

1:00pm MST

Implementing Virtual Reality in the classroom
Remember when black/white boards were replaced by projectors and then projectors were replaced by smartboards? Get ready because Virtual Reality (VR) will be the next replacer. Get familiar with the Metaverse and Oculus Quest 2 in this interactive experience. This workshop aims to introduce VR to teachers (from getting comfortable with VR hands movements to navigating on the Operation System) and 3-5 apps that can be used on Education. After a taster of the apps, teachers will be challenged on how to create projects and, at the end, an open discussion/brainstorming session will be held on how to apply VR to the teachers needs or projects. The speaker will be providing 10-15 Oculus Quest 2 and laptops for attendees to try.

Speakers

Friday February 24, 2023 1:00pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-2205

2:20pm MST

Seeing Sound - an introduction to Cymatics
Welcome to Cymatics: the exploration of the shapes of sounds! Our entire reality—even light—is formed from vibration. In this session you will learn how sound effects our world, how even plants and planets make sound, how some sounds stimulate our vagus nerves and encourage immune boosts and healing, a brief history of the study of sound and even some simple experiments you can do with your children to demonstrate the physical nature of sound.

Sound is everywhere—even if you can't hear it—and it is constantly effecting our bodies and our world. Being able to "see" sound drastically changes our perspective of what it is, what it means for us on a day-to-day basis and what it holds for our future. This session comes with some cool projects to do with your class that will change the way your students think about sound.

In this session you will learn how sound effects our world, encourages immune boosts and healing, and some experiments you can do to demonstrate the "physical" nature of sound!

Speakers
avatar for Matt Boisvert

Matt Boisvert

Matt Boisvert has been working with children of various ages for 20 years. He is an artist, early childhood educator and lectures on meditation and sound. He has spoken at almost every Alberta convention since 2015 and is greatly looking forward to presenting his lectures in person... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1222

2:20pm MST

Teaching Strategies to Promote EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) in Your Science Classroom
As educators, sometimes we don’t realize that our implicit biases play a critical role in how students see themselves in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Join WISEST in this session where we’ll talk about how to recognize our own implicit biases, how to address them, and we’ll explore ways educators can challenge long held views that hold a masculine, heteronormative and eurocentric perspective in the effort to help promote equity, diversity and inclusion in the classroom. Session is open to educators who work with junior high to high school students.Teachers will get a basic introduction to teaching strategies that help promote equity, diversity and inclusion in their science classrooms. Teachers will learn how to address their own implicit biases, and how we can make conscious decisions to make our science classrooms more inclusive.

Speakers
avatar for Helen Yip

Helen Yip

Outreach Coordinator, WISEST
Helen Yip is the Outreach Coordinator at WISEST, Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology, based at the University of Alberta. Helen has both a BSc and MSc in biology. She has worked at several informal educational settings including the City of Edmonton, Marine Life... Read More →


Friday February 24, 2023 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Red Deer Polytechnic-1800
 

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