NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION NEWS
Professional Development
& Classroom Materials
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CONTENTS:
Green Schools Leadership Institutes: Summer 2011
Free Green Teacher Webinars in 2011
FREE SAMPLE: We Like to Live Green
Climate Refugees
Free Lesson Plans on Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Join the Our Peoples Garden Movement
New Documentary About Aldo Leopold
Simon Says 'Let's Stop Climate Change!'
This Earth Day Find Out Where Recyclable Materials Go
Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence Revised and Reprinted
Sustainable Schools Webinar Series: Eco-Schools USA on a Budget
TEACHERS – It’s PIP Time!
Honeywell Institute for Ecosystems Education
EPA's new Global Climate Change website for students
Stream school May 4 & 5
Excellence in Environmental Education Guidelines for Learning (K-12) Revised and Reprinted">
Critical Environmental Education Master of Education
Deadline Approaching: AASHE 2011: Creating Sustainable Campuses & Communities
Survey - Astronomy for Young Children
Animations and Videos Help Teach Earth Science
Electronic Field Trip for PollinatorLIVE: A Distance Learning Adventure
Lesson Plans Integrate Critical Thinking and Media Literacy
New Book for Young Activists to Build Sustainable Change
New EETAP Article Exploring Online EE Professional Development
Project Learning Tree® (PLT) GreenWorks! Grants
The Green Interview
Track Phenology with USA-NPN’s Nature’s Notebook
WE LIKE TO LIVE GREEN
Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Salem County: Upcoming environmental events for April and May
EE Week Special Feature: Meteorologists Explain Our Ocean Connections
BTANJ: Possible Cafe Connect dates
New book: Children and their Urban Environment
Common Diseases of Trees and Shrubs
Nature Center Directory
Nissan LEAF Educational Program
This Earth Day Find Out Where Recyclable Materials Go
ViewPure - Videos without Clutter
Water On the Table
What do Environmental Education and Geography Education Have in Common?
NAAEE: New Member Benefits Now Online
Conference Scholarships Available
EEresearch: Improve Your EE Practice
EE Week Educator Webinar: Teaching Ocean Connections: Watersheds to Reefs
Green Teacher: From Ecological Footprints to Thoughtprints
Lesson Plan Database
Green Teacher's free webinars this Spring
Stream Assessment Training
NJ Science Convention Information
Revised and Updated Guidelines Article Now Available Online
Survey on K-12 Learning Standards
New Film and Curriculum: Power Couple: The Shocking True Story of Water and Electricity
Snow Secrets
Sustainability Through Math: Exploring the Ecological Footprint
Tools for Teachers: Phenology Wheels
Free ACS Middle School Science Resource
Climate Change Communications at NSF
UW-Stevens Point offers Online Masters in Environmental Education & Interpretation
Professional development Credits for Dinosaur Hunting
2011 Barnegat Bay Environmental Educators Roundtable
Sustainable Schools Webinar Series: Introduction to Eco-Schools USA
NJESTA annual conference registration
FREE ToxRAP™ teacher trainings for K-9 teachers from UMDNJ
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs
National Environmental Education Week 2011: Ocean Connections
New Quaker School Stewardship Manual Online
Lecture: “Linking Science, Education and Stewardship”
NCSE-NASA Interdisciplinary Climate Change Education
Apply Now for New Jersey Learns!
Just Added! Project Wet & Project Wild
EE Week February 2011: Upcoming Ocean Education Opportunities
EPA webinar series on consumption
Are your professional development programs meeting needs of your audience?
Two New Online Graduate Degree Programs
Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence Revised and Reprinted
Raptors in the City ~ Technology Connects Kids with Nature
National Bird Day Resources for Educators
Teaching Earth Smarts
Virtual Indoor Air Quality School Walkthrough Webinar Resources Now Available!
NY/NJ teachers Professional Development Opportunity
Opportunity for Educators-at-Sea aboard the E/V Nautilus
"The Magic of Recycling!" -- award-winning live show, in your elementary schools
NJ State Museum Paleontology Field School
Oceanography Curriculum Ross Sea Connection
Teachers Wanted for Trout in the Classroom Program!
BTANJ BLAST: HS Biology Curriculum Development Assistance Workshop
Upcoming EE Week Webinar: Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill
Green Eggs and Sand Workshop May 13 - 15
Rutherfurd Hall Professional Development Summer Program July 5 - July 28, 2011
Free downloadable conservation biology textbook
Web-seminar Aligning School Curriculum To State Standards
Yogi Bear to Help Kids "Be Out There"
Games from Recycled Materials
Snow Secrets
The Earth Is Our Home: Children Caring for the Environment
Global Graduate Courses ~ Africa, Asia, Australia, the Americas
Sharing Nature: An Educator's Week ~ Maine
Electronic Version of OAT Available
Green Teacher's Webinar Survey for Formal/Non-Formal Educators
BuildingEnergy11: Educators Summit, March 9
Join Us--Designing Your Schoolyard Habitat Project Webinar
Raptors in the City - Technology connects kids with nature
Upcoming NJ Landscape Project Information Session
Studies in Air Quality for Science Educators
National Bird Day 2011 – Resources for Educators
New Report on Preparing Effective Teachers and Helping Students Succeed
Play Again
Project Earth
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs
Reminder: CFP for NAAEE’s 2011 Annual Conference & Research Symposium Deadline February 1st
Environmental Communication for Behavior Change ~ Online
New Jersey Science Teachers: free equipment
High School Biology Curriculum Development Technical Assistance Workshops
Coldwater Conservation School Applications Available
Earn a Master of Environmental Management at Duke University from your Desktop!
Americans'; Knowledge of Climate Change
Buy, Use, Toss?
Explore the Blue
Innovative “Nourish” Food Literacy Curriculum Now Available
One Well: the Story of Water on Earth
The Storytelling Class
Waterlife Documentary
"World of 7 Billion" (Lesson plans and a student video contest)
Learning Ocean Science through Ocean Exploration Curriculum
Google STEM Science Fair
New NJCCCS Standards project assistance
Because You Can't Wrap Wildlife
New Book - "Protecting New Jersey Environment: From Cancer Alley to the New Garden State"
Plants for Pollinators Program
BSCS Field-Test --Relative to ES, Envir Sci & Biology
News Release: Bird Songs Bible - Amazing!
"Plants for Pollinators” resource kit
Sharing Nature: An Educator's Week
Announcing EE Week's 2011 annual theme!
Sedge Island Summer Field Experience and Open House
USFS "Teachers Guide to Finding My Forest"
Distance Learning about Solar System
Delaware River Basin Water Resource Protection Forum
High School Biology Competency Testing Resources
Connecting PLT and the Gulf Oil Spill
EETAP Bulletin - September 2010
Great Swamp Watershed Association 2010 Teacher Education Workshops
A Simple Question: The Story of STRAW
More Teaching Resources on the Oil Spill
Young Voices on Climate Change
NJ State Museum 2010-2011 Program Guide is Here!
Environmental Communication (Second Edition)
Free Consumption and Product Lifecycle Unit
Free Worksheets For Teachers
Innovative EE: Look Into a Landfill
New EPA Picture Book on Air Quality for Kids: Why is Coco Orange?
Plant an Idea, Plant a Tree
The Best of CLEARING: A Unique Collection of EE Stories, Reviews, and Perspectives
Documentary Film "Unlimited: Renewable Energy in the 21st Century"
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Green Schools Leadership Institutes: Summer 2011 (Posted: 4-21-11)
Click HERE.
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Free Green Teacher Webinars in 2011 (Posted: 4-20-11)
Join Green Teacher for one or more of these upcoming one-hour, free webinars for youth educators:
· March 22: School Ground Learning, with Cam Collyer
· March 30: Reconnecting With Nature, with Herb Broda
· April 7: Eco-Art, with Hilary Inwood
· April 12: Innovative Curriculum Design for Sustainability, with Jaimie Cloud
· May 2: Using the Environment as a Context for Learning, with Gerald Lieberman
· May 10: Using Poetry to Learn Science, with Brian Fox Ellis
· May 25: Green Craft-Making, with Zabe MacEachren
All start at 7:30 p.m. EST. Advance registration is required. By the time you receive this, more sessions will be added. For more details or to register, visit the Web site. All past webinars have been archived and can be freely viewed at your convenience.
http://greenteacher.com/webinars
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FREE SAMPLE: We Like to Live Green (Posted: 4-20-11)
We Like to Live Green - a picture book on the health of the Earth. By: M.Young. (Kalindi Press, Prescott, AZ). Call 800-381-2700 for a free sample. Also, receive a FREE LESSON PLAN when ordering with discounts 40-65% off the retail price of $9.95. Environmental education for children, ages 6-8. Bilingual (English and Spanish)
http://www.kalindipress.com/books-kalindi-press/fa...
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Climate Refugees (Posted: 4-20-11)
Climate Refugees is the first feature film to explore in-depth the global human impact of climate change and its serious destabilizing effect on international politics. The film turns the distant concept of global warming into a concrete human problem with enormous worldwide consequences.
http://www.videoproject.com/clre.html
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Free Lesson Plans on Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (Posted: 4-20-11)
Energy Works Michigan has just released free downloadable lesson plans on energy efficiency, solar energy, and wind energy. Their hands-on, inquiry-based lessons are targeted for upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels. The lessons challenge students to conduct classroom energy audits, interpret wind maps to assess potential wind turbine sites, power a radio using solar panels, and more!
For more information about these free lesson plans, visit the Energy Works Michigan Web site:
http://energyworksmichigan.org/educational-resourc...
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Join the Our Peoples Garden Movement (Posted: 4-20-11)
Just in time for the start of a new gardening season…
Our Peoples Garden Database is now open to the public!
In order to add your garden to our database, you will need to follow 3 easy steps.
1) The first step is to submit your application on-line.
2) Second, request an eAuthentication from USDA. This should take about 10 minutes. Instructions on how to do this will be emailed to you once your application is approved.
3) Third, enter your garden in the database and share your story.
Join: http://www.pubinfo.usda.gov/garden
Visit: http://www.usda.gov/peoplesgarden
Follow: http://twitter.com/peoplesgarden
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New Documentary About Aldo Leopold (Posted: 4-20-11)
Green Fire is the first feature length (72 min.), high definition documentary film ever made about famed conservationist Aldo Leopold. The film explores Aldo Leopold’s life in the early part of the twentieth century and the many ways his land ethic idea continues to be applied all over the world today. The Aldo Leopold Foundation has also begun nationwide distribution of the film for small public screenings arranged by community organizers. The film will air on public television in 2012.
http://www.greenfiremovie.com
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Simon Says 'Let's Stop Climate Change!' (Posted: 4-20-11)
Featuring the "It's A Jungle Out There!"® gang by Denis Thomopoulos, "Simon Says 'Let's Stop Climate Change!'" is an 'edutaining' adventure that teaches and empowers kids on this important environmental issue. The DVD includes the animated film plus a 45 page eHandbook (with lesson plans, puzzles, and fully indexed chapters correlated to National Science Standards), an interactive quiz, a foldout wall poster, ringtones, mp3s of songs, bonus eco cartoons, and more.
https://eelinked.naaee.net/n/eelinked/posts/Simon-...
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This Earth Day Find Out Where Recyclable Materials Go (Posted: 4-20-11)
Based on facts about the process of recycling in industrial countries, Where Do Recyclable Materials Go?, by Sabbithry Persad, helps children understand the importance of recycling to save natural resources and much more. From the founder of Green Solutions Magazine comes the cheery series with kids who investigate waste and clean up their community. In Where Do Recyclable Materials Go?, Tiana learns about recycling while she and her family searches for their dog Bubbles who had chased after the recycle truck. On their adventure, they explore the MURF—the MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) where they see how recyclable materials are sorted and baled for manufacturing.
http://www.garbologykids.com
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Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence Revised and Reprinted (Posted: 4-20-11)
Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence provides a set of recommendations for developing and selecting environmental education materials. These guidelines aim to help developers of activity guides, lesson plans, and other instructional materials produce high quality products, and to provide educators with a tool to evaluate the wide array of available environmental education materials. Developed through a process of critique and consensus, the Guidelines are grounded in a common understanding of effective environmental education. Over 1,000 practitioners and scholars in the field (e.g., classroom teachers, education administrators, environmental scientists, curriculum developers) participated in the review and development of this document. Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence points out six key characteristics of high quality environmental education materials. The Guidelines for Excellence offer a way of judging the relative merit of different materials, a standard to aim for in developing new materials, and a set of ideas about what well-rounded environmental education curriculum might look like. Order your copy from NAAEE today:
http://naaee.org/publications
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Sustainable Schools Webinar Series: Eco-Schools USA on a Budget (Posted: 4-20-11)
EcoSchools_Banner
Sustainable Schools Webinar Series
Are you interested in finding out how you can implement the Eco-Schools USA program on a tight budget? Looking for tips on identifying new funding sources? Then please join us for a free webinar Eco-Schools USA on a Budget on May 4th at 5:00 p.m. EST. This webinar is part of our Sustainable School's Conference series.
To register for the webinar click below:
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Questions? Email us at eco-schoolsusa@nwf.org.
We hope you can join us!
~ The Eco-Schools USA Team
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TEACHERS – It’s PIP Time! (Posted: 4-19-11)
TEACHERS – It’s PIP Time!
Include the
Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education’s
27th Annual Environmental Education Conference
Exploring Our Blue Planet
in your Professional Development Plans for the
upcoming school year!
"Studies have shown that environmental education can increase scores on
standardized tests in key subjects such as mathematics and reading."
Copley, Jennifer. "Environmental Education Increases Academic Achievement”
Find out more about Environmental Education at ANJEE’s statewide Annual Conference, and learn how to use environmental topics and issues to …
· meet NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards,
· encourage the development of 21st Century Skills,
· teach concepts and encourage skills necessary for the NJ ASK (Science)
· integrate topics into a theme-based, multi-disciplinary approach to learning,
· promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, and
· increase awareness of global issues.
In addition:
· get help on planning lessons to meet the new science standards,
· find out about availability of money, training, and support if the federal
“No Child Left Inside” bill is passed,
· explore “Blue” curricula,
· delve deep into environmentally-themed and sustainability workshops,
· learn more about water resources, water issues, and water curricula, and
· network with education and natural resource professionals from all over NJ.
Conference Details
What: The Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education’s (ANJEE) Annual Conference.
When: January 27 – 28, 2012 Pre-conference: January 26, 2012.
Where: Wyndham Princeton Forrestal Hotel and Conference Center, Plainsboro, NJ.
Registration: Early Bird Rate, 1 day - $110. Early Bird Rate, 2 days - $170. Includes complimentary lunch & membership. Registration will open in October. More information at www.anjee.net/conference
Who Should Attend: Classroom teachers, curriculum coordinators, administrators, student teachers, after-school educators, preschool teachers, youth leaders, and you!
Include ANJEE in your Professional Development Plan or PIP now! The Invitation to Attend, including all conference rates, is AVAILABLE NOW at www.ANJEE.net/conference
Find us on Facebook!
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Honeywell Institute for Ecosystems Education (Posted: 4-19-11)
Honeywell Institute for Ecosystems Education - August 15 - 19, 2011
Conducted by the New Jersey Audubon Society
For: Middle and High School teachers in Bergen and Hudson Counties
How can you make science and social studies more relevant to your students, meet core standards and strengthen your students’ STEM knowledge and skills? Join us for “Field Studies in the Hackensack Watershed” a weeklong experience that combines outdoor explorations with inquiry-based learning. Earn professional development credit this summer…inspire your students in the fall.
• Learn new content that supports the N.J. Core Curriculum Content Standards – especially in Science and Social Studies.
• Investigate the forested regions of the New Jersey Highlands and the freshwater and tidal regions of the Hackensack Watershed.
• Spend 50% or more of each day outdoors in a variety of habitats and weather conditions
• Share ideas and discuss environmental issues of the region with professionals.
• Receive free New Jersey-specific curricular materials and other supplemental information and resources, valued at $350, for use in future classroom activities.
• Earn 30 professional development hours.
• Receive a weekly stipend for participation.
The Honeywell Institute for Ecosystems Education is limited to 28 participants. Participants must apply by June 4, 2011.
For information on the program or to apply, visit http://www.njaudubon.org/Education/Summerinstitute.html. Please share this information with your colleagues.
If you have questions, please contact NJAS directly at (609) 861-1608 ext.13 or via email education@njaudubon.org.
Ms. Dale Rosselet
Vice President for Education
Center for Research and Education
600 Route 47 North
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
609-861-1608 x14 (p) 609-861-1651 (fax)
www.njaudubon.org
Making New Jersey a better place for people and wildlife since 1897.
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EPA's new Global Climate Change website for students (Posted: 4-19-11)
Click HERE.
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Stream school May 4 & 5 (Posted: 4-19-11)
Ever wonder how you can determine if your local stream is healthy or polluted? Are you already a stream monitor but want to expand your toolbox of skills? Do you wonder what data your watershed group can gather to help better protect or restore streams in your communities? Or are you new to the water world and just curious of what insects and critters live in your local stream and want to get involved protecting them? Then Stream School is for you!
Topics covered:
* Physical and Biological Aspects of Stream Ecology and the River Continuum Concept
* Considerations for Designing a Biological Monitoring Program that Fits Your Goals
* Biological Sampling Techniques, Demonstrations, and Hands-On Training
* Macroinvertebrate Identification and Taxonomic Keys
* Regional Resources and Networking Opportunities
* Good Times Along the Scenic Delaware River - the longest stretch of Special Protection Waters in the nation * designated because the macroinvertebrates collected showed a healthy River!
This two-day interactive classroom and field workshop will help participants learn about stream health by examining the critters that live there year-round and call it home. You will learn how to collect and count these critters and turn that information into a health report for your local stream. You will receive effective methods to take action with this information to protect your stream if it is healthy or document harm and pollution to help clean it up if it is not.
Date & Time: May 4 & 5, 2011, 8:45am - 4:00pm
Featured Stream: Wickecheoke Creek - a C1 stream of New Jersey
Location: Historic Prallsville Mills along the Scenic Delaware River 13 miles north of Trenton, Route 29, Stockton, NJ
Presenters: Stroud Water Research Center & The New Jersey Watershed Watch Network
To register go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/njstreamschool2011
Registration is open units April 30, 2011.
Cost is $15 per attendee. Check payable to Delaware River Mill Society. All proceeds will go to the Delaware River Mill Society.
No food or drink will be offered at this training.
Please bring lunch, or there are lunch "take out" options in the local area.
For more information contact: Danielle Donkersloot at 609-633-9241 or danielle.donkersloot@dep.state.nj.us
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Excellence in Environmental Education Guidelines for Learning (K-12) Revised and Reprinted (Posted: 4-7-11)
Excellence in Environmental Education Guidelines for Learning (K-12) provides students, parents, educators, home schoolers, policy makers, and the public a set of common, voluntary guidelines for environmental education. The guidelines support state and local environmental education efforts, including State Environmental Literacy Plan development.
These guidelines, organized into four strands, set a standard for high-quality environmental education in schools across the country, based on what an environmentally literate person should know and be able to do. They draw on the best thinking in the field to outline the core ingredients for environmental education. Order your copy from NAAEE today:
http://naaee.org/publications/
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Critical Environmental Education Master of Education (Posted: 4-7-11)
This two-year cohort program operates through a blended delivery format that allows study at a distance. The face-to-face and online courses offer interdisciplinary study focused on integrated social and ecological justice issues, with a strong anti-oppressive component as well as place-based eco learning. The degree provides a strong theoretical and experiential basis for critical environmental action including applications to policy, curriculum and assessment, research methods, and pedagogical strategies. This program is offered in the region of the Saskatchewan Regional Centre of Expertise in Education for Sustainable Development by the Department of Educational Foundations at the University of Saskatchewan. Applications currently being accepted for July 2011 program start.
http://www.usask.ca/education/efdt/critical-enviro...
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Deadline Approaching: AASHE 2011: Creating Sustainable Campuses & Communities (Posted: 4-7-11)
The Call for Presentations deadline for AASHE 2011 has been extended through Thursday, April 14, 2011. The AASHE Conference offers a unique platform to present innovative results in North America’s largest campus sustainability conference. Submit your abstract now!
Become an Abstract Reviewer by April 14, 2011 for AASHE 2011 and lend your expertise within the sustainability field to ensure high quality programming for peer to peer sessions. Submit your name as a peer reviewer today!
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Survey - Astronomy for Young Children (Posted: 4-7-11)
The Astronomical Society of the Pacific is planning a new initiative to explore astronomy learning in young children in settings such as nature centers and museums. Please take a few minutes to complete our online survey. A $10 Amazon gift certificate will be offered to the first 100 respondents who reply by April 10.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6WB6Y9G
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Animations and Videos Help Teach Earth Science (Posted: 4-7-11)
The seismology animations Web site is a project of Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS), with funding from the National Science Foundation. Each series of animations contains text, graphics, animations, and videos to help teach Earth Science fundamentals.
http://www.iris.edu/hq/programs/education_and_outr...
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Electronic Field Trip for PollinatorLIVE: A Distance Learning Adventure (Posted: 4-7-11)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011, from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 Noon ET English and 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET Spanish
Students in grades 4-8 can join this electronic field trip to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Texas to learn about “Nature’s Partners: Pollinators, Plants and People.” This free, interactive program will be broadcast and webcast live. An all-star cast of scientists and educators will be explaining pollination, plant-insect interactions, how to study pollinators, their importance to the food supply, and what people can do to help.
http://PollinatorLIVE.pwnet.org
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Lesson Plans Integrate Critical Thinking and Media Literacy (Posted: 4-7-11)
Project Look Sharp, an award winning media literacy initiative at Ithaca College, now provides free classroom-ready curriculum materials for integrating critical thinking and media literacy into environmental studies and science curricula.
http://www.ithaca.edu/looksharp/
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New Book for Young Activists to Build Sustainable Change (Posted: 4-7-11)
Looking to change the world, but don’t know how? Start by reading The Young Activist’s Guide to Building a Green Movement and Changing the World.
Written by Brower Youth Award (BYA) director Sharon Smith, with several chapters contributed by Earth Day Network, the book is the first of its kind, a powerful and practical guide for environmental activism on schools and campuses nationwide. The book’s proceeds go directly to BYA, so visit the Guide’s Web site now to purchase a copy!
http://www.earthisland.org/index.php/bya/building
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New EETAP Article Exploring Online EE Professional Development (Posted: 4-7-11)
Going Online: EE Professional Development Meets Educators Where They Live (2011)
By Michele Archie with additional content by Sheri Sykes Soyka. Whether Julia Bair spends the next year volunteering on organic farms in Ireland, or teaching sea turtle ecology in Costa Rica, she will be able to keep up with her studies—as long as she has an Internet connection. Bair is among the first cadre of degree candidates accepted into the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point new online Master of Science in Environmental Education and Interpretation program.
http://www.eetap.org/pages/dynamic/web.page.php?pa...
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Project Learning Tree® (PLT) GreenWorks! Grants (Posted: 4-7-11)
Project Learning Tree® (PLT) awarded 28 GreenWorks! grants to create pollinator gardens. Students in 20 states will conduct service-learning projects to provide habitat for bees, birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. And, on April 13, join an electronic field trip featuring high school students from Austin, TX who completed a PLT GreenWorks! project to provide habitat for migrating Monarchs and other important local butterfly species.
http://www.plt.org/cms/pages/36_124_272.html
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The Green Interview (Posted: 4-7-11)
The Green Interview is a subscription site of extended interviews with major environmental figures from around the world such as Vandana Shiva, William Rees, and James Lovelock. Each video is accompanied by a biography, bibliography, and other information. Registrants at the site receive a blog/newsletter once a week. All that is free, as is one sample interview. To see more than one interview, people have to take out a monthly subscription. The current interviews focus on education. Just posted: Bunker Roy. Coming soon: Gregory Cajete. Visit:
http://www.TheGreenInterview.com
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Track Phenology with USA-NPN’s Nature’s Notebook (Posted: 4-7-11)
Phenology is the study of periodic plant and animal life cycle events and how these are influenced by seasonal and inter-annual variations in climate. You can join observers across the nation in collecting data on hundreds of species through the USA National Phenology Network (USA-NPN) Nature’s Notebook program, appropriate for scientists and non-scientists alike. Observations follow scientifically rigorous protocols, are entered in the national database, and are freely available for query, visualization, and download on the Web site.
http://www.usanpn.org/participate
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WE LIKE TO LIVE GREEN (Posted: 4-7-11)
We Like to Live Green - a picture book on the health of the Earth. By: M.Young. (Kalindi Press, Prescott, AZ).
Call 1.800.381.2700 for a FREE SAMPLE. Also, receive a FREE LESSON PLAN when ordering with discounts 40-65% off the retail price of $9.95. Environmental education for children, ages 6-8. Bilingual (English and Spanish)
http://www.kalindipress.com/books-kalindi-press/fa...
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Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Salem County: Upcoming environmental events for April and May (Posted: 4-7-11)
Click HERE.
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EE Week Special Feature: Meteorologists Explain Our Ocean Connections (Posted: 4-5-11)
National Environmental Education Week
EE Week Special Feature: Weather Connections to the Ocean
Broadcast meteorologists from across the country explain the ocean's impact on local weather
yanezAs part of National Environmental Education Week's 2011 theme, Ocean Connections, broadcast meteorologists from across the United States have contributed videos explaining the ocean's role in weather in their regions. These meteorologists participate in
Earth Gauge®, a sister program of National Environmental Education Week that provides weathercasters with free environmental information and stewardship tips they can share with their viewers.
Access the videos
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BTANJ: Possible Cafe Connect dates (Posted: 4-4-11)
Dear Fellow Biology Teachers/Pre-service Teachers,
BTANJ - The Biology Teachers Association of New Jersey - cordially thanks you for being a teacher and welcomes you to the profession of teaching if you are just entering the field! We are here to provide our members with high quality professional development like our Cafe Connect Workshop Series.
If you are NOT a novice teacher, please pass on this email to any new or pre-service Biology / Life Science teachers you may know.
Cafe Connect is designed by veteran teachers in the BTANJ to help novice life science teachers by providing practical, useful workshops on topic(s) relevant to each phase of a pre-service or new teacher's career.
Come, attend the next Cafe Connect that is designed especially for the graduating cohort of biology teachers. Get INTERVIEW TIPS, discuss ORGANIZATIONAL TIPS FOR TEACHERS, and PLAN THE SUMMER FOR A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR OF TEACHING.
Please take a moment and follow the link below to identify the date that works best for you. Once again, please feel free to forward this link to any other Biology or Life Science teachers you know.
http://doodle.com/k68a6fga6qzibpc8
Thank you for your time and input in helping BTANJ plan for your professional development needs ! Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions.
Yamini Varma
Teacher of Science--Lawrence High School
yaminivarma@gmail.com
732-208-6964
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New book: Children and their Urban Environment (Posted: 4-4-11)
"In our fast-changing urban world, the impacts of social and environmental change on children are often overlooked. Children and their Urban Environment examines these impacts in detail, looking at the key activities, spaces and experiences children have and how these can be managed to ensure that children benefit from change.
The authors highlight the importance of planners, architects and housing professionals in creating positive environments for children and involving them in the planning process. They argue that children’s lives are becoming simultaneously both richer and more deprived, and that, despite apparently increasing wealth, disparities between children are increasing further.
Each chapter includes international examples of good practice and policy innovations for redressing the balance in favour of child supportive environments.
The book seeks to embrace childhood as a time of freedom, social engagement and environmental adventure and to encourage creation of environments that better meet the needs of children. The authors argue that in doing so, we will build more sustainable neighbourhoods, cities and societies for the future."
http://www.earthscan.co.uk/?tabid=102560
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Common Diseases of Trees and Shrubs (Posted: 4-4-11)
Common Diseases of Trees and Shrubs
Diana K. Weiner, Volunteer Program Coordinator, Meadowbrook Farms
Friday, April 15, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Fee: $125 (includes lunch)
This course carries 5.5 CEU’s for ISA arborists.
Learn to identify the signs and symptoms of several of the most common plant diseases in our area! Fungal and bacterial diseases of woody plants can be devastating to the landscape if left unchecked. You will learn management techniques and methods for reducing these disorders to manageable levels in an environmentally friendly manner.
Diana Weiner is the Restoration and Volunteer Manager for Friends of High School Park in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. She also coordinates the volunteer program at Meadowbrook Farm, an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. She has a degree in Agronomy from the State University of New York and was Superintendent of Parks and Grounds for the Historic Hotel of America, Mohonk Mountain House. Diana served for 16 years as the Community Horticulture Educator and Master Gardener Coordinator for Cornell Cooperative Extension.
To register online: www.business-services.upenn.edu/arboretum/ed_arboriculture.shtml
or call the Morris Arboretum at 215-247-5777, ext. 125 or 156
Visit us on the web: www.morrisarboretum.org
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Julianne Schieffer
Extension Urban Forester
Penn State School of Forest Resources
Montgomery County - SE Region
1015 Bridge Rd
Collegeville, PA 19426
Phone: 610-489-4315
Fax: 610-489-9277
Web: extension.psu.edu
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Nature Center Directory (Posted: 4-1-11)
Koddler.com is an online resource for parents to find local kids activities, and anyone can submit kids destinations or events to the calendar. Nature centers are encouraged to add their programs and events. Summer camp listings are a one-time fee of $40, however with the promotion code 'natureCenterCamp' the fee is waived.
http://bit.ly/eFZ6E1
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Nissan LEAF Educational Program (Posted: 4-1-11)
Nissan LEAF Educational Program
As part of their commitment to education and innovation, Nissan is sponsoring an educational program for students in grades 3-8, parents, and educators about the Nissan LEAF, a 100% electric, no-gas car. As an all-electric car, the Nissan LEAF produces no tailpipe pollution or greenhouse gas emissions at the point of operation, and reduces dependence on petroleum. The program will be available in early April 2011.
http://www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car
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This Earth Day Find Out Where Recyclable Materials Go (Posted: 4-1-11)
Based on facts about the process of recycling in industrial countries, Where Do Recyclable Materials Go?, by Sabbithry Persad, helps children understand the importance of recycling to save natural resources and much more. From the founder of Green Solutions Magazine comes the cheery series with kids who investigate waste and clean up their community. In Where Do Recyclable Materials Go?, Tiana learns about recycling while she and her family searches for their dog Bubbles who had chased after the recycle truck. On their adventure, they explore the MURF—the MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) where they see how recyclable materials are sorted and baled for manufacturing.
http://www.garbologykids.com
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ViewPure - Videos without Clutter (Posted: 4-1-11)
Use this tool to help remove unwanted comments and other potential problematic content from YouTube videos, so they are more suitable for the classroom.
http://viewpure.com/
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Water On the Table (Posted: 4-1-11)
Water On The Table features Maude Barlow, who is considered an "international water-warrior" for her crusade to have water declared a human right. The film asks the question: is water a commercial good like running shoes or Coca-Cola? Or, is water a human right, like air? The camera shadows her life on the road in Canada -- including an eye-opening visit to Alberta's tar sands -- and the United States over the course of a year as she serves as the UN Senior Advisor on Water to Fr. Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann, President of the 63rd Session of the United Nations.
http://www.bullfrogfilms.com/catalog/wott.html
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What do Environmental Education and Geography Education Have in Common? (Posted: 4-1-11)
Outdoor-based, inquiry-driven curriculum, professional development, using GIS and GPS geotechnologies, a desire for students to dig deep into data in problem-solving environments, and much more. To explore these connections, consider joining the National Council for Geographic Education. Since 1915, the NCGE has been supporting educators at all levels.
http://www.ncge.org
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NAAEE: New Member Benefits Now Online (Posted: 4-1-11)
Members now have complete online access to two of the most respected EE journals, the Journal of Environmental Education and Applied Environmental Education and Communication. All content from these journals is now available to you electronically and is searchable. The Journal has a 41-year history of research results, while Applied Environmental Education and Communication offers 10 years of material.
The online access expands on NAAEE’s previous member benefit, a reduced-price subscription to the print version (still available if you find hard copy valuable). This access is designed to provide additional professional development that supports your valuable work.
http://naaee.net/user
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Conference Scholarships Available (Posted: 4-1-11)
NAAEE traditionally offers a variety of scholarships to help different audience segments attend the annual conference. NAAEE is now accepting applications for three of these: Deadline: May 11, 2011
Affordability, Columbia Teacher, and North Carolina Academic Scholarships. The Web site also lists approximate dates for several others to open applications. In these tough economic times, we’re doing all we can to help support our members with these options.
http://www.naaee.org/conference/scholarships
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EEresearch: Improve Your EE Practice (Posted: 4-1-11)
The EEResearch blog provides short, easy to understand reviews of EE research to help you adapt and improve your programs based on facts gleaned from reputable analysis. The blog is developed by the Cornell University Civic Ecology Lab and NAAEE Research Commission, and offers quick reviews of current EE articles from diverse journals.
EEresearch blog
EEresearch Twitter
EEresearch Facebook
http://eelinked.naaee.net/n/eeresearch
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EE Week Educator Webinar: Teaching Ocean Connections: Watersheds to Reefs (Posted: 4-1-11)
March 30, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. EST ~ Online
Registered 2011 National Environmental Education Week (EE Week) participants are invited to join this educator webinar to learn from and interact with experts Rob Ferguson, Paulo Maurin, and Cathy Sakas from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), who will share their knowledge and ideas for compelling classroom activities on watersheds and introduce participants to NOAA’s Rivers to Reefs Program.
http://www.eeweek.org/webinars/watersheds_reefs
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Green Teacher: From Ecological Footprints to Thoughtprints (Posted: 4-1-11)
Youth educators will find much of interest in the Winter issue of Green Teacher. Stephen Goobie challenges us to go beyond ecological footprints to also consider our “thoughtprints”. Readers will find practical articles about creating eco-poetry, climate change treasure hunts, and plastic bottle greenhouses. Other important contributions include a fun way to train outdoor educators, using unconventional dramatic forms in environmental programs, converting a public school to student-led outdoor learning, and using Albert Schweitzer’s teachings to promote environmental ethics to newcomers. Lastly, there are reviews of 21 exciting new educational resources.
http://www.greenteacher.com
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Lesson Plan Database (Posted: 4-1-11)
The Science and Health Education Partnership (SEP) lesson plan database provides K-12 teachers reviewed, quality hands-on lessons created by SEP classroom partnership teams and staff.
http://seplessons.ucsf.edu/search/node/
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Green Teacher's free webinars this Spring (Posted: 3-29-11)
Upcoming Webinars…
We’re pleased to announce 3newone-hour webinars this Springfor formal and non-formal youth educators. For details of these and the four previously-announced webinars, see below or visithttp://greenteacher.com/webinars. A reminder: these webinars are free of charge.We hope you’ll take advantage of the opportunity to explore these current popular topics in environmentaland outdoor learning with us.
We’ll be announcing more webinars soon, so please check our website frequently – OR visit http://list.web.net/lists/listinfo/gt-news and join our listserv to receive email notices of upcoming webinars.
Thursday April 7, 2011, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Webinar topic: "Shades of Green: Developing Artistic Approaches to Environmental Education"
Presenter: Hilary Inwood
This webinar explores the emerging field of eco-art education, an integration of art education and environmental education, as a means of helping to develop environmental literacy in students and teachers. Hilary will introduce artwork and artists focusing on environmental issues in Canada and beyond, as well as some of the eco-art work that has been created in Toronto schools in recent years. Participants will be invited to share their own ideas and projects for creative approaches to EE.
Age appropriateness: K-12
Tuesday April 12, 2011, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Webinar topic: “Innovative Curriculum Design for Sustainability”
Presenter: Jaimie Cloud
Useful to both Pre K-12Educators and non-formal educators of adults and young people, the main idea of the first part is that thinking drives behavior and behavior causes results. Identifying and naming the changes in thinking required to make the shift toward sustainability is critical to the design of transformative education for sustainability (EfS) experiences. Jaimie will present the “big ideas” that frame EfS, and will then walk participants through the EfS curriculum design and innovation process.
Age appropriateness: K-12 (for formal and non-formal educators)
Monday May 2, 2011, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Webinar topic: “Using the Environment as a Context for Learning in Standards-Based Education Systems”
Presenter: Gerry Lieberman
The webinar will discuss the instructional components of the Environment as an Integrating Context (EIC) Model™ that was first developed by the State Education and Environment Roundtable (SEER) in 1998. Describing how these practices can help schools meet the academic needs of their students, it will summarize some of the evidence about the educational efficacy of the EIC Model™. Finally, it will provide an overview of SEER’s recent work in helping schools implement the EIC Model™ and briefly discuss how environmental educators can support schools restructure their programs in order to implement an environment-based education program.
Age appropriateness: K-12
Tuesday May 10, 2011, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Webinar topic: “FROG SONGS: Poetry and Essays, Field Ecology and Entomology”
Presenter: Brian Fox Ellis
A poet’s eye and gift for language is very similar to the detailed observation and ability to communicate complex ideas required of scientists. Learn to use haiku to teach entomology. Learn to use poetry to help students write clearer more exciting essays. This simple set of lesson plans can be used by classroom teachers or informal educators to get students outdoors on a warm spring day to explore the relationships between insects and biodiversity. Come to celebrate the voices of nature and find your voice as a poet.
Age appropriateness: K-12 (for formal and non-formal educators)
Wednesday May 25, 2011, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Webinar topic: “Green Craft-Making”
Presenter: Zabe MacEachren
The why and how of focusing one’s eco-art activities on using natural materials easily found in the outdoors.
Age appropriateness: K-12 (for formal and non-formal educators)
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Stream Assessment Training (Posted: 3-29-11)
Help protect your local streams! The NJ Watershed Ambassadors are providing a FREE Stream Assessment Workshop to help you become a steward to your local waterways. Find out how to determine the quality of water quality by looking at stream habitat and sampling for live freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates (stream insects) along a tributary of the Raritan River.
Where: Duke Farms, 80 US Hwy 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844
When: Sunday April 17th, 10am-3pm
Assessment equipment will be provided. Please bring waterproof boots or waders if you plan to get into the stream. Remember to dress for the outdoors and wear sturdy shoes. Bring water or a reusable bottle. Refreshments and snacks will be provided.
For questions or to register, please contact:
Meghan Keffer, NJ Watershed Ambassador, at 609-883-9500 ext. 246 or americorps@drbc.state.nj.us
*Space is limited to 30 participants, you must register by Thursday April 14th*
Meghan Keffer
NJ Watershed Ambassador, WMA 11
Central Delaware
Hosted by Delaware River Basin Commission
25 State Police Dr.
West Trenton, NJ
Phone: 609-477-7246
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NJ Science Convention Information (Posted: 3-29-11)
SAVE THE DATE
Help Celebrate the 35th Annual
New Jersey Science Convention
October 11th and 12th, 2011
We are pleased to provide an outstanding opportunity for you to attend one of the largest state science conventions The 35th Annual NJ Science Convention, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, October 11th and 12th, 2011, at the DoubleTree Hotel, and Garden State Exhibit Center in Somerset, N.J.
We anticipate more than 150 presentations over the two days as well as many science exhibitors. As a special attraction, Dr. Luke Dollar a National Geographic Explorer will be the Tuesday night banquet keynote speaker
(http://www.njsc-online.com/njsc2011/banqspeak11.htm).
If you would like to present a program, you can submit your proposal today through the link at our website: http://www.njsc-online.com/.
Only online submission will be accepted this year. We also encourage you to contact your friends and associates who may have new and interesting programs to present.
Hurry and do not miss this excellent professional development opportunity!
The priority deadline for program proposals is March 15, 2011.
Proposals received AFTER June 1, 2011 may be rejected due to a full schedule.
We look forward to seeing you in October!
Convention Co-Chairs,
Nancy Evans Bennett and Lola Szobota
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Revised and Updated Guidelines Article Now Available Online (Posted: 3-11-11)
In this revised and updated article,Leading the Way to Environmental Literacy and Quality: National Guidelines for EE (2010), Ed McCrea, former NAAEE executive director, reviews the history of the guidelines and how they have helped to advance environmental education (EE). EE now has a set of tools that promote unity, a common language, and the professionalization of the field.
The Guidelines grew from NAAEE's desire to ensure that environmental education was a part of the national standards movement. But most of all, the guidelines offer a way to ensure that environmental education materials, programs, and practitioners are of the highest possible quality.
http://www.eetap.org/pages/dynamic/web.page.php?pa...
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Survey on K-12 Learning Standards (Posted: 3-11-11)
In 2008, the K-12 and Teacher Education Sector of the US Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development developed a set of National Education for Sustainability K-12 Learning Standards that define what K-12 students should know and be able to do to be sustainability literate. We are collecting data on the use of these standards and would appreciate if you would take a few moments to complete this very brief survey so we can understand the needs of, and better serve, educators. Thank you!
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/QTR6ZP5
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New Film and Curriculum: Power Couple: The Shocking True Story of Water and Electricity (Posted: 3-11-11)
The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority and PNM partnered to make an eight-minute educational movie and curriculum to help explain the concept of Energy Water Nexus. The movie, Power Couple: The Shocking True Story of Water and Electricity, is a humorous look at the topic and is targeted to mid- through high-school students. The movie comes with a one-page viewer guide to help students understand the issues more fully.
http://abcwua.org/education/Energy_Water_Nexus.htm...
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Snow Secrets (Posted: 3-11-11)
Lynn Levine, co-author of Mammal Tracks and Scat: Life-Size Tracking Guide, has just published a new children's fiction environmental education book for 8-12 year olds called Snow Secrets, and also is offering workshops based on the book. Besides just being fun, it has two main themes -- motivating girls to study nature and stressing the acceptance of different learning styles. Sixth grade Sarah is school smart, while Jasmine learns more from the outdoors than in a classroom. The two must join forces to solve nature mysteries by learning outdoor skills including tracking.
http://www.heartwoodpress.com
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Sustainability Through Math: Exploring the Ecological Footprint (Posted: 3-11-11)
Creative Change Educational Solutions announces "Sustainability through Math: Exploring the Ecological Footprint," a new unit for grades 6-8. This unit explores the mathematics of sustainability and regeneration. Lessons are aligned to the Common Core standards. The unit is the latest addition to Creative Change’s Curriculum and Resource Center (CRC), an online library of courses, units, lessons, and instructional design tools. Members of the CRC can log-in now to access this unit. Not yet a member? Learn more:
http://www.creativechange.net
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Tools for Teachers: Phenology Wheels (Posted: 3-11-11)
Georgia Gómez Ibáñez of Cambridge Elementary School, Anne Forbes of Partners in Place, LLC, and Cheryl Bauer-Armstrong of Earth Partnership for Schools, UW-Madison collaborated to create Phenology Wheels, for students to learn about seasonal events and cycles in a hands-on, experiential way. The activities are based on the Wheels of Time and Place: Journals for the Cycles and Seasons of Life, a toolkit that includes a carrying case, instruction booklet, and blank circular journals that can be duplicated in a copy machine or printed from PDF files. See this gallery for examples of how youth and adults have enjoyed this approach. For more information, contact Anne Forbes or Cheryl Bauer-Armstrong.
http://uwarboretum.org/eps/tools_for_teachers.php
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Free ACS Middle School Science Resource (Posted: 3-11-11)
Click HERE.
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Climate Change Communications at NSF (Posted: 3-11-11)
The project, "Changing Planet," includes 13 videos with associated lesson plans, being posted online over 13 weeks. Videos: Changing Planet Lesson Plans: Windows to the Universe We would be thrilled if you would pass the information about these videos to the NWF contacts working with EcoSchools, in case they could serve as a resource for those educators and students. (As you probably know, NSF also funds climate change education materials and curricula through its grants--the group you spoke to could apprise you of those.)
We are also holding three town halls with NBC TV personalities at US universities: Yale in January with Tom Brokaw, George Washington University in April, and an Arizona university in August. These panel discussions, at which the high school and college students making up the live audience can ask questions, focus on various aspects of climate change and are taped for later airing on TV. The Yale event focused on the impacts of climate change on lives; GWU will focus on clean energy; and Arizona on water resources.
Amber Jones
Office of Legislative and Public Affairs
National Science Foundation
703-292-7740
aljones@nsf.gov
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UW-Stevens Point offers Online Masters in Environmental Education & Interpretation (Posted: 3-11-11)
https://campus.uwsp.edu/sites/cnr-ap/omseei/Pages/default.aspx
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is offering a completely online Master of Science in Environmental Education and Interpretation. The Online M.S. in EE/I is an excellent option for a professional working in environmental education and interpretation and interested in earning a master's degree. The program is designed specifically for environmental education and interpretation professionals across the country and the world. The entire degree is offered via distance learning, so no travel is required and students have the ability to establish their own schedule. The coursework will increase your knowledge and leadership skills in EE/I through dynamic, applicable online discussions, readings, interactions, and much more. Students will also have the opportunity to interact and network with other educators from around the world with similar interests.
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Professional development Credits for Dinosaur Hunting (Posted: 3-11-11)
Dear Teachers,
I would like to inform you of a wonderful program we are offering to NJ teachers this summer.
The New Jersey State Museum’s Bureau of Natural History leads dinosaur hunting expeditions to the gorgeous, fossil-rich terrain at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains in Montana and Wyoming.
You can fulfill an entire year’s worth of professional development credits by attending this amazing trip.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have.
Also, please feel free to forward this to anyone that you think might be interested.
We also offer undergraduate and graduate credit for the experience.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Jason P. Schein
Assistant Curator of Natural History
New Jersey State Museum
Website: www.njstatemuseum.org
Blog: http://njstatemuseum.blogspot.com/
PO Box 530
Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: (609) 292-7660
Fax: (609) 292-7636
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2011 Barnegat Bay Environmental Educators Roundtable (Posted: 3-11-11)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
14th Annual Barnegat Bay Environmental Educators Roundtable
Wednesday, April 27, 2011 3:30 - 7:30 PM
Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education Waretown, New Jersey
Program Highlights
A Variety of Field Trips and Classroom Presentations
A Delicious Light Dinner
Networking Opportunity
Professional Development Certificates
A FREE Resource Sharing Table
Door Prizes
The Roundtable is proudly sponsored by the Ocean County Soil Conservation District and the affiliate members of the Barnegat Bay Environmental Educators Steering Committee
For more information, visit www.ocscd.org or call 609-971-7002
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Sustainable Schools Webinar Series: Introduction to Eco-Schools USA (Posted: 3-2-11)
EcoSchools_Banner
Sustainable Schools Webinar Series
Are you interested in learning more about the Eco-Schools USA Program? Now is your chance! We are offering a free webinar Introduction to Eco-Schools USA on March 23rd at 5:00 p.m. EST. This webinar is part of our brand new Sustainable Schools Webinar series.
We will provide a basic introduction to Eco-Schools USA and provide information on how the program can help schools on the path towards sustainability. To register for the webinar click below:
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Questions? Email us at eco-schoolsusa@nwf.org.
We hope you can join us!
~ The Eco-Schools USA Team
Contact us: 1-800-822-9919 | National Wildlife Federation, 11100 Wildlife Center Drive, Reston VA, 20190
© 2010 National Wildlife Federation. All rights reserved. NWF Privacy Policy
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NJESTA annual conference registration (Posted: 3-2-11)
NJESTA Annual Conference will take place on Saturday March 26, 2011 at Kean University.
Annual Conference Registration: HERE.
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FREE ToxRAP™ teacher trainings for K-9 teachers from UMDNJ (Posted: 3-2-11)
The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Public Health is offering FREE teacher trainings for K-9 teachers. ToxRAP™ (Toxicology, Risk Assessment & Pollution) is an innovative, problem-based curriculum environmental education (EE) series for grades K-9. The curriculum addresses New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards and national education standards. We will be providing FREE teacher training and we are looking for a school district to serve as a host for a one-day workshop.
How does a school district host a workshop?
Hosting a workshop is easy. We only have a few requirements.
1) Assign a school administrator/teacher to serve as the point of contact.
2) Provide training space for up to 25 teachers working in small groups for one day
3) Assist with marketing the workshop within the district.
When will the workshops be held?
We are hoping the workshops will be held between April-Dec 2011 and will work with your school's calendar. Saturdays are also available. **Probably should also include Sept-Dec? 2011 since it's getting late in the school year.
What are the benefits for teacher's attending a workshop?
Teachers who attend a workshop will receive the curriculum and professional development hours. Please note substitute teacher reimbursement costs and food/refreshment are not provided.
If you are interested in helping us coordinate a training, or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Jennifer K. Campbell, MPH, CHES
Health Education Specialist
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
School of Public Health
Center for School and Community Based Research Education
Liberty Plaza
335 George Street - Suite 2200
New Brunswick, NJ 08903
732-235-9095
732-235-4960 fax
campbejk@umdnj.edu
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Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs (Posted: 2-28-11)
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence is the newest addition to the continuing series published by NAAEE as part of the National Project for Excellence in Environmental Education. Hundreds of individuals and organizations representing all aspects of early childhood education and environmental education reviewed working outlines and drafts. Reviewers include classroom teachers, daycare and early childhood education center staff members, administrators, environmental scientists, curriculum developers, and natural resource agency and education department staff members.
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence contains a set of recommendations for developing and administering high-quality environmental education programs for young children from birth to age eight, with a focus on ages three to six. These guidelines provide a tool that can be used to ensure a firm foundation for new programs or to trigger improvements in existing ones. The overall goal of these guidelines is to chart an appropriate and positive process whereby educators can start young children on their journey toward becoming environmentally responsive youth and adults.
Order your copy from NAAEE today:
http://www.naaee.org/publications
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National Environmental Education Week 2011: Ocean Connections (Posted: 2-28-11)
EE Week 2011: April 10-16, 2011
The ocean covers nearly three quarters of our planet's surface, provides 70 percent of the oxygen in the atmosphere, and houses about 20 percent of the known species on Earth. It regulates climate and weather and provides food and energy resources for humans worldwide. No matter how far from the coast, water in every stream or river eventually ends up in the ocean, and all life on Earth is dependent upon its health. More than half of all Americans live within 50 miles of the coast, but whether near or far, our lives are inextricably linked to the ocean.
As part of this year's Ocean Connections theme, EE Week will provide special resources, lesson plans, and opportunities for educator professional development and student learning about the Gulf oil spill.
http://www.eeweek.org/ocean_connections
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New Quaker School Stewardship Manual Online (Posted: 2-28-11)
Letting Our Schools Speak: Stories of Green Practices and Education in Friends Schools is a compilation of articles describing some of the innovative efforts that Quaker schools have been undertaking to help meet the environmental challenges in the 21st Century. Letting Our Schools Speak is to be a living document with the topic areas: Teaching, Green Practices, Food, Green Buildings and Spaces, and Service and Action. The Friends School Environmental Education Network (FEEN) Editorial Committee prepared this manual because they believe it essential that those of us committed to fostering environmental stewardship are able to learn from each other’s creativity and hard work. Forward questions or suggestions to Dave Wood at woodd@sidwell.edu.
http://www.sidwell.edu/feen/index.aspx
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Lecture: “Linking Science, Education and Stewardship” (Posted: 2-28-11)
Click HERE.
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NCSE-NASA Interdisciplinary Climate Change Education (Posted: 2-24-11)
Click HERE.
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Apply Now for New Jersey Learns! (Posted: 2-24-11)
Click HERE.
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Just Added! Project Wet & Project Wild (Posted: 2-24-11)
Click HERE.
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EE Week February 2011: Upcoming Ocean Education Opportunities (Posted: 2-17-11)
National Environmental Education Week
February 2011 www.EEWeek.org
Water
Greetings!
With the second half of the school year in full swing, there are many opportunities to celebrate and learn about our oceans before EE Week. We hope you will join us for EE Week's first oceans-focused webinar on February 23, entitled Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill. Read on for more information.
In addition to our upcoming webinar, many special offers are available for registered EE Week 2011 participants. Learn more below and register for EE Week to start taking advantage of these perks. It's free and easy to register and it helps us to learn about your plans for EE Week so that we can better support you.
Be sure to visit us online to access lesson plans, online resources and teaching tools to help you prepare to celebrate EE Week's 2011 theme: Ocean Connections.This month we re-launched our Nature Journaling Blog with tips on observing inland connections to the coast. Also check out our new online Ocean Bee Quizzes for students, developed in partnership with the National Ocean Sciences Bowl.
Lastly, don't forget to nominate an outstanding teacher for the Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award. Nominations will be accepted through March 14, and self-nominations are encouraged! Continue reading for more information on opportunities from our partners and other NEEF programs.
Sincerely,
Jessica SK signature
Jessica Culverhouse Sarah Kozicki
Program Manager Program Associate
EE Week Educator Webinar: Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill
Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011 at 7 p.m. EST
Teaching About the Gulf Oil SpillOn April 20, 2010, an explosion on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico resulted in the largest offshore oil spill in U.S. history. Young people are asking their teachers and parents difficult questions about the causes and effects of the spill, and many educators have elected to focus on the Gulf oil spill as a unifying interdisciplinary theme to explore throughout the school year.
Registered participants for National Environmental Education Week (EE Week) 2011 are invited to join us for an educator webinar, "Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill" - on Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 7 p.m. Eastern. Educators will have an opportunity to interact with Dr. Robert Twilley of Louisiana State University's Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences. Dr. Twilley will provide information on the timeline and effects of the spill and answer questions about its long-term consequences. Participants will also learn about the National Wildlife Federation's (NWF) Oil Spill educational materials, service projects, and how teachers and students can get involved. Eliza Russell, NWF's director of education, will present this information and discuss opportunities with webinar participants.
Register for EE Week to participate in this free online professional development experience. Registered participants will receive webinar login information via email prior to the webinar.
Learn more
EE Week Promotional Toolkit
The EE Week 2011 Promotional Toolkit is now available
National Environmental Education Week (EE Week) depends on our partnersto help promote EE Week to their networks and throughout theircommunities. To help accomplish this, we create a series of promotional tools for schools and organizations to help us spread the word. You can help promote your EE Week events and activities by:
* Posting a 2011 EE Week web ad on your website with a link to EEWeek.org,
* Distributing the 2011 National EE Week flyer and 2011 National EE Week poster,
* Linking to EEWeek.org from your website,
* Issuing a press release outlining your organization's EE Week activities as part of the national program, or
* Announcing EE Week in your print or email newsletter, listserv, blog or website.
Downloadable web ads, flyer, poster, template press release and promotional blurb are all available as part of EE Week's promotional toolkit.
Learn more
Why Register for EE Week?
Registered EE Week participants receive many benefits
When you register for EE Week, you join a national network of educators dedicated to improving the environmental literacy of students. You will also receive a certification of participation and are eligible to participate in our free educator webinars. In addition, EE Week participants qualify for special discounts and offers from our partners.
Video_Project_LogoThe Video Project is offering registered EE Week participants a 25 percent discount through April 30 on any title in their collection of educational media and documentary programming, including several titles on marine science and ocean issues.
Nature-WatchNature-Watch is offering registered EE Week participants a
10 percent discount through May 1 on any order through their online store, which offers educational nature products and craft activity kits designed to help children learn about nature.
Coming soon: EE week planning toolkits, as well as additional special offers, will be made available in March to registered participants. Stay tuned!
Register today!
EE Resources
Conservation Connection - Registration deadline April 18
Conservation Connection, a program of Chicago's Field Museum, engages middle and high school students across the country in the stewardship of Fijian coral reefs and local ecosystems through direct involvement in the scientific process. Students can access WhyReef, a virtual coral reef game, and FijiReef, a digital community for teens and scientists interested in marine conservation. Additional educator resources include content from Encyclopedia of Earth and an activity guide. Learn more
Live Video Events with the JOIDES Resolution
The JOIDES Resolution--a seagoing research vessel--provides live video broadcasts with the educators and scientists on board the ship during every expedition. Teachers can request a date for an exclusive video conference with their students and sign up to receive the monthly JOIDES Resolution newsletter, order free materials, watch videos on ocean exploration and submit questions to scientists online. Learn more
Sea Turtles and the Quest to Nest
This online game, developed by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service and the National Ocean Service, is designed to help students understand how they can help protect turtles and their habitat. The game takes place in the southeastern United States. Students are introduced to all of the people and animals that play a role in the life of loggerhead turtles. Learn more
For more resources and classroom materials, visit us online.
Student Opportunities
Planet Connect logoPlanet Connect Get Green Video Contest - Entry deadline February 23
High school students throughout the United States are invited to enter Planet Connect's 2011 Get Green Video Contest: Show Us Your Ocean Connection. Students are invited to submit a 30- to 120- second video showing how their everyday actions impact the ocean. Prizes include cash and cool prizes from Samsung, including the Galaxy Tab and an HD camcorder. Public Choice Award winners will receive prizes from Volcom, etnies and aFirewire surboard. Learn more
AMNH Young Naturalist Awards - Entry deadline March 1
TheYoung Naturalist Awards from the American Museum of Natural History isan inquiry-based science competition for students in grades 7-12 topromote participation and communication in science. Students plan aresearch project and submit a final report, including an essay andartwork or photographs. Awards include cash prizes and certificates ofrecognition. Winning essays will be posted on the museum's website. Learn more
Igniting Creative Energy Challenge - Entry deadline March 4
ICE_LogoJohnson Controls invites K-12 students and teachers to enter the Igniting Creative Energy (ICE) Challenge by submitting their energy efficiency ideas. Now in its 10th year, this year's competition includes ICE Water, a new water conservation category. Five grand prize winners will receive a trip to the United States Energy Efficiency Forum in Washington, D.C., June 15-16, 2011. Other prizes include energy efficiency-related items and the opportunity to receive a charitable donation. Entries postmarked by February 18 will qualify for additional early bird prizes. ICE is a partnership program developed by Johnson Controls, Inc and the National Energy Foundation. Additional services provided by Kohler Co.
Learn more
Ocean for Life - Application deadline March 7
Ocean for Life, a program of NOAA's National Marine Sanctuaries, brings together students of diverse backgrounds and cultures to discover marine science, conservation and how the ocean connects us all. Students from around the world will come together for an immersive, two-week field study at a marine sanctuary in July. The location and exact dates are still to be determined. Learn moreDisney Friends for Change
Disney Friends for Change Grants - Application deadline March 10
Youth Service America, together with Disney, is now accepting applications from youth around the world for the Disney Friends for Change Grants. The $500 grants fund youth-led service projects that focus on making environmentally friendly changes and engaging youth on Global Youth Service Day, April 15-17. Applicants must be between the ages of 5 and 25 and be associated with a school or organization. Learn more
Endangered Species Day Art Contest - Submission deadline March 15
The national Endangered Species Day Youth Art contest provides youngpeople with an opportunity to learn about endangered species and expresstheir knowledge and support through artwork. Winners will be chosen in four grade level categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. From these, one grand prize winner will be selected and honored withhis or her name engraved on a special trophy andwill receive a round-trip flight to Washington, D.C. to attend a reception in May. The four category winners will receive a special plaque and gift certificate for art supplies. Learn more
Earth_Force_SUECStaples Urban Environment Challenge - Registration deadline January 31
The Staples Foundation for Learning and Earth Force invite students in grades 5-9 to share their creative, youth-ledsolutions to climate change through a service learning project in theirurban community. Projects must involve 10 or more students and 60percent of the student population must qualify for free or reducedlunch. Students in the San Diego, Seattle, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago,Boston, New York City, Charlotte, Atlanta and Dallas metro areas areeligible to compete. One winner in each region will receive a $1,000technology and supplies packages. Two runners up in each region willreceive $500 packages. Projects are due on Earth Day, April 22. Learn more
2011 Thacher Environmental Research Contest - Entry deadline April 11
The2011 Thacher Environmental Research Contest, sponsored by the Institutefor Global Environmental Strategies, challenges high school students toconduct innovative research on our changing planet using the latestgeospatial tools and data. The best projects will win $2,000 for firstplace, $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place. Winners willalso be featured in an Encyclopedia of Earth article. In addition to the student prizes, teachers of winning students or teams will receive a $200 Amazon.com gift card. Learn more
For more student contests and awards, visit us online.
Grants and Awards
Toyota TAPESTRY Grants for Science Teachers - Application deadline extended to March 3
Toyota TAPESTRY recognizes outstanding K-12 science teachers who are making adifference by demonstrating excellence and creativity in scienceteaching. Fifty large grants of $10,000 each will be awarded this year to K-12 science teachers in the United States. Toapply for funding, qualified teachers must write a Toyota TAPESTRYproposal according to the proposal requirements. Learn more
Richard BartlettRichard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award - Nomination deadline March 14
The 2011 Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award will recognize outstanding middle school teachers who successfullyintegrate environmental education into their curriculum and engagestudents in interdisciplinary solutions to environmental challenges. The winner will receive$5,000 and two merit winners will receive $750 each. The award will beannounced during Teacher Appreciation Week, the first week in May 2011. Learn more
Grants for Education in Microbial Science - Application deadline May 2
The Center for Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education, based at the University of Hawaii, awards grants of up to $1,500 to foster awareness in microbial science. Funds can be used for any project related to microbial science. Any educator within the United States may apply for one of these grants, but preference will be given to public school teachers, nonprofit organizations and first-time applicants. Learn more
AAAS Leadership in Science Education Prize for High School Teachers - Application deadline May 27
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Leadership in Science Education Prize for High School Teachersrecognizes high school science teachers for the development andimplementation of innovative methods for teaching and encouraging thenext generation of scientists. Teachers must be currently employed as a science instructor in apublic or private school for grades 9-12 in the United States or itsterritories. Teachers must be nominated by an administrator within their school, district or state. The winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize tosupport the development and continuation of the strategy, activity orprogram. Additionally, an announcement will be published in the AAAS website and in Science magazine and the winner will receive a one-year institutional subscription to Science magazine. Learn more
For more grants and awards, visit us online.
Professional Development
Down Under and Out Yonder - Application deadline February 25
Applications are now being accepted for the annual Down Under and Out Yonder education workshop and field experience, July 9-13, 2011. Any scuba-certified teacher or informal educator, grades K-12, are welcome to apply. The workshop takes place at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Mexico and is conducted in partnership with the Gulf of Mexico Foundation and sponsored by ConocoPhillips. Learn more
American Museum of Natural History Seminars on Science - Registration deadline February 28
Learn andunderstand how scientists study climate and the consequences of climate changefor the future with ClimateChange, the newest Seminars on Science coursefrom the American Museum of Natural History. All courses runfor six weeks and are fully online. Each participant receives a CD of courseresources suitable for classroom use. Affordable graduate credit is availablefor all courses. Spring sessions run March 14-April 24 OR May 9-June 19. Register early for a $50 discount. Learn more
Chesapeake Classrooms
This professional development program from the ChesapeakeBay Foundation (CBF) equips educators with the knowledge, tools, skills andconfidence to use the local environment in their curriculum. Educators examine the connections between land use and water quality throughhands-on investigations, standards-based activities and assessments andaction projects. On-site instruction takes place at schoolyards,local tributaries and oftentimes at one of CBF's island educationalcenters. Educators can receive recertification or graduate credit forparticipating. Learn more
For more opportunities, visit us online.
National Environmental Education Foundation Logo
The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) provides knowledge to trusted professionals who, with their credibility, amplify messages to national audiences to solve everyday environmental problems. Together, we generate lasting positive change.
NEEF partners with professionals in health, education, media, business and public land management to promote daily actions for helping people protect and enjoy the environment. Through our primary programs - Classroom Earth, National Public Lands Day, National Environmental Education Week, Business and Environment, Earth Gauge(r) and Health & Environment - we offer Americans knowledge to live by. To learn more, call (202) 833-2933 or visit http://www.neefusa.org.
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In This Issue
Educator Webinar
Why Register?
EE Resources
Student Opportunities
Grants and Awards
Professional Development
Our Program
National Environmental Education (EE) Week is the largest organized environmental education event in the United States.
EE Week connects educators with environmental resources to promote K-12 students' understanding of the environment.
Quick Links
Register for EE Week 2011
FAQs
Success Stories
More On Us
Contact Us
Jessica Culverhouse
Program Manager
National EE Week
(202) 261-6484
Sarah Kozicki
Program Associate
National EE Week
(202) 261-6474
EEWeek@neefusa.org
Join Our Mailing List
Call for Stories!
Don't forget to submit your stories of successful environmental education projects and programs to help inspire your peers and share ideas! Contact EEWeek@neefusa.org to get started.
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EPA webinar series on consumption (Posted: 2-14-11)
The EPA has kicked off a free monthly webinar series on consumption and the environment. It is open to all.
Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/928518465
The first one, March 1, is on “consumption, advertising, and the creation of desire.”
The full list of topics is available here: http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/ECOCOMM.NSF/climate+change/consumption
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Are your professional development programs meeting needs of your audience? (Posted: 2-9-11)
How do you know if your professional development programs are meeting the needs of your audience? The 2009 Environmental Education Professional Development Needs and Priorities Study identifies 89 professional development needs for the field of environmental education. The study points out gaps in current offerings and the work needed to advance education for environmental literacy. Taking this information one step further, two new reports present the specific priorities of (1) educators who work with pre-kindergarten through college-age students in formal education systems and (2) practitioners who work as informal or nonformal educators outside of these systems. Preferred timing, delivery style, length, and instructional methods are detailed for each group of educators. Their top ten priorities are sorted by region, type of organization or agency, size of audience, and years of experience—thus providing specific guidance for developing effective professional development opportunities well tailored to the needs of the target audience. A short PowerPoint slide show summarizes the results of both reports.
Teachers’ Needs: Professional Development Priorities of Formal Pre K-12 Environmental Educators
Practitioners’ Needs: Professional Development Priorities of Nonformal Environmental Educators
http://www.eetap.org/pages/dynamic/web.page.php?pa...
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Two New Online Graduate Degree Programs (Posted: 2-9-11)
The College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point (UWSP) recently expanded the options for graduate study in natural resources to include two online programs in the Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Management discipline. The new online M.S. degree programs, emphasizing Environmental Education and Interpretation (OMSEEI) and Natural Resources Leadership and Administration (NRLA), demonstrate UWSP’s commitment to a tradition of excellence in natural resources education.
Both programs are currently accepting applications for the Fall 2012 semester. Please visit the OMSEEI program Web site or the NRLA program Web site for detailed information about program and admission requirements, cost, application procedures, and more.
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Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence Revised and Reprinted (Posted: 2-9-11)
Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence provides a set of recommendations for developing and selecting environmental education materials. These guidelines aim to help developers of activity guides, lesson plans, and other instructional materials produce high quality products, and to provide educators with a tool to evaluate the wide array of available environmental education materials. Developed through a process of critique and consensus, the Guidelines are grounded in a common understanding of effective environmental education. Over 1,000 practitioners and scholars in the field (e.g., classroom teachers, education administrators, environmental scientists, curriculum developers) participated in the review and development of this document. Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence points out six key characteristics of high quality environmental education materials. The Guidelines for Excellence offer a way of judging the relative merit of different materials, a standard to aim for in developing new materials, and a set of ideas about what well-rounded environmental education curriculum might look like. Order your copy from NAAEE today:
http://naaee.org/publications
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Raptors in the City ~ Technology Connects Kids with Nature (Posted: 2-9-11)
The "Raptors in the City" real-time science and technology program stars the peregrine falcon, one of the great success stories in the field of wildlife conservation. Children can watch the falcons via cameras mounted on a skyscraper through the nesting season (February to June). The low-cost curriculum supports one semester of study, and students learn environmental, biological, and technological lessons, as well as research skills tied to national science and technology standards.
http://www.raptorsinthecity.org
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National Bird Day Resources for Educators (Posted: 2-9-11)
Today nearly 12 percent of the world’s 9,800 bird species may face extinction within the next century and millions of captive birds lead miserable lives languishing in cages. The National Bird Day Web site offers a full suite of resources including a book, lesson plan, posters, and more. Contact NAAEE member Monica Engebretson, for more information monica@bornfreeusa.org or call 916-447-3085 x 210.
http://www.NationalBirdDay.com
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Teaching Earth Smarts (Posted: 2-9-11)
Earth Smarts is an educational construct that answers the question: What qualities do we need to justly improve or maintain our quality of life in a changing world? It is transdisciplinary and designed to be practical, apolitical, and adaptable across cultures and bioregions.
http://www.earthsmarts.info
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Virtual Indoor Air Quality School Walkthrough Webinar Resources Now Available! (Posted: 2-9-11)
Click HERE.
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NY/NJ teachers Professional Development Opportunity (Posted: 2-7-11)
Through a grant from NASA, the Liberty Science Center will be offering a Summer Institute for Earth Science teachers who have experience using real-time or near-real time (RTD) data in their instruction. Experienced teachers are teachers who have run at least one RTD lesson, lab, or activity with their students (and would do it again:-)). Examples of RTD are air temperatures, cloud coverage, earthquake epicenter locations, sea-surface temperatures, energy from the sun, chlorophyll concentrations, etc.
We are currently convening a working a group of teachers with experience using RTD to help us design the summer institute. Teachers in the working group will help us establish how RTD are being used in the classroom and determine what support teachers need to more fully integrate RTD lessons in their instruction. Working group teachers will also have the opportunity to exchange classroom tested, RTD lessons with each other, earn 6 professional development hours, and explore the Liberty Science Center's exhibitions on the day of the meeting. Teachers participating in the working group are guaranteed a space in the summer institute, but it is not necessary to commit to the summer institute to be part of the working group.
Participation in the working group is a one-day commitment, Saturday, March 5 or Saturday, March 19. Please see info below for additional information.
Kate Soriano
Earth Science Teacher Programs Developer
Liberty Science Center
ksoriano@lsc.org
201-253-1411
The Touch Tunnel returns to Liberty Science Center on February 18! This pitch-black, crawl-through maze offers even more twists and turns than the original. www.lsc.org/touchtunnel
Tentative Schedule:
9:00 - 9:30 Welcome and introductions: Light Continental Breakfast (provided by Liberty Science Center)
9:30 - 11:00 Discussion: What are the goals and objectives of using inquiry-based RTD lessons in the Earth Science classroom?
11:00 - 12:30 Explore Liberty Science Center
12:00 - 1:00 Lunch (provided by Liberty Science Center)
1:00 - 3:00 Presentation of RTD lessons
3:00 - 4:00 Discussion: What do teachers need to integrate inquiry-based RTD lessons into their Earth Science curriculum?
Benefits for Working Group Members:
o Exchange classroom tested, inquiry-based, RTD lessons with working group members
o Free access to Liberty Science Center's exhibitions on day of working group meeting
o Professional development hours (6)
o Guaranteed space in the Summer Institute which will provide:
o permanent access to NASA data portal (currently in development)
o access to Liberty Science Center's traveling Global Microscopes for classroom use
o time and support for developing inquiry-based lessons using NASA real time data
o stipend upon completion of the week-long program
o professional development hours
If you are interested in joining our working group, please contact Kate Soriano, Earth Science Teacher Programs Developer at 201.253.1411 or ksoriano@lsc.org.
Liberty Science Center is a New Jersey nonprofit corporation dedicated to offering exceptional science learning experiences onsite, offsite and online. Located in Liberty State Park, Jersey City, NJ, we engage learners of all ages in science excitement, provide professional development for teachers, and actively connect people of all backgrounds to pivotal science and society issues. Visit our website, www.lsc.org, for more information.
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Opportunity for Educators-at-Sea aboard the E/V Nautilus (Posted: 2-7-11)
Opportunity for Educators-at-Sea aboard Dr. Robert Ballard's Exploration Vehicle, the E/V Nautilus July - November 2011. Application process begins February 1, 2011.
Dr. Robert Ballard and the Ocean Exploration Trust are inviting formal and informal educators to join the expedition team on board the E/V Nautilus. Educators become part of the scientific team, and are immersed in the exploration, geology, biology archaeology, and engineering of the expedition. Expedition legs last anywhere from 7-14 days. Background in the sciences preferred.
From aboard the E/V Nautilus, Educators-at-Sea will bring the expedition back to shore by participating in interactive presentations with live audiences situated at Exploration Command Consoles (ECCs). They may also engage in live question & answer sessions through intercom technology and / or by phone.
Live footage, images and information from the E/V Nautilus will be streamed back to the Nautilus Live website (http://www.nautiluslive.org/), connecting viewers to the expedition as it happens. Using their skills as global communicators, educators will support Nautilus Live content with online media such as daily blogs and more. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal are required.
Educators-at-Sea will receive:
* All air fare, ground transportation, and hotel accommodations in transit to and from the expedition destination, except where covered by a local sponsoring institution.
* Room and board while on Nautilus.
* Participation in a Professional Development Workshop, July 6-8, 2011.
* Related curricula and Nautilus activity ideas.
* Opportunities to collaborate with other informal and formal educators, and prominent, local ocean research institutions and Universities.
Information and applications can be downloaded at www.oceanexplorationtrust.org, beginning February 1, 2011. Applications are due by March 26, 2011.
For more information, contact amy@oceanexplorationtrust.org.
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"The Magic of Recycling!" -- award-winning live show, in your elementary schools (Posted: 2-7-11)
How to quickly get *thousands* of local families excited + enthusiastic about recycling...
The show has been seen by well over 3-MILLION students in 39 states!
We can help you promote recycling in your area, too!
For more info, including links to:
-- Our main website,
-- Pricing,
-- Video clips from Recycling Coordinators, Principals, and Teachers from all across America -- even England, too!...
Just click on this link now... http://snipurl.com/AwardWinningShow
You can also see many, many testimonials (video clips) by clicking on this link... http://www.youtube.com/user/RecyclingMagic
PRICING INFO...
Basic package of 12 shows in one week (M-F) is just $416 per show,
($4,992, total) -- and that price is ALL-inclusive -- INCLUDES all lodging/travel charges, etc.
You do not pay one penny more!Just $4,992, COMPLETE.
If you get 25 shows (2 weeks), the per-show price DROPS to just $375 (that's just $9,375 for all 25 shows!)
Note: This is a LIVE SHOW we perform in elementary schools across America.Available dates are limited -- please reserve your dates as far in advance as possible.
I'm looking forward to the possibility of helping you promote recycling in your part of New Jersey soon.
-- Timothy Wenk, "America's Goodwill Ambassador of Recycling"
Website: www.PromoteRecyclingNow.com
Email: vip@PromoteRecyclingNow.com
Phone: 1-800-243-1322
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NJ State Museum Paleontology Field School (Posted: 2-7-11)
The information below is for the New Jersey State Museum’s Paleontology Field School. In July, we will lead individuals interested in paleontology into some of the most famous and productive dinosaur fossil beds of southern Montana/northern Wyoming.* NJ teachers can fulfill an entire year’s worth of professional development credits in this amazing trip.* (The NJSM is a registered Professional Development Provider for the NJ Dept. of Education Professional Standards Board (#2241). This trip fulfills the requirements for continued certification on a credit/hour basis.)
DINOSAURS IN THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS!
Join the New Jersey State Museum¡¦s paleontologists on a real paleontological expedition to the fossil-rich rocks of Montana and Wyoming! Learn about the paleontology, paleoecology, geology, and natural history of one of the most beautiful regions of the world by experiencing it. Be a part of a real paleontological field expedition in the eastern flank of the Rocky Mountains!
Learn field paleontology by experiencing it! Join the New Jersey State Museum¡¦s (NJSM) paleontologists in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Montana and Wyoming. We¡¦ll collect Devonian fishes, Cretaceous terrestrial and aquatic animals (including dinosaurs!), and rare Paleogene mammals in the Bighorn Basin. Teachers: Complete your yearly continuing education credits by attending the NJSM¡¦s Paleontology Field School. Students: Receive undergraduate or graduate credit for your participation in the field school. General Public: Anyone can participate in this experience. Do more on your next vacation ¡V be a paleontologist! The expedition is a serious museum project and is more than just a field trip. Your efforts will aid the NJSM¡¦s decades-long paleontology research efforts in the region. Collecting will be on behalf of the NJSM by federal permits of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of the Interior. This year, survey and excavation work will continue by permit of the BLM. The field course is led by David Parris, Curator of Natural History, and/or Jason Schein, Assistant Curator of Natural History. Dates: „h July 17 ¡V 23, 2011 July 24 ¡V 30, 2011 Requirements: Age: at least 14 years old (14 ¡V 17 must be accompanied by an adult). Good physical condition. Activities include both leisurely and strenuous tasks and participants should be in good physical condition (Consult your doctor). Proof of health insurance Accommodations: Room & board are provided by the YBRA field station in Red Lodge, Montana. YBRA is a comfortable facility with typical collegiate field camp cabins. Lodging is dormitory-style, with a men¡¦s and women¡¦s cabin. Private cabins may also be available with early registration at no additional cost. Fees: $1,000 Friends Members (/week) $1,150 Non-members (/week) $1,250 Students (/credit-week) 10% deposit due upon registration 40% due May 15, 2011 Balance due June 15, 2011 Fees include registration, tuition, lodging & meals, collecting tools & equipment, transportation to/from the Billings airport and base camp and to/from all field sites, and all instruction and educational materials.
NOTE: Fees do not include transportation to/from your home to Billings, MT. For more information or to request an application package, please contact: David Parris David.Parris@sos.state.nj.us (609) 984-3846 or Jason P. Schein Jason.Schein@sos.state.nj.us (609) 292-7660
NJ State Museum Paleontology Field School 205 West State Street, PO Box 530 Trenton, NJ 08625 Ph (609) 394-5310, Fax (609) 292-7636
Friends.museum@sos.state.nj.us
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Oceanography Curriculum Ross Sea Connection (Posted: 2-7-11)
Tuesday, January 18, 2011 2:37 PM
Subject: [RTD-Ed] Ross Sea Connection
Later today, the Nathaniel B. Palmer will leave McMurdo Station in Antarctica for a month-long cruise in the Ross Sea.The scientists on board will study the phytoplankton at the base of the Ross Sea's food web and the special combination of currents, nutrients, and trace metals that allow it to thrive.
In addition to scientists and graduate students, the ship's research crew also includes a professional science writer and a photo journalist who will document the cool science stories as they happen, as well as answer questions submitted by students throughout the cruise.
You can follow along on the Ross Sea Connection web site. http://coseenow.net/ross-sea/
Updates will be posted daily.Check out the links on the top right of the page to subscribe to updates using Facebook, Twitter, RSS or email.
A collection of related lesson plans and activities can be found on the Ross Sea teachers' resource workgroup on the COSEE NOW web site. http://coseenow.net/groups/ross-sea-connection/documents/
We hope you enjoy the cruise!
--------------------------------------------------
Sage Lichtenwalner
Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
71 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone: (732) 932-6555 x533
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Teachers Wanted for Trout in the Classroom Program! (Posted: 2-3-11)
Would you like to incorporate an exciting, inexpensive, science - based program that is enlivening year-round curriculums throughout New Jersey into your classroom? Then join the 111 schools and more than 14,000 students in the Garden State currently participating in the Trout in the Classroom program!
Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is a science-based program that teaches children about the importance of coldwater conservation through a hands-on approach to learning. Schools across New Jersey receive brook trout eggs in mid-October from the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife's Pequest State Trout Hatchery in Warren County. Students then hatch and raise these trout, monitor water quality, learn fish biology and anatomy, and much more. At the end of the school year, the trout are released into approved streams.
Raising trout is a hands-on activity that engages students and helps to connect them to real-life water quality and fish and wildlife issues and problems, and inspires them to seek solutions. Watching fish hatch from eggs and develop from fry to fingerlings generates enthusiasm among students, and helps them develop caring attitudes about fish species and their habitats, as well as a conservation ethic.
The TIC program has interdisciplinary applications in science, social studies, fine arts, mathematics and language arts, and is unique in that it allows teachers to tailor the program to fit their curricular needs. There is an activity guide provided for teachers that is correlated to NJ State Science Core Curriculum Standards at the middle school level, however, classes ranging from preschool through college levels are also participating in the program.
Start up cost for the Trout in the Classroom program is approximately $1,200.00. This covers all equipment needed to provide a healthy river-like ecosystem for the fry. Equipment includes a tank, chiller, aerator, filter, tank stand and habitat materials. After the first major purchase; the program will cost approximately $50.00 a year.
If you would like to get involved with TIC in your classroom for the 2011 - 2012 school year this is the time! Tanks must be set up and running by the middle of September, which is why schools interested in participating need to start planning now.
The Trout in the Classroom program is made possible in New Jersey through a partnership between the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife and the conservation organization Trout Unlimited.
For more information please visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/tic.htm .
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BTANJ BLAST: HS Biology Curriculum Development Assistance Workshop (Posted: 2-2-11)
High School Biology Curriculum Development Technical Assistance Workshops
Overview
How do we insure that our revised high school biology curriculum is reflective of the 2009 Science Standards and will prepare my students for the NJ Biology Competency Test? The Office of Math and Science Education is providing technical assistance workshops to help high school biology teachers and curriculum developers to unburden their curriculum. The goal of the workshop is for teachers to develop the skills necessary to create an evidence-based biology curriculum that affords students the opportunity to spend more time to explore important science concepts and principles.
The workshops are held in the first floor conference room of the NJDOE offices located at 100 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, NJ 08043. Directions can be found at:
http://www.nj.gov/education/genfo/dir2doe.htm.
Workshop Dates
February 16, 17, or 18, 2011
March 16, 21, or 24, 2011
Registration
Visit the Calendar and Events website at http://education.state.nj.us/events/ for additional details and registration.
Contact Information
Michael Heinz
Science Coordinator
Office of Math and Science Education
NJ Department of Education
Michael.heinz@doe.state.nj.us
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Upcoming EE Week Webinar: Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill (Posted: 1-26-11)
Educator Webinar: Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill
Wednesday, February 23 at 7 p.m. Eastern
On April 20, 2010, an explosion on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in theGulf of Mexico resulted in the largest offshore oil spill in U.S.history. Young people are asking their teachers and parents difficultquestions about the causes and effects of the spill, and many educatorshave elected to focus on the Gulf Oil Spill as a unifyinginterdisciplinary theme to explore throughout the school year.
Teaching About the Gulf Oil Spill
Registered EE Week 2011 participants are invited to join us for an educatorwebinar -- Teaching about the Gulf Oil Spill -- on Wednesday, February 23,2011 at 7 p.m. Eastern time. During the webinar, educators will have anopportunity to interact with Dr. Robert Twilley of Louisiana State University's Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences.Dr. Twilley will provide information on the timeline and effects of thespill and answer questions about the spill and its long-termconsequences. Participants will also learn about the National Wildlife Federation's (NWF) Oil Spill educational materials, service projects, and howteachers and students can get involved. Eliza Russell, NWF's director ofeducation, will present this information and discuss opportunities withwebinar participants.
Register for EE Week toparticipate in this online professional development experience.Registration is free, and registered participants will receive webinarlogin information via email prior to the event. Learn more
Stay tuned for additional webinar opportunities for registered participants around EE Week's 2011 theme: Ocean Connections.
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Green Eggs and Sand Workshop May 13 - 15 (Posted: 1-26-11)
Are you looking to infuse a globally significant ecological phenomenon and current real-world resource management challenge into your classroom? If so, you should consider signing up for the Green Eggs and Sand Workshop being coordinated this year by the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife and held from May 13 - 15 in beautiful Cape May, New Jersey.
During the full and new moon events in May and June, thousands of horseshoe crabs come ashore to spawn, primarily in Delaware Bay. It is also during this time when migrating shorebirds descend upon the beaches to rest and feed on the horseshoe crab eggs before continuing onto their Arctic breeding grounds. The Green Eggs and Sand Workshop will delve into the ecological connections between horseshoe crabs and shorebirds, and the challenges encountered in managing this spectacular resource.
Workshop sessions will explore the Green Eggs & Sand curriculum and provide demonstrations of the rich assortment of hands-on activities it offers. Field trips to Delaware Bay beaches are a special highlight of the weekend including: the opportunity to observe nighttime spawning of horseshoe crabs; horseshoe crab tagging; and a day trip to a beach to observe horseshoe crab eggs and shorebird feeding. Experts will discuss the biomedical use of horseshoe crabs, and horseshoe crab management, as well.
Workshop participants will receive the award-winning, Green Eggs & Sand curriculum pack, which is designed for middle and high school students.
Don't miss this great opportunity to take part in an intensive, not-to-be-missed, field enriched workshop during the peak horseshoe crab spawning and shorebird-viewing time on Delaware Bay!
Deadline for registration is April 15. The cost is $100. A registration form is available at
http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/greeneggs.htm. For more information regarding this workshop please contact Karen Leskie at karen.leskie@dep.state.nj.us .
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Rutherfurd Hall Professional Development Summer Program July 5 - July 28, 2011 (Posted: 1-26-11)
Click HERE.
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Free downloadable conservation biology textbook (Posted: 1-26-11)
Oxford University Press is offering free downloadable copies of a new conservation biology text.I've only read the chapter on fire ecology so far but it looks like a great resource, and the price is right for a downloadable copy. (vs. Paperback copies from Amazon,com are $54.43
http://www.mongabay.com/conservation-biology-for-all.html
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Web-seminar Aligning School Curriculum To State Standards (Posted: 1-26-11)
NJ School Districts are required to align their curriculum to the NJ State Standards for Science by September 2011.
ARE YOU READY? NJSTA is asking you to register today for:
Navigating New Jersey State Standards for Science Webinar
Thursday, February 3, 2011 4:30 – 6:00 PM
This informative look at the new Core Curriculum Content Standards will also provide an optional overview of the Understanding by Design curriculum for science available through the NJDOE.
You will need a computer with access to the Internet, and speakers and access codes to participate which are FREE for all members of NJSTA
Remember, this takes place at Your Computer (no travel involved)
Not sure how to connect? Contact Linda Smith lsmith@paulsboro.k12.nj.us
Registration is limited to the first 75 participants. Hurry to secure your seat!
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Yogi Bear to Help Kids "Be Out There" (Posted: 1-20-11)
National Wildlife Federation is teaming up with the film Yogi Bear to inspire kids and families to learn about wildlife and get outside in their neighborhood or favorite park. Visit "Be Out There" Web site to find out how to make being outdoors an easy, fun, and healthy part of everyday life!
Everyone’s favorite pic-a-nic basket-stealing bear comes to the big screen in Yogi Bear, a live-action/CG animated adventure in 3D.
Download the NWF Official Yogi Bear Activity Guide for more outdoor fun, games, and crafts. Meet Ranger Rick and find out more about our national parks and how you can help by Adopting a Wildife Acre.
www.nwf.org/about/nwf-at-the-movies/yogi-bear.aspx
http://www.beoutthere.org
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Games from Recycled Materials (Posted: 1-20-11)
GoGreenGames are a combination of nature, fun, and quality, and will not rot, decay, or delaminate. GoGreenGames are produced with a 50/50 blend of recycled wood fibers and plastics that help conserve the environment. Approximately 31 plastic bags are removed from the environment for each pound of a GoGreenGames game.
http://www.buygogreengames.com/
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Snow Secrets (Posted: 1-20-11)
Lynn Levine, co-author of Mammal Tracks and Scat: Life-Size Tracking Guide, has just published a new children's fiction environmental education book for 8-12 year olds called Snow Secrets, and is also offering workshops based on the book. Besides just being fun,it has two main themes -- motivating girls to study nature and stressing the acceptance of different learning styles. Sixth grade Sarah is school smart, while Jasmine learns more from the outdoors than in a classroom. The two must join forces to solve nature mysteries by learning outdoor skills including tracking.
http://www.heartwoodpress.com
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The Earth Is Our Home: Children Caring for the Environment (Posted: 1-20-11)
This new publication from the Association for Childhood Education is written to be used by teachers with existing curricula to help deal with environmental concerns in classroom study. The Earth Is Our Home: Children Caring for the Environment, co-edited by James L. Hoot and Judit Szente, features a chapter by Jane Goodall.
Read the introduction and learn more:
http://acei.org/new-book-on-children-and-the-envir...
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Global Graduate Courses ~ Africa, Asia, Australia, the Americas (Posted: 1-20-11)
Deadline: January 28, 2011
Miami University offers these graduate-credit courses at a fraction of actual costs to engage a diverse group of educators and other professionals in global leadership, inquiry, and environmental stewardship.
http://www.EarthExpeditions.org
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Sharing Nature: An Educator's Week ~ Maine (Posted: 1-20-11)
July 2011 ~ Hog Island, Maine
The Audubon Camp in Maine (on 330-acre Hog Island) has just opened registration for Summer 2011, and in July will be offering “Sharing Nature: An Educator’s Week.” This session will be engaging, fun, and thoroughly useful to both formal and informal science educators.There will be field trips – from exploringintertidal zones to a boat cruise to see Atlantic Puffins, to hiking in a boreal forest.Workshops, presentations, special guests, and great food!
http://www.projectpuffin.org/OrnithCamps.html
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Electronic Version of OAT Available (Posted: 1-20-11)
An electronic version of the Organization Assessment Tool (OAT) is now available online. The OAT is available in Word and Adobe files. You may use the Word file to adapt the OAT to the specific self-assessment needs of your organization. Also provided are two Excel spreadsheets to facilitate the recording and tallying of self-assessment responses.
To get you started EETAP has provided a brief PowerPoint presentation that introduces the OAT. The presentation answers questions such as:
· What is organization assessment?
· What is the OAT?
· Who can use the OAT?
· How can the OAT help individuals and organizations?
EETAP has a small supply of paper copies of the OAT remaining. If you prefer paper copies for you or your team please complete the online order form. Copies of the OAT are free and will be shipped at no charge within North America while supplies last. The paper version of the OAT is soft cover, 69 pages, and 9" X 6".
Access the electronic version of the slide presentation, OAT, and spreadsheets:
http://www.eetap.org/pages/dynamic/web.page.php?pa...
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Green Teacher's Webinar Survey for Formal/Non-Formal Educators (Posted: 1-20-11)
From February through November, Green Teacher will host 30 one-hour, free webinars on weekday evenings on a variety of environmental education topics of interest to formal and/or non-formal youth educators. For more information, visit www.greenteacher.com. Until February 9th, we are seeking your suggestionsof potential presenters and topics that would be of greatest interest. Please take the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/76KDMXX
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BuildingEnergy11: Educators Summit, March 9 (Posted: 1-20-11)
Click HERE.
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Join Us--Designing Your Schoolyard Habitat Project Webinar (Posted: 1-14-11)
Click HERE.
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Raptors in the City - Technology connects kids with nature (Posted: 1-14-11)
How do you catch a glimpse of the fastest creature on earth?Go online! "Raptors in the City" is a real-time, inquiry-based science and technology program that stars the peregrine falcon.The peregrine has recovered from near extinction and was removed from the List of Endangered Species in 1999, one of the great success stories in the field of wildlife conservation.
This is a picture of a female peregrine falcon at the "Raptors in the City" program's study nestsite.She is perched atop a "FalconCam" that broadcasts the nesting drama live on the internet courtesy of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.Her nestbox is on a 12th floor window ledge, in the right background.
The online portion of Raptors in the City guides children through nesting season (roughly late February to June) as they watch the still rare falcons live via cameras mounted on a skyscraper.The curriculum supports one semester of study, and students learn environmental, biological, and technological lessons, as well as research skills, tied to national science and technology standards.Curriculum materials and books for falcon study are available at low cost.It's easy - no software to install.
Nesting season (and the Raptors in the City program) begins in late February 2011.
For more information visit: www.raptorsinthecity.org
Contact person:
Deborah Mathies, Teacher and Director
Raptors in the City program
Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY
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Upcoming NJ Landscape Project Information Session (Posted: 1-13-11)
Come learn about the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife's geographic information system (GIS) approach to mapping endangered and threatened wildlife habitat throughout New Jersey! The Landscape Project is used in many state planning efforts and is referenced in a number of state regulations. It is also widely used in local environmental resource inventories throughout the state. An upcoming Landscape Projectinformation session will be hosted by:
Gloucester County Public Planning Division, 1200 North Delsea Drive, Clayton, NJ, on Tuesday, January 25, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
To register, please e-mail: rwestergaard@co.gloucester.nj.us
For additional information regarding the session visit
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/ensp/landscape_train.htm or e-mail patrick.woerner@dep.state.nj.us
Version 2.1 and Version 3.0 of New Jersey's Landscape Project that identifies habitats throughout the state can be obtained:
- Online via download: http://www.nj.gov/dep/gis/
- Online via DEP's Interactive mapping application: http://www.nj.gov/dep/gis/
- On Compact Disc by request to the Division of Fish and Wildlife's Endangered and Nongame Species Program by calling 609-292-9400; faxing 609-984-1414; or writing to Landscape Project, NJDFW, Mail Code 501-03, P.O. Box 420, Trenton, NJ 08625-0420.
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Studies in Air Quality for Science Educators (Posted: 1-10-11)
The Science center for Teaching, Outreach, and Research on Meteorology
(the STORM Project) at the University of Northern Iowa (Cedar Falls)
will sponsor a short course entitled "Studies in Air Quality for Science
Educators" on July 10-15, 2011. This intensive, one-week course is
designed specifically for middle school and high school science
teachers. Participants will receive a stipend. Expenses, including
travel, will be paid by the STORM Project. Out-of-state teachers are
encouraged to apply. For more information, see:
http://www.uni.edu/storm/saqse/
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National Bird Day 2011 – Resources for Educators (Posted: 1-10-11)
Today nearly 12 percent of the world’s 9,800 bird species may face extinction within the next century and millions of captive birds lead miserable lives languishing in cages. January 5, 2011, marks the 9th annual National Bird Day celebration aimed at drawing attention to the plight of birds.A full suite of resources including a book, lesson plan, posters, and more are available on the National Bird Day Web site. Contact NAAEE member Monica Engebretson, for more information monica@bornfreeusa.org or call 916-447-3085 x 210.
http://www.NationalBirdDay.com
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New Report on Preparing Effective Teachers and Helping Students Succeed (Posted: 1-10-11)
NCATE’s new Blue Ribbon Report on transforming teacher education describes a bold, comprehensive vision and presents a historic opportunity for the education community to co-construct a 21st century educator preparation system that is relevant to contemporary needs.
http://www.ncate.org/Public/ResearchReports/NCATEI...
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Play Again (Posted: 1-10-11)
The new Bullfrog Films documentary called Play Again, asks, "Is our connection to nature disappearing down the digital rabbit hole?".At a time when children play more behind screens than outside, Play Again explores the changing balance between the virtual and natural worlds. The documentary follows six teenagers who, like the average American child, spend five to 15 hours a day behind screens. Play Again unplugs these teens and takes them on their first wilderness adventure - no electricity, no cell phone coverage, no virtual reality.
http://www.bullfrogfilms.com/catalog/plag.html
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Project Earth (Posted: 1-10-11)
Created by Ecology and Environment, Inc., as an environmental education resource for U.S. and international K-12 schools, Project Earth is a new global networking site that encourages the exchange of ideas between students across the world on a wide variety of sustainability and environmental topics and solutions. Earlier this year, Project Earth held a World Environment Day Contest (June 5, 2010) for the most innovative and environmentally conscious projects, and a similar contest will soon be announced for 2011.Visit the Web site to view posted projects, showcase your projects and ideas, and learn more about Project Earth.
http://www.projectearth.net
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Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs (Posted: 1-10-11)
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence is the newest addition to the continuing series published by NAAEE as part of the National Project for Excellence in Environmental Education. Hundreds of individuals and organizations representing all aspects of early childhood education and environmental education reviewed working outlines and drafts. Reviewers include classroom teachers, daycare and early childhood education center staff members, administrators, environmental scientists, curriculum developers, and natural resource agency and education department staff members.
Early Childhood Environmental Education Programs: Guidelines for Excellence contains a set of recommendations for developing and administering high-quality environmental education programs for young children from birth to age eight, with a focus on ages three to six. These guidelines provide a tool that can be used to ensure a firm foundation for new programs or to trigger improvements in existing ones. The overall goal of these guidelines is to chart an appropriate and positive process whereby educators can start young children on their journey toward becoming environmentally responsive youth and adults.
Order your copy from NAAEE today:
http://www.naaee.org/publications
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Reminder: CFP for NAAEE’s 2011 Annual Conference & Research Symposium Deadline February 1st (Posted: 1-10-11)
Submit your proposals by February 1st for the 40th Anniversary Conference, "Branching to the Future. Rooted in Time," to be held in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, October 12-15 (the Research Symposium is Ocotber11 & 12). It’s NAAEE’s 40th anniversary, and we have lots to celebrate! Learn how to submit your presentation ideas for this milestone event:
http://www.naaee.org/conference/call-for-presentat...
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Environmental Communication for Behavior Change ~ Online (Posted: 1-10-11)
February 1 – March 15, 2011
Brian Day, the NAAEE Executive Director, will be the instructor for this Duke Environmental Leadership (DEL) Program. This course provides environmental professionals with a practical introduction to the strategies, methods, and tools of environmental communication that effectively lead to changes in behavior. The course is six weeks in length and is taught in an entirely online, distance learning format.
http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/del/executiveed/cours...
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New Jersey Science Teachers: free equipment (Posted: 12-22-10)
Due to the closing of a lab facility in Wilmington, DE, 170 fully-equipped labs will no longer be in use, and the company is planning to discard much of the equipment.
There are several analytical balances, extensive glassware (including titration tubes), refrigeration units of varying sizes, etc.All available at no cost.
(The company is also getting rid of items like mass spectrometers which will be sold on E-bay.)
Science teachers who can physically come and get the equipment, should contact Doug Burdette at 302-885-4906 with questions as to what is available and to make arrangements.
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High School Biology Curriculum Development Technical Assistance Workshops (Posted: 12-20-10)
How do we insure that our revised high school biology curriculum is reflective of the 2009 Science Standards and will prepare my students for the NJ Biology Competency Test? The Office of Math and Science Education is providing technical assistance workshops to help high school biology teachers and curriculum developers to unburden their curriculum.The goal of the workshop is for teachers to develop the skills necessary to create an evidence-based biology curriculum that affords students the opportunity to spend more time to explore important science concepts and principles.
The workshops are held in the first floor conference room of the NJDOE offices located at 100 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, NJ 08043. Directions can be found at: http://www.nj.gov/education/genfo/dir2doe.htm.
Workshop Dates
February 16, 17, or 18, 2011
March 16, 21, or 24, 2011
Registration: Visit the Calendar and Events website at http://education.state.nj.us/events/ for additional details and registration.
Contact Information
Michael Heinz
Science Coordinator
Office of Math and Science Education
NJ Department of Education
Michael.heinz@doe.state.nj.us
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Coldwater Conservation School Applications Available (Posted: 12-17-10)
The NJ School of Conservation in Sussex County will be the host site for an exciting Coldwater Conservation School being offered in 2011 by the NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife and the NJ State Council of Trout Unlimited and its supporting chapters. The School will be held from June 23 - 26 and is open to youth who will be between the ages of 11 and 14 at the time of the program.
The goal of the School is to foster a knowledge and appreciation of trout and the coldwater habitats on which they depend. The cost of the Coldwater Conservation School is only $200.00, which includes food, lodging and equipment for the entire 4 days and 3 nights.
Applications are due no later than Wednesday, April 13, 2011. Students accepted into the School will be notified by the end of April.
Information about the Coldwater Conservation School including the official application can be found at: http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/conservation_school.htm .
Information about Trout Unlimited can be found at: http://www.njtu.org/ and the NJ School of Conservation at http://csam.montclair.edu/njsoc/ .
Questions about the School should be directed to Jessica Griglak at (908)-637-4125 or jessica.griglak@dep.state.nj.us .
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Earn a Master of Environmental Management at Duke University from your Desktop! (Posted: 12-15-10)
Create an environmental vision for tomorrow at the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke while maintaining a commitment to your employer and family! The Duke Environmental Leadership Program is an innovative, two-year online Master of Environmental Management degree, with strategically integrated intensive on-campus visits. The program is designed for working, mid-career environmental professionals and features interdisciplinary and global themes, strategic approaches to environmental management, and effective leadership and communication skills. Learn more at an information session.
http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/delinfo
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Americans'; Knowledge of Climate Change (Posted: 12-15-10)
This Yale Project on Climate Change Communication has released this new report Americans' Knowledge of Climate Change, about what Americans understand about the impact of climate system and solutions to global warming. View the full report:
http://environment.yale.edu/climate/news/knowledge...
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Buy, Use, Toss? (Posted: 12-15-10)
Buy, Use, Toss? A Closer Look at the Things We Buy, is a free interdisciplinary curriculum unit from Facing the Future that leads students through an exploration of the system of producing and consuming goods that is called the materials economy. Students learn about the five major steps of the materials economy (Extraction, Production, Distribution, Consumption, and Disposal) and are asked to analyze the sustainability of these steps to determine how consumption can benefit people, economies, and environments.
http://www.facingthefuture.org/Curriculum/BuyUseTo...
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Explore the Blue (Posted: 12-15-10)
Explore the Blue is a new educational resource from Take Me Fishing and Discovery Education to promote curiosity in the great outdoors. This comprehensive program provides free resources to help teachers engage their students in a dialogue about outdoor recreational activities and the value of clean and healthy waterways.
http://www.exploretheblue.com/
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Innovative “Nourish” Food Literacy Curriculum Now Available (Posted: 12-15-10)
A new standards-aligned middle school curriculum released by WorldLink and the Center for Ecoliteracy invites students and teachers to consider the question: “What’s the story of my food?” The Nourish: Food + Community curriculum and companion DVD are part of a multi-year educational initiative designed to open a meaningful conversation about food and sustainability. The initiative combines PBS programming, Web site content, teacher seminars, and youth summits to increase food literacy.
http://nourishlife.org
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One Well: the Story of Water on Earth (Posted: 12-15-10)
By Rochelle Strauss, author of the award-winning Tree of Life. One Well: the Story of Water on Earth is a beautifully illustrated book that tells the eye-opening story of water on Earth. One Well shows how water has the power to change everything — a single splash can sprout a seed, quench a thirst, provide a habitat, generate energy, and sustain life. Check out the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aA45mqUbfUg
http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/35/search?sc=R...
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The Storytelling Class (Posted: 12-15-10)
The Storytelling Class, available from Bullfrog Films, features an after-school storytelling project in a diverse, but divided, city school that breaks cultural boundaries and creates community. Gordon Bell High School is probably the most culturally varied school in Winnipeg, Canada, with 58 different languages spoken by the student body. In an effort to build bridges of friendship and belonging across cultures and histories, teacher Marc Kuly initiated an after-school storytelling project whereby the immigrant students would share stories with their peers. These voluntary meetings help the students learn to listen and find the commonality that so long eluded them.
http://www.bullfrogfilms.com/catalog/story.html
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Waterlife Documentary (Posted: 12-15-10)
A new documentary that reveals the extraordinary beauty and complex toxicity of the Great Lakes, the largest remaining supply of fresh water (20%) on Earth. From the ornate fountains of Chicago to the sewers of Windsor, viewers are carried through marsh and pipe, across pounding waves and through thunder clouds on a journey that provides an unprecedented view of an incredible ecosystem rarely seen by the city dwellers who form much of its population. Along the way, Waterlife shows viewers the Great Lakes as they might appear to a seagull, a fish, or a water molecule...and from a myriad of other amazing perspectives. Details and a trailer are available on Bullfrog Film's Web site.
http://www.bullfrogfilms.com/catalog/wlife.html
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"World of 7 Billion"(Lesson plans and a student video contest) (Posted: 12-14-10)
Click HERE.
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Learning Ocean Science through Ocean Exploration Curriculum (Posted: 12-14-10)
One Day Professional Development Institute
Saturday, February 26, 2011
8:30 - 3:30 pm
Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve
Tuckerton, NJ
From bioluminescent corals to deep vent worms, from tropical underwater volcanoes to the Arctic Ocean floor, we know more about the moon than our ocean. Bring the excitement of current ocean science discoveries to your students using the Learning Ocean Science through Ocean Exploration curriculum, CD, and the Ocean Explorer Web site (http://oceanexplorer.noaa. gov) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER).
Join NOAA OER Education Program Manager, Susan Haynes, as you do inquiry and standards-based activities tied directly to ocean expeditions. Activities written and tested by scientists and educators enable your students to model ocean science exploration in your classroom. Use these lessons in biology, earth, physical and marine science courses to connect your students to the excitement of NOAA Ocean Exploration as they travel from the Galapagos Rift to the Arctic Ocean, from Alaskan and New England seamounts to those in the Hawaiian Islands.
Registration is required and space is limited. Each participant will receive the curriculum book, CD, materials related to activities presented during the workshop, a NOAA Ocean Exploration Certificate of Participation, a continental breakfast, and lunch.
Visit http://www.jcnerr.org/education/educators.html for more information or to register. Registration Deadline is February 4, 2011. Contact Melanie Reding at reding@marine.rutgers.edu or 609-812-0649 ext. 206
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Google STEM Science Fair (Posted: 12-6-10)
On 11 January, 2011, we are launching the inaugural Google Science Fair.
We have partnered with NASA, CERN, National Geographic, Scientific American and the LEGO Group to create a new STEM competition that is more open, accessible and global than ever before. We are reaching out to educators prior to launch to let you know “the Google Science Fair is coming” and to extend an invitation to schools and teachers to get involved early in our global competition.
To sign up for fun and free resource kits for your classroom or school (with bookmarks, stickers, posters and more!) and a reminder notification when GSF registration opens, please visit the Google Science Fair at: http://www.google.com/sciencefair
The Google Science Fair is a global competition that any student aged 13 - 18 from around the world is eligible to enter. Students can enter as individuals or as teams of up to three. There is no entry fee and registration and submission will happen online. The deadline for submissions will be the 4 April, 2011. The Science Fair will culminate in a “once in a lifetime” celebratory event at Google headquarters in California in July 2011 where finalists will compete for internships, scholarships and prizes in front of a panel of celebrity scientist judges including Nobel Laureates, tech visionaries and household names.
We want to celebrate and champion great young scientific talent and give students from around the world the opportunity to compete for amazing experiences, prizes, scholarships and internships.We hope you are as excited about this upcoming competition as we are are!
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New NJCCCS Standards project assistance (Posted: 12-6-10)
Dear Colleagues: I am hoping you can help me recruit some high school teams of students for this new Rutgers initiative called the Climate and Environmental Change Teen Summit. Students (grades 9-11) are invited to work with Rutgers University scientists to learn about climate change science to develop community science projects that apply their knowledge of climate change issues in their local communities.I have recruited some of Rutgers best science communicators/scientists to work on this project and have an expert speaker from the Alliance for Climate Education (ACE).
Student teams and their advisors will participate in a series of activities to enrich their understanding of climate change science. Teams of 5-6 students from each school will join together with graduate students and faculty on the Rutgers Cook Campus to discuss climate change research and gain exposure to career and research opportunities in climate change related sciences. As part of the summit, students will engage in planning and implementing climate change related service projects in their local communities.
Schedule at a glance
Climate Change 101: January 12, 2011 (Snow date: January 13, 2011) What is climate change? How do we know it is happening? How will climate change affect us? What are the solutions? How will we do it?
Student delegates will work with Rutgers scientists to explore the science of climate change. The event will include tours of university laboratories, hands-on activities, and discussions with scientists. Together we will explore how to communicate and discuss climate change in your school community.
From Ideas to Action: June 1, 2011
Students will learn how Rutgers University is going green including a tour the University solar farm and Rutgers laboratories that are exploring how to make smart plants that can convert their own starches to fermentable sugars, necessary to create efficient biofuels. Students will present their plans of action and results and will be recognized for their work.
Participants will be provided with lunch and snacks on each day of the program. Each team will need to be accompanied by a school appointed adult advisor who will also mentor and guide the team in the implementation of their service project. Student teams will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
Please click here for more information: http://4hset.rutgers.edu/programs.html
I hope you will help me make this widely available and attended by NJ students!Don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions.
Janice McDonnell
Science Engineering & Technology (SET) 4-H Agent
Associate Professor, Department of Youth Development
Phone: (732) 932 6555 x521
Website: www.coseenow.net
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Because You Can't Wrap Wildlife (Posted: 12-6-10)
Click HERE.
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New Book - "Protecting New Jersey Environment: From Cancer Alley to the New Garden State" (Posted: 12-6-10)
The recently published book (Rutgers University Press) entitled, “Protecting New Jersey Environment: From Cancer Alley to the New Garden State”, written by Thomas Belton, Research Scientist for the NJDEP, can be found at:
http://rutgerspress.rutgers.edu/acatalog/Protecting_New_Jerseys_Environment.html
The book is unique as it takes a personal approach to outlining environmental issues keyed to the authors life story and those he met on the streets and in the woods around the state.
According to Belton, "I feel this approach is a good way to draw in students to the technical issues at both the high school and college levels."
See the article here: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C07E2DC1231F934A2575AC0A9609C8B63
In addition to Rutgers Press the book is now in books stores (Barnes and Nobles, Borders) and online at Amazon.com.
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Plants for Pollinators Program (Posted: 11-30-10)
Teachers Can Receive Classroom Equipment for Plants for Pollinators Program
Freehold Soil Conservation District will provide "Plants for Pollinators in the Classroom" Resource Kits to several teachers in Middlesex and Monmouth County. The Plants for Pollinators in the Classroom program is designed to help students discover the importance of native pollinators and to study the relationship between plants and pollinators.
Selected teachers will receive indoor growing kits, complete with a plant stand, grow bulbs, potting soil and seeds for students to explore plant growth, conduct experiments and raise pollinator plants. The kit also includes a packet of resources, lessons, plant information and planting guidelines. In the spring, student-grown plants are to be planted in a school or community garden. Participating teachers will also receive a supply of potted plants to enhance their pollinator garden. All materials will be provided free of charge.
Pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds, moths and birds play a critical role in the production of over 150 food crops in the United States - among them apples, almonds, blueberries, cranberries, melons, pears and squash. An estimated 90 percent of flowering plants depend on bees and other insects as well as birds and bees for pollination.
Teachers must apply for the program by January 31, 2011 and supplies are limited. The Plants for Pollinators in the Classroom registration brochure is available online at www.freeholdscd.org, by emailing info@freeholdscd.org, or by calling Freehold Soil Conservation District at 732-683-8500. This program is open to teachers in Middlesex and Monmouth County schools.
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BSCS Field-Test --Relative to ES, Envir Sci & Biology (Posted: 11-19-10)
Click HERE.
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News Release: Bird Songs Bible - Amazing! (Posted: 11-17-10)
Click HERE.
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"Plants for Pollinators” resource kit (Posted: 11-10-10)
Help your students learn about New Jersey’s native pollinators and study the important relationship between plants and pollinators!
January 31, 2011, is the deadline for teachers in Mercer, Middlesex and Monmouth Counties to apply to their local Soil Conservation District for a free “Plants for Pollinators” resource kit. Each kit includes a two-tiered plant growing stand and all the materials needed to start growing butterfly-attracting plants in the classroom (e.g. potting soil, and more). Lesson ideas, teaching tools and a beautiful pollinator poster are also provided. After starting the seeds in the classroom, the students transfer their seedlings and new found knowledge to the schoolyard through the creation of a pollinator garden. What a fun way to increase pollinator habitat and schoolyard biodiversity!
Teachers in Mercer County should apply to the Mercer Co. Soil Conservation District (609-586-9603).See http://mercerscd.org/education/pollinators.htm for details and an application form.
Teachers in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties should apply to the Freehold Soil Conservation District (732-683-8500). See http://www.freeholdscd.org/page.php?page_id=98 for details and an application form.
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Sharing Nature: An Educator's Week (Posted: 11-9-10)
Hello Fellow Educators,
I'm writing with exciting news that the National Audubon Society will once again sponsor and present a week of programming especially designed for teachers and youth leaders who want to improve their skills in connecting children and youth to nature. The session, entitled Sharing Nature: An Educator's Week, will be held at the famed and historic residential Audubon Camp in Maine, on Hog Island, in the mid-coast area, from July 14th to the 19th, and will be staffed by a growing list of expert and talented teachers, naturalists, artists, and musicians.
There will be field trips to see the restored Atlantic Puffin and Tern colony on nearby Eastern Egg Rock, excursions into a lush spruce/fir forest, a rich pond, and along the island's verdant inter-tidal and tide pool zone, as well as many useful and intriguing presentations and workshops.A typical day may begin with an early morning bird walk, a choice of different field trips or workshops before lunch and a similar list of programs after lunch, and then a keynote evening program, followed by a campfire and songs. Participants live in historic wooden buildings, with all modern conveniences, and are treated to three wonderful and healthy gourmet-style meals each day.This is a fun-filled, productive, and highly social week designed to both inspire educators as well as to help give them more tools, ideas, and activities for their work.Citizen Science projects as well as Service Learning projects will also be part of the week.
Staff members and guest speakers presently include Author/Illustrator Lynn Cherry; veteran naturalist/educator Ted Gilman; artist illustrator Sherrie York; Cornell Lab of Ornithology's director of their BirdSleuth program Jennifer Fee; musician and science teacher Craig Newberger; and "Seabird Sue" Schubel, winner of a Disney Conservation Hero award and an Audubon educator.More staff will be added ongoingly.
The Audubon Camp will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2011, and is also offering 4 ornithology sessions as well as the Educator's Week.(Pete Dunne, Kenn Kauffman, Scott Weidensaul and others will be teaching at the ornithology sessions). Come to a gorgeous island where Rachel Carson, Roger Tory Peterson, and most of America's great naturalists have spent time since its founding in 1936.
For much more information, costs, photos, registrations, etc. go to http://hogisland.audubon.org or call registrar Erica Van Etten at (607) 257-7308 ext.14. There is an early bird discount of $50 for those registering by January 15, 2011. We will reserve 25% of all spaces for Audubon chapters until December 1, 2010 and then it is first come, first served.
Hog Island 2011 Sessions:
Maine Seabird Biology and Conservation (“Road Scholar”)May 29-June 3
Joy of Birding (June 12-17)
Field Ornithology(June 19-24)
Coastal Maine Bird Studies for Teens(June 19-24)
Sharing Nature: An Educator’s Week (July 14-19)
Audubon Chapter Leadership Program(August 15-20)
Maine Seabird Biology and Conservation (“Road Scholar”)September 11-16
Road Scholar is the new name for Elderhostel or Exploritas, and they do the registering for these programs.
Much more information about all the programs can be found at http://hogisland.audubon.org
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Announcing EE Week's 2011 annual theme! (Posted: 11-3-10)
Click HERE.
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Sedge Island Summer Field Experience and Open House (Posted: 10-28-10)
The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ will be holding two sessions of an exciting week long residential summer program at the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center for motivated students interested in exploring New Jersey's salt marsh environment. Session one will be held July 6-10, 2011, and the second session will be held August 8-12, 2011.Both sessions are open to students entering grades 7 to 9.
Students will stay at the "Sedge House," a renovated duck-hunting lodge located in Barnegat Bay in New Jersey's only marine conservation zone. Here they will explore the Barnegat Bay ecosystem with Fish and Wildlife and Conserve Wildlife Foundation biologists using kayaks, microscopes, water-testing equipment, nets, and other scientific tools. While living a conservation lifestyle, students will gain a better understanding of current environmental issues affecting the bay and how the choices they make can have a positive impact upon their environment.
The cost is $425 and includes all meals, equipment and instruction. Space is limited and the application process will be competitive. Applications are due by March 31.
Interested parents and students are encouraged to learn more by attending an Open House at 10:00 am. on Saturday, February 26 at the Island Beach State Park Interpretive Center in Seaside Park, NJ. This is a great opportunity to meet the instructors and ask any questions you may have.
The courtesy of an RSVP is requested to if you will attend the Open House to Karen Leskie at (609) 748-4347.
For more information about the Sedge Island Student Field Experience and how to apply visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/sedge.htm .
If you have any additional questions please contact Karen Leskie at (609) 748-4347 or karen.leskie@dep.state.nj.us .
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USFS "Teachers Guide to Finding My Forest" (Posted: 10-25-10)
Click HERE.
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Distance Learning about Solar System (Posted: 10-25-10)
About the Year of the Solar System (YSS)
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/yss
It is with great excitement that NASA’s Planetary Science Division announces the Year of the Solar System!
Spanning a Martian Year—23 months—the Year of the Solar System celebrates the amazing discoveries of numerous NASA missions as they explore our planetary neighbors and probe the outer edges of our Solar System. New missions will further explore Jupiter, the Earth’s Moon, and Mars. Others will encounter comets and asteroids, and continue to decipher the mysteries of the Sun, Mercury, Saturn, and our home planet, Earth. It is an unprecedented time in planetary sciences as we learn about new worlds and make new discoveries!
Each month from October 2010 to August 2012 will highlight different aspects of our Solar System—its formation, volcanism, gravity, ice, life elsewhere?—weaving together activities, resources, and ideas that teachers, clubs, and organizations can use to engage audiences.
On the website, you will find:
• Educational materials for classroom teachers, organizations, clubs, and others interested in participating
• Night-sky viewing events and mission milestones
• Featured activities
• Recommended resources
• People profiles
• Year of the Solar System updates
• Ways to register your Year of the Solar System events and to share your experiences
• Free downloadable promotional materials (bookmarks, fliers, calendar of events)
Get involved! Experience the scale of our solar system in October, explore its formation in November, investigate the characteristics of our planets in December and January, and delve into comets along with the Stardust-NExT encounter with comet Tempel 1 in February! On the website you will find all the resources you need to plan your programs ahead of time – and to create exciting experiences for your audiences.
Build your own scale model of the solar system – and share it at the Year of the Solar System website! Starting in October 2010, museums, libraries, science centers, schools, planetariums, and others are invited to create scale models of the Solar System and share their events and experiences through the Year of the Solar System website! See the website for guidelines and more information.
We invite you to join the celebration as we explore New Worlds and make New Discoveries together! Please share the Year of the Solar System with your colleagues, partners, and networks and encourage them to explore the resources and get involved.
Christine
________________________________
Christine Shupla
Education Specialist
Lunar and Planetary Institute
3600 Bay Area Blvd
Houston, TX 77058
(281) 486-2135
fax (281) 244-2031
shupla@lpi.usra.edu
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Delaware River Basin Water Resource Protection Forum (Posted: 10-22-10)
We are planning a one-day Delaware River Basin Water Resource Protection Forum on March 10, 2011, aimed at promoting local actions to protect drinking water quality and quantity (co-sponsors: EPA Regions II and III, DRBC, and NJ, NY, PA, and DE).People who live in the DR watershed can help by answering a short online survey to elicit input from potential attendees at sites in Philadelphia and satellite locations, including 3 in NJ:interested utilities, local government officials (elected and appointed), activists, environmental commissions, and others who can influence local action on drinking water sustainability.
The link for the survey ishttp://www.kwiksurveys.com/online-survey.php?surveyID=HIMLNM_7143b878&UID=2638788769), and if possible we'd like people to answer it by mid-November at latest, so we can get timely information and the survey doesn't interfere with holiday preparations.Although we are particularly interested in feedback from people who might actually attend the Forum, we are open to input from other interested parties as well.
Bureau of Safe Drinking Water Technical Assistance
Water Supply Operations
Division of Water Supply
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
P.O. Box 420
401 East State Street
Trenton, NJ 08625-0420
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High School Biology Competency Testing Resources (Posted: 10-22-10)
The department of education and the assessment vendor Measurement Inc. have posted several documents that will be of interest to high school biology teachers. The documents can be found at: https://www.measinc.com/nj/NJBCT/Default.aspx. Technical questions regarding the assessment should be directed to Steve Goldman at stephen.goldman@doe.state.nj.us.
The Office of Math and Science Education have published two documents that should also be useful to biology teachers as they refine their curriculum to meet the demand of the 2009 NJCCCS for Science and the Biology Competency Test.
§High School Biology/Life Science Core Course Content
§High School Lab Science: Biology Core Content Mapping Template
The Office of Math and Science Education continues to offer professional development opportunities focusing on using the new science standards to unburden and update your science curriculum. Those events are listed on the NJDOE Upcoming Opportunities Calendar of Events located at: http://education.state.nj.us/events/
Michael Heinz
Science Coordinator/ MSP Program Officer
Office of Math and Science Education
P.O. Box 500
100 Riverview Plaza
Trenton, NJ 08043
Phone: 609.984.7453 or 609.633.0443
URL: http://www.state.nj.us/education/aps/cccs/science/
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Connecting PLT and the Gulf Oil Spill (Posted: 10-22-10)
It could be the “science” news event of the year – and is surely a teachable moment that is being used in classrooms around the world. The environmental and social effects of the Gulf Oil Spill will continue to draw the attention of educators for years to come as we discover more of both the short and long term effects of the spill.
To help educators teach their students about this event using PLT materials, we have put together a list of activities from the PreK-8 Environmental Education Activity Guide, Energy and Society, Forests of the World, andFocus on Risk.In addition to the activities listed, we have also provided links to websites with information on the Gulf Oil Spill. These correlations will be a nice resource to share with your workshop participants – especiallythose that are in the Gulf area or that are interested in using current events to enhance their lesson planning.
This resource is also posted online at: http://plt.org/PLT_Activity_Connections_Gulf_Oil_Spill.doc
Scientists will continue to learn more about The Deepwater Horizon blowout and its impacts over time. As we learn ofadditional resources we will add them to the document. If you have additional suggestions for this resource – pleasesend them to kcooper@forestfoundation.org.Special thanks to Kyle Cooper for investigating these resources and coming up with the listing.
astenstrup@forestfoundation.org
www.forestfoundation.org
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EETAP Bulletin - September 2010 (Posted: 10-18-10)
Click HERE.
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Great Swamp Watershed Association 2010 Teacher Education Workshops (Posted: 10-18-10)
Great Swamp Watershed Association will again facilitate these useful workshops for area educators.Workshops are for K-12 formal and non-formal educators alike.They focus on core content correlated activities that educators can use back in the classroom or Nature Center to teach across the curriculum.They encourage critical thinking skills and focus on sustainability topics such as water conservation, the water cycle, Biodiversity, habitats and more.Workshops provide activities relevant to the local environment and will be linked with the amazing online resources of Verizon’s thinkfinity.org. Each six hour hands-on workshops will provide participants with activity guides chock full of relevant and engaging content that can be interwoven into existing curriculums. Workshops are $15, and include breakfast.They confer six Professional development credits too! Register online at www.greatswamp.org.We accept Purchase orders.
Workshops are led by GSWA’s own experienced naturalist educator, Hazel England. For more information email Hazel at hazele@greatswamp.org.All workshops take place at Great Swamp Watershed Association offices.
Project WET Workshop with additional Great Swamp Focus
Saturday March 26 9am-3pm
The workshop is an interdisciplinary, supplemental water education program for formal and non-formal educators, K-12. It is hands-on, action packed and informative! Educators will learn by doing, experiencing activities they can use to teach all kinds of water concepts from the water cycle, to water properties, aquatic ecosystems, and water pollution prevention. Participants will receive the curriculum and activity guide, a collection of innovative, water-related activities that are hands-on, easy to use and up to date.
Great Swamp Watershed Association www.greatswamp.org
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A Simple Question: The Story of STRAW (Posted: 9-29-10)
This Video Project film profiles a model place-based environmental education program that empowers students to help restore natural habitats and preserve endangered species.This film, A Simple Question: The Story of STRAW, is screening at the NAAEE conference on Friday, October 1st, at 11 a.m. with Laurette Rogers, the teacher who started it all. The Video Project will also be at booth #61 at the exhibit hall at the conference, offering special conference discounts and the opportunity to preview their films.
http://store.videoproject.com/simplequestion.html
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More Teaching Resources on the Oil Spill (Posted: 9-29-10)
The National Environmental Education Foundation EE Week project has compiled a list of resources and curricula on the BP oil spill that are tied to educational standards from the EPA, NOAA, Smithsonian, and National Geographic.
http://eeweek.org/oil_spill.htm
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Young Voices on Climate Change (Posted: 9-29-10)
The "Young Voices on Climate Change" short films feature inspiring young people age 9-19 taking action and finding solutions to the global warming crisis by reducing the carbon footprint of their homes, schools, communities, and states.
http://youngvoicesonclimatechange.com/climate-chan...
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NJ State Museum 2010-2011 Program Guide is Here! (Posted: 9-29-10)
Click HERE.
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Environmental Communication (Second Edition) (Posted: 9-23-10)
Environmental Communication: Skills and Principles for Natural Resource Managers, Scientists, and Engineers (Second Edition), by R.R. Jurin, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, USA; D. Roush, Odyssey School, Denver, CO, USA; J. Danter, The Nature Conservancy, Florida Chapter, Altamonte Springs, FL, USA. Published by Springer.
Environmental professionals can no longer simply publish research in technical journals. Informing the public is now a critical part of the job. Environmental Communication demonstrates, step by step, how it’s done, and is an essential guide for communicating complex information to groups not familiar with scientific material. It addresses the entire communications process, from message planning, audience analysis and media relations to public speaking - skills a good communicator must master for effective public dialogue. Environmental Communication provides all the knowledge and tools you need to reach your target audience in a persuasive and highly professional manner.
http://www.springer.com/environment/environmental+...
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Free Consumption and Product Lifecycle Unit (Posted: 9-23-10)
Students are surrounded by “stuff” – from blue jeans to the latest cell phone – in their everyday lives.Pique your students’ natural interest in stuff with interdisciplinary, standards-aligned lessons that will build 21st century skills and engage them in a high-interest and relevant real-world topic. Buy, Use, Toss? A Closer Look at the Things We Buy is a free, two-week unit on consumption and product lifecycles.
Download this entire unit at:
http://bit.ly/dzbi2P
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Free Worksheets For Teachers (Posted: 9-23-10)
Teachnology offers over 8,000 free printable K-12 teacher worksheets and resources for reinforcement and review to use and distribute for educational purposes, as long as the copyright and footer information are left intact. Check site regularly, as new resources are frequently added. Look for an additional 2,000 worksheets in the coming months.
http://www.teach-nology.com/worksheets/
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Innovative EE: Look Into a Landfill (Posted: 9-23-10)
"Look Into a Landfill" is a new Ecosize Me EE program described as a "tent-sensual-experience" in which young people enter the world of a landfill to discover the differences, consequences, and benefits of the garbage we create. Once inside the tent-exhibit, students are surrounded by images, textures, and smells of a landfill. The exhibit will allow for a comparative look into two methods of “trashing” and provide a strong visual for the supportive student/facilitator program that follows. This program, based in Southeast Michigan, will be available for exhibition and presentations beginning October 1, 2010, and will be marketed for classroom presentations and community exhibits.Advertising opportunities are available on the “Look into a Landfill” tent-exhibit. Contact: Tracy Purrenhage at 248-217-6855
http://www.ecosizeme.com/
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New EPA Picture Book on Air Quality for Kids: Why is Coco Orange? (Posted: 9-23-10)
This free downloadable new picture book from the U.S. EPA helps children better understand how to protect their health. Why is Coco Orange?, tells the story of Coco the chameleon who can't change colors and along with his friends they learn about air quality while solving the mystery.
http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=picture_book.in...
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Plant an Idea, Plant a Tree (Posted: 9-23-10)
The new edition of the Armenia Tree Project's (ATP) Plant an Idea, Plant a Tree manual outlines lessons to understand environmental issues and identify practical solutions. The manual was introduced in 2005 when ATP published Armenia’s first teacher’s manual for environmental education, compiled and written by Dr. Karla Wesley.
http://www.armeniatree.org/whatwedo/eea.htm
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The Best of CLEARING: A Unique Collection of EE Stories, Reviews, and Perspectives (Posted: 9-23-10)
The Best of CLEARING (Volume VI) is a special collector’s item CD-ROM featuring a compilation of unique content from 20 past issues of CLEARING: the EE resource magazine of the Pacific Northwest. Disc includes writings of David Orr, Cliff Knapp, Mike Weilbacher, and Chet Bowers; field-tested teaching ideas and strategies, K-12 activities for all subject areas, and stories from some of the most innovative EE projects and programs in the region.
http://www.clearingmagazine.org/bestofclearing.htm...
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Documentary Film "Unlimited: Renewable Energy in the 21st Century" (Posted: 9-13-10)
My name is Daniel Califf-Glick. I am one of the directors and producers of Unlimited: Renewable Energy in the 21st Century, an independently made short documentary about renewable energy. Thus far the film has been in over a dozen film festivals worldwide, has won the Seven Summits Award from the Mountain Film Festival and has gotten wide critical acclaim.
Why I'm writing to you is to let you know about a program that we're starting with Unlimited, where we are distributing the film, free of charge, to educational organizations, institutions and networks, in order for the film to reach a wider audience to educate about the importance of moving towards renewable energy. The film features children very prominently so the film is an ideal educational tool for middle and high school classes, but it is structured in a way that it can be used for any type of audience. We also have a teacher's guide available for $1 apiece (the cost of printing).
Our only conditions to be a part of this program is that you commit to using the film, you let us know how you use it and that you pay the shipping fee for the film (anywhere from $2 up, depending on how many DVDs you request). That's it. If you have any interest in getting copies of the film - there is no limit on how many you can request - please send us an email at OneLightOneCamera@gmail.com. And if you know of other organizations or people who might be interested in being a part of our program, please let us know.
To preview the film, you can view it here: http://vimeo.com/10867240.
OneLightOneCamera@gmail.com
www.onelightonecamera.com.
Official Film Festival Selections: Sidewalk Moving Picture Film Festival, Mountain Film Festival, Siskiyou Film Festival, Peace on Earth Film Festival, Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival, Frozen River Film Festival, Delray Beach Film Festival, 2010 Princeton Environmental Film Festival, Eco Film Fest 2010 (Malaysia), Green Lifestyle Film Festival, Blue Planet Film Festival, Byron Bay Film Festival (Australia), Awareness Film Festival, Rodos International Film and Visual Arts festival (Greece)
Praise for Unlimited:"To defuse the global warming time bomb, we must phase out coal use rapidly and find alternatives to other fossil fuels. Unlimited is an indispensable introduction to the clean energy sources we need."
- James Hansen, Climate Scientist, NASA
"As the planet cries out for protection against the assault from our burning of coal and oil, this vibrant film shows that the greatest source of planetary renewal - and of our own human hope - is the renewable energy of our kids."
- Ross Gelbspan, author, "The Heat is On" and "Boiling Point"
"Here's a message coming from the people who are going to deal with this tragedy the longest, unless we get our acts together now. It will move you to action!"
- Bill McKibben, 350.org
"A fun and thoughtful film to spark one of the most important conversations that students, and all of us, need to have: how clean, renewable energy can replace fossil fuels as the energy source that powers our society."
- Jared Duval, former National Director, Sierra Student Coalition"Unlimited is the greatest film available today for kids in schools. It beats An Inconvenient Truth hands down for kids.
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Archived PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CLASSROOM MATERIALS are available upon request throught the webmast
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