PENDA over the break

The PENDA assignment that is due on 12/26 is due at 7AM on 12/26. If another set of Penda is assigned by the district then it will be considered due on 01/09/2017 at 7 AM even if a due date of 01/02/2017 is registered. It's not a bad idea to review some Penda, but remember some of you have science projects that still need to be completed.

Happy Winter Break.

BONUS OPPORTUNITY DUE NO LATER THAN 01/10/2017

Directions for the BONUS

Make an ANCHOR CHART poster for one of the topics on the document posted in FOCUS. It’s in the BONUS category. Anchor Charts will be hung out in the hallway and in the classroom. They are visual reminders about science content. It’s important to research your topic and to present it in a way that will help you and others learn and remember content from 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade.

Criteria to earn up to 2 Bonus Points.

2	The content for the learning point is appropriate to 8th grade and is correct. The Chart is a full size poster. It is Colorful, Neat, Creative, and Easily Read from 2 meters away. Although it contains information it should not be so jam packed that it can’t be read and used as a tool for learning. It is appealing and interesting and demonstrates your creativity. There may not be any computer generated pictures on your poster. You may draw or take your own photos. Nothing may be plagiarized (that means copied from a source). If you quote something you must cite it properly and use quotation marks. There may be no spelling errors or cross outs. Submitted by the due date of 1/10/2017 with your name and period on the back.
1.0	Almost meets the criteria for a 2. Not quite up to the expectations for a 2.
0	Shows little or no attempt to meet the criteria for a 2.

THE LIST IS ON FOCUS!!!

Attention Toshiba ExploraVision Teams

Below is a copy of a message I received from Exploravision aka Toshiba. Read it and see how it can help you.

Each project group that has chosen me as a sponsor must begin the registration process. I have to log on and then you can fill out your information, so it has to either be completed in class or after school. See me to schedule an appointment.

NEW: 1-on-1 Coaching for ExploraVision Teams Dear Teachers, Don't let simple errors disqualify the young, STEM-azing minds in your classroom or science club! We are introducing one virtual coaching opportunity to all Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision teams before the final submission deadline on February 6, 2017 at 11:59 PM EST. Need help and have questions? Call us during January 4-18 and we will share advice and review your project! To get started, simply submit your project before January 18 and Call 1-800-EXPLOR9 (Monday through Friday between 8 AM – 6 PM EST) with a list of questions and receive constructive feedback from the experts on the NSTA ExploraVision team. This could also include helpful hints and ways to enhance teams' projects for more advanced students. Login now to start or continue your ExploraVision entry! We look forward to hearing from you! Email exploravision@nsta.org with any additional questions.

TECHNOLOGY IS NOT MY FRIEND!!!!!

Some students have followed the directions and uploaded .ppt and .doc files. Some have not. I can open all of the .ppt and .doc files through Focus. I can not open all of the .pptx and .docx files. When you come to class on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday you probably need to bring your presentation on a flash drive. That way if we have technical difficulties, you will have the files you need. There is no access to g-mail in school and we can't access google docs. Be prepared - just in case.

We have had some App Challenge presentations. They have been very informative. I am looking forward to the rest of the App Challenge videos and all of the individual project presentations.

Remember these assignments should all be finished before the second day of class next week.

• Magnetism Gizmo,
• Graph for Chloe's data for a heating curve,
• Phases of Water Gizmo,
• Answer the questions for the graph, and 
• Solubility and Temperature Gizmo.

There will be check ups on some of these, while some will be spot checked. Be prepared. 

Technology is our friend - sometimes!!!!! ;)

Thanks to everyone who followed directions and uploaded their projects.
     
             HOWEVER....

It seems like FOCUS (or my computer) doesn't allow me to open a powerpoint saved as a .pptx or a document that is a .docx.

A few things have opened, but the majority won't. So here's the back up plan.

Power Points should be saved as .ppt (Powerpoint 97-2003). Even it it threatens to mess up your charts, go ahead and save it. I will see your charts as they should be when you present.

Word Documents for the App Challenge have to be saved as .doc (Word 97-2003).

E-Cybermission Team Sign up Deadline is Wednesday 12/07

I received this letter from e-cybermission. It explains what some of you still need to do, but what many of you have already completed. If you are not on a team with either Mr. Geary or myself as your advisor, you must really hustle to complete the directions. Here's the letter...

Hello eCYBERMISSION Team Advisor,   Thanks for participating in the eCYBERMISSION competition this year. We hope eCYBERMISSION will help your students grow as STEM learners and bring STEM alive for them!   I am writing to remind you that the deadline for registration is THIS WEDNESDAY December 7th at 11:59pm ET. If you plan to compete, you MUST do the following before the deadline: 1.       Have all of your participating students complete all 4 steps of the registration. 2.       Have all of your participating students assigned to you as a TA. 3.       Have all of your participating students placed on teams.   Any students who are not on teams at 11:59pm ET on Wednesday December 7 th 2016 will be unable to compete this year.   Log in here to make your final updates: https://www.ecybermission.com/Advisor/Login Students can log in here: https://www.ecybermission.com/Student/Login   If you need help or have questions Mission Control will be available: ·         Tuesday, December 6 th – 9 am – 5 pm ET ·         Wednesday, December 7 th – 7:30 am – 11:59 pm ET   Contact Mission Control at 1-866-GO-CYBER or missioncontrol@ecybermission.com. You can also contact your POC with questions.   Thanks again and good luck this year!

Supermoon December 2016: When, Where & How to See It

Supermoon December 2016: When, Where & How to See It

Science project update

I added an assignment that is for an upload of your science project in the grade book. You should be able to just click on the upload and add your file.  Everyone should read the following.

• Each student who completed the App Challenge should upload the essays and a link to their video. This means that every member of the group must have an upload. 
• Students who have completed their individual project should upload the power point for their projects. 
• Other projects do not need to be uploaded at this time, but as a courtesy will you please upload a word doc that includes the names of everyone in your group and which project you are doing. Thanks.

All uploads should be finished by 4pm on Wednesday, 12/7.

Team sign up deadline for e-cybermission

Don't forget that you must be on a team by December 6 in order to do e-Cybermission. Not on a team by then=no entry:(

See either Mr. Geary or me to get on a team.

Update for ABSTRACT for Individual Project

You will find the ABSTRACT form at www.nefrsef.org under the Rules and Forms tab. The directions for Abstracts are there also. Please complete the form and print it out. Submit 2 copies in class. MAKE SURE YOU SAVE the information for the abstract as a WORD doc if you can't save it as the entire abstract.

Assignment update and LAB ALERT!!!

Everyone should be finished with the MAGNETISM Gizmo before next A (Monday) or B (Friday) since you have had  time in class for this task. If it's not finished you will not be eligible for solubility LAB until it's finished. Lab will not be extended to wait for anyone. Be PROACTIVE. Remember, we are using a special log-in and password until further notice.

For this LAB you must have closed toe shoes and if you have long hair you must have a hair tie. Please don't wear your best clothes that day, but everything we use is organic and will wash out of clothing.

Individual Science Projects

Individual projects are due on December 7. You must upload your Power Point by 4pm on December 7. When you present in class you will need 2 printed copies of your abstract (that's the last item to prepare) and a copy of your forms (1, 1A, 1B, and 3. The second sheet of 1A lists everything you need to include with the forms. Make sure it's all complete. When your parents signed the forms they were signing that they had read all of your work.

When preparing the Power Point for your science project you should include the following.

• ·        Title: Use all CAPS
• ·        Problem: Why are you doing this problem? What interested you in this topic? Remember, if you know the results BEFORE you start it’s not a good project.
• ·        Question: What is your scientific question? You must have one worthy of an advanced science student.
• ·        Hypothesis: If_____________ then __________________
• ·        Variables: manipulated/independent; responding/dependent; held constant
• ·        Data Summary: Although all of your data is in your Journal you should prepare a summary of your data (means or averages as appropriate)
• ·        Graphs: Graph your data (you may only choose to include your mean data)
• ·        Results: This is a discussion of what you did, how you did it, what happened, an analysis of your data, and what it means.
• ·        Conclusion: Determine if the analysis of data supports your hypothesis or not. Remember, you are never right, but you are never wrong. The data either supports or fails to support the hypothesis.
• ·        Bibliography in either APA or MLA

Monday's Full Moon is the Super Super moon. Largest looking in my lifetime- yours too.

http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/largest-brightest-supermoon-since-1948-to-rise-on-november-14-perigee/61325802

APP CHALLENGE UPDATE!!!! It's NOW or Never!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

All App Challenge Participants - your time is coming to an end. Each member of your group MUST submit a signed release form. These have to be scanned before you can upload your work. It takes time to scan these so you have to get them in to either Mr. Geary or Mrs. Smith by Thursday, 11/10 or there may not be time to scan them.

When you come to upload you must have already uploaded the video. Your essays should be compiled into one document and the link for the video should be included in that document. Bring the file on a flash drive. You must be organized and ready for your appointment.

I will be available for uploading projects after school on Thursday, 11/10; Monday, 11/14; Tuesday, 11/15; and Thursday 11/17 ONLY.  I will NOT be available to upload any projects on Friday 11/18 which is the due date. You must upload BEFORE the due date since you have to upload under my supervision. Do not delay. Sign up for a date to upload NOW.

Compete for Best in State and Best in Region

Your team’s   submission will include essay and video components. Take a look at the judging rubric, which shows the criteria our judges will use to score your submission. It has helpful clues for how to create a winning presentation.

By November 17, 2016, you must submit essay responses to the following four prompts:

1. Statement of the problem (200 words)
   • Clearly describe the identified problem or issue in your school or community. 
   • Explain how this problem affects your school or community. 
2. Your mobile app solution (200 words) 
   • Describe your team’s mobile app concept.
   • Explain how your concept solves the identified problem.
3. Uniqueness of your mobile app solution (200 words) 
   • Explain what makes your mobile app concept unique.
   • Clarify how your concept differs from mobile apps currently available.
4. Mobile app features (200 words) 
   • Describe the mobile technology features present in your app concept.
   • State how those features provide a viable mobile technology solution to the problem.

Also by November 17, you must submit a three-minute video demonstrating how your team’s mobile app concept will help users solve the problem you have identified. See the Make Your Video page for ideas and tips. In your video, be sure to: 

• Clearly articulate the identified problem and why it is important to address.
• Convey your team’s vision for how the key features of your mobile app solution will solve this problem.
• Use engaging visual elements, such as graphics, storyboards, role playing, and vignettes.

Upload your video link to either YouTube or Vimeo. In the title, include the hashtag #VZAppChallenge and provide the file link via the contest submission page. If you cannot upload to YouTube or Vimeo, exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Click here for contest-specific instructions on uploading your video.

Teams must also upload completed school/faculty/nonprofit authorization forms and student release forms:

• Download Student Release Form
• Download Student Release Form (Spanish)

Compete for Best in Nation

 To compete for Best in Nation, Best in Region teams present their app concept in an online webinar to a panel of professional judges. The judges evaluate:

• Your description of the problem and the need for it to be resolved
• Your vision of how your mobile app concept will address this issue
• Your presentation of how your app concept leverages the unique capabilities of a mobile technology solution

Compete for Fan Favorite

All Best in State teams are eligible to compete for the title of Fan Favorite, which is chosen by popular vote. The teams’ video submissions are posted on the app challenge website, and the public is invited to vote for their favorite. The Fan Favorite winning team receives the same prizes as the Best in Nation teams.

With the help of MIT App Inventor Master Trainers, Best in Nation and Fan Favorite winning teams will develop their concepts into working apps. They must submit their working apps by June 1, 2017, in order to attend the National TSA Conference in Orlando, Florida. 

Don't forget to study for the TEST

A day - Wednesday, 11/9
B day - Thursday, 11/10

The study guide can be downloaded from FOCUS as can the guided notes.

Meet Proxima b: The Closest Exoplanet We Know Explained (Infographic)

Meet Proxima b: The Closest Exoplanet We Know Explained (Infographic)

Milky Way Galaxy Guide (Infographic) Watch out for the BLACK Hole in the center of our galaxy!

Milky Way Galaxy Guide (Infographic)

How Did the Milky Way Get Its Name?

How Did the Milky Way Get Its Name?

Science Project Update for each type of project

Traditional Science Projects

Timeline for the next steps:
Proposal Due along with all applicable forms- A day: 11/7; B day 11/8

• Everyone does 1, 1A, 2, and 3. The proposal is typed.
• Go to www.nefrsef.org for forms.
• If your project is not a doable experiment then you will have to go back and start over. Choose your experiment wisely. 

Update your log daily (or every time you work on your project)

Experimentation begins AFTER I see your proposal. 

Experimentation should be finished by December 1 so that you are ready to submit your project on DECEMBER 7. 

Due Date for all projects is  12/7. 

More information about the format to be used for the final submission will be posted next week.  

e-Cybermission

If you have not registered for e-cybermission, you must do it ASAP. I have to assign you to your team so if you aren't registered, I can't do that. I will be very busy with the app challenge in the next 2 weeks so the sooner you sign up, the sooner I can put you on a team. The deadline for teams is posted as December 7, but I wouldn't wait that long. What if we have no internet or time that day???!!! 

APP CHALLENGE

This is the most time sensitive project at this time. You must submit a signed copy of the release forms ASAP. I have a folder for each group who has started submitting forms. I need to scan these in order to upload them. I can only scan each group one time due to the time needed. I must be finished scanning by 11/10 to have enough time for us to upload ALL of your essays,  the link to your video, and the forms prior to the due date. Next week, each group may sign up for either the group or a representative to meet with me AFTER school to upload. I am not available on Monday,11/7 and Wednesday, 11/16 due to school commitments.   I will NOT upload on the day they are due and there is no school on 11/11. Finish your project and be ready to upload earlier rather than later. 

Toshiba 

I have registered the school so all you need to do is work on your project right now. 

Anatomy of Sun Storms & Solar Flares (Infographic) Great resource - you can print it for yourself

Anatomy of Sun Storms & Solar Flares (Infographic)

How Many Stars Are in the Universe?

How Many Stars Are in the Universe?

Surprise! Newfound Asteroid 2016 VA Gives Earth a Close Shave: What do you think about this?

Surprise! Newfound Asteroid 2016 VA Gives Earth a Close Shave

Solar Storm Lit Up Parts of Northern US with Auroras- last night

Solar Storm Lit Up Parts of Northern US with Auroras

RIP, Schiaparelli: European Mars Lander's Crash Site Seen By NASA Probe

RIP, Schiaparelli: European Mars Lander's Crash Site Seen By NASA Probe

Strange Waves Hint at Hidden Moons of Uranus -This just in!!!

Strange Waves Hint at Hidden Moons of Uranus

Remember, A day has a test on Monday and B day has a test on Tuesday. Study the info on the solar system in your book, review your cards and work sheets, and perhaps view this video

Update from e-Cybermission

HOW SHOULD STUDENTS CONDUCT RESERACH?

When it comes to research for an eCYBERMISSION project, this may be something new to some students. To introduce the idea of conducting research you can use “Video Lesson 4: Conducting Research,” found on the Team Resources page. Once they begin, there are many places that students can go to get information. We encourage them to use a wide variety of sources, not just Internet sources. Additional resources include:

·        Professional journals

·        Magazines

·        Newspapers

·        Books

·        Subject Matter Experts

There is no requirement on how many of each type of resource the students should use, and certainly reliable online sources are fine. Students are required to use AT LEAST 10 different resources, and they must be specific. So, for instance, “Google” is not considered a source. But the webpage they FOUND with Google could be. 

WHAT CITATIONS ARE REQUIRED?

It is very important that student cite their work in their Mission Folder, especially when they are completing the section about what they learned in their research. In addition, they should cite and give credit for any images they use in their Mission Folder. There is no specific format for these citations, so it’s up to you what format you direct your students you use. If you’d like some guidance you can find it in the Mission Folder Development section of the Team Resources in a document called “Conducting Research and Citing Your Sources.”

WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING?

·        Next CyberGuide live chat: October 26, 2016 at 7 PM EST. CyberGuides will be available to answer any eCYBERMISSION questions. Whether your team is just getting started or close to submitting a Mission Folder, the next Live CyberGuide Chat will focus on utilizing tools such as Team Talk and the Discussion Forums. Both resources are excellent for navigating IRB and Survey Approval form questions as well as questions specific to a chosen Mission Challenge.

Europe Lost Contact with Mars Lander 1 Minute Before Touchdown

Europe Lost Contact with Mars Lander 1 Minute Before Touchdown

If you missed class due to the PSAT or if you were absent. Penda update

Class went on without many of you - and you were missed.
Everyone should have a study guide for the test along with a guided notes page on small bodies.

Today students were assigned Achieve 3000: the Pluto article. It will count for your Lexile if you do it during school hours. Please have it completed before class next week. It's your first grade for the second grading period. If you need an Achieve sheet, you may pick one up or you can download one from Focus.

PENDA IS HOME LEARNING. YOU HAVE 10 DAYS TO COMPLETE THE ASSIGNMENTS. YOU SHOULD BE FINISHED BY SUNDAY EVENING. THE REPORT IS FINALIZED AT 7AM ON MONDAY MORNING. NO LATE WORK ACCEPTED.

IF YOU CAN'T DO IT AT HOME, YOU SHOULD TRY TO GO TO THE LOCAL LIBRARY. THE JLCP LAB IS OPEN BEFORE SCHOOL AND I HAVE TUTORING ON WEDNESDAYS WHEN THEY ARE NOT EARLY RELEASE SO YOU CAN COME AND WORK ON PENDA IF YOU MUST.

Did you know? High Stakes: Europe Aims for 1st Successful Mars Landing Today

High Stakes: Europe Aims for 1st Successful Mars Landing Today

APP Challenge Update

I have registered our school. Students can not register. However, you must get started.

Although the Challenge is due on November 18 it takes time to upload everything so you must be prepared to start uploading the essays in school on or before 11/15. You also must have Student Release forms SIGNED by your parents as soon as possible. I will have to scan these and include them with your entries. We can not upload your video in school so you will have to do that at home.

If your group is not able to meet the deadlines then you will be disqualified and your project will not be eligible for full credit.

Your team’s submission  will include essay and video components. By November 15, 2016, you must be ready to submit essay responses to the following four prompts:

1. Statement of the problem (200 words)
   • Clearly describe the identified problem or issue in your school or community. 
   • Explain how this problem affects your school or community. 
2. Your mobile app solution (200 words) 
   • Describe your team’s mobile app concept.
   • Explain how your concept solves the identified problem.
3. Uniqueness of your mobile app solution (200 words) 
   • Explain what makes your mobile app concept unique.
   • Clarify how your concept differs from mobile apps currently available.
4. Mobile app features (200 words) 
   • Describe the mobile technology features present in your app concept.
   • State how those features provide a viable mobile technology solution to the problem.

BEFORE November 15, you must submit a three-minute video demonstrating how your team’s mobile app concept will help users solve the problem you have identified. See the Make Your Video page for ideas and tips. In your video, be sure to: 

• Clearly articulate the identified problem and why it is important to address.
• Convey your team’s vision for how the key features of your mobile app solution will solve this problem.
• Use engaging visual elements, such as graphics, storyboards, role playing, and vignettes.

Upload your video link to either YouTube or Vimeo BEFORE November 15. In the title, include the hashtag #VZAppChallenge and provide the file link via the contest submission page. If you cannot upload to YouTube or Vimeo, exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Click here for contest-specific instructions on uploading your video.

Teams must also upload completed school/faculty/nonprofit authorization forms and student release forms:

• Download Student Release Form
• Have parents sign 2 copies. 
• Submit one copy to your teacher ASAP..

How can I raise my grade? - a question often asked by students. New Info : LAST CHANCE TEST CORRECTIONS

Here's the answer.

Have you done your Check up corrections? Any time you score less than a 3/3 you should do your corrections. The format is the same for Test Corrections. I will accept them if they are neat and organized on Wednesday or Thursday (or Monday and Tuesday). The Checkups you can correct are

• Earth's Evolution,
• E-M Spectrum,
• Plate Tectonics. 

If you did not receive your paper back due to an absence then you should look in the drawer. If it hasn't been passed back then it's probably in the drawer. If you don't have the Check up because you didn't put it into your ISN then it is what it is. NO LATE WORK ACCEPTED. Remember, if I can't read it easily (too light, unformed cursive letters, incorrectly formed print letters, whatever!) then I won't grade it. This is very time consuming work and I will not waste time. Type it if you have to, but do your printing before you come to class. 

Remember, there is a bonus due on Thursday if you choose to do it.

LAST CHANCE TEST CORRECTIONS

If you scored 70% or lower on the Earth Sun Moon test  and did not turn in your test corrections when they were due you may submit them ASAP to me. I will not accept any after 3pm on Thursday, October 20. Remember to use the correct format. You can download the form from www.gearyscience.com or refer to the sample I gave you. The corrections must be complete and legible. Instead of the 50% for on time corrections, these corrections are worth 40% for each corrected answer.

Yes, I am trying to make sure that no student is left behind!!!!

This is the video I showed on Wednesday and will show on Thursday- a great visual of a scale model

http://www.space.com/30610-scale-of-solar-system-amazing-video.html#ooid=U5MGpsdzqUsodl9pakFlOOJYRaAB8XeT

Alternative Bonus Activity due no later than 3pm on Thursday, October 20

Design a poster to raise awareness of the harmful effects of Radon gas.  Create an 8.5″ X 11″ sized poster following the instructions .  You may  get a printed copy of the instructions from me in class. along with the form. You should also be able to download the directions and form from Focus or from One View.  You must fill out the artwork submission form and tape to the back of your poster.

This is worth up to 2 points added to your first 9 weeks grade.

Submit finished project to me by Thursday Oct. 20th @ 3:00 PM.  No late submissions will be accepted.

PENDA is due on Monday at 7AM - even though school is cancelled - and more info ;)

Yes, PENDA is due. If you lose power or have to evacuate then do it when you can. If you need more time because of the hurricane just bring me a note from the  'rents and I will catch your grade up with the late report. That gives you a few days grace period.  If you are at home streaming videos or playing games and the power is on and the weather is great - just do the PENDA!

Due to some confusion about due date/time for the PENDA due 9/19 I will use the late report to catch up some of your grades. Since the time was announced on the board after the 9/19 due date then all PENDA is due on time. Remember, late work is not accepted in 8th grade.

I don't know if the moon observing activity will occur at FSCJ and you will have to follow up on that on your own. Remember, it's an option not a requirement so no big deal if you don't or can't attend.


Yes, there will be a Science Project Log (journal) check next week. Make sure you have

• numbered your pages,
• left p. 1 for the title page,
• made pp. 2-4 Table of Contents pages
• written about what you have done, read, or thought about for your project. 
• written each entry in pen
• dated each entry.

Go ahead and work on your day 2 planet cards. Since you won't have all the info at your desk you may research at http://www.nasa.gov/content/planets-moons-and-dwarf-planets
or http://www.windows2universe.org/our_solar_system/planets.html.

Complete Part 1 and Part 2 of the written work if you have spare time. It will all be counted as classwork and yes there will be time in class to go over it with your group, but if you have time while we wait out the storm there's no reason not to move along.

Stay safe and dry - see you next week in class.

International Observe the Moon Night Event: Bonus Activity

This is an official bonus activity for all students in my classes. If you participate you will need proof of participation - photos would be great. A short written report might also meet the need. If you have already earned your bonus points for this grading period then you will not be able to get more for this event. It's one grade per term. However, if you do participate in this event also you may hold onto your supporting evidence and save it for another term.

I have a previous commitment, but you should check this out. Dr. Reynolds use to teach High School and I hear he is very informative.

Read all about it.

International Observe the Moon Night – FREE Event!

Are you looking for an educational, unique, and family friendly event that everyone will enjoy?Florida State College at Jacksonville, (FSCJ) would like to invite you to attend NASA’sInternational Observe the Moon Night, (ImNON) Saturday, October 8, 2016.

International Observe the Moon Night is a rare opportunity uniting our community together to view the moon like you have never seen it before. This will be a time that your children and loved ones will never forget!

Do you know what the best thing about it is? It’s absolutely FREE!

Telescopes will be set up and available for everyone to use and enjoy. FSCJ Professor of Astronomy Dr. Mike Reynolds will be hosting Moon Talks every 30 minutes. You will not want to miss out on this spectacular event!

Where do I go?

Florida State College at Jacksonville North Campus

4501 Capper Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Parking Lot 1

When is it?

Saturday, October 8, 2016

What time does it start?

7:30pm – 9:30pm

(Weather Permitting)

One Year Later: New Horizons’ Top 10 Discoveries at Pluto

One Year Later: New Horizons’ Top 10 Discoveries at Pluto: Where were you at 7:49 a.m. Eastern Time on July 14, 2015?

How familiar are you with Pluto? Learn more by watching.

The Great Photon Escape: James Webb Telescope- if you were absent

Letter from e-Cybermission

I received this letter today. Perhaps it will help you get started. Pay attention to the criteria for a viable mission. This is a SCIENCE Project. Use the links to get information for your group to use.

Hello Pamela!

Welcome to MISSION POSSIBLE, Issue 2! This weekly Team Advisor newsletter is designed to keep you up to date on what’s happening with eCYBERMISSION, and help you and your team through the process of competing this year! If you ever think of something we should feature in a future Mission Possible, drop us a line. We LOVE to hear from our TAs!  This week, we’ll help answer the questions:

·        WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

·        REGISTRATION TROUBLES?

·        WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING?

·        DID YOU KNOW?

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

Let’s talk about identifying a problem. One of the most challenging parts of the competition is the first big decision that you and your team will make together – selecting a topic. The team will need to identify the problem in their community they want to investigate (with science) or solve (with engineering).

To get started, guide your team through some of the Mission Folder Resource sheets found at the bottom of the Team Resources page of the website (http://ecybermission.com/TeamResources). Specifically, take a look at:

·        Selecting a Topic - http://ecybermission.com/files/helpdocs/Selecting%20a%20Topic.pdf

·        Selecting a Topic Worksheet - http://ecybermission.com/files/helpdocs/Selecting%20a%20Topic%20Worksheet.pdf

It’s important to note that this project needs to be a science or engineering project. This may sound obvious, but students may look at a problem in their community like pollution or people who are hungry and try to SOLVE the problem with a park clean-up or food drive. While these are GREAT community service projects, they don’t fit the mold for eCYBERMISSION. An eCYBERMISSION project poses either a hypothesis and tests it through data collection OR a design statement that is fulfilled through the development of a device/prototype. Remember, science is about answering a question and engineering is about solving a problem!

REGISTRATION TROUBLES?

Some TAs and students have told us that the registration process is too long! Believe it or not, this is all very valuable information that helps us make the program better and make sure funding for the program continues. We appreciate your patience with the process.

If you are having trouble getting your students’ parents to read the Privacy and Evaluation Policies and sign off because they do not have access to an email address or computer, you can use a hard copy sheet we have created to get their signature and then complete that part yourself. Reply to this email and ask for a copy of that sheet and the instructions. Remember, your Point of Contact is here to help any time you need it!

All students completely registered (and on a complete team) by Nov. 2^nd will receive a free STEM kit courtesy of the Army Educational Outreach Program.

WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING?

Here are some more things that are happening with eCYBERMISSION:

·        We have a blog! If you haven’t checked out the eCYBERMISSION Blog, head on over and see what other teams are up to. And send us your story so we can feature YOU! http://ecybermission.blogspot.com/.

·        Discussion Forums and Team Talk – Remember you can always get help from CyberGuides and other TAs through the Discussion Forums (accessible via your homepage). And you and your students can communicate remotely through Team Talk. Ask your Point of Contact to set up a room for your team, and you can even add a CyberGuide to your Team Talk room if you like!

·        Next CyberGuide live chat: October 12, 2016 at 6 PM EST

·        eCM on the road  - During the first week of October, you can find eCM at the Virginia Military Institute’s STEM Education Conference in Lexington, VA and the National Indian Education Association Convention in Reno, NV. Stop by to say “hello” and send your friends and colleagues to see us!

DID YOU KNOW?

Many TAs ask how long their students should spend on their eCYBERMISSION projects. One national finalist Team Advisor told us “I estimate that students spent about 5 hours per week or more, for the 5 months that they were involved in the project. It may have been more towards the end.” That means students should get started now choosing that problem!

As always, if you (or your team) need assistance, please contact Mission Control Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm EST at 1-866-GO-CYBER or missioncontrol@ecybermission.com.

Also feel free to contact me through email or at the number below. Good luck!

Kathleen Kelly

eCYBERMISSION Project Manager

National Science Teachers Association

1840 Wilson Blvd.

Arlington, VA 22201

703-312-9387

www.usaeop.com

www.eCYBERMISSION.com