CATCA 2021: Full Schedule

9:00am MST

Preparing Students for Their Energy Future

We teach students about energy but creating a deep understanding is not easy. We use it everyday but we don't really understand it very well. We’ll show you how you can deliver on your curriculum while helping your students deepen their understanding of our evolving energy systems, compare the impacts of existing and emerging energy sources, and assess the benefits and costs of our energy choices on ourselves, our communities and our environment. This session will use simple technology to create real data for electricity use that will peak your students curiosity for them to use their investigative and critical thinking skills. You’ll ‘learn by doing’ some of our favourite curriculum-linked energy activities geared specifically for elementary students and review some key resources you can use in your classroom. This workshop targets Division I and II teachers. Please bring a laptop or mobile device to be able to access the internet.

Speakers

Kathy Worobec

Your Schoolyard is a Learning Environment / Basic Energy Literacy Tests

Kathy Worobec is a Senior Education Advisor with the Alberta Council for Environmental Education. She brings more than 25 years of experience in environmental and energy education programs to this role. Kathy provides strategic guidance for programs and operations and plays a lead... Read More →

Thursday February 18, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am MST
CATCA Virtual Room 059

Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

10:45am MST

Bring Agriculture to Life in the Classroom!

As the Alberta representative of Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, it is our mission to help Albertans understand the incredible depth and opportunity that agriculture affords. We work with various stakeholders including corporations, not-for-profits, farmers, ranchers, educators and government, who are passionate about agriculture and rural and farm safety education. Through the delivery of high-quality educational programming and resources, we are committed to sharing agriculture’s story, providing accurate and balanced information that meets K-12 curricula, showcasing and supporting Alberta farms, farm families and our rural roots. Some of the programs we provide include Education Symposium events, Student Innovation Challenges, Nourishing Minds learning kits, career exploration resources, and more!

Speakers

Luree Williamson

CEO, Agriculture for Life

Luree Williamson is the CEO of Agriculture for Life where she leads the efforts in delivering educational programming to improve rural and farm safety and build a genuine understanding and appreciation of the impact agriculture has on our lives. Luree believes agriculture has a unique... Read More →

Nancy Kelner

Thursday February 18, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 057

Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

10:45am MST

FIELD Kits - Friendly, Interactive, Engaging, Learning, Discovery kits

FIELD Kit Workshop - Adaptations:
- During this workshop, participants will learn about FIELD Kits and what the Adaptation program entails.
- The format of the workshop will include an introduction of myself, what are FIELD Kits, and then hands-on experience while I demonstrate how the Adaptations FIELD Kit will run in a classroom. The conclusion of the workshop will focus on questions and discussions.
- Printed material will not be provided to reduce waste, but business cards will be accessible to obtain more programs and contact information.
- You will not need any special materials. However, your participation will be most appreciated.

Speakers

Kenzie Field

Owner of FIELD Kits, fieldkits.ca

Kenzie Field is the Founder and Operator of FIELD Kits. She is very passionate about the environment and enlightening our youth on environmental issues, concepts, and critical thinking skills. Her passion for the environment extends back to her early childhood. She remembers always... Read More →

Thursday February 18, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 063

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Science (TQS 3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

12:30pm MST

FIELD Kits - Friendly, Interactive, Engaging, Learning, Discovery kits

FIELD Kit Workshop
- During this workshop, participants will learn about FIELD Kits and what the Life Cycle program entails.
- The format of the workshop will include an introduction of myself, what are FIELD Kits, and then hands-on experience while I demonstrate how the Life Cycle FIELD Kit will run in a classroom. The conclusion of the workshop will focus on questions and discussions.
- Printed material will not be provided to reduce waste, but business cards will be accessible to obtain more programs and contact information.
- You will not need any special materials. However, your participation will be most appreciated

Speakers

Kenzie Field

Owner of FIELD Kits, fieldkits.ca

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 063

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Science (TQS 3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

12:30pm MST

Let's Get Climate Active! - Engaging Elementary Students in Climate Education and Action

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues we face. Research shows that engaging with this challenging topic - rather than avoiding it - is the best way to replace fear with curiosity and instill hope for the future. Whether you teach grade 1 or grade 6, understanding what climate change means for you and your students provides a rich, real, and authentic opportunity to develop understanding around core concepts like connectedness, systems, wellness, citizenship, or change. In this highly engaging session, we will demonstrate how to explore the topic of climate change with younger students in an age-appropriate manner, identify curriculum connections, highlight quality resources - and most importantly, show you how to engage your students in meaningful and positive actions that give them hope for the future. This workshop is designed specifically for Division I and Division II teachers.

Speakers

Marie Tremblay

Alberta Council for Environmental Education / French

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

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 064

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

12:30pm MST

Teaching Statistics in Math and Science with Code

An understanding of statistics is becoming increasingly important in our world, and as math and science teachers we have an opportunity to develop student competencies in this area. We'll look at ways to incorporate statistics and data analytics into curricular outcomes, explore available resources, and talk about how you and your students can analyse data with Python in Jupyter notebooks (for free) through the federally-funded Callysto project.

Enter to win a $50 Amazon gift card by competing an optional Callysto feedback survey (http://bit.ly/callysto-feedback) after attending one our sessions!

You can preview the slides for the talk by opening this link to a Jupyter notebook: https://tinyurl.com/callysto-catca-1

Speakers

Michael Lamoureux

Callysto Ambassador, Callysto

Dr. Lamoureux is a Professor of Mathematics (Emeritus) at the University of Calgary. Dr. Lamoureux is keenly interested in the use of technology for teaching and research, and has developed courses in industrial mathematics and complex analysis using Jupyter notebooks.

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 061

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

12:30pm MST

Resource Sharing for the High School Science Classroom

This session will be organized quickly into teams remotely and from that point the cohort of professionals will discuss resources being used in these difficult times for in classroom use and at home for students isolating due to COVID.
After working together in small groups, the groups may return to the main as a form of jigsaw to present their findings.

Speakers

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science

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

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 057

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

12:30pm MST

Sleight of Hand Sleight of Mind… the magic behind war propaganda

War Propagandists, like magicians, target our Cognitive Biases with Sensory and Psychological Misdirection. For example; by playing on our False Consensus Bias propagandists convince us, falsely, that our war leaders share our Idealistic and Humanitarian feelings. Other Biases examined are Framing, Attribution, Availability Cascade, and Illusory Superiority Biases. Dozens of examples of Misdirection are exposed to produce astonishing OMG! MOMENTS. The session offers four general rules for detecting War Propaganda.

Speakers

Greg Hunter

Social Studies

Greg Hunter taught Science in Alberta for 30 years. His talks promote an understanding and teaching of History based on Evidence and Reason and a vigilance against Dogma and Bias. Adam Hochschild, Professor at UC Berkeley and author of 'King Leopold's Ghost' said, “Greg's talks... Read More →

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 060

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

12:30pm MST

Environmental Sustainability & Stewardship *PRE-RECORDED*

The importance of environmental sustainability and stewardship has evolved over the past twenty years. Social awareness has ignited an interest and sense of action in the students. Where does a teacher look for accurate and up to date information for students? This session will focus on implementing environmental sustainability and stewardship into the Alberta science and social studies curriculum. Successful lessons, projects and actions will be shared within the session. Become your students mentor and facilitate stewardship and environmental sustainability in your community.

Speakers

Paul Bohnert, Karly Lewis, Janel Heth & Deryk Hamilton

Lead Teachers -, The Faculty

The Faculty is a collection of practicing Alberta teachers that create professional learning opportunities for teachers across North America.Paul (Bohnert) is a practicing middle school teacher and researcher in Alberta. He has created an innovative learning environment that has transformed... Read More →

Thursday February 18, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
Online (Pre-Recording)

Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

2:15pm MST

Project Based Science Lessons for Grade 6-9 *PRE-RECORDED*

Design a new environmental sustainable tourist destination, that engages public involvement, considers water and energy consumption, land use, and waste production, while covering content from grade 6-9 science curriculum. This is just one example of how to create new and engaging lessons that cross multiple concepts within your grade 6 - 9 science classes that reinforce skill, knowledge and abilities through practical, meaningful projects. The projects are designed to draw from past experiences and knowledge, and ignite creative and practical approaches to connecting the science curriculum between grade levels and curricular topics

Speakers

Paul Bohnert, Karly Lewis, Janel Heth & Deryk Hamilton

Lead Teachers -, The Faculty

Thursday February 18, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
Online (Pre-Recording)

Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

2:15pm MST

The Science Pawdcast *PRE-RECORDED*

Want to start your own Podcast? What to use podcasts in the classroom? Can you...gasp...make money off of a podcast? Want to hear some stories about the amazing people on "The Science Pawdcast"?

Speakers

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science

Thursday February 18, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
Online (Pre-Recording)

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Technology (TQS/LQS 2), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

2:15pm MST

How to Teach Controversial Energy or Environmental Issues in Your Classroom

Students hear a lot about the issues of our day such as climate change or the future of Alberta’s oil and gas industry. Teachers know the power of connecting student learning to current events for engaging students and practicing critical thinking skills. But such topics can be daunting as there are often many perspectives to consider and an overwhelming amount of - often conflicting - information. In this workshop, we'll review and practice ‘safe and effective’ strategies for unpacking with your students the scientific and social dimensions of complex issues using open-mindedness, curiosity, respect, and evidence-based critical thinking - without becoming part of the controversy.

Speakers

Marie Tremblay

Alberta Council for Environmental Education / French

Thursday February 18, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 064

Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

2:15pm MST

Writing Outside the Box

Stories are not just about reading and writing. Stories motivate, teach, inspire, engage, in all content areas. Writing for comprehension as well as communication, is critical for future success. Lois explores how students can incorporate personal stories into subjects such as Math, Science and Social Studies as a means of developing deeper comprehension of content while strengthening writing skills. In this session, Lois will provide creative ideas and practical tools for developing strong writers and confident students. It's time to write outside the box. Q & A to end the session.

Speakers

Lois Donovan

author

A former teacher, Lois is the author of time-travel historical fiction novels, Winds of L’Acadie and The Journal. She has recently sent her debut contemporary teen novel (repped by StaceyKondla) out into the world to find a home. Lois loves sharing her passion for all things literary... Read More →

Thursday February 18, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 057

Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

9:00am MST

Using checklists for assessment

As teachers are required to assess a student’s understanding of competencies in addition to knowledge outcomes, they have used tools more commonly used in other disciplines. For example, rubrics have been a tool used to assess many forms of student work. Their general description of each achievement level provides flexibility and personalization. This is particularly useful for essay assignments. However, in lab reports, this often leads to ambiguity. Students may not know the difference between an “acceptable” demonstration of communication compared to a “skilled” demonstration. Despite repeated instruction, the generalized description of rubrics allows room for conflict and negotiation between students and teachers. Rubrics can be redesigned into checklists to remove the ambiguity. It is clear whether or not students have demonstrated each aspect of a competency. This session will share a few of these checklists for teachers to use in their own classrooms. Participants are invited to share a lab with the group and co-create a checklist to use for assessment.

Speakers

Leon Lau

External Relations Director, ATA Science Council

Leon is a high school science teacher in Calgary and has taught every class in the high school science curriculum. He is also the External Relations Director for the ATA Science Council.

Friday February 19, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am MST
CATCA Virtual Room 066

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

9:00am MST

Climate Change Education: Creative Strategies and Resources for Teaching During a Pandemic

The COVID-19 Pandemic has posed many challenges for schools, including how to continue teaching and talking about climate change in an engaging and hands-on way through distance-learning. Using GreenLearning’s programs and ready-to-use resources, such as videos and worksheets, this webinar will explore practical strategies and tools for teaching climate change education online for secondary students. Teachers will leave with a bank of resources, creative ideas for engaging students at home and distance-learning friendly activities to use with your classes.

Speakers

Sidney Howlett

Crossing Curriculums for Climate Change/Science

Sidney Howlett is on a mission to empower youth to take climate action through education. Trained as a teacher, she has a diverse professional background leading outreach to post-secondary students, teaching in elementary and French immersion schools across Ontario and establishing... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am MST
CATCA Virtual Room 068

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

9:00am MST

Action Begets Hope! - Unpacking and Tackling Climate Change with Secondary Students*THIS SESSION WILL NOT BE RECORDED*

*THIS SESSION WILL NOT BE RECORDED*
Climate change is part of the Alberta curriculum and is one of the most pressing issues we face. Yet, many teachers are reluctant to ‘go there’ with their students - citing a lack of support from colleagues, administrators or parents, the challenge of deciphering fact from misinformation, and most importantly, concern over adding more angst to students who may already be anxious or even depressed about their future. Research shows, however, that engaging with this challenging topic - rather than avoiding it - is the best way to replace fear with curiosity and instill hope and positive attitudes in our students. Whether you teach junior or senior high school, understanding what climate change means for you and your students provides a rich, real, and authentic opportunity to practice critical thinking skills through an exploration of the scientific and social dimensions of this important and timely topic.

As Joan Baez famously said “Action is the antidote to despair”. In this spirit we invite you to join us for this highly engaging session that will increase your foundational knowledge of climate change, identify curriculum connections, highlight quality resources - and show you how to engage your students in meaningful and positive actions that give them hope for the future. This workshop is designed specifically for Division III and IV teachers. Please bring a laptop or mobile device to be able to access the internet.

Speakers

Marie Tremblay

Alberta Council for Environmental Education / French

Friday February 19, 2021 9:00am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 056

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

10:45am MST

Introduction to Data Science and Big Data for Educators *PRE-RECORDED*

The ability to critically analyse large sets of data is becoming increasingly important, and there are many applications in education. We will introduce participants to the fundamentals of data science, and look at how you can incorporate data science into your teaching. You will come away with an increased understanding of this topic as well as some practical activities to use in your learning environment.

Link to slideshow using the Callysto Hub (requires Google or Microsoft account): https://tinyurl.com/y2wy2uej

Enter to win a $50 Amazon gift card by competing an optional Callysto feedback survey (http://bit.ly/callysto-feedback) after attending one our sessions!

Speakers

Laura Gutierrez Funderburk

Data Scientist, Cybera

Laura Gutierrez-Funderburk is a Callysto data scientist and holds a mathematics degree from Simon Fraser University, located in Vancouver, British Columbia. She’s experienced in creating in-person and online data science lessons for Grades 5-12 students and teachers that spark creativity... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Online (Pre-Recording)

Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

10:45am MST

Forest Findings: Grow forest education in your classroom

Join Inside Education in this exciting workshop that will teach you how to engage students in meaningful environmental education, in and out of the classroom. Learn how to use Alberta’s forests as a jumping off point for student inquiry, citizen science, environmental action projects, place-based learning and cross-curricular exploration.

Inside Education will guide you through ways that you can bring the forest into the classroom, as well as our own best practices for connecting outdoor experiences to the program of studies. We will demonstrate activities, tools and lessons that feature tree measurements, habitat assessments, forestry practices, land use and more!

Speakers

Inside Education

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

Natalie Graveline

Inside Education

2021 Forest & Wildlife Convention Presentation pdf

Friday February 19, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 067

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

10:45am MST

Assessment in the High School Classroom during The Plague

Hey. Let's meet and chat about the assessment we are using during these trying times. Jason Zackowski will chair the meeting, in which small groups will form and then break off to brainstorm and share ideas/resources tailored to assessment. After meeting, sharing and developing new assessments the team may return and share what they have discovered in a jigsaw type procedure.

Speakers

Jason Zackowski

Zed Science

Friday February 19, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 075

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

10:45am MST

Explore community, leadership, global cooperation, and sustainable agriculture with a short film

In this session, we will watch Common Strength, a 23-minute documentary which follows Lucy, a farmer from Kenya, who welcomes Colleen, a farmer from Canada, to her home for a week. The film touches on a variety of topics that are found in curriculum of many subjects and grade levels. After the film, we will present and discuss the accompanying Student Viewing Guide which is appropriate for classroom or home-based learning for students in grades 6 – 12. This guide proposes various discussion and research questions related to 5 themes: women’s leadership & empowerment, agriculture, sustainability, citizen & community participation, and global cooperation. The guide also includes extension activities for math and cooking. The documentary and guide are a free resource online produced by Canadian Food grains Bank.

Speakers

Roberta Gramlich

Senior Public Engagement Officer, Educators Program, Canadian Foodgrains Bank

Roberta Gramlich works as a Senior Public Engagement Officer for Canadian Foodgrains Bank, an international relief and development organization that works with communities around the world experiencing food insecurity. In her role, she provides learning resources and opportunities... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 071

Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

10:45am MST

Re-Energy: A STEAM-Based Renewable Energy Program

Renewable energy technologies are increasingly replacing non-renewable sources of energy around the world. It is important that students understand the impact of energy use on climate change and the trajectory of the evolving energy industry. This workshop will provide grade 4-12 educators with a step by step guide, including learning material, such as worksheets and construction plans, on how to engage students in hands-on learning as they explore renewable energy technologies.

Speakers

Sidney Howlett

Crossing Curriculums for Climate Change/Science

Friday February 19, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 068

Technology (TQS/LQS 2), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

12:30pm MST

Agriculture Education for the Next Generation of Stewards

Join Inside Education as we explore how agriculture connects land, water, food, and people to form the basis for endless learning. We will demonstrate how incorporating agriculture into your lessons can liven up your classroom with real-world examples of science, technology, innovation and stewardship.

Inside Education will guide you through several approaches and best practices to agriculture education with classroom activities, project ideas, and access to no-cost resources including learning gardens and project grants. We will share valuable information to give you the tools you need to engage your students in agriculture stewardship, citizen science, and civic action, empowering you to meaningfully incorporate agriculture into your curriculum across multiple grades and subject areas.

Speakers

Inside Education

2020 Agriculture Presentation pdf

Friday February 19, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 067

Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

12:30pm MST

Coping During Co-Vid Naturally

Are you and your students getting enough Vitamin "N"? Science is finally starting to catch up with what Indigenous people, poets, sages and mystics intuitively knew. Nature heals, Naturally. Join Susanne for a science backed interactive session to learn how to immediately put into practice natural healing practices with nature that will benefit physical, mental and emotional wellness.

Speakers

Susanne Heaton

Owner, Motivated by Nature

For over 11 years, Susanne worked in the corporate world doing team building, public speaking, negotiating, marketing and sales. She took a total leap of faith after having some life changing wake-up calls and left the corporate world to start her own company, Motivated by Nature... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 068

Health and Wellness (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

12:30pm MST

Dissection: Current Trends and Alternatives

Dissection is common practice in Alberta high school science classes, but is it necessary?
In this session we will discuss the pedagogical merit of animal and non-animal teaching methods along with the ethical considerations for common species used in dissection. We will look at current animal use trends in post-secondary institutes, including uses in teaching, testing and research. Finally, we will explore alternatives and discuss student opt-in policies used by some Canadian school districts.

In this session we will discuss:
-the pedagogical merit of animal (dissection) versus non-animal (alternatives) teaching methods
-the use of animals in universities including veterinary schools
-student opt-in policies

Speakers

Melissa Logan

Director of Education, Alberta SPCA

Melissa is a science teacher who works in animal welfare education at the Alberta SPCA. She started her teaching career in a high school science classroom, then moved to the Alberta SPCA’s Education Department in 2007. She holds a BSc, and a BEd from the University of Lethbridge... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 073

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

12:30pm MST

Effective Experiments for Physics 20 & 30

There are many lab experiences mandated in the Alberta Physics 20-30 Program of Studies, 2007. These experiences do not need to use expensive equipment and do not need to involve intricate procedures. The goal of this session is to provide teachers with ideas for effective lab experiences spanning Physics 20 and 30 and have participants engage in a discussion of program expectations regarding these experiences and how implementing a guided inquiry or open-ended approach enhances student learning. Teachers will also be introduced to various evaluation methods and scoring guides for lab skills that can be implemented in the classroom and will perform a lab from P20 and P30.

Participants are asked to "bring" the following materials with them for the session:

Diverging lens
2 lasers or ray box
Ruler
Graph paper or graphing calculator
Empty 500 mL isopropyl alcohol bottle or 500 mL pop bottle
Download Phyphox app to smartphone
water

Speakers

Kristian Basaraba

Next Step High School

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

P20LabManual20202021 pdf

P30LabManual2021 pdf

Physics 20 Lessons pdf

Physics 30 Lessons pdf

Friday February 19, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 063

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

2:15pm MST

Humane Education: Creating a Caring Classroom

The concept of humane education has been around for over 100 years, but what is it exactly and how does it fit in the current classroom? In this session we will discuss what humane education is, and how it aligns with the Alberta Programs of Study. We will look at the benefits (to both students and animals) of including humane education into teaching and offer ideas and examples of how it can be done, while meeting curricular objectives. Finally, we will explore the free resources the Alberta SPCA education department has to offer.

In this session we will discuss:
• What humane education is (and what it isn’t) and how it fits into the current classroom
• How including humane education in teaching can foster positive character traits, such as compassion, respect, and kindness in students
• Ideas and examples of incorporating humane education into your classroom while meeting curriculum objectives
• Resources available to teachers including a free book lending program that helps build literacy while promoting empathy, character education themes, and information on animals in the classroom including classroom pets and animals in science, and more!

Why is this session relevant to Teachers:
• Incorporating humane education into the classroom is relevant to teachers as it fosters positive character traits in students to help them grow and further develop into contributing members of the community
• Key take always include: discussion of what humane education is and the benefits of including it in teaching, how it can be incorporated into lesson plans while meeting curricular objectives of different subjects, examine the variety of humane education resources available for teachers
• Teachers will have an opportunity to explore the free resources available to them so they can use in their classrooms.

Speakers

Don Seller

Humane Education: Creating a Caring Classroom

Don graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Education degree, majoring in Elementary education, minoring in Social Studies. Combining both his passions: education and animals, Don joined the Alberta SPCA in 2017 as their Education Program Manager where he enjoys... Read More →

Friday February 19, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 070

Health and Wellness (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | English Language Learning (TQS/LQS 4), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

2:15pm MST

PVC Science: Kazoos, Pan flutes, Saxophones and the Science of Sound

Come and construct a kazoo, saxophone and pan flute with PVC pipes while learning some of the basics of the science of sound. Once constructed participants can test, modify and evaluate their designs and will learn to play a song. These activities can be modified for use in the Grade 1 and 4 “Building” units in science, Grade 3 Hearing and Sound topic and the Physics 20 Mechanical Waves unit.

Participants will “construct” a kazoo, pan flute and saxophone using low cost materials and PVC pipe and learn some basics about the science of sound. They will be introduced to these basics and be provided with resources to take back to their classroom.

Here is a list of materials that participants are strongly encouraged to have on hand for the session - feel free to pre-cut the pieces or bring a enough pipe to make during the session.
General materials
PVC pipe cutter
Hacksaw
Hot glue gun and glue
Duct tape
Drill with 15/64 drill bit
Kazoo
One 1” piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 3” piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 6” piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One T-connector for ½” diameter PVC pipe
10 cm x 10 cm piece of tissue paper

Pan Flute
8 nickels or pennies
Hot glue gun
One 32.6 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 29 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 25.8 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 24.4 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 21.7 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 19.3 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 17.2 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 16.3 cm piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
Saxophone
Three 4.5” pieces of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 15” piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
Two 2.5” pieces of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
One 2” piece of 1.2” diameter PVC pipe
Four elbow connectors for ½” diameter PVC pipe
Plastic funnel

Speakers

Kristian Basaraba

Next Step High School

Friday February 19, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 068

Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

2:15pm MST

Myths and Misconceptions in Science

The idea that scientific theories are less certain than laws is a common misconception about science. Or that you need a force to keep something moving. Or that global warming is the result of a hole in the ozone layer. Misconceptions are common, pervasive and exist for many different reasons. Challenging and addressing persistent misconceptions can be one of the most challenging aspects of science education.

In this session Kerry and Ian will provide examples of common misconceptions as well as provide techniques to help students along the road to scientific understanding.

Speakers

Ian Doktor

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

Friday February 19, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm MST
CATCA Virtual Room 060

Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Educational Research (TQS/LQS 2), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)