sasta annual conference 2013

SASTA Conference 2013Monday 15 & Tuesday 16 April 2013

Immanuel College, 32 Morphett Road, Novar Gardens

Science: From the Classroom to the Workplace

ContentsConference Program in brief Page 1

Keynote Speakers Pages 2 - 3

Cutting Edge Speakers Pages 4 - 7

Workshops in detail Pages 9 - 19

Venue Map Inside Back Cover

The SASTA Annual Conference is proudly supported by:

South Australian Science Teachers Association Inc.Patron: Dr Barbara Hardy AO ABN 22 938 317 192Member of Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA)

Supporting teachers of science | Advancing science education

S A S T A C o n f e r e n C e 2 0 1 3 1

WelcomeThis conference showcases best practice in science teaching for teachers and laboratory officers in secondary and primary schools from Catholic, Independent and the public sector. In this book you will find the full program for the two-day event.

The conference would not have been possible without the dedication of Peter Donnelly, John Glistak, Kate Dilger and Janine Rowe who, as the conference committee, have been meeting and planning the event for the past 12 months.

I would also like to acknowledge the generous support of Immanuel College and our conference sponsors; Credit Union SA, The University of Adelaide, University of South Australia and Flinders University.

Mark Divito, President

ProgrammeMonday April 15 Location

8:30am registration Middle School Mall

9:00am Welcome & opening Century Theatre

SASTA Awards and Medal Presentation

9:30am Keynote Presentation Century Theatre

10:30am Morning Tea & exhibition Middle School

11:00am Cutting edge 1A, 1B, & 1C or Workshop Session 1

12:00pm Cutting edge 2A, 2B & 2C or Workshop Session 2

1:00pm Lunch & exhibition Middle School

2:00pm Workshop Session 3


4:00pm Happy Hour Middle School Mall

7:00pm Conference Dinner Morphettville Junction

Tuesday April 16 Location

8:45am registration Middle School Mall

9:15am Welcome & Introduction Century Theatre

9:30am Workshop Session 5

10:30am Morning Tea & exhibition Middle School

11:00am Keynote Presentation Century Theatre

12:00pm SASTA Annual General Meeting Century Theatre

1:00pm Lunch & exhibition Middle School



4:00pm Happy Hour Middle School Mall

5:00pm Close

2 S A S T A C o n f e r e n C e 2 0 1 3

Keynote 1 (Monday 9:30am – 10:30am)

From Old Bones to New Ideas presenting complex science to kids in novel waysProfessor John Long, Strategic Professor in Palaeontology, Flinders University

As a palaeontologist, a scientist who studies the prehistoric life of the planet, my career has been one characterised by real-life adventures. I’ve led expeditions searching for fossils to every part of Australia and many other contents, charting unexplored mountains in Antarctica, to the jungles of central Vietnam and the savannahs of Southern Africa. my work has focussed on the early evolution of backboned animals (vertebrates) and in particular how the human body plan was slowly assembled through different stages of fish evolution. My discoveries include the oldest known vertebrate embryos (the ‘mother fish’) and the origins of complex sexual reproduction in the oldest vertebrates. The new face of today¹s palaeontology is one of high-tech approaches that ensure students have a broad skill set to seek employment across a range of career options. Palaeontology is also a perfect introduction to science for children - it can teach valuable lessons about geology, age of the earth, past environments and climates, the diversity of life and how evolutionary processes work. I began communicating science to children through writing books and developing a series of stealth science novels that embed deeper levels of scientific knowledge in a fast-paced story. We palaeontologists also translate our complex research to the public through curating innovative new museums exhibitions where children can become more tactically engaged in learning about the past, or through mini-exhibitions (bone boxes) for teachers to bring fossils into their classrooms.

Biography

Professor John long is the Strategic Professor in Palaeontology at flinders University. He found his first fossil aged 7 and was hooked on science ever since. He has named and discovered over 70 prehistoric species of fish, dinosaurs and extinct reptiles, is author of over 200 scientific and popular articles, and author of over 25 books for both children and adult readers. He has been awarded the eureka Prize for Science Communication (2001), THe riversleigh Society Medal (2003), the Australasian Science Prize (2008) and the royal Society of Victoria research Medal (2011). His primary school books on evolution, climate change and the origins of human civilisation (The Big Picture Book series, Allen & Unwin, 2005-2009) have won several Australian literary awards. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_A._Long

Keynote Speakers


Keynote 2 (Tuesday 11:00am – 12:00pm)

Biomedical Engineering: Making a difference Professor Karen Reynolds, Matthew Flinders Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Flinders University

Biomedical engineering, a unique mix of engineering, medicine and science, is arguably the fastest growing branch of engineering. Perhaps the best known biomedical engineering products are the cardiac pacemaker and the artificial hip. The ageing demographic in Australia means that the demand for medical devices will continue to grow steadily.

flinders University was the first University in the country to offer an accredited undergraduate degree in Biomedical engineering and has recently celebrated 20 years of teaching in this field. Its 20-week work placement has become an exemplar for other programs across the country.

In her seminar, Karen reynolds will provide an insight into biomedical engineering, and share some of her experiences as an educator and researcher in this fascinating field.

Biography

Professor Karen reynolds is Matthew flinders Distinguished Professor of Biomedical engineering at flinders University. As Director of the University’s Medical Device research Institute, she is motivated by her passion to make a practical difference, using science and engineering to bridge the gap between patient needs and clinical knowledge. Karen was named as South Australian Scientist of the Year in 2012. She was listed in the ‘Top 100 Most Influential engineers in Australia’ (2012), elected a fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and engineering (2011), and was awarded the title of Australian Professional engineer of the Year in 2010.

Keynote Speakers


Cutting Edge 1A (Monday 11:00am – 11:50am)

Darwin’s Drop – Using evolution to improve the winemaking processProfessor Vladimir Jiranek, The University of Adelaide

The fermentation of grape juice into wine has been taking place for millennia. But it does not occur without difficulties. With their low pH, high sugar and eventual ethanol contents, grape juice and wine are harsh environments for the growth and metabolic activity of wine yeast and bacteria. The Jiranek group is using the natural tendency of living organisms to evolve in the face of a selective pressure to develop superior strains that complete the fermentation more reliably or with better sensory outcomes.

Biography

Vladimir Jiranek is a graduate of the University of Adelaide and has spent over two decades working to understand how wine microbes interact with grape juice. Currently Professor of oenology in the School of Agriculture, food & Wine, he heads a large group focussed on generating improved wine yeast and bacteria and determining the genetic basis for such enhancements.

Cutting Edge 1B (Monday 11:00am – 11:50am)

Conservation Ecology of the Pygmy Bluetongue LizardProfessor Michael Bull, Flinders University

The Pygmy Bluetongue lizard was believed to be extinct, but is now known from a few relict native grassland sites in the mid-north of SA. flinders University researchers have been exploring the ecology and behaviour of this species and developing strategies for its conservation management. resource requirements, threats and relocation techniques are being integrated with community awareness to help preserve this unique species. The presentation will explain how this specific case can help in the broader arena of biodiversity conservation.

Biography

Michael Bull is a Professor of Biology at flinders University who has been conducting research on lizard ecology and behaviour for over 30 years. He has over 240 research articles published in scientific journals, and has supervised over 40 PhD student projects. He has been awarded the Gold Medal of the ecological Society of Australia, and the Verco Medal of the royal Society of South Australia for his contribution to ecological science. In 2011 he was a finalist in the South Australian Scientist of the Year.

Cutting Edge Speakers


Cutting Edge 1C (Monday 11:00am – 11:50am)

The changing role of the PharmacistDr Michael Ward, Senior Lecturer - University of South Australia

The traditional view of a pharmacist is that of a man in a white coat peering down from a raised platform at the rear of a retail pharmacy. However, with the aging population and the strain that this is placing upon the health care system, both now and well into the future, the roles of pharmacists extend far beyond that captured by this traditional image. Within the health workforce pharmacists contribute a unique depth of knowledge in sciences including pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and pharmaceutics. In contemporary roles, pharmacists use their specialist knowledge to contribute collaboratively to the health care team to ensure optimal patient health outcomes. The ever increasing number of new and more complex medications and aging patients with a greater number of medical conditions means that great care must be taken to ensure that these medications do not cause unwanted interactions or side effects.

Biography

Dr Michael Ward’s overarching philosophy is one of a connection between the foundational sciences and clinical pharmacy practice. Michael’s approach to teaching is shaped by his desire to engage with emerging medicines and therapeutic treatments through research-acquired expertise, to remain contemporary in a complex and dynamic area of professional practice and to accept for responsibility for challenging teaching endeavours which he believes are critical for safe and effective professional practice.

As a senior lecturer in the School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Michael promotes learning transfer to enable pharmacy students to transition from fundamental sciences to the applied science of pharmacotherapeutics. Michael role models pivotal thought processes required for this transition and through this motivates students to develop their drug knowledge and professional skills. He promotes self-assessment and extends students perceptions of their capabilities. His commitment to teaching has been recognised by multiple University of South Australia teaching awards and in 2012 he was the recipient of an office of Learning and Teaching Citation for outstanding Contributions to Student Learning.



Cutting Edge 2 A (Monday 12:00pm – 1:00pm)

Electrical & Electronic Engineering - journey to a rewarding careerBrian Ng, Associate Dean (International), The University of Adelaide

As we confront the economic, social and environmental challenges of the 21st century, the modern world continues to rely on electrical and electronic engineers to design and produce complex devices, systems and equipment. With a global skills shortage and increasing demand for qualified graduates in the growing areas of renewable energy, power systems, telecommunications, mining and robotics, a world of opportunity awaits students interested in science and mathematics.

In this talk we will look at the world of electrical and electronic engineering and touch on the wide range of other engineering disciplines. We will discuss how engineering is changing the way we live and work and how inspiring the next generation of engineers begins in the classroom.

Biography

Joining the School of electrical and electronic engineering in 2002, Brian’s research focus includes digital signal processing and applications with contributions to fields such as multirate signal processing, bio-inspired engineering, image processing and understanding and Terahertz spectroscopy and imaging. He has an active interest in education research, particularly in the area of developing and applying research skills in a wide range of situations.



Cutting Edge 2 B (Monday 12:00pm – 1:00pm)

Why STEM Education (primary & secondary) needs the Research ProjectDr Martin Westwell, Director of Flinders Centre for Science Education in the 21st Century

Despite a number of drawbacks, the Australian Curriculum represents an opportunity for Australian science and mathematics education to be world-leading. new South Wales and Queensland have largely missed the strategic intent of the new curriculum in the way it is being implemented and now it’s time for South Australia to decide. We’re at a fork in the road where we can continue with more-of-the-same or strike out into a future that is evidence-informed and innovative. Part of that future includes our own research Project, but do we really need it in science? More importantly, why do our science students need research-education? What’s stopping us and where can we turn to for support?

Biography

Martin is the Director of the flinders Centre for Science education in the 21st Century that supports quality teaching and innovation in science and mathematics education. After completing his degree and PhD at Cambridge University, Martin moved to oxford University as a research fellow in biological chemistry. A winding career path returned him to oxford University in 2005 as the Deputy Director of the Institute for the future of the Mind. Martin has won a number of awards for engaging non-scientists with science including, in 1999, being named by The Times newspaper as the Scientist of the new Century.

Martin is a member of the SACe Board and works closely with the TfeL team and across the education department in South Australia. Internationally he works with UneSCo on a project to give policy direction to the future of education in the Asia-Pacific region.



Cutting Edge 2 C (Monday 12:00pm – 1:00pm)

Cyber Safety for StudentsDr Elena Sitnikova, School of Information Technology and Mathematical Sciences, University of South Australia, Senior Sergeant Barry Blundell and Sonya Ryan, founder of the Carly Ryan Foundation

With the communication technology rapidly developing, online social networking and like activities present a number of issues for school students. It is important to understand not only the benefits the technology brings to students day-to-day lives, but also to recognise potential threats to their security and privacy. There is a need for a greater awareness of the issues of cyber-crime, cyber-bullying and online harassment, and how these social issues and incidents in online environments could impact their real-world experience.

The task of safe guarding children continues to grow in its complexity presenting a real challenge for parents and educators. There are several aspects that would influence students’ safe use of online networking. It is important to recognise all factors and their interconnectivity. This presentation will consider a three-dimensional framework comprising people (students, parents and educators), process (polices, rules and recommendations) and technology (computers, smart phones and security tools).

The presenters and discussion panellists include:

• Dr Elena Sitnikova from the School of Information Technology & Mathematical Sciences has research interests in the areas of critical infrastructure protection and industrial control systems security, she is also Program director of Masters in Science (Cyber Securiity and forensic computing).

• Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Blundell, South Australia Police electronic Crime Section, who has been involved in the investigation of child exploitation and electronic crime for the past twenty years and is involved in developing prevention materials on Internet safety and awareness.

• Sonya Ryan, founder of the Carly ryan foundation, which provides detailed online safety seminars, giving participants valuable information on how to navigate the worldwide web safely.



Session 1: Monday 11:00am – 11:50am

1S01 Science Book Readings for Primary Students

Brent Banham

“Horton Hears a Who” is a great introduction to the microscopic world and to the limits of our senses. “Sam the firefly” can be used to illustrate the speed of chemical reactions. It must be no coincidence that national Science Week and national Book Week are next to each on the Calendar! Science activities can provide a great accompaniment to your favourite storybooks. Come to this session for some neat ideas as to how.

Target Audience: Primary School

1S02 Making Solutions 101

Despina Karlovassitis

This is a basic chemistry preparation module on how to prepare solutions using information on a chemical bottle label. Starting from a safety first perspective, understanding concentration and bench strength, calculations, and using recipe books and other resources.

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers

Session 2: Monday 12:00pm – 1:00pm

2S01 Using Rubrics to assess students’ work

James Young

Using rubrics will allow peer assessment, student assessment and teacher assessment to be completed. from this you will be able to place a student on the A_e scale easier. It will also allow you to assess your teaching style and the student’s learning style.

Target Audience: Primary School

2S02 Student RiskAssess: an easy way to meet the safety requirements of the new Australian Curriculum

Phillip Crisp, EcoSolve Australia Pty Ltd

Students from Years 5-10 are required by the Australian Curriculum to consider safety and identify risks in science experiments. The curriculum for each of the four Science subjects for Years 11-12 states that students should perform risk assessments as part of their science enquiry skills. Student risk assessments can be easily carried out in an interesting and systematic way using web-based software called “ Student riskAssess”, on computers, iPads and phones. Student riskAssess provides safety information on chemicals, equipment and living things, follows the Australian ISo Standard on risk Management and meets DeCD requirements. Student riskAssess is the partner product to “riskAssess”, which is used to carry out risk assessments by Science Teachers and Laboratory Technicians at more than 700 schools in Australia. Student riskAssess has all the features of riskAssess, but has been modified and optimized for student use. Schools currently using riskAssess will find Student riskAssess particularly simple to introduce.

Commercial Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior, Tertiary

Workshops in Detail

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3S01 Using magic in science lessons

James Young

Using magic in science lesson helps the students to think outside the square and questions everyday “things” around them. Learn how to place an egg into a bottle without touching it; Turn three different lengths of ropes into the same length; How to make water disappear; Pierce a plastic bag full of water and have no leaks; Turn a cup of water upside down and have no leaks. You will be taught how to do these tricks and the science behind them.

Target Audience: Primary, Middle School

3S02 Imbedding Scientific Literacies into R - 7 planning and assessment

Bronwyn Mart

Selecting appropriate scientific literacies for different year levels and various content descriptors within the Australian Curriculum is a key factor when planning inquiry based science learning. examples from reception to Year 7 will be shared through a continuum of “essential literacies” that has been developed for implementation within a school program.


3S03 Keeping Small animals in the classroom. Why would you do it?

Rianne Wright, Immanuel College

This workshop is aimed at the junior teacher interested in what they need to successfully maintain live displays in the classroom. As a self-confessed animal lover that has kept everything from spiders to a 3 metre carpet python in the classroom, I will help you sort through our current Animal ethics requirements, school policy, permits, SA statistical forms ‘How to Keep’ and ‘feeding’ regimes. Pepper this with a little behaviour observation “detection of stress and pain in animals”... can I convince you that it can be made easy to keep an animal in the classroom... or noT!

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Primary, Middle School

3S04 Data Logging Made Simple

Stephen Howard

See how easy and effective science experimenting with computer equipment can be. Take advantage of Tainlab’s easy setup, rapid data collection and the large instant graph displays to enhance your teaching.

Commercial Target Audience: Primary, Middle, Senior School

3S05 What is a good issues investigation in SACE science?

Lois Ey and Robyn Pillans, SACE Board of South Australia

Workshop will cover:

• Issues – what are they?• formulating a question.• How to show critical and logical selection of information.• How to divide into smaller sections in different formats

Target Audience: Senior School

Workshops in Detail


3S06 F-10 Australian Science Curriculum: Implementation

Len Altman

This workshop will feature a report of the collaborative implementation of earth and Space sub-strand topics in twelve South Australian schools, using PD provided by the Teacher earth Science education Program (TeSeP). our project has been funded by nAB Schools first with additional support from TeSeP.

Workshop participants will be provided with a DVD of resources, including examples of units, lesson plans, and engaging student learning. Links will be made with the three strands of the Australian Curriculum, the Achievement Standards, Cross-Curriculum Priorities, overarching Ideas and General Capabilities.

Strategies and methodologies will be recommended to develop curriculum in local contexts through community partnerships and shared professional development across and between sites, systems and jurisdictions.

examples of effective teaching and learning will demonstrate the value of fully funded TeSeP workshops to assist teachers to implement the f-10 Australian Science Curriculum and to prepare for the senior secondary earth and environmental Science course. Participants will be invited to freely join our collaborative network and website.

Target Audience: Primary, Middle, Senior School

3S07 Edmodo: Social Networking for Science

John Pearce

We’ve all heard the statistics, and rightly or wrongly facebook and other sites are playing a major part in the day to day lives of our students. for most schools concerns about safety mean that facebook and the like is just too great a risk. enter edmodo, a social networking site developed by teachers with education in mind. Simple to use, because access is controlled by group codes generated by the teacher, it is very safe. In this hands-on session you will explore how edmodo is the perfect tool to support students working independently and in collaboration with others.

Target Audience: Primary, Middle, Senior, Tertiary

Workshops in Detail


Session 3 & 4: Monday 2:00pm – 4:00pm

34DO1 Discovering Animal Classification

Karen Palumbo

There is a dazzling variety of animals on earth. How do we make sense of the incredible diversity of species on the planet? And how do scientists make sense of the complex and ever-changing animal kingdom?

Come along and discover exciting and engaging ways of teaching animal classification. The workshop undertakes interactive digital curriculum resources and hands-on activities to get everyone out of their seats. Teachers will find out about excursion ideas and tap into resources from educational agencies. The course makes direct links with Australian Curriculum with a focus on primary years.


34D02 How to design interventional studies for the SACE Research Project

Dr. Helena Ward, Dr. Elizabeth Elliott and Dr. Karma Pearce

Are your students planning interventional studies for their research projects? Do they need to know about double-blind and crossover studies? Do you need to refresh your knowledge of the ethical issues to take into account when planning an interventional research project?

This workshop will use an interactive approach with a case study to address these issues. Areas such as limitations to studies will be covered and resources to support project design and implementation will be provided.

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss their concerns about student projects and are encouraged to bring examples to the workshop.



4S01 Favourite Chromatography demonstrations and activities

Brent Banham

Want an alternative to the usual felt pens and smarties? Chromatography is as diverse as it is beautiful. During this session we will look at cheap, effective paper, column, and gas chromatography demonstrations and activities suitable for middle and senior secondary students using store bought items such as glowsticks and Kool Aid.

Target Audience: Lab Officers, Middle, Senior School

4S02 Get into Genes- How Biotechnology contributes to securing world food and fuel

Alison Wilson

Biotechnology- food and fuel. Some of the latest real-life Australian research examples explained and handouts to take away. Try a couple of experiments that feature in “Get into Genes” (a free hands on curriculum-linked workshop for secondary school students).Gain an understanding of plant science biotechnology research for renewable sources of transport fuels, for functional foods to improve human health and for a source of raw materials for industrial processes and techniques.

Also, wheat and barley are two of Australia’s most important cereal crops. Look at how scientists are improving wheat and barley’s tolerance to environmental stresses such as drought and salinity and researching ways to make plants use nutrients more efficiently.

Target Audience: Middle, Senior School

Workshops in Detail

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4S03 Ten Top Tips for Developing Science Inquiry Skills with Early Years Students

Bronwyn Mart

Are you developing new science units? This workshop provides some simple hints that can be woven into planning science learning for younger students. Specific year level examples for reception to Year 2 will be linked to the Australian Curriculum.

Target Audience: Primary

4S04 Mixing Science, IT and Alternative Energy

Allan Morrison

Digital technologies plus the use of scientific language and representations to communicate ideas, data and solutions is called for by ACSIS133.

This workshop will focus on meeting ACSIS133 by collecting and sharing data using Vernier data loggers, Logger Pro software, iPads, iPhones, Apple Apps, web browsers and email.

We’ll share how teachers and students have already used Vernier data loggers for some spectacular student inquiries and show how the experiments they created can and have been shared wirelessly by simply using a web browser.

Wind Power offers many exciting opportunities for students, of all ages, to conduct inquiry based experiments and so some of the data we collect will focus on variables that affect the amount of work a wind turbine can perform.

Commercial Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior School, Tertiary

4S05 What makes science fun in my classroom?

Anita Trenwith, Salisbury High School

Anita Trenwith, winner of the 2012 Prime Ministers Prize for excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools, will share what works in her classroom.

This presentation is aimed at early career teachers with ideas for practical demonstrations, managing science class specific behaviours and discussions about modifying work to cater for a variety of abilities within the one class.

Target Audience: Middle School

4S06 Driving Science with Google

John Pearce

ever wished you could work on a document live in real-time with your colleagues? Want a simple attractive way to survey, collect and collate data? need to embed live content in a blog, wiki or webspace. Want to show live graphical updates? need to be able to access and edit content independent of the platform or device you’re working with? If you’ve answered yes to any or all of these questions then Google Drive may be what you’re looking for. In this hands-on session we will explore the advantages of using Google Drive in a science setting, look at the differences between using this suite and traditional software and model ways in which Google Drive can improve your and your student’s productivity.


Workshops in Detail


Session 5: Tuesday 9:30am – 10:30am

5S01 Moderation process in SACE Sciences (Biology, Chemistry & Physics)

Dr Paula Mills & Sharon Davey, Prince Alfred College

This workshop will address:

• Sampling

• Getting the grade banding right

• Inter and intra school moderation

• Collaboration with others for task design and cross-marking

Participants are encouraged to bring samples of work to discuss in terms of moderation


5S02 Teaching Emerging Technologies: A New Resource

Jason Major, TechNyou

Critical thinking skills are vital for anyone, especially in the discussions surrounding emerging technologies. The old Biotechnology online and Access nano resources have been merged into one new resource aligned with the Australian Curriculum. It’s still free and online and has the same quality information on emerging technologies, teacher notes, class activities, lab pracs, animations, videos, audio and interactives, but it’s updated with new features and functionality. one new feature is a module dedicated to critical thinking and along with a tour of the new resource teachers will participate in class activities associated with the critical thinking module.

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior School

5S03 RiAus online science: live and archived video to enhance the science curriculum

Lisa Bailey, RiAus

Are you a middle school teacher looking for STeM activities and career information for students? Do you want to bring topical newsworthy science into your classroom? What do you look for in an online science video? Do you use animations in the classroom? Want to highlight STeM career opportunities for students?

This workshop will:

• Cover the use of riAus online science resources including videos, animations and lesson plans plus resources on new and emerging science and technology areas such as regenerative medicine, clean energy and synthetic biology with outcomes from teachers who have trialled these resources;

• Include a live video link through the riAus website with Dr Paul Willis, riAus Director. This demonstration will show the potential for teachers and students to interact directly with a wide variety of STeM professionals;

• overview the ‘Science behind the headlines’ project, which brings topical science into the classroom, developing students’ critical literacy skills by investigating how and why science issues are reported in the media;

• Provide access to STeM Career pathways resources;

• Seek feedback on how and when teachers use online video in preparation and delivery of science in the classroom.


Workshops in Detail


5S04 Modelling The Digestive System

John Pearce

In part, the Australian Science Curriculum promotes the need to develop inquiry in conjunction with creativity and critical thinking. one way this can be accomplished when teaching science is through the use of hands-on modelling and role-play. Such an approach is particularly appropriate to the middle years of schooling. In this session participants will explore how much fun and learning can be had using this approach as they take a hands-on journey through some of the complexities of our digestive system. Some other suggested approaches to using role-play in a more general sense will also be explored in the session.

Target Audience: Primary, Middle, Tertiary

5S05 Big Bang

Sam Moyle

Learners respond positively to educators that are enthusiastic, creative and innovative. Why then should the curriculum content be different?

Science is an ideal medium for the delivery of dynamic curriculum and implementing learning by doing approaches. A wow element in the classroom encourages engagement, inspires students to develop intrinsic motivation towards their learning and enhances retention to senior sciences.

exciting opportunities exist for educators to create a ‘cool’ factor in science classrooms. This is achieved by utilizing dynamic experiments that underpin the curriculum. enhanced by a contemporary focus, such experiments create relevance by linking in with student’s everyday lives.

This workshop is an extension of ‘Dynamicity’ and will focus on demonstrating engaging science experiments with a topical approach.

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Primary, Middle, Senior School

5S06 An interactive approach to teaching the scientific method

Linda Wright, Britannica Digital Learning

Britannica Pathways Science is an interactive approach to teaching the scientific method. This digital classroom resource for Years 6 - 10 promotes collaboration and helps increase science understanding through critical inquiry. Consisting of 10 Modules and 100 lessons, Pathways Science provides a consistent lesson progression, quizzes, interactives, videos and content from encyclopaedia Britannica, as well as full teacher materials to support teachers at every step. Join this session to see various ways you can integrate Britannica Pathways Science into your classroom and help students overcome common misconceptions.

Target Audience: Middle, Senior, Tertiary

5S07 Forces for Muggles!

Catherine Stone

Concepts in Physics can often seem like Hocus Pocus. The ASMS Primary Inquiry Team wants to make the confusion disappear! Join us for an exploration of forces (Year 7 AC: Science) through a range of magic tricks which can serve as a tool for engaging students, eliciting student knowledge and unleashing a range of inquiry questions. Please note: enclosed shoes and top hats recommended.


Workshops in Detail


Session 6: Tuesday 2:00pm – 2:50pm

6S01 Oh Crap! (Lab safety exercise)Linda McCallum

An opportunity for lab staff to set up, participate in and discuss, realistic hazardous lab situations as practical problem solving exercises.

Participants need to be prepared to take an active role in the exercises.

This is designed to both be a way of presenting practical lab safety and an opportunity to test those skills in a positive environment.

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior

6S02 Science: There’s An App For ThatJohn Pearce

The rapid embracement of mobile technologies has bought forth a veritable flood of apps across a range of topics. App developers have found a particularly rich vein in the science area developing some very creative ways to share science understandings as well as ways to interact with science content. from digital capture through social networking and tools to explain concepts there are increasingly “apps for that”. This session will explore some of the best of the science apps out there. Participants are encouraged to bring their device and be prepared to share their best apps during this session.


6S03 Science Investigation Awards

Trevor Noble, GrowSmart Careers in Science

The Primary Industry Centre for Science education(PICSe) runs an experiment based Science competiition. Students design and carry out an investigation of their own choosing, either on their own or in a group of up to 4. Their projects are presented in poster format for judging, with a ‘finals’ event to be held at the Adelaide Showgrounds during the royal Adelaide Show. Students can also enter their projects in other competitions and programs such as the oliphant Awards and CreST. This session will show teachers how they can involve students in the awards. Information sheets and a CD on planning an investigation will be available, as well as examples of projects from previous years. There will also be an information sheet showing the connections between the PICSe Science Investigation Awards, The oliphant Awards, CreST and the BHP Billiton Awards.


6S04 Stelr - Sustainable living through science and technology

Roderick Dunstan, Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering

In this hands-on workshop you will discover how our experiments on generating electricity with solar panels and wind turbines will not only make science meaningful to Year 9-10 students but also help inspire interest in major issues such as renewable energy and global warming and how we can solve them. STeLr practical investigations are simple and safe and model sustainable practice, and our programs exemplify the teaching and learning approach of the Australian Curriculum: Science. Already more than 85 000 students across Australia have completed the STeLr program.

Participants in this workshop will receive an electronic copy of all our STeLr program materials as well as a copy of the full-colour student workbook for our core program.

Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior School

Workshops in Detail


6S05 ASTA Online Professional Learning

Nigel Mitchell, Australian Science Teachers Association

The ASTA online Professional Learning Portal was established in 2011 to be a site for teachers of science to locate and share courses and resources. As well as a range of materials provided by partner organisations there is a growing bank of presentations, teaching modules, worksheets and practical ideas which have been shared by teachers for the benefit of their colleagues.

In this workshop nigel Mitchell, ASTA manager of online Professional Learning, will provide an overview of the educational challenges and opportunities presented by Information Technologies in schools, and participants will be encouraged to share their own views and experiences.

The main activity of the workshop will be an opportunity to explore the ASTA portal, and a discussion of how teachers can use and contribute to the site. Participants will also be encouraged to provide feedback on how the site may be improved to better meet the needs of teachers.

This workshop will be conducted in a computer lab, but participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops and other web-enabled devices. It would also be an advantage if participants could visit moodle.asta.edu.au and setup a free login to the site before the workshop


6S06 - Pearson Science 7-10 - Digital Solution for the Australian Curriculum, including Assessment

Mandy Ross, Pearson Australia

It no longer matters what device or technology your school uses, as the Pearson Science 7-10 series is available on every device in any school. This session will introduce you to the Pearson Science series through a number of digital offerings including eBook 3.0, Pearson reader web book and the jewel in the crown Pearson Assess – a teacher focused autocorrecting assessment product, written specifically for the Australian Curriculum.

Commercial Target Audience: Middle School

Workshops in Detail


Session 6 & 7: Tuesday 2:00pm – 4:00pm

67D01 Space Science activities for Year 7

Mike Roach

With Australian Curriculum in place the teaching of our Place in Space now resides with Primary teachers. Participants in this workshop will engage in a number of activities and demonstrations that can be used in the classroom to assist in the teaching and learning required for understanding the concepts involved.


67D02 It is Rocket Science!

Chris Heddles

Ignite your students’ interest in Physics using rocket Science without a nASA budget. This fun two hour workshop takes teachers through hands-on low cost practical activities to make rockets (air, water and chemical powered) and parachutes. Classroom activities include using a free online graphing game to aid students’ understanding of motion graphs, velocity and acceleration. This course is a context-based unit with a focus on experimental skills that explores motion and forces (kinematics and dynamics) through rockets. This unit fits well into a Year 10 Science program or Year 11 Physics course. Some activities are adaptable for Middle School students and the activities do not require a lab. resources provided include task sheets and rubrics.


Session 7: Tuesday 3:00pm – 4:00pm

7S01 Curation: The Latest Big C

John Pearce

over the last few years in education we’ve been urged to take on board a range of C’s, Creativity, Communication, Collaboration etc. now with the realization that another C, Content is overwhelming us, one more C has entered the educational lexicon. This C is Curation, the capability to seek and identify the best resources around a topic and make these available to others in an accessible framework. Curation is subtely but importantly different from simply collecting or aggregating. This workshop will explore how and why curation especially as it relates to science is something we all need to know about. We’ll look at some of the tools and spaces that are being used to curate content with a particular emphasis on how otherwise social spaces can be used in sharing scientific content.


7S02 PLOTS Spectroscopy

Stuart Williams

A digital spectroscope for under $10 ? put me down for half a dozen ! The PLoTS team have published online details for the construction and use of a webcam (or iphone) spectrometer that can be built for under $10. Boasting close to 3nm resolution the spectroscope uses DVD plastic to act as a diffraction grating and is calibrated using the mercury lines from CfL bulbs. free software currently allows absorption spectroscopy and the detection of lines in the emission spectra of salts.

This workshop will demonstrate the home made spectroscope in some interesting activities suitable for middle and senior school classes. Along the way we will discuss the principles of its operation, improvements and limitations.

Target Audience: Lab Officers, Middle, Senior, Tertiary

Workshops in Detail


7S03 Supporting Student Entries in the Oliphant Science Awards

Peter Turnbull

The SASTA oliphant Science Awards are the premier student science competitions in SA, with two thousand entrants competing in 9 categories across all year levels. This year the Awards align more closely with the new Australian Curriculum Science, so that teachers can readily engage their students either with a whole class focus or as extension opportunities. The workshop is for school oSA Coordinators and teachers interested in engaging their students in oSA, and will explore the categories, the changes for 2013, and the links to Australian Curriculum.

Target Audience: Primary, Middle, Senior School

7S04 Ooze, Flubber and Quicksand

Sheryl Hoffmann

This workshop investigates some of the properties of non-newtonian fluids. We will make ooze, flubber and a superball and look at a variety of recipes. We will discuss the properties of quicksand, and why earthquakes cause liquification and we will discuss what non-newtonian actually means. The focus is on having some fun while learning about a group of very disparate fluids, with activities suitable for middle school science classes.


7S05 Student RiskAssess: an easy way to meet the safety requirements of the new Australian Curriculum

Philip Crisp, EcoSolve Australia Pty Ltd

Students from Years 5-10 are required by the Australian Curriculum to consider safety and identify risks in science experiments. The curriculum for each of the four Science subjects for Years 11-12 states that students should perform risk assessments as part of their science enquiry skills. Student risk assessments can be easily carried out in an interesting and systematic way using web-based software called “ Student riskAssess”, on computers, iPads and phones. Student riskAssess provides safety information on chemicals, equipment and living things, follows the Australian ISo Standard on risk Management and meets DeCD requirements. Student riskAssess is the partner product to “riskAssess”, which is used to carry out risk assessments by Science Teachers and Laboratory Technicians at more than 700 schools in Australia. Student riskAssess has all the features of riskAssess, but has been modified and optimized for student use. Schools currently using riskAssess will find Student riskAssess particularly simple to introduce.

Commercial Target Audience: Laboratory Officers, Middle, Senior, Tertiary

7S06 - Issues Investigations: The development of research and writing skills in Middle School Science students

Annette Lamont, Kildare College

Issues Investigations have become an important form of assessment in Stage 1 and 2 Sciences. Many students have trouble, however, selecting and evaluating evidence to support their arguments. Middle School Science teachers can play a vital role in helping students locate and document “good evidence”. Appropriate student documentation allows teachers to easily ascertain the ability of the student to identify “good evidence”. Students may also be taught how to evaluate information for credibility, bias and relevance in a fun, creative way, thus providing them with essential skills for SACe.


Workshops in Detail


Awards

Outstanding Teacher Awardsrecognise teachers’ contribution to the education of students in science. These teachers are actively involved in professional development to ensure their effectiveness as science educators. They promote student interest in science by providing an environment that stimulates students’ curiosity and use innovative materials or technologies in teaching science. They are also a positive role model for other science teachers within their school.

2012

Primary Prue Mosman

Upper Secondary Clark ross, Zsahni Karagiannis

2011

Primary Sue Cox

Middle David Andrewartha

Upper Secondary Sharon Davey

Sandra reynolds

2010

Primary Dagmar Preusker, Mark Dorman

Upper Secondary Kate Cutts, Dr Jane Wright

2009

Junior Primary Sue Burdett

Middle School Vicki Stewart Kelly

2008

Primary Sonia Cooke

Upper Secondary Peter Donnelly, Chris Jordison

2007

Primary Bronwyn Mart, rogerBurford

Middle School richard Drogemuller

Upper Secondary Lyn Jefferies

2006

Primary Peter Hoskin

Middle School Bob Haskard

Upper Secondary John Salamon, Judy Sara

2005

Primary Jacqui McMahon

Middle Phil Coles

Upper Secondary Lynton Hall

2004

Primary Phil ogden

Middle Julie Suhanek

Upper Secondary Cynthia Pyle

2003

Junior Primary Sue ogden

Primary Jill Varga

Middle School David LeCornu

Upper Secondary Susan Cockshell

2002

Primary Kathy Zed

Upper Secondary Peter Haine

2001

Junior Primary Marianne nicholas

Primary neil Piggott

Middle School robyn White

Upper Secondary Alan Pepper


Awards

Helen Castle Memorial ScholarshipThis scholarship is in memory of Helen Castle, a dedicated and enthusiastic science teacher who tragically died during the eyre Peninsula bushfires in 2005. Helen was a positive role model for other science teachers in her school and country district, actively promoting innovative science teaching gained through her attendance at SASTA conferences.

SASTA accepted donations to set up a trust fund to make this scholarship perpetually available to country teachers in honour of Helen Castle.

The scholarship is designed to assist country science teachers to attend the SASTA annual conference and gain professional development to assist themselves and other country teachers in maintaining a high standard of science teaching within country areas.

The SASTA MedalThis is the highest honour awarded by SASTA to one of its members

The SASTA Medal is awarded in recognition of a member’s significant long term commitment to SASTA and contribution to science education and is the highest annual award.

Previous Medal Winners

1983 Lester russell 1993 Cees van Putten 2004 Sharon russo

1984 Bob Morton 1994 Iris Mullins 2005 Grahame ferguson

1985 John Smith 1995 Peter russo 2006 Bronwyn Mart

1986 Peter Schodde 1996 Phil Alan 2007 Peter Turnbull

1987 Terry Woolley 1997 Yvonne Zeegers 2008 David LeCornu

1988 ron Page 1998 Jane Wright 2009 Anne Langsford

1989 D’Arcy Walsh 2000 Mike roach 2010 Cliff rothenberg

1990 Thelma Pike 2001 rick Daley 2011 David Lloyd

1991 Maris Silis 2002 Jan Brooks 2012 Marianne nicholas

1992 Tony Diercks 2003 Simon Langsford


Awards

Oliphant Science AwardsSouth Australia’s Largest Student Science Competition

Great Opportunities For Learning Through Science

Thursday 20 June registration forms due

Friday 21 June Judges registration form due

Monday 22 - Friday 26 July Deliver Science Writing, Scientific Inquiry, Games & Multimedia entries

Saturday 17 August Computer Programming and robotics judging

Friday 30 August Deliver Crystal Investigation, Models & Inventions, Photography and Poster entries

Saturday 31 August Judging Day

Sunday 1 September open Day

Monday 2 September Collection of non-winning entries

Friday 20 September Presentation Ceremony

2013 Category Titles

Photography

• Aerodynamics• Levels in ecosystems• energy in Many forms• Melting Moments• Separating Mixtures• Science in my Daily Life• Patterns on the Landscape

Posters

• Australian Scientists in History• Australia’s Greatest Scientific Inventions• Beneath our feet• Conserving natural ecosystems• It’s in the Genes• radiation in my home• Light & Sound – Producing & Sensing

Science Writing

• Australia – Leading Science endeavour• Solar Cells, are they worth the cost?• Does the Science add up?• Bacteria – friend or foe?• Biotechnology, does it help?• How I use science every day• Cycles of Life

BHP Billiton AwardsCongratulations to Brian Schiller South Australia’s teacher finalist in the BHP Billiton Teacher Awards.

remember winning entries from the 2013 Scientific Inquiry category will be forwarded to the BHP Billiton national competition. If you are

planning a scientific inquiry have a look at the BHP Billiton judging criteria. There are great prizes for Primary and Secondary entries, including cash, a science camp and a trip to the USA to attend a science fair.

Check the list of sponsors’ prizesValuable prizes are awarded for entries that meet both the category requirements and the criteria described by our sponsors.

Ideas for starting your entry

Scientists solve problems

Look around you – have you got a problem that needs fixing? Many discoveries and inventions have been made by scientists trying to solve a problem.


Awards

Invent a solution

Here is a good web site to help solve your problem. The ‘Inventive Thinking Lesson Plan’ gives you easy to follow steps to help spark your inventive abilities. Look up http://inventors.about.com/library/lessons/bl_activity_2.htm

Experiment and find out why it is happening

Scientists experiment to understand how things work and what causes the effects seen. The scientific method is fundamental to designing good experiments. Check out the CSIro CreST Awards http://www.csiro.au/crest

Scientists communicate their knowledge

Science Writing, Multimedia, Computer Programming and robotics, Posters and Photography are great ways to inform people. Games can teach and be fun at the same time.

National Science Week

The chemistry theme could be used in Computer Programming and robotics, Crystal Investigation, Scientific Inquiry, Games, Models and Inventions, Multimedia, and there are topics with a chemistry focus in Science Writing, Posters and Photography.

Get involved! Find the Oliphant Science Award information at: www.sasta.asn.au

Dr Barbara Hardy AO with Oliphant Science Award prize winners

Will Russell, St John’s Grammar School, was awarded the Oliphant Science Trophy for 2012


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InspIre the scIentIsts and engIneers Of tOmOrrOw

the University of adelaide offers a range of activities for secondary school studentsincluding:

• Campus tours

• presentations and workshops

• study and careers pathway talks

• school visits

contact us today to find out how you can get involved in our schools programand explore opportunities in science and engineering.

Office for Future studentsph: (08) 8313 6447www.adelaide.edu.au/schools

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South Australian Science Teachers Association Inc.Patron: Dr Barbara Hardy AO ABN 22 938 317 192Member of Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA)

Supporting teachers of science | Advancing science education

sasta annual conference 2013

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