Winter 2024 California Classroom Science – Vol. 37 Issue 2
President's Message
It’s a Wrap: California Science Education Conference 2024
As we near the end of 2024 I asked the 2024 Science Education Conference Chairs to reflect on the successes and challenges of this year’s conference and ended with a couple of questions for the 2025 Conference Co-chair, Crystal Starr Howe, about what to expect in Palm Springs next October 17-19 . Here’s what they had to say.
California Science Test & Dashboard
CAST is now on the Dashboard!
Learn about the integration of CAST data into the California Dashboard and strategies to close achievement gaps in science. Explore CASE's CAST Academy, resources for 3D science instruction, and actionable steps to include K-12 science in your district’s LCAP.
The Role of Elementary Science Instruction in Preparing Students for the California Science Test
Discover how early science education lays the foundation for success on the California Science Test (CAST). Learn about the importance of elementary instruction in building critical thinking skills and preparing students for CA NGSS-aligned assessments.
Tools for Teachers: A Resource Hub for K-12 Science Educators
Explore Tools for Teachers, a comprehensive online hub offering NGSS-aligned lessons and formative assessment strategies for K–12 science educators. Access high-quality resources developed by California educators to enhance student learning and engagement.
California Science Test Interim Assessments: A Flexible Tool for Monitoring Student Progress in Science
Discover the California Science Test (CAST) Interim Assessments—optional tools aligned with NGSS that help educators measure student progress in science. Learn about their flexible administration, data insights, and resources to support instruction.
Interim Assessments Fill The Data Gap In Cast
CAST data alone won’t guide NGSS instruction. Learn how interim assessments provide timely, actionable feedback to help teachers focus on 3-D learning and prepare students for statewide exams.
Compare Apples To Apples With Cast Data
Most of what the CAST data show are systemic issues in supporting emergent bilinguals and other historically marginalized students, and those long-term effects of systemic failures of society go beyond the school system. On my quest to help classroom teachers get value out of CAST scores, I spent my sabbatical creating a new way to view the CAST…
Science Education Conference
Mission Accomplished: Sparking Innovation in Science Education in Sacramento
Explore the energy, inspiration, and collaboration from the recent California Science Education Conference in Sacramento, featuring innovative workshops, engaging keynotes, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of equitable science education.
Translanguaging Capitalizes on Students' Home Languages, Knowledge, and Cultural Assets
Discover how translanguaging empowers Emerging Multilingual Learners (EMLs) by valuing their home languages and cultural assets. Explore strategies to deepen science understanding while fostering inclusion and academic growth.
Igniting Passion and Pedagogy: Insights from New Teacher at the CASE Conference
Discover how the CASE Conference inspired new teachers Megan and Keegan with innovative teaching strategies, professional networking, and motivational insights from Dr. Christopher Emdin. Learn how to stay connected and energized in science education.
“Counting Carbon” to Combat Climate Change
Explore Megan J. Sulsberger's CASE session on teaching climate change with STEM-based activities. Learn how to empower students to understand CO2 emissions, carbon sinks, and take action for sustainability.
FYI
JEDI-ing Your Science Classroom
Discover how to embed Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) in your science classroom. Explore strategies from the CASE DEI Committee to foster belonging and empower every student to thrive.
Spotlight
Use Gale Interactive: Science As An Alternative Dissection Assignment
Discover Gale Interactive: Science, a free resource for California schools offering digital alternatives to animal dissection. Enhance biology, chemistry, earth science, and anatomy lessons with interactive modules and support humane, cost-effective science education.
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California Classroom Science
CASE's signature publication, is an electronic publication that is produced quarterly. The publication consists of mostly original content produced by CASE members and provides information of interest to California science educators.
CCS is packed with information, news, resources, ideas, and activities of current interest to science educators. CCS is delivered to CASE members electronically via e-mail and is available on our website for all to enjoy.
Image Credits for Homepage Thumbnails
All thumbnail images displayed on our homepage are credited individually to their respective photographers and sources. We appreciate their contributions, which enhance our site. All rights to the images are reserved by their respective owners.
- President's Message: 2023 California Science Education Conference
- Conference is About Community: permission granted to use photo - SDSU conference group attendees
- Mentoring Practices: Photo by Monica Melton on Unsplash
- Balancing Professional Learning: Photo by Eder Pozo Pérez on Unsplash
- The Leaf Detective: Photo by Mansi Telharkar on Unsplash
- Peaks and Valleys: Image from Peaks and Valleys PDF report
- CAL MSCS Science Leadership: permission granted to use logo