Since 2011, the Iowa STEM Council has vetted high quality STEM programs available to Iowa educators in formal and informal education settings. The 2018-19 Scale-Up Program application will open Monday, January 22. The Scale-Up program menu ranges from coding programs to hands-on biotechnology and agriculture projects to STEM career exploration.
CASE - Animal and Plant Biotech
Description: Experience industry appropriate applications of biotechnology-related plant and animal agriculture through hands-on activities, projects and problems in biotechnology. Research and experimental design will be highlighted in industry-appropriate investigations that involve micropipetting, bacterial cultures and transformations, electrophoresis, and the polymerase chain.
Grade Level: 10-12
Setting: In school
More information: http://www.case4learning.org/
CASE - Environmental Sci Issues
Description: Investigate areas that include ecosystem management, sustainable agriculture, energy choices, and pollution. Students will research, investigate, experiment, and document a project, and communicate solutions to peers and members of the professional community.
Grade Level: 10-12
Setting: In school
More information: http://www.case4learning.org/
Computer Science Principles
Description: A year-long Code.org course that aligns with CSTA standards and 21st Century Learning Skills. It can be delivered as an Advanced Placement course. Teachers need no prior computer technology experience to qualify for training.
Grade Level: 9-12
Setting: In school
More information: www.code.org/educate/csp
Engineering Everywhere*
Description: Helps students think creatively and solve globally relevant engineering challenges during out-of-school programs. Each unit has an introduction to the engineering process, culminating design challenge, science and mathematics standards, and 21st Century Learning Skills.
Grade Level: 6-8
Setting: Out of school
More Information: www.eie.org/engineering-everywhere
Making STEM Connections
Description: Activities that help students connect STEM to their daily lives and develop competencies essential to Iowa's future workforce. Grounded in making, safety, upcycling, creative constraints, art, and reinventing technologies. Lessons build on NGSS standards, reflect Iowa Common Core, and include National CORE Art Standards.
Grade Level: K-9
Setting: In school and out of school
More Information: www.sciowa.org/makingstemconnections
Pint Size Science
Description: Four hands-on modules: one introductory unit and three chosen by the educator. Features Iowa Early Learning Standards/GOLD Objectives, NGSS, Iowa Common Core math and literacy and 21st Century Learning Skills. Includes kit materials, curriculum guides, website and webinar support.
Grade Level: PreK-2
Setting: In school and out of school
More information: www.sciowa.org/pss
PowerTeaching Math
Description: Includes active instruction, team practice, formative and formal assessments, feedback and motivation, and a designated PowerTeaching coach. Contains Iowa Common Core Mathematics Standards and 21st Century Learning Skills.
Grade Level: 6-8
Setting: In school
More Information: www.successforall.org
PLTW: Computer Science for Innovators and Makers
Description: Using real-world scenarios, students use the design process, which includes defining the problem, generating concepts, and designing and presenting a solution. Aligns to NGSS, Iowa Common Core for Mathematics and ELA, and CSTA Standards.
Grade Level: 6-8
Setting: In school
More Information: http://www.pltw.org
Ramps and Pathways
Description: Explore the engineering process and mathematics of spatial thinking and geometry through construction of marble runs; mathematics and literacy skills through data collection; physics of force and motion through conversations and retesting; and 21st Century Learning Skills related to creation and innovation.
Grade Level: preK-2
Setting: In school and out of school
More Information: www.rampsandpathways.org
STEM in Action
Description: With options in Life, Earth and Physical Sciences, each educator-chosen kit (5 for PreK, 9 for K-2, 9 for 3-5) is formatted into small, manageable bits of time with limited consumable items. Available in English and Spanish.
Grade Level: PreK-5
Setting: In school and out of school
More Information: www.hand2mind.com/steminaction
Applications will be open January 22 - March 5, 2018. Have questions? Contact Kristine Bullock, Southeast Regional STEM Manager, at kristine-bullock@uiowa.edu.
