Teacher Research Academy | Science and Technology

The Teacher Research Academy (TRA) offers middle school, high school, and community college faculty a unique professional development experience at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). TRA workshop participants engage in Next Generation Science Standards- (NGSS-) aligned instruction in LLNL mission-related scientific disciplines through the application of real-world science in an environment teachers seldom get to explore.
There is a $25 registration fee. All participants must be U.S. citizens.

The Teacher Research Academy (TRA):

3D PRINT & DESIGN: Incorporates modeling, design, and three-dimensional printing for introduction to curriculum. Print everyday objects from computational models using Tinkercad.

This engaging, hands-on workshop is designed to equip today’s educators (elementary through post-high school) with skills to implement 3D printing and CAD (computer-aided design) into their classrooms. It emphasizes teaching participants real-world skills through hands-on exercises, group projects, and talks/tours of current LLNL 3D printing research.

Workshop 1: This 3-day workshop provides a crash course in 3D printing and basic CAD techniques. No prior experience required!

Workshop 2: This 5-day workshop covers all aspects of applying 3D printing technology in the classroom, including the set-up, operation, and troubleshooting of 3D printers. Participants can expect to be fully equipped to implement a 3D printing program. Also includes grant-writing, curriculum suggestions, 2D laser cutters, advanced CAD techniques, and the engineering design process. Successful completion of level 1 is required.

Workshop 1: July 10–July 12, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm
Workshop 2: July 15–July 19, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm

BIOSCIENCE: Emphasizes overview of the field with instruction on basic skills to include DNA and protein analysis through inquiry and experimentation.

These middle/high school professional development workshops center on enriching NGSS standards with hands-on wet lab experience in biology and biotechnology. They focus on learning by doing, provide the opportunity to expand lab skills, discuss how authentic rigorous lab experiences can be integrated into NGSS, AP, and IB curricula, and address how to modify labs based on resource limitations. Learn how to source free science materials and local mini grants as well.

Workshop 1: Review fundamental lab skills to make lab work prep easy. Participants will learn through hands-on laboratory activities in microbiology, biology, biochemistry, and molecular genetics. Connect science practices with NGSS Disciplinary Core Ideas in ecology, heredity, and evolution; explore crosscutting concepts.

Workshop 2: Participants will dive deeper into hands-on laboratory activities in microbiology, biology, biochemistry, and molecular genetics. Guest speaker.

Workshop 1: June 12–June 14, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm
Workshop 2: June 17–June 21, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm

MODELING FOR SCIENCE & MATH: Introduces concepts of computer modeling and simulation to meet science and math practices. Utilize the learned skills to prepare your students for careers in STEM.

These workshops provide hands-on modeling for science and math instruction. Participants will learn to use a variety of programs including Netlogo, a free open-source simulation software, to create computer models that will enhance their curricula.

Workshop 1: TThis 3-day workshop introduces the concepts behind computer modeling and simulation, and real-world applications. Participants will interact with LLNL scientists and learn how simulation is used in their work. NetLogo and other software will be introduced as modeling tools.

Workshop 2: This 5-day workshop is designed for teachers who want an introduction to computer modeling and for those who want to expand their knowledge of programming with NetLogo. The flexible curriculum will allow returnees to develop applications that will enhance their STEM curriculum by presenting model(s) and lesson plans to the group while also providing first-timers the opportunity to learn about modeling and simulation.

Workshop 1: June 12–June 14, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm
Workshop 2: June 17–June 21, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm

FUSION & ASTROPHYSICS: Focuses on properties of electromagnetic radiation, spectroscopy, gravitation, and nuclear physics using tools employed in research laboratories through hands-on activities.

The Fusion/Astrophysics TRA will provide hands-on experience with classroom-tested labs and activities in physics and astronomy. All classroom tools meet Physical Sciences and Earth/Space Sciences NGSS Standards. Visit cutting-edge LLNL research labs and talk to scientists and engineers! These workshops prepare you to do a research internship at LLNL.

Workshop 1: This 3-day workshop focuses on how spectroscopy and the properties of light are used in fusion and solar science. Participants tour the National Ignition Facility and learn about the latest developments in fusion energy

Workshop 2: This 5-day workshop provides a crash course in stellar astrophysics, special relativity, and gravitation, with classroom-tested labs and activities. Each day includes a lab tour or a talk by a Livermore scientist or both. Tours include the Gamma-ray Spectrometer Lab, Center for Advanced Mass Spectroscopy, Electron Beam Ion Trap, and Jupiter Laser Facility.

Workshop 1: June 19–June 21, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm
Workshop 2: June 24–June 28, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm

TECHNICAL WRITING FOR SCIENCE CLASS: Prepares teachers to build students’ technical-writing skills toward CCSS goals to improve lab instruction, technical literacy, lab notebooks, abstracts, and science posters.

Technical communication is now an important part of K–12 science classrooms. Every NGSS performance expectation cross-references science-relevant literacy goals from the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts (ELA). Workshop participants will learn how to implement this close integration of CCSS with NGSS through activities, cases, and examples that embody the NGSS communication practices (explain, argue from evidence, and share information).

This workshop explores how to adapt scientific and engineering approaches to communications that motivate students to practice evidence-based text-design techniques prized in technology communications (including software). Workshop segments demonstrate how specific pedagogical moves that support fluency for English as a Second Language/English Language Learner (ESL/ELL) students can help all students share technical information more effectively.

NGSS/CCSS Literacy Products include drafting safe, reliable lab instructions; revising technical descriptions to make written/oral reports more helpful and meaningful for their audience(s); promoting the use of lab, field, and reading notes based on examples and techniques that amplify each student's ability to learn; designing effective, concise abstracts for projects (science fair and otherwise); and crafting content-rich, visually revealing science posters.

Session: June 10–June 11, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm

TRA INTERNSHIPS: Mentored research opportunities within LLNL research laboratories. Interns receive a stipend at completion of the 8-week internship. Applications are competitive.

LLNL offers paid, 8-week mentored research opportunities for in-service teachers during the summer. Teachers must first complete a workshop series in 3D Print & Design, Bioscience, Fusion & Astrophysics, or Computational Modeling to qualify for an internship in a successive summer. Teachers are placed in research laboratories aligned with their teaching interests. Internships are competitive. A $5,000 stipend is awarded upon completion.

To apply for an internship, submit the application through the link below and send current resume to stem-education@llnl.gov. Application materials are due by April 15, 2019. Receipt of applications will be confirmed by email with acceptances by May 15, 2019.

Session: June 10–August 2, 2019 | Time: 8:30am–3:30pm