STAAR Workshops
We are the #1 source for STAAR enrichment, remediation and test preparation for your 3rd through 8th graders in science. For over a decade we have helped Elementary and Middle schools with TAKS (now STAAR). We have before/after data to prove it!
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STAAR Workshops
Mad Science will conduct a pre-assessment, a plan to close gaps (in earth, physical and life sciences), deliver the program and wrap up with a post-assessment to show the progress achieved. Schools use us during the Spring term to get 5th and 8th graders polished-up for the Science portion.
Watch!
A Sample of Our 150+ STEM-Based Workshop
Fundamental Forces
Teaches: Force, Motion, Energy
Introduces students to the basic concepts of forces. Allows children to encounter their own force of gravity And to see what happens to objects when different forces are applied; this helps to illustrate things like gravity, racetrack, centrifugal, and centripetal force. Children also get a chance to experiment with gyroscopes and loops.
Current Events
Teaches: Force, Motion, Energy
Students problem-solve to create simple circuits that will light a bulb. Hands-on activities also allow them to explore more complex series of circuits. They experience a nerve-tester, Mad Science electricity labs, and our amazing Tooth Tunes device. They also observe how electricity flows through wires and water.
Electricity
Teaches: Force, Motion, Energy
This workshop introduces students to the fundamental concepts of electricity: circuits, conductors, insulators, and how electricity is converted for everyday uses. Students get to create different circuits, interact with plasma balls, discover “sticky” static electricity and make their own static energy chambers to take home.
Ecosystems
Teaches: Living Systems
Students learn about the interconnections that exist between all living things in an ecosystem, including humans. The nature cycles, food chains and energy webs (producers, consumers and decomposers) within different environments are explored before we make mini-ecosystems that students can observe in class for a month.
Photosynthesis
Teaches: Life Processes
This workshop provides an introduction to the chemical processes in a plant, plant respiration, and the role of plants in food webs. Students get a chance to examine the role of light in the process, test for starch, and then create a mini greenhouse to observe in class or take home.
All About Animals
Teaches: Living Systems
How do animals feed themselves and their young? Which animals hibernate and which ones migrate, and why? How do animals use camouflage and behavior to protect themselves from predators? Students gain a better understanding of the adaptations and characteristics of animals which live in different habitats and environments and then make an animal print to take home.
FAQs About Hosting a TEKS-STAAR Workshop
I get the gist, but how does the Systems of STAAR work?
The SOS is a series of one-hour workshops that utilize 'hands-on' learning workshops to experience the TEKS principles covered in STAAR testing. In each workshop, experiments and demonstrations are used to help students reinforce the objectives and concepts taught by the teacher - in topics covering earth science, life science and physical science.
+How thorough is the coverage in the Systems of STAAR?
These hands-on workshops can be a combination of earth sciences, life sciences and physical sciences - depending on where your students' TEKS gaps are, as relates to the concepts covered in STAAR. It includes on-site delivery, Texas SB9 compliant instructors, pre and post testing.
+Does the Systems of STAAR replace classroom instruction?
No! WE DO NOT REPLACE YOUR TEACHERS! Our role is to help them extend and enhance their impact in their classroom by providing them state-of-the-art technology equipment to drive home the TEKS Science concepts they cover in their classes. Think of us a 'mobile science lab' for your science teacher!
+Why should we use the Systems of STAAR in our school?
Anyone who has spent more than five minutes with children in Elementary and Middle schools knows how long their attention spans are… Get the picture? Programs that use different methods of teaching get through to students differently; With the Systems of STAAR, students experience the TEKS Science objectives, not just hear about them.
+What if we can’t spare the time?
We will work with your needs! Ideally, the sessions should be conducted during class time so that all students have the opportunity to be involved. However, we can conduct after school sessions, schedule individual objective workshops, or customize other programs. Just ask!
+Still need more information? Want to book an SOS?
If you would like to schedule a Systems of STAAR, of if you have any questions, please call 972-241-0475 or email info.request@msgdallas.com
+Sign-up your school to TEKS workshops!