Secrets of Papatūānuku

Secrets of Papatūānuku

In younger years we may have learnt the Earth is divided into three layers – the solid crust, liquid mantle and solid core. But the reality is more complex than that. Guest author Mike Stone investigates.

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Wed Nov 27 2024

science-news

earth-and-space

Science Teaching Leadership Programme ﴾STLP﴿

Science Teaching Leadership Programme ﴾STLP﴿

For schools wanting to make an impact on student engagement and achievement in science, an opportunity exists to support a teacher to become a science leader through the MBIE‐funded Science Teaching Leadership Programme (STLP) offered by Royal Society Te Āparangi. NZASE Science Communicator Heather Goodey looks into the STLP and shares some recent participants’ experiences and how students benefit from this programme.

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Wed Nov 27 2024

pedagogy

Environmentalist Stephanie Dijkstra

Environmentalist Stephanie Dijkstra

Stephanie is a Māori environmental scientist specialising in intergenerational outcomes and the interweaving of mātauranga and Western science. She wears many hats, working as a Senior Mātauranga Taiao Advisor with Storm Environmental, a Ngā Kaihautu Tikanga Taiao Member with the Environmental Protection Authority NZ, and a member of Te Puna Māori Advisory Committee with Taumata Arowai The Water Regulator. She also chairs the Ngāi Tahu Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Kōmiti. In conversation with NZASE Science Communicator, Sneha Pillai, Stephanie shares her journey of weaving her love for different branches of science like cellular plant biology and ecology to do what she’s truly passionate about – leaving the planet in a better state than the one she found it in.

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Tue Oct 29 2024

scientist-profiles

earth-and-space

Pounamu

Pounamu

Pounamu is highly valued as a symbol of national identity and a taonga to Māori. Pounamu reminds us of the transformational nature of tectonic collision zones. Guest author Mike Stone writes about this very special rock with some unique properties.

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Tue Oct 29 2024

science-news

Overseas Trained Teachers

Overseas Trained Teachers

There is a growing shortage of Science teachers in New Zealand for the positions advertised. Increasingly schools are recruiting teachers from overseas. NZASE Science Communicator Heather Goodey converses with overseas trained teachers to not only learn from their experiences what incoming teachers might need to know to teach in NZ, but also what strengths and insights our overseas‐trained colleagues bring to the teaching profession here.

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Tue Oct 29 2024

pedagogy

Conservation Biologist John Perrott

Conservation Biologist John Perrott

A mātauranga Scientist/communicator and Associate Professor/Research Ecologist at the AUT School of Science, specialising in Conservation Biology of endangered species and Kaitiakitanga, John Perrott possesses a rich volume of knowledge on the flora and fauna of Aotearoa New Zealand. In conversation with NZASE science communicator Sneha Pillai, Associate Professor John Perrott reflects on his journey as a kaitiaki and conservation biologist

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Fri Sep 27 2024

scientist-profiles

bio

Uncovering History with Science

Uncovering History with Science

Forensic science can be tasked with identifying the identity of human remains. And the process is fascinating. Guest author Mike Stone explains how scientific analysis of these remains can provide interesting insights into our history.

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Fri Sep 27 2024

science-news

bio chem

S1.3 NZASE practice assessment resources

S1.3 NZASE practice assessment resources

This content is restricted to NZASE members.If your school is already a member you can set up an individual account free of charge using the link at the bottom of this page. Just make sure to use your school email account.Existing Users Log InUsername or EmailPassword Remember Me  New User? Click here to register

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Tue Sep 24 2024

pld

S1.4 NZASE practice assessment resources

S1.4 NZASE practice assessment resources

This content is restricted to NZASE members.If your school is already a member you can set up an individual account free of charge using the link at the bottom of this page. Just make sure to use your school email account.Existing Users Log InUsername or EmailPassword Remember Me  New User? Click here to register

Members Only

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Fri Sep 06 2024

pld

Safety and Science/Pūtaiao: Guidance for Aotearoa New Zealand Schools and Kura

Safety and Science/Pūtaiao: Guidance for Aotearoa New Zealand Schools and Kura

Safety and Science/Pūtaiao: Guidance for Aotearoa New Zealand Schools and Kura full document download and link to the MoE website.

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Mon Sep 02 2024

pld

bio chem earth-and-space phys

Micrometeorologist Christian Stiegler

Micrometeorologist Christian Stiegler

A Greenhouse Gas Emissions Scientist with the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), Dr Christian Stiegler is a pākehā scientist focussed on climate change. Born in Austria, Christian is relatively new to Aotearoa, having moved to the country in October 2023. In conversation with NZASE science communicator, Sneha Pillai, Christian shares his journey and learnings as a micrometeorologist.

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Fri Aug 23 2024

scientist-profiles

Science communicators Mikhal Stone and Jenny Rankine

Science communicators Mikhal Stone and Jenny Rankine

Mike Stone and Jenny Rankine are the dynamic duo who produced the NZASE Pānui for the last five years. In conversation with the current Science Communicator, Heather Goodey, they have shared their journey as former science communicators, their passion for their work and highlights from their time with NZASE.

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Thu Aug 22 2024

pedagogy

Physics in sport- windsurfing

Physics in sport- windsurfing

A3 poster looking at the forces involved in the hydro foiling windsurfers in the 2024 Olympics.

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Thu Aug 22 2024

science-news

phys

Physics in sport- the pole vault

Physics in sport- the pole vault

An A3 poster on energy transformations in the pole vault in the Olympics 2024.

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Thu Aug 22 2024

science-news

phys

Kiwi genetics and evolution

Kiwi genetics and evolution

Our national bird is both rare and endangered. We often hear about the conservation of kiwi, but less about how they came to be here and the traits they show. Guest author Mike Stone explores the genetics and evolution of kiwi.

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Thu Aug 22 2024

science-news

Tiakitanga PLD resources

Tiakitanga PLD resources

Tiakitanga article and Student resource to complement teacher PLD.

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Sun Aug 04 2024

pld

bio

Tiakitanga

Tiakitanga

Many schools use the term kaitiakitanga to mean caring for our environment as a responsible NZ citizen. While a worthwhile aspiration, nevertheless it can unintentionally ride roughshod over a Māori tikanga with deeper meanings which need to be considered. In consultation with Nick Bryant (Ngāpuhi, Ngati Whatua) Mike Stone learns more about kaitiakitanga and tiakitanga.

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Sun Aug 04 2024

pedagogy

bio

Astrophysicist Jan Eldridge

Astrophysicist Jan Eldridge

Jan Eldridge is a pākehā astrophysicist and the Head of Physics Department at the University of Auckland. Jan’s research focuses on the lives and deaths of stars, particularly binary stars. Unlike the stereotypical caricature of an astrophysicist, Jan’s work does not involve long hours of peering into the telescope. Instead, her work as a theorist primarily involves coding programmes on computers to model the journey and evolution of stars in our universe. As we celebrate Pride and Matariki this month, Jan, who identifies as transgender, shares insights from her work and life on stars and genders with NZASE science communicator, Sneha Pillai.

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Sun Jun 30 2024

scientist-profiles

earth-and-space phys

Creating a Science Space in the Classroom

Creating a Science Space in the Classroom

The awesome thing about science is that students are innately curious about the world around them and how things work. A science space might be something you think of in ECE, but it is an opportunity to give students hands‐on experiences, engage learners and extend learning. Creating a science space in the classroom is a way to give Science presence in a busy curriculum with so many pressures on teaching time. NZASE science communicator Heather Goodey talks with teachers from Y1‐6 who have incorporated science spaces in their classroom. They share their goals, approach and advice for educators interested in how they might include science spaces in their teaching programmes.

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Sun Jun 30 2024

pedagogy

The Science behind Aurora

The Science behind Aurora

The Aurora Australis was visible over the whole country on May 11, 2024. This was a rare event, but with solar activity ramping up we may see more. Guest writer Mike Stone explores the science of aurorae.

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Sun Jun 30 2024

science-news

earth-and-space phys

Māori Textiles and Dyes as a Context for Teaching Science

Māori Textiles and Dyes as a Context for Teaching Science

Charmaine Russell, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāi Te Rangi, was looking for opportunities to weave together rāranga and the chemistry of traditional dyes. She shares her experience with NZASE Science Communicator Heather Goodey, providing a context that could be used for Level 1 assessments or adapted for use in the classroom at multiple levels.

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Sun Jun 30 2024

pedagogy

chem

A Teacher’s Journey of Integrating Mātauranga Māori in an Authentic Way

A Teacher’s Journey of Integrating Mātauranga Māori in an Authentic Way

Charmaine Russell, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāi Te Rangi, shares her insights for those trying to honour Te Ao Māori in their teaching. She provides guidance on integrating mātauranga Māori in an authentic way, from her kaiako Māori perspective. Charmaine hopes to “sow the seeds of thought and reflection,” for kaiako across New Zealand by sharing her journey with NZASE Science Communicator Heather Goodey

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Mon May 20 2024

pedagogy

Genetics on the Go: An activity-based model for learning about genetics

Genetics on the Go: An activity-based model for learning about genetics

Genetics on the Go, co-led by Dr. Emma Wade, is an initiative that offers free resources making genetics relevant and accessible to teachers and students around New Zealand. NZASE Science Communicator Heather Goodey looks at what is on offer from the University of Otago’s Genetics Department and how genetics can be contextualised into a range of learning experiences.

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Mon May 20 2024

pedagogy

Volcanologist Kate Mauriohooho

Volcanologist Kate Mauriohooho

Kate Mauriohooho is a volcanologist who studies supereruptions and large silicic caldera systems.

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Mon May 20 2024

scientist-profiles

chem

Māori Scientist Posters: Biochemist Professor Amanda Black

Māori Scientist Posters: Biochemist Professor Amanda Black

Professor Amanda Black is a biochemist who studies soil health and the control of bacteria that damage plants.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

chem

Māori Scientist Posters: Biologist Alana Alexander

Māori Scientist Posters: Biologist Alana Alexander

Alana Alexander is a marine evolutionary biologist who studies how sea creatures evolve and change.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

Māori Scientist Posters: Chemist Hemi Cumming

Māori Scientist Posters: Chemist Hemi Cumming

Hemi Cumming is a Chemist who studies the structure of molecules that could benefit our health.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

chem

Māori Scientist Posters: Engineer Nona Hohepa-Taute

Māori Scientist Posters: Engineer Nona Hohepa-Taute

Nona Hohepa-Taute is a civil and environmental engineer who has been building Māori values and knowledge into geothermal engineering.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

Māori Scientist Posters: Quantitative Geneticist Phillip Wilcox

Māori Scientist Posters: Quantitative Geneticist Phillip Wilcox

Phillip Wilcox is a Quantitative Geneticist who uses statistics and maths to study large collections of genetic information.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

bio

Māori Scientist Posters: Health Researcher Dr Matire Harwood

Māori Scientist Posters: Health Researcher Dr Matire Harwood

Dr Matire Harwood is a family doctor who studies how to improve results for Māori with long-term health problems.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

Māori Scientist Posters: Marine Scientist Heni Unwin

Māori Scientist Posters: Marine Scientist Heni Unwin

Heni Unwin is a Māori researcher for marine technologies who brings science and Mātauranga Māori together to study ocean health.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

chem

Māori Scientist Posters: Physicist Ocean Mercier

Māori Scientist Posters: Physicist Ocean Mercier

Physicist Ocean Mercier studies the basic properties and laws about solids and liquids, and uses traditional Māori knowledge to solve problems.

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Fri Mar 29 2024

scientist-profiles

phys

First Foundation scholarships

First Foundation scholarships

There are many scholarships available to students. First Foundation specifically targets students from families with a low income, and provides significant support for four years. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.

Members Only

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Sun Nov 26 2023

pedagogy

Curious Minds: Schools in community science projects

Curious Minds: Schools in community science projects

Financial support and expertise is available for teachers wanting to develop more expensive learning projects for their students. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone found it is well worth investigating, as these case studies show.

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Sun Nov 26 2023

pedagogy

bio phys

Heroic Pacific knowledge

Heroic Pacific knowledge

Some schools are investigating how to better engage with Pacific indigenous knowledge systems in their science teaching. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone explores one school’s journey in this introduction.

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Sun Nov 26 2023

pedagogy

bio

Science teaching and learning at the interface with mātauranga Māori

Science teaching and learning at the interface with mātauranga Māori

Stephen Ross, Pākehā, summarises his study which explored how the interface of mātauranga Māori and science provides opportunities for teaching and learning. He has some useful insights for those in the classroom trying to use both knowledge systems in their science teaching.

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Sun Nov 26 2023

pedagogy

bio

Numeracy in Science

Numeracy in Science

While secondary teachers may be rewriting junior programmes in the light of changes to NCEA, it is important to remember to include some numeracy, preferably in every unit. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone explores numeracy in Science – what the skills are and how we can teach them effectively.

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Sun Nov 26 2023

pedagogy

Observing meteors

Observing meteors

Since the end of June, 2023, Western Heights High School (WHHS) in Rotorua has been operating a meteor camera. How did they get it and what is it used for? NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.

Members Only

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Sun Oct 22 2023

science-news

chem earth-and-space phys

Disciplinary literacy in Science 3 – Writing

Disciplinary literacy in Science 3 – Writing

Reading scientific texts and focussing on vocab sets students up with the foundations for writing. This members-only article includes plenty of strategies for primary and secondary science teachers to help students develop their writing skills for science.

Members Only

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Sun Oct 22 2023

pedagogy

The chemistry of fireworks

The chemistry of fireworks

Fireworks are pure redox, and the chemistry is fascinating. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.

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Sun Oct 22 2023

science-news

chem

Kaitiakitanga of taonga species

Kaitiakitanga of taonga species

Mere Manning (Kahungunu ki te Wairoa) is an Earth and Space Science teacher at Taradale High School, where she is exploring using both te ao Māori and traditional science perspectives in a new unit.

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Sun Oct 22 2023

pedagogy

bio

Engineer Mahonri Owen

Engineer Mahonri Owen

2023 10 Mahonri Owen NZASE scientist profile

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Sun Oct 22 2023

scientist-profiles

Using genetics to save kākāpō

Using genetics to save kākāpō

Kākāpō numbers have rocketed in the last seven years compared with the previous 20, helped by accurate genetic information that informs conservation decisions. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone investigates.

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Sun Sep 17 2023

science-news

bio

Organic chemist Nic Bason

Organic chemist Nic Bason

2023 09 Nic Bason NZASE scientist profile

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Sun Sep 17 2023

scientist-profiles

chem

Bioinformatician Alana Alexander

Bioinformatician Alana Alexander

2023 09 Alana Alexander NZASE scientist profile

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Sun Sep 17 2023

scientist-profiles

Picture books in science learning

Picture books in science learning

Picture books tell a good story with evocative images, and they can be used as resources in a teacher’s kete across the curriculum. Kath Murdoch, a specialist in inquiry-based learning, says “The compelling pull of narrative can often lead us to understanding the world more deeply than any ‘data’ ever can.”

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Sun Sep 17 2023

pedagogy

Disciplinary literacy in Science 2: Reading

Disciplinary literacy in Science 2: Reading

As they progress through school, students are asked to read increasingly complex information. How well students read, understand, and use this material can affect how deeply they understand the science. Science teachers are best placed to guide students through scientific texts, with their unique structure and vocabulary

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Sun Sep 17 2023

pedagogy

Quantum physicist Jacob Ngaha

Quantum physicist Jacob Ngaha

2023 08 Jacob Ngaha NZASE scientist profile

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Sun Aug 13 2023

scientist-profiles

phys

CRISiSLab Challenge

CRISiSLab Challenge

This annual real-world, hands-on challenge is engaging students from the Wellington area. The scientists who run the challenge are keen to involve more girls and Māori students. Science Communicator Mike Stone talks with Dr Marion Tan and Alicia Cui

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Sun Aug 13 2023

pedagogy

earth-and-space

Hydrogen-fuelled vehicles

Hydrogen-fuelled vehicles

To meet the issues of climate change we need to find alternative vehicle fuels that emit less carbon. Hydrogen-fuelled transport is gaining momentum in Aotearoa New Zealand (ANZ). In collaboration with iwi, we are making green hydrogen, trialling its use in heavy vehicles and researching aspects of a hydrogen-fuelled future. Mike Stone investigates.

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Sun Aug 13 2023

science-news

chem