2. What is the STEM Teen Read? We examine science fiction books and discuss the science behind the fiction with peers and experts in related fields. Science Technology Engineering Math

3. Explore With Us Expert videos Online discussions Interactive games Educator materials Creative writing projects

4. Why do we do what we do?

6. Determination Curiosity

7. Goals Increase educational offerings in reading, writing, and STEM literacy for teens Connect teens with university and professional experts in STEM and writing fields Raise awareness of and interest in STEM careers Provide recognition for youth who create fiction and art rooted in STEM concepts

9. Topics We Explore Parasitology Public Health Epidemiology History of Medicine Biology Neurology Psychology Electrical Engineering Science Ethics Blindness and Adaptive Tech Cancer Research Food Science Geology Green Energy Alternative Fuels Climatology Computer Science Marketing

10. NIU Destinations We’ve Visited Future videos and interactive sites will include virtual field trips Observatory Green House Rare Books and Special Collections – Vintage Sci-Fi Collection Psychology Lab Prairie Vole Lab Clinical Pathology Lab Nursing Simulation Lab

11. But Don’t Take Our Word For It…

12. Current Books Kat Falls Author visit (STEM Fest) & expert interviews – Inhuman Science: Genetics, Transgenic Viruses, Futuristic Gadgets – Dark Life Science: Oceanography, Sea Life, Underwater Farming, Global Warming, Energy, Genetic Conditioning – Rip Tide Science: Oceanography, Aquatic Predators, Deep Sea Diving, Underwater Farming Orson Scott Card Ender’s Day at NIU – Ender’s Game Science: Video Games, AI, Entomology, Space Travel

14. Upcoming Books Spring: The Maze Runner by James Dashner Summer: Robopocalypse by Daniel H. Wilson

15. Connect With Us Online teenread.niu.edu

16. SmartSpace@NIU www.niu.edu/p20/smartspace

17. Contact Us! Mary Baker SmartSpace Coordinator marybaker@niu.edu Gillian King-Cargile STEM Teen Read Coordinator gkingcargile@niu.edu