Submitting a proposal for the Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST), presented by the Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT), is an opportunity to share strategies that help science educators across Texas inspire discovery in their classrooms. Proposals from all areas of science are welcome and reviewed by a committee of your peers.
The tips below can help you prepare your submission and craft a strong proposal that will wow reviewers.
If you need to add additional presenters, you can do so in Step 5 of the proposal submission form. On the Review screen, click the person icon with a plus sign next to your session title, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
It is recommended that you draft and save your session details via your preferred word processor prior to or while completing the form. This ensures that, in the event of any technical glitch with the proposal system, your work is not lost. You will receive a confirmation email once your session is submitted.
Although you may submit as many sessions as you like, STAT's general policy is to accept no more than two sessions per presenter.
Tie your proposal to research and standards. Highlight how your session connects to the Revised Science TEKS, research, or best practices in science education. This helps reviewers understand the relevance and value of your session.
Clearly define your audience. CAST attendees teach across many grade levels and disciplines. Focusing on a specific audience increases the likelihood that educators will connect with your session. Clearly identify:
grade level(s)
subject area(s)
target audience
Emphasize practical takeaways. Strong proposals explain what participants will do and learn during the session. Consider what educators will take back to their classrooms and implement right away.
Proofread your proposal. Before submitting, review your proposal for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Asking a colleague to review it can also help ensure your ideas are clearly communicated.
Center your session on learning. The strongest CAST proposals emphasize instructional strategies, student learning, and classroom implementation. If your session references materials, tools, or resources, frame them within the larger teaching approach rather than focusing on a single product.
Still Not Sure If You Should Present?