Inquiry
Inquiry is the mindset students use to build their own knowledge and understanding through an active, open-minded exploration into a meaningful question, problem, or issue.
(Transforming Curriculum and Assessment)
The research process, independent project work, developing critical questions, inspiring the pursuit of knowledge... the focus may have changed, but the process retains the unifying element of intensive topical study. For their last term, Grade 4/5 library students crafted their own inquiries, freely choosing areas of focus, research collaborators, and publication styles. What was the response to this challenge? Results were as varied as the students themselves: dramatic retellings of traditional stories, iBook guides to Minecraft, multimedia presentations on endangered animals. For students, multiple lessons here in effective time-management defining areas of personal and peer responsibility. Also underscored: the vital comprehension and enrichment role played by teacher support and scaffolding; and the critical need to foster sound questioning skills.
What's next? Stay tuned as a new group of intermediate students are coached by teachers and "peer experts" to develop inquiries which explore their interests....
(Transforming Curriculum and Assessment)
The research process, independent project work, developing critical questions, inspiring the pursuit of knowledge... the focus may have changed, but the process retains the unifying element of intensive topical study. For their last term, Grade 4/5 library students crafted their own inquiries, freely choosing areas of focus, research collaborators, and publication styles. What was the response to this challenge? Results were as varied as the students themselves: dramatic retellings of traditional stories, iBook guides to Minecraft, multimedia presentations on endangered animals. For students, multiple lessons here in effective time-management defining areas of personal and peer responsibility. Also underscored: the vital comprehension and enrichment role played by teacher support and scaffolding; and the critical need to foster sound questioning skills.
What's next? Stay tuned as a new group of intermediate students are coached by teachers and "peer experts" to develop inquiries which explore their interests....
