1. PLATON: Promoting Learning Approaches
for the Teaching of Natural Sciences
Inquiry Under the Microscope:
Training Activity for Inquiry Component 1:
Setting the scene
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

2. Light Where and how does light come up in your subject area?
Eclipses in history
Refraction
Reflection
Photons
Photosynthesis
Light pollution and Geography
Equations of light (wavelength, energy etc)
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

3. Light The topic of light is interdisciplinary
How would you introduce this topic to your students?
Write your idea on a card and place in the jar
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

4. Light How can you interest your students?
What criteria would you choose to judge the best method?
Discuss and draw up a list
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

5. Thinking of your criteria….
Light
Thinking of your criteria….
Vote for the best 3 ideas!
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

6. Light Try it out yourselves! I know all this!
I’m so bored of sitting and listening…
Try it out yourselves!
Why should I care about this anyway?
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

7. Final vote – which is the best scenario?
Light
Final vote – which is the best scenario?
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

8. Light
Dos and Don’ts…..
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

9. SETTING THE SCENE INQUIRY COMPONENT 1
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

10. IC1: Setting the scene Traditional Practice
Mentioning simply the topic and continuing with the rest of the activities.
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

11. IC1: Setting the scene Why is there a need to change?
Generate your students’ need to learn something new!
Introduction is the key to spark students’ curiosity and motivation to participate in the activities. Curiosity is what inspires students to look into something new. Thus, every introduction to a new topic should spark students’ curiosity as it is important to find ways to introduce the topic of a lesson through a challenging, interesting and meaningful way.
Remember that sparking students’ curiosity on a continuous basis is what nurtures the notion of lifelong learning, which in turn makes informed, productive and responsible citizens.
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

12. IC1: Setting the scene Inquiry Practices
You can choose to introduce a topic based on students’ interests, daily lives and prior knowledge. 
Give the floor to students: provide ample time for them to think and express themselves.
Provide equal opportunities for students to participate in the discussion. 5%
Lesson timeline
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

13. IC1: Setting the scene Some more Inquiry tips
When introducing a new subject, if possible, try to set the scene not only in order to introduce the new subject but also for all the activities to come. Try to think of a scenario (a story) that could include all that you will teach in an upcoming subject.
Do something unexpected that will positively surprise the students and intrigue them.
- Make a connection of the subject with everyday life. 5%
Lesson timeline
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA

14. IC1: Setting the scene
An Example When introducing photosynthesis: X “Today we are going to talk about photosynthesis”. √ Bring in the classroom (or show a video) of a seed and a piece of wood. Then ask your students: “How come a small seed like that became a big tree?”.
Promoting Innovative Learning Approaches for the Teaching of Natural Science
PT01-KA