1. The why’s and how’s to inquiry science
Stacy Rinehart

2. In 1996 The National Research Council defines inquiry as:
What is Inquiry?
In 1996 The National Research Council defines inquiry as:
The diverse ways in which scientists study the natural world and propose explanations based on the evidence derived from their work. Scientific inquiry also refers to the activities through which students develop knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas as well as an understanding of how scientists study the natural world.

3. What difference does inquiry make?

4. Origins of Science Inquiry
Socrates:  Used the Socratic Method: a form of inquiry and discussion between individuals, based on asking and answering questions to encourage critical thinking.
John Dewey and Joseph Schwab brought inquiry to science instruction discussions
The space race brought about renewed attention in science instruction

5. What is Inquiry Learning?
Students’ questions drive curriculum learning
Encourages scientific thinking at their level by questioning, conducting research, and making discoveries on their own
Teachers becomes a learner with the students
Taps into previous experiences and knowledge
All teachers can use it successfully

6. Structured Guided Student-Initiated
Types of Inquiry
Structured
Guided
Student-Initiated
Teacher models and guides students
Students follow specific teacher directions
Students focus on an aspect of inquiry
Teacher guides reasoning through discussion
Students determine procedure
Students focus on all aspects as teacher guides connections
Students generates questions from a topic selected by the teacher
Teacher defines learning goal
Students focus on all aspects of inquiry
Teacher guides reasoning only if necessary

7. 4-H: “Learn by doing.” Three-Part Video Series on Inquiry:
Why Should I Include Inquiry-Based Learning in Experiential Learning Activities?
How Do I Use Inquiry-Based Learning with Youth?
How Can I Better Facilitate Inquiry-Based Learning?

8. Ask open-ended questions Allow time Don’t “fix” things for them
Main Points of Video 3
Teacher takes on the learner role with the students…you do not have to know all of the answers
Coach instead of direct instruction. You are on the sidelines, let them play the game
Ask open-ended questions
Allow time
Don’t “fix” things for them
Understand your students and that their inquiry will happen at different rates

9. Teachers Initial Concerns
How can I implement it in my classroom?
Control of students when they are in charge of their own learning
Lesson Planning
Assessment of curriculum

10. True/Not True
NOT TRUE
You never teach kids facts. You never give notes/lecture. All you do is discovery learning.

11. True/Not True
TRUE
You cannot inquire about something unless you have a basis upon which to use as a foundation to your question.

12. How will inquiry lessons help students learn?
Create their own answers to questions
Are active in design, evaluation of data, and asking new questions
Experience the cycle of learning
Learn to think and problem solve themselves
Realize that there is more than one way or tool to use to answer questions

13. Structured example of Inquiry Mechanical vs Chemical Digestion Lab
Write down questions that you might have if you were going to try to conduct this lab in your class

14. Guided example of Inquiry
Paper Helicopters

15. Think about a time where you made a paper airplane.
What design did you use?
What happened in the planes flight?
What if you made a helicopter instead of a plane?

16. Paper helicopters
Build the helicopter
Does it work? How?
Make at least TWO variations to the design. What change did you make in your design and why did you make that change?
What happened?
Why?
Conclude and compare results

17. Student initiated example of Inquiry
Speed and Your Group

18. Inquiry Makeovers
Work with your group to add inquiry to a “cookbook” lab from your grade level
Be ready to share with the group
Include your “before and after” makeover