1. Introduction to Dynamics
Using the Question Formulation Technique

2. Question Formulation Technique
QFT is meant to help students create their own questions to investigate a new topic
In front of you is a large piece of paper that you can write your questions on.
You Question Focus (QFocus) is the smaller piece of paper.
PLEASE DO NOT WRITE ON YOUR QFOCUS!
Question Formulation Technique

3. Step 1: Produce Questions
The Rules
Number each question
Ask as many questions as you can
Do not stop to discuss, judge or answer the questions
Write down EVERY question exactly as it is stated
Change any statement into a question
Before we start: What might be difficult about following the rules?
Step 1: Produce Questions

4. Step 2: Categorize Questions
Closed-ended questions
Can be answered with “yes” or “no” or with one word
Open-ended questions
Require an explanation and cannot be answered with “yes” or “no” or with one word
Review your questions and mark the open-ended questions with an “O” and the closed-ended questions with a “C”
Step 2: Categorize Questions

5. Step 2: Categorize Questions
Name advantages and disadvantages of asking closed-ended questions in science
Name advantages and disadvantages of asking open- ended questions in science
Step 2: Categorize Questions
Change one closed-ended question into an open- ended one. Add it to the end of your list with a number
Change one open-ended question into a closed-ended one. Add it to the end of your list with a number

6. Step 3: Prioritize Questions
Choose the three most important questions you want to answer from your list. Mark them with an “X”
You must come to a consensus as a group (no voting)
Step 3: Prioritize Questions
Discuss the reasons for selecting your three questions
What are the numbers of your important questions?

7. Step 4: Try to Answer your Questions
Using the textbook, your own knowledge, or online resources, attempt to answer your three most important questions
Write down your answers on your paper or on a separate piece of paper if you don’t have space
Step 4: Try to Answer your Questions

8. Each group is responsible for sharing what they found in their research.
One group member should be sharing the group’s findings while other group members walk around and see what other have produced.
Make sure you rotate who is sharing your findings so everyone can have the chance to see other group’s research
Step 5: Gallery Walk

9. Step 6: Reflection What did you learn?
What value did this exercise have?
Do you have any questions you weren’t able to answer?
Did you disagree with other groups about the answers to questions that came up?
Step 6: Reflection