When asked to explain inquiry, this is how I make sense of the different inquiry cycles available. I have made a table with the cycles or processes I use and aligned them with Kath Murdoch’s model. We use the cycle that best supports the student's inquiry and leads to ACTION. Many cycles or processes have elements that are key to a quality inquiry, such as, the traits for writing, or, the elements of music for composition. I find these equally useful. As inquiry is an active present verb, it is also important to plan for inquiry where students are actively connecting and thinking within the discipline(s). For example, students should not only study scientists and their discoveries, but also experience BEING a scientist to make his or her own discoveries. In addition there are skills and key questions, even attitudes, that can be used at different stages to support the inquiry. For example, you can use the questions within Problem Solving Talk and Problem Solving Steps for the Math Problem Solving Process. Alternatively, you can use the Question Frames for the Reading Comprehension Cycle. ![]()
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I have been trying to find engaging and effective ways to begin our Units of Inquiry at the Tuning In phase to set the stage for maximum interest and involvement for the inquiry ahead. ![]() Chatterboxes I have begun using Chatterboxes as a tool for Tuning In. The idea came from Kath Murdoch’s book Classroom Connections: Strategies for Integrated Learning. Although you can do this by hand and have children color it themselves which helps them to create meaning, I made an electronic template to edit according to each current Unit of Inquiry. (See below for the Pages document you are welcome to download and a slide show on how to fold it).
![]() This week, I will be trying a combination of both. I will ask students to individually respond to the meaning of the key words which are color coded by using sticky notes to place on the display. From this I will be able to assess their ideas and knowledge for discussion and couple it with their own questions further planning of the Unit of Inquiry ahead. |
PD Bites
ProDivas is a simple sharing approach, teacher to teacher, for our professional development. We collect and share bite-sized practical ideas. Once you take a bite, you may be self-motivated to eat the whole meal! We aim to find ideas supported by research to then apply for “best practice” but some ideas are too good to miss and are just simple “teacher tips”. Archives
March 2017
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