"We learn more by looking for the answer to a question and not finding it than we do from learning the answer itself."-Lloyd Alexander
How To Have a More Inquiry Based Classroom
Signals of An Inquiry Classroom
Wonder Wall- When you begin a new unit, you could have students create a list of questions they have about the upcoming subject matter on post its. Have them sort the post its by IB Concept. As you go through the unit, continue to look at the questions, and take down post-its as they are addressed/taught. The post its that are left could be researched as a final project. A wonder wall is also great record keeping of student questions for IB Teacher Reflection
Signals of An Inquiry Classroom
Wonder Wall- When you begin a new unit, you could have students create a list of questions they have about the upcoming subject matter on post its. Have them sort the post its by IB Concept. As you go through the unit, continue to look at the questions, and take down post-its as they are addressed/taught. The post its that are left could be researched as a final project. A wonder wall is also great record keeping of student questions for IB Teacher Reflection
Genius Hour/Passion Project- Provide at least one hour time segment throughout the week for students to independently explore one of the personal interests. This is a wonderful activity to complete on Challenge Days, but can be done on regular instruction days as well. Many Jackson teachers have completed Genius Hour projects in their classroom. Ask around! I have PLENTY of resources, as well, to help you get started.
Open Questioning- On a daily basis, we ask questions to our students. The types of questions we ask our students can help our classrooms become more inquiry based. Discuss the difference between closed (require simple answers) and open (requires elaborate answers and elicits different points of view)