INQUIRY LESSON

Phases of Inquiry Lesson

1. Entry

2. Formation of Hypotheses

3. Collection of Data

4. Closure

Step 1: Entry

Things to Accomplish (order can vary):

• “Set up” a question/problem with interesting background or attention getting information
• Clear introduction of the question/problem
• Problem should be written on board, overhead, or on handout for all to see
• Introduce lesson objective

Sample Inquiry Questions

• What factors in Poe’s life may have impacted the style of his writing?
• What factors affect plant growth?
• What causes leaves to change colors?
• Which planet would come the closest to supporting life?
• Why did E. TN vote against secession?

Step 2: Formation of Hypotheses

Things to Accomplish:

• Encourage students to offer tentative explanations or solutions to issues/problems
• Can be generated in large group setting (letting individuals offer answers) or in small groups (brainstorming or buzz groups)
• Place the hypotheses on the board
• Define key terms
• Reduce list by weeding out “goose chases”

Step 3: Collection of Data

• Purpose of data collection:
• to provide information leading to the acceptance or rejection of each hypothesis
• Sources may range from
• Text
• References in the school library
• Interviews
• Internet
• For each hypothesis, students should determine:
• If hypothesis should be accepted
• Provide evidence
• If hypothesis should be rejected
• Provide evidence
• If results are unclear
• Provide evidence
• Goal is to test each hypothesis against the data
• Students learn how to use facts as evidence

Step 4. Closure

• Summarize conclusions
• Review objective
• Attempt to assess real understanding