The Science Quest Using Inquiry/Discovery to Enhance Student Learning, Grades 7-12

by Sutman, Frank X.; Schmuckler, Joseph S.; Woodfield, Joyce D.

• ISBN13: 9780787985868
• ISBN10: 0787985864
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2008-02-25
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Summary

The Science Quest introduces the Inquiry/Discovery instructional framework, an innovative method for captivating students interest in science, for building their skills in scientific thinking, and for dramatically enriching their understanding of scientific content and concepts. For teachers curious how to implement inquiry learning as called for in the National Science Education Standards, this book provides detailed and practical guidance. It shows teachers how to transform ordinary lessons in ways that 1) encourage students to take initiative in posing scientific inquiry questions; and 2) enable students to independently discover answers to their questions by engaging in investigative practices and critically evaluating the findings. Inquiry/Discovery practices can be introduced in stages, starting with simple activities and gradually increasing the levels of challenge.The Science Quest includes everything a teacher needs to bring successful instruction, including: Extensive lesson planning and assessment tools Suggestions on working with students in teams Scores of sample lessons from varied disciplines

Author Biography

THE AUTHORS

Frank X. Sutman is professor emeritus at Temple University, where he served as science teacher educator, senior scholar, and coordinator of the Center for Science Laboratory Studies. Joseph S. Schmuckler is lead professor of science education and professor of chemistry at Temple University. JOYCE D. WOODFIELD is a middle-school teacher who has taught numerous subjects, primarily in the language arts.

Table of Contents

Preface

About the Authors

The Contibutors

Rethinking How Science Is Taught

Critical Thinking and Inquiry

Understanding Student Inquiry/Discovery

Teaching Strategies for Inquiry/Discovery Learning

Linking Inquiry/Discovery and Content Learning

The Importance of Hands-On Activities

Establishing Learning Goals

Necessary Classroom Tools and Resources

A Sample Lesson: Study of Archimedes' Principle

Instruction Supporting Inquiry/Discovery Lessons

Assessment in Inquiry/Discovery Lessons

Summary

Introducing and Planning Inquiry/Discovery Lessons

Building "Rigor" into Science Learning

Understanding Levels of Student Responsibility: The "Instructional Matrix"

The Instructional Matrix in Planning Science Lessons

Designing Inquiry/Discovery Lesson Sequences

Structuring Lessons to Best Meet the Potential of Students

Summary

Inquiry/Discovery Lessons for Middle School

Lesson I: Astronomy (Measuring Distances

Lesson 2: Study of Mass, Volume, and Density

Lesson 3: Energy Conservation

Summary

Inquiry/Discovery Lessons for High School

Lesson 1: Energy, Work, and Power (Physics

Lesson 2: Study of Cell Sizes: A Simulation (Biology

Lesson 3: Effects of Chemicals on Metabolism (Biology and Chemistry

Lesson 4: Study of Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Water (Chemistry

Lesson 5: Study of Oxidation and Reduction (Chemistry/Geology

Summary

Supportive Instruction in Language and Team Building

The Scope of Inquiry/Discovery

Implementing Higher-Order Student Questioning

Working with Students in Teams

Supportive Strategies for Students with Special Needs

Service Learning as an Incentive for Inquiry/Discovery

Integrating Language Arts and Science: Another Look

Summary

Assessment of Inquiry/Discovery and Content Learning

Assessment Goals in Inquiry/Discovery Instruction

Approaches to Assessment

The Teacher's Shifting Roles in Inquiry/Discovery Assessment

A Balance of Assessment Practices

Summary

Managing Inquiry/Discovery in the Classroom

Homework

Classroom Management

Classroom Laboratory Essentials

Putting It All Together

Looking to the Future: The Globalization Challenge

Support for Dedicated Teachers of Science

Concluding Thought

References

Index

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