Grade+01

Grade 1: Inquiring Minds Want to Know

__Inquiry Task #1__: For your grade / course, identify the "generic" inquiry-based skills you currently employ with your students. "Observe a tree" Brief Description: Students will adopt a tree on the school campus to observe the tree throughout the four seasons. 1. Observe the tree. 2. Record observations by sketching a detailed picture of the tree across the seasons. 3. Predict how the tree will change throughout the seasons.

"Observe a Leaf" 1. Observe the parts of a leaf. 2. Record observations by sketching a detailed picture of the leaf. 3. Measure the leaf in centimenters. 4. Discuss color, smell and feel of the leaf. 5. Discuss purpose for a leaf in relation to the tree. 6. Graph leaves.

"Animals Under Cover" 1. Observe and describe sensations experienced by putting hands in a "Feely Touchy Box" (fur, feathers, smooth skin and scales) 2. Classify animals by covering (fur, hair, smooth skin, scales, feathers, plates).

"Sink and Rise" 1. Predict if an object will sink or rise. 2. Test predictions through expiraments. 3. Compare predictions and what actually happened. 4. Discuss reasons for why objects floated or sank.

"Balls and Ramps" 1. Predict which ball will roll the farthest. Record prediction. 2. Observe. 3. Use of words such as "light, heavy, type of material". 4. Measure path of the balls.

"Hot or Cold?" 1. Predicting sensation when hands are exposed to warm, cold and hot water.



__Inquiry Task #2__: List the units that currently are taught in which inquiry skills appear.



__Inquiry Task #3__: Brain-storm ideas for how your current units or activities can be made more inquiry-based.