Tip: Spectrum of Inquiry > Mixed: Structured

SKU:

With closed projects, the teacher defines the question, process, and conclusion; whereas, an open lesson allows learners to take the reins to define the question, process, and conclusion (Banchi & Bell, 2008). To move a lesson to student-owned on the Spectrum of Inquiry (bit.ly/eMINTSInquiry), teachers can gradually give the students more control over the key features. The process can be gradual to scaffold students to more autonomous learning. Each week this month, we are providing tips to open up your lesson on the Spectrum of Inquiry.


In Structured inquiry, the teacher provides the question and process for the project. The student is encouraged to draw their own conclusions from the project. 


Here are some tips for scaffolding student growth from Structured activities toward Guided Inquiry:

  1. Question: Offer a menu. - Collaborate with your PLC or other educators to add choices that lead to conclusions that still address the same standard. 
  2. Process: Encourage journaling. - Add composition notebooks and/or reflection questions that have students record what went well and where they could improve the process.
  3. Conclusion: Reflect with students. - Discover their curiosities in-depth by setting aside time to discuss their reasoning and conclusions with you.


View previous tips on the Spectrum of Inquiry: bit.ly/eMINTSInquiryTips.


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View/Download the Spectrum of Inquiry > Mixed: Structured Tip Card.