Inquiry Strategies for the Journey North Teacher

Scientific inquiry refers to the many ways in which scientists try to understand the world and explain how things "work." It includes the processes they use - observing, testing hypotheses, gathering data, and so on - and the attitudes and values - curiosity, respect for evidence, and openness to new ideas - that characterize their work.

Classroom strategies that support inquiry engage students in thinking and acting like scientists as they pursue meaningful questions (this is a core goal of the National Science Education Standards). When students explore their world in this way, they come to understand concepts, hone reasoning and problem-solving skills, and learn what makes scientists "tick!"

By employing some of the strategies featured in this section, you can help cultivate a classroom of young inquirers. Select those that fit with your learning goals and student readiness.

When to Use Inquiry Strategies

Use the strategies featured here when your class is engaged in these aspects of Journey North:

gathering and trying to make sense of (analyze and interpret) migration data
responding to challenge questions
reading about Journey North scientists' research
viewing video clips
designing and reflecting on their own and classmates' investigations