Teaching science

2. What is Scientific
Inquiry?
Scientific inquiry is a form of problem-solving and questioning that
helps people come to a greater understanding of observable
phenomena. An understanding of this style of scientific reasoning
forms the basis upon which the nature of science itself rests.

3. What is Scientific
Method?
The scientific method is the process of objectively establishing facts through testing
and experimentation. The basic process involves making an observation, forming a
hypothesis, making a prediction, conducting an experiment and finally analyzing
the results. The principals of the scientific method can be applied in many areas,
including scientific research, business and technology.

4. Steps of the Scientific Method
The scientific method uses a series of steps to establish
facts or create knowledge. The overall process is well
established, but the specifics of each step may change
depending on what is being examined and who is
performing it. The scientific method can only answer
questions that can be proven or disproven through
testing.

5. Make an observation or ask
a question
The first step is to observe something
that you would like to learn about or ask
a question that you would like answered.
These can be specific or general.

6. Gather background
information
This involves doing research into what is
already known about the topic. This can
also involve finding if anyone has already
asked the same question.

7. Create a hypothesis
A hypothesis is an explanation for the
observation or question. If proven later, it
can become a fact.

8. Create a prediction and
perform a test
Create a testable prediction based on
the hypothesis. The test should establish
a noticeable change that can be
measured or observed using empirical
analysis.

9. Analyze the results and
draw a conclusion
Scientists organize their data in tables, graphs, or
diagrams. If possible, they include relevant data from
other sources. They look for patterns that show
connections between important variables in the
hypothesis they are testing. Use the metrics
established before the test see if the results match the
prediction.

10. Share the conclusion or
decide what question to ask
next
Document the results of your experiment. By
sharing the results with others, you also increase
the total body of knowledge available. Your
experiment may have also led to other questions,
or if your hypothesis is disproven you may need to
create a new one and test that.

11. Inquiry-based learning approaches in science
are instructional strategies that encourage
students to actively engage in the process of
discovery and exploration. These approaches
emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving,
and hands-on experiences. Some of the key
inquiry-based learning approaches in science
include:

12. 1. Problem-Based Learning (PBL):
• In PBL, students are presented with real-world
problems or scenarios related to a scientific concept
or topic.
• Students work in small groups to investigate the
problem, ask questions, and identify what they need
to learn in order to solve it.
• PBL encourages students to develop their problem-
solving skills and apply scientific principles to real-life
situations.

13. 2. Project-Based Learning (PrBL):
• Project-based learning involves students working on
an extended project that requires them to investigate
a scientific question, conduct experiments, and
present their findings.
• Projects often involve hands-on activities, research,
and collaboration among students.
• PrBL allows students to explore topics in depth and
develop a deeper understanding of scientific
concepts.

14. 3. Inquiry Labs:
• In inquiry labs, students engage in hands-on
experiments and investigations to explore scientific
phenomena.
• They are encouraged to ask questions, make
predictions, design experiments, collect data, and
draw conclusions.
• Inquiry labs promote a sense of discovery and help
students develop essential laboratory and research
skills.

15. 4. Case-Based Learning:
• Case-based learning presents students with complex
scientific cases or scenarios, often based on real
situations.
• Students analyze the case, gather information, and
use critical thinking to make decisions or
recommendations.
• This approach helps students develop problem-
solving skills and apply scientific knowledge in
context.

16. 5. Socratic Questioning:
• Socratic questioning involves asking students open-
ended and thought-provoking questions to stimulate
their thinking and encourage discussion.
• Teachers use questions to guide students' exploration
of scientific concepts, helping them arrive at
conclusions through their own reasoning.

17. 6. Flipped Classroom:
• In a flipped classroom, students review scientific
content independently through readings or videos
before coming to class.
• Class time is then used for hands-on activities,
discussions, and problem-solving exercises.
• This approach allows for more active engagement
with the material during in-person sessions.

18. 7. 5E Model:
• The 5E model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate,
Evaluate) is a structured approach to science
instruction.
• It begins with engagement to pique students'
interest, followed by exploration and hands-on
activities.
• Students then explain their findings, elaborate on
concepts, and evaluate their understanding through
assessments.

19. Each of these inquiry-based learning
approaches in science encourages students to
take an active role in their learning, fosters
critical thinking, and promotes a deeper
understanding of scientific principles.
Educators often use a combination of these
approaches to create a well-rounded and
engaging science curriculum.