Module 4-2: Digital Literacy

I read an article by Eric Brunsell, on his blog, called The Five Features of Science Inquiry: What Questions Do You Have?
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/five-features-science-inquiry
I'm a bit obsessed with the inquiry process right now and seriously want to implement it into my second grade curriculum ASAP.  Based on what I've read, it seems like the science field will lend itself to the this method of learning, then we could branch off into other curricular areas once my students have a grasp on the process.
In his article, Brunsell briefly mentions how the National Research Council has five features of science inquiry:

• Learner Engages in Scientifically Oriented Questions
• Learner Gives Priority to Evidence in Responding to Questions
• Learner Formulates Explanations from Evidence
• Learner Connects Explanations to Scientific Knowledge
• Learner Communicates and Justifies Explanations

(Brunsell wrote another article in 2010 specifically about these features.
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/teaching-science-inquiry-based )

One of my favorite quotes from Burnsell's first article is, "'How do you know?' should be one of the most frequently asked questions in your classroom."  I believe that by implementing scientific inquiry into the curriculum, students will become accustomed to answering the question.

Back to the article that I originally looked up, Burnsell states that legendary coach Lou Holtz is quoted as saying, "I only learn things when I ask questions."  Sadly, and I am at fault here too, teachers spend so much time talk to (at?) students that there is no time for them to ask questions!   Burnsell goes on to tell about a time that he judged a community science fair, where students often explained that they had picked a topic/project from a list, or because their teacher had suggested it.  As I posted earlier, I think that student ownership is so important in a project because it will mean much more to them, then if it's chosen for them.

While choosing a project/topic can be intimidating to students, if they are taught to ask "big questions"they'll be much more prepared for inquiries and knowing which questions are be able to distinguish which questions are scientific, and which are not.  One suggestion for getting students engaged in science inquiry is from John Burke, a science teacher in Georgia.  Mr. Burke created a slideshow of 150+ images on his computer that naturally lead to the question, "What's that?"  Rather than providing an answer, he guides his students to create questions that will lead them to the answer, or possibly, more questions, which in-turn could lead to an inquiry.

Burnsell also provides additional resources, blogs, website, questions, etc. for teachers who are interested in scientific inquiry and need a jumping off place.

Once again, I'm inspired (and overwhelmed) by all of the possibilities!  I'm ready to start inquiring!