The Science Quest: Using Inquiry/Discovery to Enhance Student Learning, Grades 7-12

THE SCIENCE QUEST

The Science Quest introduces the Inquiry/Discovery instructional framework, an innovative method for captivating students’ interest in science, for building their skills in scientific thinking, and for dramatically enriching their understanding of scientific content and concepts. For teachers curious about how to implement “inquiry” learning as called for in the National Science Education Standards, this book provides detailed and practical guidance. It shows teachers how to transform ordinary lessons in ways that 1) encourage students to take initiative in posing scientific “inquiry” questions; and 2) enable students to independently “discover” answers to their questions by engaging in investigative practices and critically evaluating the findings. Inquiry/Discovery practices can be introduced in stages, starting with simple activities and gradually increasing the levels of challenge. The Science Quest includes everything a teacher needs for successful instruction, including:

• Extensive lesson planning and assessment tools
• Suggestions on working with students in teams
• Scores of sample lessons from varied disciplines

This book will serve as a guide for preparing the next generation of scientists and scientifically informed citizens.

PRAISE FOR THE SCIENCE QUEST

“A must-read for all aspiring/inquiring teachers of science.”
—ALAN SPRINGEL, science teacher, Mainland Regional High School, Linwood, New Jersey

“An excellent guide for teachers who want to engage students in the excitement of true scientific investigation.”
—PAMELA FRASER-ADBER, director science education, Department of Teaching and Learning, New York, New York

“A great contribution to the school science teaching curriculum.”
—DAVID E. KAPEL, professor emeritus of education and dean, College of Education, Rowan University

“A unique and timely contribution to the preparation of science teachers.”
—GLENDA M. PRIME, director, Graduate Students in Science Education, Morgan University

THE SCIENCE QUEST

The Science Quest introduces the Inquiry/Discovery instructional framework, an innovative method for captivating students’ interest in science, for building their skills in scientific thinking, and for dramatically enriching their understanding of scientific content and concepts. For teachers curious about how to implement “inquiry” learning as called for in the National Science Education Standards, this book provides detailed and practical guidance. It shows teachers how to transform ordinary lessons in ways that 1) encourage students to take initiative in posing scientific “inquiry” questions; and 2) enable students to independently “discover” answers to their questions by engaging in investigative practices and critically evaluating the findings. Inquiry/Discovery practices can be introduced in stages, starting with simple activities and gradually increasing the levels of challenge. The Science Quest includes everything a teacher needs for successful instruction, including:

• Extensive lesson planning and assessment tools
• Suggestions on working with students in teams
• Scores of sample lessons from varied disciplines

This book will serve as a guide for preparing the next generation of scientists and scientifically informed citizens.

PRAISE FOR THE SCIENCE QUEST

“A must-read for all aspiring/inquiring teachers of science.”
ALAN SPRINGEL, science teacher, Mainland Regional High School, Linwood, New Jersey

“An excellent guide for teachers who want to engage students in the excitement of true scientific investigation.”
PAMELA FRASER-ADBER, director science education, Department of Teaching and Learning, New York, New York

“A great contribution to the school science teaching curriculum.”
DAVID E. KAPEL, professor emeritus of education and dean, College of Education, Rowan University

“A unique and timely contribution to the preparation of science teachers.”
GLENDA M. PRIME, director, Graduate Students in Science Education, Morgan University