4 MAJOR BENEFITS OF INQUIRY LESSONS

 When you use an inquiry-based approach in your classroom, students discover

mathematical properties for themselves. Instead of presenting students with a

theorem, formula, or rule, you guide them through an investigation. Inquiry learning is

often done in a hands-on way.

1. Inquiry enhances independent problem-solving skills.

-Inquiry-based learning teaches students how to find patterns, figure out

properties, and discover new rules of mathematics.

-As students get more and more accustomed to the inquiry structure that you use,

they will slowly strengthen their own skills and gain independence in problem

solving.

-Work towards the skills that will lead your students to persistence in problem

solving.

Example:

2. Discovery leads to deeper understanding of a specific concept.

-After discovering a mathematical property on their own, students will truly

understand the concept behind the rule. Instead of following a set procedure, they

will understand WHY a rule works and HOW it was developed.

-Let your students build a concept, not just follow a given process.
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3. Students discover a new level of math confidence & self-motivation.

-When students feel the pride that comes from discovering a theorem, property, or

formula for themselves (just like a mathematician does!), they suddenly gain a

new level of confidence in their own math abilities.

-Kids believe in their ability to apply knowledge from one situation to another.

Example:

4. Retention increases HUGELY when concept mastery replaces

memorization.

-If a student develops a formula, rule, or property for himself, then he understands

on a deeper level where it came from. He won't have to memorize it at all.

-During a test, or later in life, the development of the idea is what will help a

student recall how a property works or how to re-create the formula.

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HOW TO MAKE IT HAPPEN IN YOUR CLASSROOM

1. Sit back. Don't jump in to help. Let students struggle through the first few inquiry

lessons.

2. Never (or very rarely) GIVE your students a rule or formula. Get out of the habit of

feeding information and properties to them.

3. Require your students to write up their observations in complete sentences.

4. Have students share both their questioning process and discoveries aloud.

Encourage metacognition.

5. Plan carefully so that your students do have enough guidance to succeed.

6. When possible, incorporate materials and manipulatives that make the lessons more

hands-on.