The following video is a window into an inquiry lesson in our
classroom. My goal is to illuminate the relationship I have with
my students, as well as to demonstrate how I implement my
lessons. Welcome to third grade inquiry! On the path of life-
long learning, I believe we are motivated by curiosity and
empowered by creativity. Thus inquiry and creative problem
solving are at the heart of my teaching practice. Through
structured inquiry, my students engage in transdisciplinary
learning experiences. Connections between the subject areas are
supported and encouraged, facilitating a more meaningful study.
Students explore science and social studies in depth and in a
child-centered manner, usually spending five or six weeks on
each topic. Our units of inquiry are often project-based and
usually involve service-learning. As they work toward a common
goal (summative assessment), the kids and I study the art of
compassion, cultivating a culture of conversation and tolerance.
Creative conflict is encouraged as indivi