I find that students enjoy inquiry-based learning so much because of the fact that it truly is hands-on, minds-on learning. I take on the role of a facilitator of learning and allow students to become the scientists, working to learn collaboratively. In this specific lesson, students plant flowering specimens to observe germination in an effort to identify the life cycle of flowering plants. Instead of just reading about the process in a textbook, students plant their own specimens and observe them for two to three weeks, making careful observations and recording all data into their journals. After the data is recorded, students then journal what they think, what they've learned, or any questions or frustrations that they might have. The link below will take you to student work samples as well as pictures of the activity. You will need to scroll to the bottom of the webpage and click on the "Spotlight Work of the Month" pdf files, as well as view the pictures. These work samples are just the beginning of the process of journaling and carefully recording data. Students are learning about scientific data and the importance of making careful observations and recordings. The sampled work demonstrates this learning. Take a look and enjoy observing what my students are learning!
http://www.spart1.org/hsm/?page_ID=185
