The Process of Inquiry

This week's lab was based on inquiry. We had a full 2 weeks of instruction on it, but there was still something that I couldn't really grasp. It seemed like I never knew what kinds of questions to ask about inquiry learning, somewhat ironic now that I think about it. As we went through the different discussions and lessons, I was able to grasp what the students were doing and why certain things were happening, but I really couldn't wrap my head around the big picture of inquiry learning.

As I prepared for my lab, I really struggled for the right topics and sequence I wanted to provide for my students. I definitely felt lost in the process. Looking back, I shouldn't have been so stubborn and just asked someone for help. That was my first and biggest mistake. I had a few ideas in my head, and they seemed like they could work. I just simply had no confidence in anything I planned to do. I really didn't like having to use a scientific piece of equipment, but I understood how it is an important and crucial part in the inquiry lesson.

As for my lab, I decided on using a pipette for my piece of equipment, and revolved my lesson around inquiring factors that affect plants, creating an experiment of planting seeds and watching them grow into plants.

                                   

When the lab started, I felt like I was out there lost at sea. Even though I had my lesson plan, I was still feeling uncomfortable with little confidence. Throughout the lesson, the students were engaged and kept on task for most of the time. My directions could have been better and clarity was definitely something I needed to work on. Adding to my already low confidence, I got tripped up by a student's comment. I was asking students what they want to learn about plant growth, and Jeanne fired right back and said "I want to learn what is the best way to grow weed." I was just so caught off guard that I had to take a second to collect and think what to say back. I guess kids really do say the craziest things.

This lab was a reality check to me. I realized that every day is not going to be perfect and your students aren't always going to be angels. It was just one of those days, and I have to chalk it up to lack of experience. I think it was a good growth experience, revealing that I have to make sure to always stay on my toes. It takes TIME, PRACTICE, and COLLEAGUE COOPERATION to become the best teacher you can be.

"There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time." - Malcolm X