Inquiry Research
Inquiry Based
Research encourages students to investigate a range of topics, thus taking responsibility
for their own learning. The teacher's role is that of a clarifier or facilitator
who helps students discover information and structure its meaning for themselves
by making inferences and generalizations. An important aspect of inquiry instruction
is designing good questions. The following chart compares Topical Based Research
questions with Inquiry Based Research questions in an effort to outline the
differences and assist educators in thinking about developing the 'Big Question'.
| Topical
Research Questions/Statements |
Inquiry
Research Questions/Statements |
| Research and report on an endangered animal. | How can we protect and save endangered animals? |
| Describe a gorilla's habitat. | The local zoo is about to obtain a gorilla exhibit. What do they need to place in the exhibit for the gorillas to feel at home? |
| What are some ways we can conserve energy? | What are the three best ways to conserve energy that everyone can use? |
| Research a famous artist. Tell about his or her art and the culture in which they lived. | Determine which artist's work best reflects the societal views of the times in which they lived. |
| Create a report on the life of Jean Chretien. | Who was the greatest Canadian leader? |
| Research modern day sculptors. | If you were in charge of choosing a sculpture to add to the collection at the local art gallery, whose work would you chose? |
| Present a theory on the cause of the destruction of the Hindenburg. | Which theory on the cause of the destruction of the Hindenburg is most plausible? |
| How is a tornado formed? | What is the worst weather disaster that can occur in your area? |
| Create a timeline on the life of a music composer. | Who is the greatest composer of all time? |
| List the parts of a castle and describe their function. | Design a castle that is livable and attractive yet provides adequate protection. |
| Research an explorer of your choice. | Who was the best ship's captain? |
| Why do people bully each other? | Create a presentation with recommendations on how to make your school a place where students will feel safe from bullying. |
Many of the Inquiry Research questions were taken from Webquests developed by the teachers of the Greater Essex County District School Board.