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Independent Inquiry Program
Your curiosity will drive your journey to discover more about the world around you with guided checkpoints along the way. You will have an opportunity to explore 'the high adventure' of learning when it is defined under your own terms and driven by your questions of investigation.
Narrowing Topic and Finding Support
Finding a topic that will drive your curiosity
Student Learning Objectives and Outcomes
1 a. Student can write questions that can be answered through testable research
1 b. Student can formulate research questions to guide and broaden their topic of interest
1 c. Student will use questions to formulate research topic and method of investigations
2 a. Student will identify resources to guide topic of interest
2 b. Students can find support, when needed, to help with research
What is your interest?
Finding a topic of interest is a good beginning but there are several components that must be included:
A.) I will include 3-5 points that I want to know more about my topic
B.) I will include a question that can be answered through testing or building/engineering a solution
C.) I will keep a journal of your findings / Blog 2 interesting facts about your research.
1.) When using internet for research, use reliable sources. This rubric helps you make good website choices.
ACTIVITY 1. FIND AN AREA OF INTEREST
1. Pick your topic and develop your questions.
I already know what I want to learn more about. I need some help.
2. Develop a testable question or design goal.
Teacher will assess. Students will share their topics and goals.
3. Create a blog or begin writing in your journal. (Teacher will model choosing websites)
Use the following to help you:
Science News
60 Second Science
Materials World Module
Biodiesel Lab
Northwestern University (Ideas for Projects)
American Museum of Natural History
Open Access Journals
Additional Resources (Museums, Universities, etc.)
Science Buddies
ACTIVITY 2. FIND SUPPORT
For some, finding a mentor will help you during your research. After you have chosen your topic and written your questions to guide your research use the following resources to help you find support with your research. You may find someone through additional resources (museum departments, etc.) Email me first to confirm your approach.
Scientists in the Classroom
Ask Dr. Universe
SkillsUSA
Additional Resources (Museums, etc.)
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