Inquiry Illuminated

Book excerpt: To immerse students in the richness and intrigue of the content areas, let the kids lead the way! In Inquiry Illuminated, Anne Goudvis, Stephanie Harvey, and classroom teacher Brad Buhrow shine a light on researcher's workshop-an approach whose true north emerges from kids' curiosity. Adapting structures you already know from reader's and writer's workshop, they share a predictable, proven, and-most importantly-authentic approach that: creates irresistible investigations in science, history and social studies, or language arts increases students' independence and agency by gradually releasing responsibility for inquiry effectively integrates literacy and content through strategies for comprehension and critical thinking. With copious full-color photographs and classroom video, Inquiry Illuminated shows how to create a culture where thoughtfulness, creativity, and collaboration can turn wonder into powerful inquiry. Then, with researcher's workshop, you'll uncover a process that transforms curiosity into opportunities to ask questions and follow a path to new understandings. Throughout you'll discover how to bring in what you already do in reader's and writer's workshop to support students' investigations as they read, write, create, and take action. Wonder without inquiry is like a mere spark in the darkness. Read Inquiry Illuminated and find out how to light up the possibilities for your learners.