Description:

What if your social studies block became the most curious time of the day? In this session, we’ll explore how to build an inquiry-based classroom where students take the lead by asking questions, exploring big ideas, and thinking like historians, geographers, and citizens. Participants will learn practical strategies to get students asking thoughtful questions, engage with sources that launch inquiry, and explore how to plan instruction around compelling and supporting questions. You’ll leave with ready-to-use routines and tools to make your social studies instruction more student-centered, purposeful, and engaging.

Subject Area: Social Studies

Delivery Format: In-Person, Virtual, Hybrid, Implementation Support, Coaching Support

Target Audience: Pre-Service Teachers, Classroom Teachers, Instructional Coaches, School Administrators, District Administrators

Duration: Workshop (60-90 minutes)

Facilitators:

Grade Level: Elementary

Learning Intentions:

• Implement inquiry-based strategies that support students in asking their own questions and exploring key social studies concepts through investigation and discussion.

Success Criteria:

• I can use classroom routines that help students generate meaningful questions.
• I can design an inquiry arc that builds critical thinking.
• I can scaffold inquiry strategies to meet the needs of all learners.
• I can plan learning experiences that begin with student curiosity and authentic sources.

Key Topics Covered:

• Inquiry-based learning
• Student questioning routines
• Using sources
• Writing compelling and supporting questions

Expected Impact:

Social studies instruction will become more student-centered, purposeful, and engaging. Students will develop skills in asking thoughtful questions, exploring big ideas, and thinking like historians, geographers, and citizens, ultimately leading to a more curious and inquiry-driven learning environment within the school.

Testimonials: