Problem Centered Inquiry Model Lesson

This time I had a harder time trying to decide what to do. I came up with a lesson connecting gas prices of the summer 2008 with a problem statement which changed the beginning of the lesson. Instead of the Explore the problem I presented the problem to the class, had them use an adapted Inquiry Chart to write problem questions that went with the problem statement and then formulate hypothetical answers. We then completed an activity where they predicted highest and lowest prices of ten items and then matched prices to the correct item. They had to calculate prices of all items into 1 gallon quantities so they could really compare the cost. Then they took what they learned in the lesson and applied it to their questions and answers they had written earlier and shared the different solutions.

I did have to go back the second day to complete the lesson and the filming. Also I had some problems with downloading the movie because I had to use a different kind of disc to record and I am still learning about my movie camera. I did get it done and learned something new in the process so that was good. Hope everyone else had a good experience with this model. I am looking forward to seeing what some of you did. See you on Monday.

Concept Development Model

This model worked out better than I had expected. Students did a good job of coming up with a list of words for the concept of roller coaster. As we worked through the process there was some serious conversations going on that you could tell they were giving some thought to their lists. Several words were ones I ask for a reason and I got back some really good reasons for including them. One group put "pregnant women" and I am thinking they can't ride a roller coaster, and that was the reason the group listed them along with little children.

When ask to group the words students did so and several groups labeled theirs as they went. The hardest part for the students was regrouping although several said they thought some of the words could go in more than one group. I wish we could have spent a little more time on this part of the lesson. As it was the bell was ringing as the best generalization was said. I would use this model to introduce other lessons. I believe this model is one that once you have used it several times with students it could really promote the thinking we are encouraging out students to do.

The movie was easy to put together this time, and Dr. H it is 11 minutes, I am getting better:) See you in class.