Hi all, my name is Rhonda, and I am a 2nd class teacher with a passion for integrating science and inquiry-based learning into the classroom. I’ve always been fascinated by the cosmos and enjoy sharing that wonder with my students.
One of my favourite space facts is about the Voyager 1 spacecraft. Launched in 1977, it is the most distant human-made object from Earth, currently traveling through interstellar space. It carries the Golden Record, a message for potential extraterrestrial life, featuring sounds and images from Earth. This incredible journey not only highlights human ingenuity but also our deep curiosity and desire to explore the unknown.
One effective inquiry-based activity I use in my classroom revolves around the phases of the Moon.
I start by presenting a simple question to my students: “Why does the Moon change shape?” Instead of directly providing the answer, I encourage them to observe the Moon over a month and record their observations. They draw the different phases they see each night and note any patterns or changes.
In the classroom, we discuss their observations and compare them with each other. I then provide various materials (e.g., a lamp, balls to represent the Earth and Moon) for them to create models and simulations to test their hypotheses about the Moon’s phases. This hands-on investigation allows students to discover the concept of the Moon’s phases through direct experience and guided questioning.
Through this activity, students learn to gather data, develop hypotheses, and test their ideas. They also enhance their critical thinking and collaborative skills by working together to refine their models and explanations. By leading students to find answers themselves, I foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the scientific process, making the learning experience more meaningful and engaging.