1. Fall 2011 Research Inquiry
We will be working in collaborative inquiry groups to construct and
share meaning from reading experiences, research, and group
discussions (that will take in face to face learning spaces as well as
online). We will also be exploring ways that we as learners can engage
in critical thinking, formulating questions for investigation or
wondering, and participating in our learning environment. We’ll also
explore how participating in a community of learners informs our
understanding and insights. The Stripling Model of Inquiry (see above)
is our model of how we will frame learning for our investigation into
social justice issues.
1 Lester and Hamilton |

2. Fall 2011 Research Inquiry
Part I: Reading as Fertile Ground for Formulating a Line of Inquiry and Essential
Questions to Investigate
We will be working on groups to share common and mixed readings based on our book tasting ratings.
Within each group, we’ll be formulating questions for consideration in class “Fishbowl” discussions
(more coming on that!) as well as on our class blog and group blogs we’ll create. In other words, our
reading of our books should lead to a big question and subquestions you want to investigate and
explore. In addition, you will have the option of individually or collaboratively developing a research
project and questions to investigate that come out of this reading .
 Fishbowl Discussion 1 on 10/6 followed by individual response on class blog
 Group Reading Response Journals due Tuesday, 10/11
 Fishbowl Discussion 2 on 10/13 followed by individual response on class blog
 Group Reading Response Journals due Tuesday, 10/18/11
 Submit topics for research/essential questions Monday, 10/17/11—these will need approval
from Ms. Lester and Ms. Hamilton
Part 2: Inquiry and Connected Learning
We’ll be working of the list of processes and skills from our Networked Learner graphic you will
receive today in class to engage in deep questioning and utilizing a diverse range of information
sources that we will evaluate for currency, relevance, accuracy, authority, and purpose.
Learning tools for accessing, organizing, evaluating, constructing, and sharing information and
meaning will include but are not limited to:
 Group Wordpress blogs
 Symbaloo
 Scoop.it
 Library research guide
 Fishbowl discussions
 Class wiki
 Menu of digital composition tools (TBA)
The final l earning product will be a digital composition; we will discuss this learning product in more
depth in mid-October.
2 Lester and Hamilton |