This book will help primary school teachers of science gain the skills and knowledge needed to both incorporate inquiry-based instruction into their classrooms and to differentiate such instruction to more effectively meet the needs of all students. The author introduces differentiated inquiry and show teachers how to develop and customize learning choices that best fit their students' individual styles and comfort levels. Differentiated inquiry is based on the belief that when students are provided with choice in instructional options they are more engaged and committed to completing the task at hand. This, in turn, increases student motivation, interest in science, and a desire for students to achieve at higher levels.
Douglas Llewellyn teaches science education courses at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, NY. Previously, he was the K-12 Director of Science at the Rochester City School District, a secondary school principal, and a middle school science teacher. Llewellyn is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences on inquiry- and argument-based teaching, constructivist learning, and science leadership.
Preface Acknowledgments About the Author Introduction Part I. The Meaning of Inquiry: The "Why" Chapters 1. Pathways to Inquiry 2. The Art and Science of Inquiry 3. Differentiated Science Inquiry 4. Why Teachers Differentiate Science Instruction 5. Motivation: The Key to Unlock Learning Part II. The Mechanics of Inquiry: The "How" Chapters 6. How to Write a Differentiated Science Inquiry Lesson 7. Differentiated Life Science Inquiries 8. Differentiated Earth Science Inquiries 9. Differentiated Physical Science Inquiries 10. Making a Commitment to Differentiated Science Inquiry Resource A. Balls and Ramps Lesson Plan: Teacher Guide Resource B. Balls and Ramps Lesson Plan: Student Guide References Index
"One of the best resources I have read in a long time, this work is an affirmation of what we do and it will help us do it better." -- Susan Leeds, Science Curriculum Leader/Teacher "The author relates his strategies to real-life scenarios and includes hands-on examples that are easily implemented into any science curriculum. A must-have for any science teacher!" -- Diane Callahan, Middle School Science Teacher "Doug Llewellyn provides yet another insightful book that can be used to improve individual instruction or guide professional development for entire science departments. This book helps teachers provide what each student needs to excel in a manner that can be sustained for years to come. The examples included within provide concrete guidance that can be applied with tomorrow's first period." -- Jeff C. Marshall, Associate Professor, Science Education "This very readable book beautifully ties together inquiry, motivational strategies and differentiation. With multiple examples of science lessons across disciplines, this important book provides a solid rationale for the importance of differentiated inquiry." -- Susan B. Koba, President-Elect "This book deals with two of the most difficult pedagogical challenges science teachers must face: conducting inquiry-based investigations and differentiating instruction. It provides new insight and strategies for creating opportunities for all students to become more engaged. Along with classroom examples, the author provides practical suggestions on how to give students more control of meeting their needs. The result is student motivation and proficiency." -- Linda Froschauer, Editor "Effective instruction is the goal of every educator, and this excellent resource provides detailed guidance in the use of DSI as the tool to get there." -- Cindi Smith-Walters, Biology Professor
