Action Research Gwenodene Hemming

1.    By using a graphic organizer in science inquiry the students will improve their level of academic rigor especially gaining deeper understanding of the knowledge, using different methods to answer the question and asking the questions:

·         Evidence (How do we know what we know?)

·         Viewpoint (Who is speaking?)

·         Pattern and connection (What causes what?)

·         Supposition (How might things be different?)

·         Why does this matter (Who cares?)

2.    I want to know if using a tool such as a graphic organizer helps students ability to think through the steps and be able to change ideas or add more to their learning. Comparing the graphic organizers throughout the year, we should be able to see if they assist students on their development of academic rigor in the Inquiry process.

3.    Evidence to look for:

·         More description and or visuals

·         What factors do I need to consider that might influence the evidence:

-      Students copying from each other rather than putting it in their own words.

-      Students thinking that they have to have the right answer from the teacher verses understanding and coming to the understanding.

-      Discussion of ideas and vocabulary words the students may use. Encouraging them to say and write their sentences/questions.

4.    The graphic organizers will be collected throughout the unit. A graphic organizer should be available for an SLE. The teacher will be able to collect the graphic organizers for the students and make a copy. The student be able to use the rubric to self evaluate their learning. The portfolio of organizers will be able to be reviewed by the teacher. The teacher will be able to see the Inquiry Academic Rigor Progress. The teacher will be able to see both quantitatively and qualitatively if the students and classes have obtained Inquiry Process both individually, class and grade level population.

5.    I will need to have a file folder/ student and an evaluation teacher checklist in each folder. Regular organizing of these files maybe needed. I need to establish a regular time in my academic schedule to work on this task.

6.    The evidence I collect, especially the forms of graphic organizers will be shared with my staff, the Science Leaders group and if the School District is interested it may be on our own sharing site or in some form of PD.

7.    When making the copies of the student work, the names should not be seen, so that when using them on the a web site or in a sharing situation they remain anonymous. If something is to be shared with a name. The teacher will have to receive permission from the parents/guardian.

Thanks Gwen!