In this article, we describe how we use classroom phenomena to help fifth grade students develop testable questions and productive investigations. Engaging students in observing and seeking to explain a classroom decomposition chamber has helped them to engage more successfully in the science and engineering practices (SEPs) of asking questions, planning and carrying out investigations, and constructing explanations. We highlight the following important components that teachers can incorporate in their practice: (1) the use of a classroom phenomenon that represents a more complex outdoor process and provides students extended, shared experience; (2) question development as a collaborative and iterative process that teachers and students engage in together; (3) considering how questions will support progress on disciplinary core ideas.
Manz, E., Stoler, A., Federico, L., Patton, S., Weaver, L., Diaz Silveira, G., & Nassar, S. (2024). What should we investigate? Using a classroom decomposition chamber to support the development of investigation questions. Science and Children, 61(5), 33–40. https://doi.org/10.1080/00368148.2024.2384121