INSES Ch. 1-2

I found both the story of the geologist and the 5th grade class very interesting, and their comparison helped me to put Inquiry on a continuum, instead of pass-fail. I've always thought writing letters to the city council was hokey, but writing a letter to the janitor was appropriate for the situation and the kids had an authentic audience. How neat that they got to see their hard work confirmed the next school year! Talk about memorable.

This article also clarified the "steps" of inquiry that I have been wishing for.
Question.
Use prior knowledge.
Investigate. 
Confirm theories or disprove theories. (Go back to investigate)
Act!

Although Mrs. Graham's class did spend 3 weeks investigating the tree problem, she still maintained some structure (worked in different groups) while letting them explore. I might not be able to do three weeks, but I could walk students through these steps of inquiry without feeling like I can't plan ahead at all.