Strategies Inquiry-based Learning

Submitted by Denise Crosby

EDEL 453: Teaching Elementary School Social Science Nevada State College Spring 2013 Instructor: Karen Powell

1. Which strategies did you chose? Please provide the name and number for each. Unit I Strategy 2 Oral Histories in the Curriculum (pg. 10) CONDUCTING INTERVIEWS Unit III Strategy 13 Connecting With Literature (pg. 92) CREATION MYTH ANALYSIS 2. How are the strategies you chose similar? I feel that these strategies are similar as they both support comprehension of the spoken word and support students use of spoken, written and visual language to communicate effectively and accomplish their own purpose. Myths, legends and sacred stories of all cultures started out as Oral Histories, passed from one generation to the next. Interviewing an older grandparent, relative or friend, the students are experiencing that form of cultural sharing. 3. How are the strategies different? The Oral History has the student prepare for interviewing an older relative. The student must not only effectively communicate but must be able to comprehend what they are being told and then reporting it back to the class. Connecting with Literature has the students practice more of their analytical skills as they explore childrens literature. This can be more of a challenge because myths, legends, and folklore can be difficult to understand. 4. How might you modify the strategies to make them work better for you? I loved both strategies and have used similar activities with my students. Montessori Cosmic Education is all about the telling of myths, legends, and folklore (sacred stories) from many cultures. Are students beginning hearing and analyzing these stories from 1st grade through 6th. I did a modified version of the oral history this year with my 1st 3rd graders. They were to make a wooden spoon puppet to represent their cultural heritage with their family. Although it wasnt a formal interview, many of the students related family stories of how their great grandparents came to the United States. It was a wonderful project. 5. Which learning styles do you think these strategies would appeal to the most? Both of these strategies would appeal to students whose learning style is interactive drama story telling. 6. Which strategy is your favorite and why?

I enjoyed both strategies. I love the study of history and hearing peoples stories. I chose both of these strategies because they appealed to that interest. One strategy isnt better than the other. I would use both. They address different parts of history. I really liked them both equally.