While finishing touches were being made and students were sharing with others, I overheard discussions about chemical and physical changes, friction and how temperature affects molecules. That was a clear reminder that inquiry-based activities are not only motivating and engaging for kids, but they also involve important critical thinking skills.
“Inquiry ... requires more than simply answering questions or getting a right answer. It espouses investigation, exploration, search, quest, research, pursuit, and study. It is enhanced by involvement with a community of learners, each learning from the other in social interaction.” (Kuklthau, Maniotes & Caspari, 2007, p. 2)