Inquiry-based Learning Assessment

Think about the criteria you'll use for for evaluating inquiry-based activities:

• What is the "big idea" being explored? Is it important?
• Why is this skill being taught and assessed? Does it help me solve a problem?
• Is the situation, prompt, question compelling?
• Will students be engaged in solving the problem?
• Is it authentic?

Assessment at Each Phase

Consider how you will evaluate each phase.

• Wonder
  • The problem or question is clearly stated
  • Criteria and constraints are explained
• Wiggle
  • Possible solutions are described
  • Procedures and approaches are listed and described
• Weave
  • Reasons for evidence choices are given.
  • The solutions are correct and make sense.
• Wave
  • The results are well-organized.
  • The results include clear explanations.
  • The results include concise, descriptive visuals.
• Wish
  • The strengths and weaknesses of the inquiry have been clearly stated.

Assessment Checklist

Use the following list to help you form your own evaluation tool.

• Defines question or problem
• Identifies possible strategies
• Selects useful strategy
• Identifies needed data
• Eliminates unnecessary data
• Collects additional data as needed
• Organizes data
• Analyzes and interprets data
• Finds patterns and relationships
• Applies models and examples
• Applies strategies
• Makes estimates
• Make accurate calculations
• Reasons logically
• Demonstrates insightful thinking
• Uses evidence and logic in arguments
• Identifies valid and practical solutions
• Considers creative solutions
• Explains process and results orally and/or in writing
• Justifies and defends conclusions
• Is persistent and remains on task
• Takes risks
• Demonstrates confidence
• In group work,
  • listens to team members
  • supports team members
  • contributes to team activities
  • shares ideas with others

For a more in-depth exploration, read the graphic book Graphic Inquiry by Annette Lamb and Danny Callison available from Libraries Unlimited, 2011.