Co-Constructing Inquiry Based Learning
Children are more motivated to learn and develop a positive attitude towards their learning when they are involved in experiences that are meaningful and encourage them to develop lifelong skills. Play based or Inquiry learning allows for open ended materials and loose parts to be arranged and experimented with in a variety of different ways (Guardian Childcare and Education 2017).
What is Inquiry Learning ?
Inquiry-based learning is a learning and teaching approach that emphasizes students' questions, ideas and observations. This form of learning enhances comprehension—rather than memorizing facts and taking notes, students are now encouraged to discuss ideas among their peers.
The new curriculum supports inquiry. It allows teachers and students to take it upon themselves to develope topics the children are interested in.
They then take a deeper dive into more authentic learning rather than rushing through curriculum because they are expected to. (Grade Power Learning 2021).
Incorporating Literacy
Students will represent their learning in a variety of ways. Using natural materials with loose parts to spark curiosity. Having letters, writing paper, pencils, manipulatives, etc.
Teachers are always thinking about incorporating phonological and phonemic awareness. These centers are focused around the idea of children exploring on their own and at their own pace. They will have free access to everything at the center and it is up to them to what they are going to create. Students will take it upon themselves to their own learning.
Specifically in my class literacy, vocabulary, sight word work, writing, reading etc. takes up a big chuck of the day. I find it to be immensely important to embrace this part of the school day.
Math Centers
An area specifically designed just for math. Students will have free rein to come and go with these manipulatives. Loose parts and math manipulatives are a way to bring exploration and investigation. This allows children to develop a deeper understanding using their own prior knowledge and to practice certain curriculum areas. It inspires free play, and free choice. It sparks curiosity as well as observations about different items and materials.
Numeracy in Kindergarten is very a crucial to start off on the right foot, immersing themselves in problem solving, counting, measuring, sorting, and being able to pattern. We as teachers also into connection to the curriculum look for recognizing numbers in different ways, manipulate blocks and objects the correct way, and be able to show there number verbally and concretely.