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Query-based learning is not only the latest teaching trend. This is a fundamental shift to the way you run a classroom – it may just be the answer you’re always looking for to help students really succeed.
So, what is query-based learning and how do you use it in your teaching? We will break down the best inquiry-based learning strategies you can start using today, as well as high-quality, low-PREP learning activities for any subject and grade level.
What is the query-based learning method?
Asked-based learning, also known as question-based learning, encourages students to use their natural curiosity during the learning process. They take education as the answer to the questions they want to know, not the questions they are assigned. In most cases, query-based learning is based on project-based learning, focusing on students’ own problems and thoughts.
And query-based learning in any grade work! High school students can spend time on in-depth research projects based on their inquiry, while young primary school learners can develop age-appropriate skills that they can use on more direct questions.
Query-based learning types
Like students in the classroom, no two inquiry-based learning strategies are exactly the same. There are four main types of instruction you can use in upcoming classes.
| type | describe | The best audience |
| structure | The teacher leads the students to complete the steps | Young or struggling learners; inexperienced students |
| controlled | The teacher selects the topic and supervises the investigation process | Students who successfully gain more progressive support |
| guide | The teacher chooses this topic, but the students conduct independent research | Students working independently |
| Open | Teachers promote when students choose topics and conduct research | Older students or people with a lot of experience |
You may notice that these types of instructions look a lot like scaffolding steps – you are right! A successful inquiry-based learning approach takes students from a structured beginning to a more open way of learning.
These steps are also very differentiated in the same category. More independent students may enjoy their research process and may thrive in teacher support and mentoring among students who are unsure of their inquiry skills.
Inquiry-based learning steps
You may have used query-based learning elements in your classroom. However, for an inquiry-based learning process that successfully forms your students, it follows these five main steps:
- direction: The students asked questions they wanted to know more about. They can create their own list of questions, group discussions or participate in a class discussion.
- conceptualization: Students take the time to research and learn more about the topics they choose. This can be independent work or integrated into your mentoring time.
- investigation: Students introduce projects to their teachers and peers. Demonstrations can include scientific presentations, slideshows, videos or verbal presentations.
- in conclusion: Students draw conclusions and evaluate the answers to their queries. They make judgments on the subject based on what they learn in the process.
- discuss: The students reflected on how the inquiry process proceeded. What did they learn? What are their curiosity about the present after researching the topic?
The time required for query-based learning depends on your course or project. Some query-based learning activities can take weeks to get students to ask, conceptualize, investigate, and reflect, while others only take days or courses.
Query-based learning activities
Ready to bring inquiry-based learning to your classroom? Get young learners to start early with inquiry-based learning activities that are suitable for multiple subjects, grades and abilities.
Bring inquiry-based learning into daily teaching
Query-based learning can be part of everything you do in the classroom. Emphasize the importance of asking questions and staying curious every day, no matter your current course!
Learn writing, posters, books and more based on query!
By Amanda’s Little Learner
Results: Top 5
Topic: Basic principles, science
From the moment they enter the classroom, start teaching basics of basic students. Class posters, parents’ letters, sentence stem cards, diary covers and more to encourage children to reflect on what they see, what they think and what they want to know.
Prepare query-based projects for students
Make your students’ first research project a query-based project! Once students want to answer a question, they are involved in the program between enabling teacher support and independent learning.
Query-based learning | Query items in any topic area
Teaching through a little honey
Results: 1st-3rd
Standard: CCSS W.1.2, 1.8, 2.2, 2.8, 3.2, 3.7, 3.8
Topics: English art, science, writing
Addressing common core state standards through inquiry-based learning activities can be used in any course. With writing templates, classroom posters, sample questions and evaluation columns, this complete resource inspires students’ curiosity while supporting them through inquiries and research processes.
Lead strange dialogue and query circles
What do your students want to know? Have them discuss their interests and ask fascinating questions with the discussion group or query circle. They will practice CCSS speaking and listening standards and learn where and how to find the answers they want.
Query-based learning bundle – Ask discussion circle and Ask notebook
By Sandra Naufal
Results: 4-6 years old
Standard: All topics
Whether you’re an inquiry circle expert or a first try, you’ll find everything you need in this exhaustive resource. This inquiry-based learning activity provides a great addition to any discussion activity through instructor language, instructional skills, anchor charts, notebook covers and writing templates.
Add query-based learning to your math course
Mathematics is all about asking questions. From finding solutions to applying formulas to the real world, mathematics allows young mathematicians to ask and answer questions in each lesson.
3D Shape Activity Mathematics Worksheet | Query-based Project Level 4 Level 6
Teach dreams
Results: 4-6 years old
Standard: CCSS 6.GA4, MP1, MP4, MP5, MP6
Topic: Applied Mathematics, Geometry
Use mathematics to create a 3D city in innovation-based research activities. The project complies with CCSS math standards and designs for advanced elementary school students, challenging individuals or groups to design their own cities using 3D shapes. Resources bring everything you need to implement, including student templates and teacher assessment tools.
Query-based learning programs for middle school and high school students
After introducing this type of study in primary school, middle school students can have confidence in asking questions in all courses. At this age, they will have the opportunity to take more responsibility for their learning and learning styles.
Related to the real world through inquiry-based learning
High school students are about to enter the real world. How much do they know about how it works? Use inquiry-based learning strategies to challenge their understanding of the world around them.
Ecosystems in bottled projects: Ecological surveys based on inquiry
Not Rocket Science
Results: 9-12
Topic: Biology, Environment
Model your high school students with inquiry-based lab surveys. After understanding the basic elements of the atmosphere, students designed aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems through two liter bottles. They observe their projects over the course of a month and then review what they have learned.
Query-based inventors and invention research projects
Jenifer Stewart
Results: 4th to 8th
Standards: CCSS W.4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, 6.2, 7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2
Topic: Information text, writing example
Have your students ever wondered how computers work, or who had the first idea of the internet? Let them integrate their curiosity with a resource that allows them to complete the steps of an inquiry-based research project. It comes with inventors and invention examples, query process posters, brainstorming pages and organizers, research pointer organizers, and more.
Apply query-based learning skills to social research
Research, information writing and presentation techniques are all important parts of inquiry-based learning and any well-crafted social research course. Help students use their query skills in social studies courses, including history, sociology, and world culture.
World Changeler – High School Learning Based on Inquiry Projects
By Missarwyn
Results: 6th to 12th
Topics: English art, information text, social research
Who has changed the world’s biggest change for your students? Through social research-based learning projects, let them ask their own questions to the human world changers. After creating their own inquiry, class members record five sources of information and introduce their studies to their peers.
Develop curiosity and develop important research skills
When you inject a course into your course with an inquiry-based learning approach, you teach students to think critically about everything, including their own education. Use inquiry-based learning resources to inspire learners to think for themselves, use reputable sources and draw their own conclusions. Curious Students Become Curious Citizens – Ask the question is how the world continues to change!
