When appropriate, learning should he based on learner interest and on the learner's ability to construct knowledge to gain conceptual understanding. Learners gain understanding through research, discussion, application, and practical experiences. Instruction encourages learners to undertake their own inquiry. Where appropriate, activities and projects use learner questions and concerns as a starting point. Materials encourage learner participation in planning and assessing learning.
Materials encourage learner reflection on the process and content of learning.
Materials should offer opportunities for different modes of teaching and learning. These techniques may include research, experimentation, observation, lecture, discussion, creative expression, field studies, role playing, independent work, cooperative learning, cross-age teaching, etc. Materials and activities are developmentally appropriate for the designated grade, yet sensitive to individual differences in educational experience and learning mode. Diverse sensory involvement is a criterion for selecting learning activities. Learners are challenged to learn different skills that reflect their multiple intelligences.