In this way, the process of inquiry is co-constructed by the students and teachers and fosters a true community of learners. Each of the central studies of the Sisters in Science program is structured around one or more central questions, which provides a focal point for the classes' inquiry. Each central study is woven by both unifying themes and cross-cutting competencies. The unifying themes constitute those skills that allow people to play effective roles in the community. For example, in the context of the classes' study of the city's rivers, students learn about systems as they study the water cycle.
Students learn about models as they create their own rivers.
In creating their model of the river, students need to utilize the principal of scale . This lesson involves problem solving, technological literacy, participatory citizenship , and communication . Breaking Down The Barriers Girls Face Researchers have found that while both boys and girls enjoy math and science in elementary school, girls' interest and confidence in their abilities to excel in those areas declines sharply during adolescence. The Sisters in Science program is almost two years and already our initial data show a positive pattern of change in the girls' science, math, and language skills. Parents have become increasingly active in their daughters' science and math activities, as shown by parental involvement in family science programs, after-school programs, and field trips.