As students move through the year of study, they build knowledge about the changing seasons and how these changes affect the entire web of life. Teachers can watch for the student's ability to draw from past knowledge as they develop new understanding. There are many ways to use the Challenge Questions, and journaling is an excellent way for students to begin the process. Many teachers use these journals as a tool for ongoing assessment of student progress. Allow students time to explore the question in their science journals before discussing their answers.
Science journals are a way for students and teachers to communicate.
Cathie Plaehn, a 5th grade teacher in Wisconsin and member of Journey North's Teacher-Advisory Board, shares these tips for using Challenge Questions as a tool for assessment . Teachers as Facilitators of Student Learning Challenge Questions provide an excellent opportunity for teachers to function as coaches or facilitators of student learning. Our entire class enjoyed the question about why owls nest in February, when it's so cold outside. As a class, we all shared our ideas for possible reasons. But this is what I love, this is where Journey North comes through.