Model-based inquiry gives students the visual outlets towards constructing understanding. Most students learn best when they see or do rather than simply hear. Therefore, models such as weather maps, graphs or mobiles further explanation for the learner. They serve as representations of things in which motivate and engage the students in understanding. They are great for introducing a lesson as well as reinforcing a lesson in a variety of ways. Even more, models can serve as assessment tools in which the teacher has the students fill out charts or make diagrams to show their application of their knowledge.
I believe that models are the biggest form of visual motivation within a classroom. Once a student has created a model of some sort, it should be posted up to show their work done well. The more students work gets posted, the more they will strive to work hard in creating things that are presentable and awardable. This way they also serve as reference points for the students so they learn how to refer to things when questioning, rather than simply asking the teacher everything. Even if a child looks at a model and recreates it directly, they are still taking that knowledge and applying it into something authentic to themselves. This will deepen comprehension. Model-based inquiry goes hand in hand with nearly all science lessons and should be applied as much as possible.
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