Of the eight scientific practices highlighted in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas," the first is for students to develop abilities to ask questions and define problems (NRC 2012). Constructing a range of questions about an object or phenomenon validates not only what students have…

Science educators are encouraged to adopt teaching techniques to help children learn to solve problems through inquiry or discovery. Included are several sample problems and method for finding other appropriate science related problems. (SL)

Sixth grade students with cooperative direction of departmentalized reading and science teachers develop questions for research papers and activity projects during aerospace science unit. Student initiative and self-direction and teacher guidance are emphasized in the individualized reading instruction and small group science activities. (JM)

Several examples of using divergent questioning techniques in elementary school science lessons are provided. The use of divergent questions (as contrasted with use of convergent questions) places students in the role of producing many possible solutions stimulating creative thinking. (Author/JN)

The soliciting-and-reacting-moves questioning technique used in science classrooms is described. The importance of using both higher-order and lower-level questions during a lesson is discussed. An example of a dialogue between a student and teacher using this technique is included. (KR)