District Inquiry Program » Student Learning Forum 2024 : Food Sustainability

Student Learning Forum 2024 : Food Sustainability

 
April 24, 2024 |   Whistler Secondary School 
 
We invite staff and students to actively engage in inquiry-based learning on the topic of food sustainability. Support from our Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) is available upon request. Our Student Learning Forum will take place in the Spring to share learning, create dialogue, and offer feedback. While all participants are welcome to engage in the in-person forum it is not required for participation in the inquiry. We encourage any interested staff to engage in this inquiry in the manner that works best for them, their students and their school! 
 
For any questions, please contact Paul Lorette at [email protected]
 
Please make sure to RSVP your interest in the project by Friday, February 12th, by filling out this quick form. Even if you are not planning on intending the in-person forum please sign-up so we can offer support. We are very excited about this year’s project!
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Why inquiry?
 
We believe inquiry-based learning is an effective approach that not only enhances academic skills but also nurtures qualities such as curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and a lifelong love for learning. Inquiry-based learning helps students develop the ability to make informed decisions in an age where information is readily available and discerning credible sources is crucial. It allows for flexibility in how students approach and explore topics, providing opportunities for inclusion and differentiation.
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What is inquiry?
 
Inquiry-based learning often involves real-world problems or scenarios, making learning relevant and applicable. Students actively participate in the learning process through hands-on activities, investigations, and discussions. Group work and collaboration help students develop social skills, teamwork, and the ability to communicate effectively with peers. 
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How can we engage students in inquiry?
 
To effectively implement inquiry-based learning, teachers are encouraged to create a safe environment for students to ask questions, share ideas, and take risks. They should demonstrate how to ask meaningful questions, conduct research, and analyze information. Facilitating collaborative and experiential learning, offering choice and autonomy, and integrating technology enrich the inquiry process.
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Food Sustainability 
 
In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Education and Child Care has provided funds to help school district begin to meet the needs of their community around food security and sustainability via the feeding futures program. In keeping with our belief that our learners are developing the critical thinking and problem solving skills needed to solve important relevant world issues, this leads to an authentic learning opportunity for students in SD #48. Meryn Corkery, our new School Food Coordinator, explains more below! 
 
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Get Involved! 
 
The ILT has put together a document to assist interested teachers in engaging with this inquiry. In the document you will find project background, sample logistics, example inquiry questions, inquiry scaffolding (K-9 and 10-12), links to curriculum and assessment as well as additional resources and support. 
 
Please click here to access the document. 
 
Please make sure to RSVP your interest in the project by Friday, February 12th, by filling out this quick form.  We are very excited about this year’s project!