Using Question-Based Inquiry Strategies to Motivate Gifted Readers

Gifted students in modern American schools often find a corrosive mismatch between their needs and curricular offerings. Their teachers mean well, but struggle to balance dozens of standards, pressure for near-universal proficiency on state tests, intervention work for struggling students, and a litany of other obligations. As a result, the spark of student engagement has often fizzled, especially in gifted student populations. In this study, question-based inquiry learning is explored in order to help teachers nurture a classroom that pulses with a sense of wonder and discovery. The study explores the essential components of inquiry learning and the advanced learners who can benefit most from this method of learning. From this action research, educators can identify ways to begin inquiry learning investigations within the classroom.