Inquiry with G Suite & Google Classroom

Session Overview

In this session, participants will explore various ideas for how to use G Suite and Google Classroom to support inquiry. Tools that will be utilized in the session include Google Slides, Google Docs, Google Drawings and how to effectively integrate these tools with the DDSB Learning Commons resources.

Learning Goals

To become familiar with strategies and tools available on Chromebooks (and through Google Chrome) to support the inquiry process.

Modelling the Inquiry Process in G Suite EDU

This session will model how G Suite and Google Classroom can be integrated with the Ontario Library Association's Student Inquiry Process.

We'll cover the following tools and strategies:

  • Setting the stage for inquiry of a topic by identifying a relevant big idea;
  • Exploring the topic through Learn 360, Britannica School and Ontario Educational Resource Bank (OERB) with Google Classroom;
  • Building collaborative understanding and assess student thinking in Google Slides;
  • Investigating and Processing with Google Keep and Read & Write;
  • Demonstrating learning by creating with Google Drawings and Google Sites.

Join the Google Classroom

Go to Google Classroom and join the class with this code: 6qzfgm

Sample Inquiry Topic:

Understanding Structures and Mechanisms

We will use the "Understanding Structures and Mechanisms" strand of the Ontario elementary Science and Technology curriculum as the focus of our model inquiry. Of particular interest for this inquiry will be understanding and investigating structures built by people. Correlations of this topic also exist in the grade 10 Technology Design curriculum.

A closer looks at the fundamental concepts, big ideas and overall expectations as the topic fits in grades 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 are listed below.

Curriculum Connections

  • Grade 1 - Materials, Objects, and Everyday Structures
  • Grade 3 - Strong and Stable Structures
  • Grade 7 - Form and Function
  • Grade 10 - Technology Design

Grade 1

Materials, Objects and Everyday Structures

Grade 3

Strong and Stable Structures

Grade 7

Form and Function

Grade 10

Technological Design (TDJ20)

This course provides students with opportunities to apply a design process to meet a variety of technological challenges. Students will research projects, create designs, build models and/or prototypes, and assess products and/or processes using appropriate tools, techniques, and strategies. Student projects may include designs for homes, vehicles, bridges, robotic arms, clothing, or other products. Students will develop an awareness of environmental and societal issues related to technological design, and will learn about secondary and postsecondary education and training leading to careers in the field.

About the Presenter

Chris Taylor is an Educational Technology Coach.

You can connect with Chris at @ChrisTaylor_OCT , on Google+, or by email at christopher.taylor@ddsb.ca.