What approach can assess students' scientific inquiry skills?

Providing hands-on activities to conduct research is a highly effective approach to assess students' scientific inquiry skills because it engages them in the actual process of exploration, experimentation, and observation. This method allows students to apply scientific concepts and methods in real-world contexts, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. When students conduct research, they learn how to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, gather data, and analyze results, which are all essential components of scientific inquiry.

Hands-on activities also encourage collaboration and communication among peers, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts through experiential learning. This immersive approach not only helps to solidify their comprehension of scientific principles but also instills a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, which is crucial for developing long-term inquiry skills.