For a 2nd grade earth science lesson, what activity would be most motivating while developing science-inquiry skills?

The choice of having students collect rock samples on the playground, examine them using magnifying glasses, and describe what they see is effective because it actively engages students in hands-on learning. This experience allows them to participate in the scientific process by observing and investigating their environment directly.

Through this activity, students develop inquiry skills as they formulate questions about the rocks they find, make observations about their characteristics, and possibly even draw comparisons between different samples. This form of experiential learning is critical at the early childhood education stage, as it promotes curiosity and encourages critical thinking. Additionally, being outside and interacting with their environment can significantly enhance motivation and interest in science.

In contrast, the other options involve more passive forms of learning, such as reading a textbook, watching a video, or completing a worksheet, which do not provide the same level of engagement or opportunity for hands-on exploration. These methods may convey information but lack the interactive component that is crucial for stimulating inquiry and deeper understanding in young learners.