Term
Summer 2025
Capstone
Capstone Project
Degree Name
MAT
Facilitator(s)
Karen L. Moroz
Content Expert
Manar Reda
Abstract
This curriculum project was based on the question, “How can science educators teach middle school students while promoting quality inquiry-based learning with a minimum budget?” It was inspired by budget constraints forcing teachers to spend personal funds ($500-$750 annually) on classroom supplies. Science teachers are particularly impacted due to specialized equipment needs, and quality inquiry-based learning is often sacrificed due to cost limitations. The curriculum created as part of this project was written with the framework of Pedaste et al.'s (2015) inquiry phases, the National Research Council's (2012) A Framework for K-12 Science Education, and Wiggins and McTighe's (2011) Understanding by Design backward planning approach. The literature review focused on inquiry-based learning, the cost of science education, community assets, Minnesota Science Standards, and state testing. The curriculum produced is a 15-day seventh-grade ecosystems unit using zero additional budget integrated into the existing McGraw Hill Inspire Science curriculum with community-based alternatives. Additionally, the enhanced curriculum improves cultural equity through place-based learning and local knowledge systems integration while developing real-world connections. This practical framework was developed to be implemented by other educators facing budget constraints, eliminating personal financial burden while improving curriculum relevance.
Project Type
Curriculum
Keywords
Community Building, Curriculum, Parent Involvement, Science
Recommended Citation
Olander, Rosalie, "Middle School Science Inquiry-Based Learning on a Budget" (2025). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects. 1124.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/1124
dc_type
text
dc_publisher
DigitalCommons@Hamline
dc_format
application/pdf
dc_source
School of Education Student Capstone Projects