The power of inquiry-based learning in English education

Shalini Solanki

English education plays a vital role in nurturing students’ language skills, critical thinking abilities٭, and appreciation for literature. To enhance the effectiveness of teaching English, educators are turning to inquiry-based learning, an approach that empowers students to actively engage with the language and explore its nuances. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of inquiry-based learning in English education and provide practical examples of implementing it in the classroom.

Inquiry-based learning is an educational approach that places students at the center of their learning experience. It involves encouraging students to ask questions, investigate topics of interest, and seek answers through research, critical thinking, and collaboration. This student-centered approach fosters a deeper understanding of the English language by actively involving students in the learning process. Rather than passively receiving information, students become active seekers of knowledge. By questioning, investigating, and exploring, they develop a sense of ownership over their learning, which leads to higher engagement and retention of knowledge.

Strategies for implementing inquiry-based learning

Reading activities

Reading is an integral part of English language education, and inquiry-based learning can breathe new life into this process. Instead of traditional comprehension questions, encourage students to generate their own questions about the text, discuss their interpretations, and conduct research to find answers. For example, in a lesson on figurative language, students can ask questions such as, “How does the use of similes and metaphors enhance the reader’s understanding of a poem?”, or “What effect does personification have on the overall meaning of a piece of prose?”

Students can research and present the historical and cultural context of a poem to enhance their understanding of its themes and imagery.

Project-based language tasks

Integrate project-based language tasks into the English curriculum to promote inquiry-based learning. For instance, ask students to create their own magazine articles, podcasts, or short films on a topic of their choice. This project-based approach encourages students to inquire, research, and apply their language skills in authentic and creative ways.

Debates and discussions

Engage students in debates and discussions. Assign controversial topics, or conduct literary analysis debates, or language-related discussions that require students to research, gather evidence, and articulate their arguments. This approach enhances critical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to express opinions effectively.

Authentic language tasks

Design language tasks that require students to apply their language skills in real-world contexts. This can include writing letters, creating advertisements, or conducting interviews. These tasks provide opportunities for students to inquire, research, and communicate effectively while developing their language proficiency.

For example, ask students to imagine that they are travel bloggers and to write about a specific destination. They must research the location, gather information, and write persuasive descriptions using descriptive language techniques.

Word etymology research

Assign students the task of researching the origin of a word. They can research the word’s etymology, historical usage, and changing definitions. Students can explore the linguistic shifts and cultural influences that have affected the meaning of the word in written reports or visual presentations that highlight their research findings.

Case studies of language change

Ask students to look at particular instances of English language change. For instance, students can investigate the evolution of verb tenses (such as strong and weak verb conjugation), or the variations in pronoun usage (such as thou, ye, and you). Students can investigate the causes of these linguistic changes by reading articles and analyzing historical sources. They can use written reports or multimedia presentations to present their findings.

Active exploration

Active exploration is essential for inquiry-based learning. Give students access to a variety of literary texts and materials, such as novels, short tales, and poetry, so that they can pick the pieces that catch their attention. Encourage them to study the historical and cultural circumstances in which the works were created as well as literary characteristics like narrative, characters, and symbolism.

For example, when studying George Bernard Shaw’s The Arms and The Man, students may investigate the customs and expectations of society regarding war, love, and marriage. They might explore the themes of fate and free will and examine how these ideas are reflected in the play. Through active exploration, students develop a deeper understanding of the text and its relevance to their own lives.

These strategies can help educators to create an environment that fosters inquiry, critical thinking, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of English language and literature. Inquiry-based learning empowers students to become active participants in their own learning journey, preparing them for lifelong learning and success in the English language domain.

٭English language gives students access to a range of ideas, books, and resources from different cultures. This helps them think more deeply about various topics. When students study English, they often analyze texts, write essays, and take part in debates, which pushes them to think carefully and build strong arguments. This process teaches them to question things, solve problems, and express ideas clearly.

The author is currently pursuing her master’s in Education Management at King’s College London. Previously, she worked as a team lead and programme facilitator for English at an international school in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. In her free time, she enjoys reading children’s literature, doing yoga, and watching historical films. She can be reached at shalinisolanki70@gmail.com.