Curiosity & observation
Notice, Wonder, Explain: A Classroom Routine
A simple discussion routine that turns a familiar object or picture into a question worth exploring.
By Aavison Education · Published · Updated
Before introducing an explanation, make room for observation. A familiar object, a picture from a lesson or a view through the classroom window can become a starting point for careful thinking.
What you need
A familiar classroom object or a teacher-selected picture, and a board or sheet for collecting ideas.
Try it in your classroom
Notice without explaining
Ask learners to describe only what they can observe. Collect their words. If someone offers an explanation, keep it as an idea to return to rather than treating it as an observation.
Make space for wondering
Invite questions beginning with why, how or what if. Group similar questions so the class can see which ideas have attracted attention.
Choose one question
Select a question that connects with the lesson. Ask learners what they already know and what information would help them explain it.
Return to the first observations
After the lesson, revisit the original list. What can learners now explain more clearly? What remains a question for another day?
Pause and reflect
A question to leave open.
What did you observe, and what did you infer? How did the lesson change your explanation?
An original classroom idea inspired by the Aavison Learning Cycle and the exploration approach described for Curious Science. It is not a reproduced textbook activity.
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