Lesson 3: Lesson Plan | Find Your Grind Resource Center

Starter Kit WHY + HOW to begin living the life you want + being the person you want to be.

Curriculum & Grade Level: Future Proof, 7th Grade

Objective(s):

Students will…

Students will be able to explain how asking "why" questions helps them better understand new information, make connections, and explore different perspectives in their learning.
Students will be able to develop and ask meaningful "why" questions to investigate deeper reasons behind concepts, events, or decisions they encounter in the module.

CLASSROOM ORGANIZATION

Materials & Resources:	Physical Space:
Word processing application Video recording device/software (optional) Design application (Google Slides, Canva, etc.) (optional)	The classroom setup should be left to the teacher's discretion, providing ample space for easy movement while monitoring student progress. A designated area should be established for one-on-one time between the teacher and students to connect and reflect on the lesson.

PROCEDURES

Select the activities that align with your time frame and class needs.

Introduction (3 minutes):	Start by asking students a few curiosity-driven questions to grab their attention: "Have you ever wondered why plants grow toward sunlight or how electricity powers your home?" These questions come from curiosity, the natural human drive to explore and understand the world. Today, we’re going to dive into how curiosity—especially asking "why" questions—can help you discover new ideas, solve problems, and become better thinkers. Next, explain the difference between open-ended and closed-ended questions. Ask them: "Have you noticed that some questions make you think deeply, while others just give a quick yes or no?" Open-ended questions, like "why," encourage deeper exploration, while closed-ended questions usually result in short answers. Today, you'll learn how to create thoughtful "why" questions that can help you think more critically, especially in subjects like science and history. Finally, encourage students to reflect on a time when they were curious about something. Let them know that today’s lesson will show them how asking "why" can help them learn more, not just in school but in their personal lives. Curiosity is the key to becoming a lifelong learner and unlocking your full potential.
2. Student Learning / Independent Learning (8 minutes):	Students will complete and earn the first two badges in the "Power of Asking Why" lesson: “The Power of Curiosity” and “Asking Effective Why Questions”.
3. Teacher-led Activity: Curiosity in Action (30 Minutes)	Students will engage in a hands-on project that allows them to explore the power of curiosity and practice asking effective "why" questions, ultimately producing a digital infographic or Google Slides presentation to showcase their findings. See teacher materials
4. Student Learning / Independent Learning (8 minutes):	Students will complete and earn the first two badges in the "Power of Asking Why" lesson: “The Why in Academics” and “The Why in Personal Growth”.
5. Teacher-Led Activity: The "Why" in Personal Growth (30 + Minutes):	Students will engage in self-reflection and goal-setting activities to explore their personal values, beliefs, and motivations. They will learn how to connect the concept of "why" to personal growth and development using best practices for goal setting. See teacher materials
6. Student-led Activity: I Wonder… (20 minutes):	Students will independently explore a topic of their choice using "why" questions, conduct research, and set goals for developing their curiosity and questioning skills.
7. Reinforce Learning – Closure (5 minutes):	"Today, you’ve seen how asking 'why' can unlock deeper understanding and help you think more critically in all areas of life. Keep using your curiosity to ask thoughtful questions, because it’s through curiosity that you’ll continue to learn, grow, and discover new possibilities." Reflection Question: "Before we end, think about this: What’s one new thing you learned today by asking 'why,' and how can you use that curiosity in other parts of your life?" Ask students to share their responses

DIFFERENTIATION

Student Learning Needs:

Strategies for students who need additional support: Offer one-on-one short check-ins. This allows them to ask questions, get clarification on difficult concepts, and receive individualized guidance, helping them stay on track and feel more connected in the online environment.
Strategies for advanced students: Create opportunities for advanced students to share their insights, lead discussions, and mentor their peers in specific subjects. This not only reinforces their own understanding but also enhances their leadership skills and fosters a collaborative learning environment.

Learning Preferences:

Choice in Assignments: Offer students options for how they demonstrate their understanding of the topic. For example, they could choose to write a report, create a presentation, or produce a video. This empowers students to engage with the material in a way that resonates with their learning preferences.

ASSESSMENT

Evaluate Student Understanding:

Badges with assessments:
- The WHY in Academics
- The WHY in Person Growth
Teacher and Student-led Activities:
- Rubrics are attached to each activity for teacher grading and reflection

CONNECTIONS

Real-World Connections:	Current Event Scholarly Article Podcast Video
Skill Development & Higher-Order Thinking:	Critical Thinking Problem Solving Curiosity and Inquiry Self Reflection Decision Making Communication Research Connecting Ideas Goal Setting
Explore Library	Skills to check out: Self Management Growth Mindset Open Mindedness Goal Oriented Problem Solving Analytical Thinking Decision Making Curiosity Quick Thinking Strategic Thinking

BADGE OVERVIEW

Badge Title: The Power of Curiosity

Students will demonstrate an understanding of the role of curiosity in critical thinking and problem-solving. They will be able to identify how being curious can lead to deeper understanding and more effective learning.

Badge Title: Asking Effective "Why" Questions

Students will be able to differentiate between open-ended and closed-ended questions and create strong "why" questions that promote deeper thought and understanding.

Badge Title: The “Why” in Academics

Students will apply the concept of "why" to various academic subjects, demonstrating their ability to use questioning to explore topics and enhance their learning.

Badge Title: The “Why” in Personal Growth

Students will engage in self-reflection and goal-setting to explore their personal values, beliefs, and motivations. They will connect the concept of "why" to personal growth and development.

Badge Title: I Wonder…

Students will demonstrate their ability to research and analyze information using "why" questions as a tool. They will be able to set goals related to further developing their curiosity and questioning skills.

NEW VOCABULARY

Growth Mindset	The belief that one's abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Critical Thinking	The ability to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and make reasoned judgments.
Open-Ended Question	A question that encourages a variety of responses and promotes deeper thinking.
Closed-Ended Question	A question that typically requires a yes or no answer or a single-word response.
Inquiry-Based Learning	A learner-centered approach that emphasizes questioning, investigation, and discovery.
Self-Efficacy	A person's belief in their ability to succeed in a particular task or situation.
Resilience	The ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges.

NEXT STEPS & REFLECTION

Ongoing professional learning and reflection related specifically to this lesson.

What went well?

What were the areas of opportunity or challenges? (e.g., difficulties with vocabulary, pacing, etc)

How did the lesson effectively foster a culture of curiosity and inquiry among the students, and what strategies or activities were particularly successful in encouraging them to ask thoughtful "why" questions?

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