Learners discuss their methods for solving problems of rectangular area and come to the conclusion that multiplication of dimensions is the most efficient method, thus discovering the formula for the area of a rectangle.
These resources are part of KET's Math Instructional Strategies: Geometry collection.
Teacher Interview: Description of Lesson (Video)
Teacher Interview: Benefits of Inquiry-Based Teaching (Video)
Teacher Interview: Time Needed for Inquiry-Based Lessons (Video)
Formula first or discovery first? It's sort of a "which came first, the chicken or the egg?" question. Inquiry-based strategies encourage discovery learning, as research indicates that learner understanding and retention are increased. As they are guided to discover the formulas involved in problem solution, learners reinforce their mathematical foundation knowledge.