The Enquiry Types Webinar Series is designed to support teachers at all stages of their careers in developing a deeper understanding of enquiry types and how to teach them effectively across the primary age range, including early years. Whether you are new to teaching, moving year groups, or looking to strengthen your approach to teaching science, this series will provide practical guidance and examples to use in your classroom.
Access our enquiry types webinar series
Explore the webinars
Select a webinar to find out more about the session, including what will be covered and the key learning aims.
Webinar 1
Observation and observing over time
In this webinar, we explore how to approach observation in the primary science classroom, highlighting that it is a skill that needs to be taught explicitly. The session will define the enquiry type of observation over time and provide examples across the primary age range.
Webinar 2
Identifying, classifying and grouping
Identifying, classifying and grouping is widely used in primary science, with applications across multiple topics. This session explores how to teach this enquiry type effectively and exemplifies what it looks like in practice.
This webinar covers:
- The applications of identifying, classifying and grouping
- Skills that particularly lend themselves to this enquiry area and their progression across school
Webinar 3
Pattern seeking
Pattern seeking plays a key role in scientific thinking, helping children identify relationships in science. This session defines pattern seeking as an enquiry type and explores how it can be applied in primary science lessons.
This webinar covers:
- Different types of pattern seeking
- Progression in pattern seeking
Webinar 4
Comparative and fair testing
Comparative and fair testing are distinct but often confused. This session defines each approach, clarifies their differences, and provides practical examples for how to teach them effectively.
This webinar covers:
- The difference between comparative and fair testing
- Progression in comparative and fair testing
Webinar 5
Research
Research as an enquiry type extends beyond books and internet searches. This session explores different approaches to research, providing practical strategies to help children develop skills in finding and evaluating scientific information.
This webinar covers:
- Different approaches to research in the primary science classroom
- Progression in research
