# How do scientists know so much?

## Observing & Asking Questions

[4.7(20104 reviews)](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264#/index.html)

### Activity Prep

In this mini-lesson, students deepen their understanding of two foundational scientific practices: making observations and asking questions. In the activity, Curiosity Challenge, students “train their brains” by observing an everyday object and asking questions like a scientist would.

#### What you’ll need for students

| Item                                          | Action                |
|-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------|
| [Curiosity Question (Grades K-2)](/content/print/preview/g/1R5DrnhNrZDWNtDN2ZYZFhdixUooGMv4h6zlcBpTdMbM/presentation/index.html) printout | Print 30 copies       |
| [Wonder Journal (Grades 3-5)](/content/print/preview/g/1znGFR6THioTB3SYcV_ztfOOQ_acwhbh9flkOTnqn1KY/presentation/index.html) printout | Print 30 copies       |
| [Wonder Journal (Grades K-2)](/content/print/preview/g/1UhyDQTRdiNhZE9KBv5PVOsW51xNRg8i3VPJjhLPSsvk/presentation/index.html) printout | Print 30 copies       |

This activity can be repeated throughout the year with any object to help focus student observations, spark curiosity, and invite questions for deeper understanding!

# Extend This Activity Throughout The School Year

In the extensions, we have a Curiosity Wheel to encourage students to continue making observations and asking questions throughout the year! You can find the printout and instructions in the Extend This Lesson box found on this page.

#### Exploration

[10 mins](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264#slide-id-4719/index.html)

[Hands-On Activity](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264#slide-id-4703/index.html)

[**Student link**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)  
[**Google Classroom**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)  
[**Email parents**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)  
[**Activity**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)  
[**Discussions**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)  
[**Transcripts**](/content/trending/mystery-10/observing-asking-questions/264?modal=sign-up-modal/index.html)

Slow internet or video problems?

**Curiosity Wheel**  
Below is an idea for extending this activity throughout the school year by using our [Curiosity Wheel](/content/print/preview/g/1n3ABRi4JVNKB4D8Cva3O4mkgT5bztaM3wANlJ5_F8VE/presentation/index.html).

How do scientists know so much?  
Observing & Asking Questions

### Summary

This lesson helps students engage in scientific practices by making observations and asking critical questions, fostering curiosity, and enhancing learning through hands-on activities.