What type of instruction should a sixth-grade teacher provide for an engaging research question?

Inquiry-based instruction is the most effective approach for engaging students in research questions, especially at the sixth-grade level. This type of instruction encourages students to explore topics deeply through questioning, investigation, and critical thinking. By posing an engaging research question, teachers can stimulate students' curiosity and desire to learn, allowing them to take ownership of their learning process.

Through inquiry-based instruction, students learn to formulate their own questions and develop hypotheses, leading to a more dynamic and interactive classroom environment. This method not only promotes critical thinking skills, but also fosters collaboration among students as they share ideas and findings. Furthermore, it allows for real-world connections, making the research process more relevant and meaningful for the students.

In contrast, the other methods—direct instruction, passive instruction, and lecture-based instruction—tend to be more teacher-centered and may not engage students as effectively in exploration and deeper understanding of the subject matter. These methods often limit student interaction and can lead to less engagement with the content. Therefore, inquiry-based instruction is the most suitable choice for facilitating an engaging and enriching research experience in the classroom.