I Notice, I Wonder, It Reminds Me Of

Learning how to observe, ask questions, and make connections in nature is learning how to learn. This powerful routine can be the foundation of exploration, discovery, and wonder in students’ nature study and in any other academic discipline.

You and your students can learn observation and fundamental inquiry skills through this simple routine. “I notice” focuses our attention and helps us articulate and remember our observations. “I wonder” sparks inquiry and invites us to question deeply and broadly. “It reminds me of” leads us to connect what we observe to what we already know, which builds stronger memories. The ability to make useful connections between seemingly unrelated things is an important aspect of creativity, and practicing “It reminds me of” builds this skill. Together, these prompts can change the way you and your students experience the world, offering a routine and practice for learning about anything.