All books/Designing AI-Assisted Concept-Based Inquiry Classrooms

Chapter 2314 min read

Appendix D: Resources

Name: Designing AI-Assisted Concept-Based Inquiry Classrooms
Author: Vivek M Agarwal

This appendix provides resources for deepening your understanding of Concept-Based Instruction, inquiry learning, and AI in education. Resources are organized by topic and annotated to help you find what's most useful for your needs.

Foundational CBI Resources

Essential Reading

Erickson, H. L. (2007). Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction for the Thinking Classroom. Corwin Press.

The foundational text on Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction. Erickson provides the theoretical framework for organizing curriculum around transferable concepts and generalizations. Essential reading for anyone serious about CBI implementation.

Best for: Understanding the theoretical foundations of CBI

Erickson, H. L., Lanning, L. A., & French, R. (2017). Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction for the Thinking Classroom (2nd ed.). Corwin Press.

Updated edition incorporating developments in the field. Includes more examples, refined frameworks, and practical tools for implementation.

Best for: Comprehensive understanding with practical applications

Lanning, L. A. (2013). Designing a Concept-Based Curriculum for English Language Arts: Meeting the Common Core with Intellectual Integrity, K-12. Corwin Press.

Applies CBI specifically to ELA instruction. Provides subject-specific guidance, unit examples, and strategies for maintaining intellectual rigor while meeting standards.

Best for: ELA teachers seeking subject-specific CBI guidance

Marschall, C., & French, R. (2018). Concept-Based Inquiry in Action: Strategies to Promote Transferable Understanding. Corwin Press.

Bridges concept-based curriculum with inquiry methodology. Provides practical strategies for implementing inquiry within a concept-based framework.

Best for: Teachers ready to combine CBI with inquiry approaches

Stern, J., Ferraro, K., & Mohnkern, J. (2017). Tools for Teaching Conceptual Understanding, Secondary: Designing Lessons and Assessments for Deep Learning. Corwin Press.

Practical toolkit for secondary teachers. Includes planning templates, assessment strategies, and numerous classroom examples.

Best for: Secondary teachers seeking practical implementation tools

Stern, J., Ferraro, K., Duncan, K., & Aleo, T. (2021). Tools for Teaching Conceptual Understanding, Elementary: Harnessing Natural Curiosity for Learning That Transfers. Corwin Press.

Elementary-focused companion to the secondary tools book. Addresses developmental considerations and provides age-appropriate examples.

Best for: Elementary teachers seeking practical implementation tools

Structure of Knowledge Resources

Wiggins, G., & McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by Design (2nd ed.). ASCD.

While not specifically CBI, Understanding by Design provides complementary frameworks for backward design and enduring understandings. Many CBI practitioners integrate UbD principles.

Best for: Understanding backward design and big ideas

Bruner, J. S. (1960). The Process of Education. Harvard University Press.

Classic text that introduced the idea of the "structure of the disciplines." Foundational for understanding why concept-based approaches matter.

Best for: Historical and theoretical grounding

Hattie, J., Fisher, D., & Frey, N. (2017). Visible Learning for Mathematics: What Works Best to Optimize Student Learning. Corwin Press.

Research-based strategies for mathematics instruction, including attention to conceptual understanding. Part of the Visible Learning series.

Best for: Math teachers seeking research-based practices

Inquiry Learning Resources

Inquiry Methodology

Murdoch, K. (2015). The Power of Inquiry: Teaching and Learning with Curiosity, Creativity and Purpose in the Contemporary Classroom. Seastar Education.

Practical guide to implementing inquiry across subjects. Strong on creating inquiry culture and supporting student agency.

Best for: Building inquiry culture in classrooms

Wilhelm, J. D. (2007). Engaging Readers and Writers with Inquiry: Promoting Deep Understanding in Language Arts and the Content Areas. Scholastic.

Integrates inquiry with literacy instruction. Provides strategies for inquiry across content areas with attention to reading and writing.

Best for: Content area teachers integrating literacy

Ritchhart, R., Church, M., & Morrison, K. (2011). Making Thinking Visible: How to Promote Engagement, Understanding, and Independence for All Learners. Jossey-Bass.

Essential resource for thinking routines that support inquiry. Provides practical protocols for making student thinking visible.

Best for: Building thinking culture and visible thinking routines

Ritchhart, R. (2015). Creating Cultures of Thinking: The 8 Forces We Must Master to Truly Transform Our Schools. Jossey-Bass.

Expands on visible thinking to address school culture. Useful for understanding the broader conditions that support CBI.

Best for: School leaders and culture change

Project-Based and Problem-Based Learning

Larmer, J., Mergendoller, J., & Boss, S. (2015). Setting the Standard for Project Based Learning. ASCD.

Defines high-quality project-based learning. Helpful for understanding how PBL can incorporate conceptual focus.

Best for: Integrating CBI with project-based approaches

Krajcik, J. S., & Shin, N. (2014). Project-based learning. In R. K. Sawyer (Ed.), The Cambridge Handbook of the Learning Sciences (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.

Research-based chapter on project-based learning. Provides theoretical grounding for inquiry-based approaches.

Best for: Research foundation for inquiry methods

Subject-Specific Resources

English Language Arts

Beers, K., & Probst, R. E. (2017). Disrupting Thinking: Why How We Read Matters. Scholastic.

Addresses reading as thinking, not just skill execution. Supports conceptual approach to literacy instruction.

Best for: Developing readers as thinkers

Gallagher, K., & Kittle, P. (2018). 180 Days: Two Teachers and the Quest to Engage and Empower Adolescents. Heinemann.

Practical look at engaging secondary ELA instruction. Models thinking-centered instruction.

Best for: Secondary ELA teachers seeking practical inspiration

Anderson, J. (2005). Mechanically Inclined: Building Grammar, Usage, and Style into Writer's Workshop. Stenhouse.

Conceptual approach to grammar instruction. Shows how to teach language concepts rather than just rules.

Best for: Grammar and language instruction

Mathematics

Boaler, J. (2016). Mathematical Mindsets: Unleashing Students' Potential through Creative Math, Inspiring Messages and Innovative Teaching. Jossey-Bass.

Addresses mathematics as conceptual and creative. Provides research-based strategies for developing mathematical thinking.

Best for: Building mathematical mindsets and conceptual understanding

Van de Walle, J. A., Karp, K. S., & Bay-Williams, J. M. (2019). Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally (10th ed.). Pearson.

Comprehensive methods text with strong conceptual focus. Provides developmentally appropriate strategies.

Best for: Elementary and middle school math instruction

Smith, M. S., & Stein, M. K. (2011). 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions. NCTM.

Practical framework for facilitating mathematical discourse. Supports inquiry-based math instruction.

Best for: Mathematical discourse and discussion

Leinwand, S. (2014). Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All. NCTM.

NCTM's vision for effective mathematics teaching. Aligns well with CBI principles.

Best for: NCTM-aligned mathematics instruction

Science

Bybee, R. W. (2014). The BSCS 5E Instructional Model: Creating Teachable Moments. NSTA Press.

Definitive guide to the 5E model. Essential for science teachers using inquiry approaches.

Best for: 5E model implementation

Windschitl, M., Thompson, J., & Braaten, M. (2018). Ambitious Science Teaching. Harvard Education Press.

Research-based approach to science teaching focused on explanation and sense-making. Strong alignment with NGSS and inquiry.

Best for: NGSS-aligned science instruction

Achieve. (2013). Next Generation Science Standards: For States, By States. National Academies Press.

The NGSS standards themselves. Essential reference for science teachers.

Best for: Standards reference

NGSS Lead States. (2016). Using Phenomena in NGSS-Designed Lessons and Units. nextgenscience.org.

Guidance on phenomenon-based instruction. Supports conceptual science teaching.

Best for: Phenomenon-based science instruction

Social Studies

Seixas, P., & Morton, T. (2013). The Big Six Historical Thinking Concepts. Nelson Education.

Definitive guide to historical thinking concepts. Essential for history teachers.

Best for: Historical thinking framework

Wineburg, S. (2001). Historical Thinking and Other Unnatural Acts: Charting the Future of Teaching the Past. Temple University Press.

Foundational text on historical thinking. Provides research basis for conceptual history instruction.

Best for: Theoretical grounding in historical thinking

Grant, S. G., Swan, K., & Lee, J. (2017). Inquiry-Based Practice in Social Studies Education: Understanding the Inquiry Design Model. Routledge.

Comprehensive guide to the Inquiry Design Model (IDM). Provides framework for inquiry-based social studies.

Best for: Inquiry Design Model implementation

Parker, W. C. (2018). Social Studies Today: Research and Practice (2nd ed.). Routledge.

Overview of contemporary social studies education. Addresses various approaches including inquiry and conceptual instruction.

Best for: Broad overview of social studies methods

Assessment Resources

Conceptual Assessment

Brookhart, S. M. (2010). How to Assess Higher-Order Thinking Skills in Your Classroom. ASCD.

Practical guide to assessing higher-order thinking. Directly applicable to assessing conceptual understanding.

Best for: Designing assessments for deeper understanding

Wiliam, D. (2011). Embedded Formative Assessment. Solution Tree.

Essential resource on formative assessment. Provides strategies applicable to CBI classrooms.

Best for: Formative assessment implementation

Moss, C. M., & Brookhart, S. M. (2012). Learning Targets: Helping Students Aim for Understanding in Today's Lesson. ASCD.

Guidance on clear learning targets. Supports concept-focused goal setting.

Best for: Clarifying learning goals

Performance Assessment

McTighe, J. (2015). Essential Questions: Opening Doors to Student Understanding. ASCD.

Guide to developing and using essential questions. Supports inquiry-focused CBI.

Best for: Question design

Stiggins, R., & Chappuis, J. (2012). An Introduction to Student-Involved Assessment FOR Learning (6th ed.). Pearson.

Student-centered approach to assessment. Supports student ownership of learning.

Best for: Student-involved assessment practices

AI in Education Resources

Understanding AI

Holmes, W., Bialik, M., & Fadel, C. (2019). Artificial Intelligence in Education: Promises and Implications for Teaching and Learning. Center for Curriculum Redesign.

Comprehensive overview of AI in education. Provides framework for understanding possibilities and limitations.

Best for: Understanding AI in educational contexts

Luckin, R. (2018). Machine Learning and Human Intelligence: The Future of Education for the 21st Century. UCL Press.

Research-based exploration of AI and learning. Addresses how AI can support and potentially transform education.

Best for: Research perspective on AI and learning

Seldon, A., & Abidoye, O. (2018). The Fourth Education Revolution: Will Artificial Intelligence Liberate or Infantilise Humanity?. University of Buckingham Press.

Explores implications of AI for education's future. Raises important questions about AI's role.

Best for: Big-picture thinking about AI and education

AI and Teaching Practice

Mollick, E., & Mollick, L. (2023). "Assigning AI: Seven Approaches for Students, with Prompts." Wharton School.

Practical framework for student AI use. Provides specific strategies and prompts.

Best for: Classroom AI use frameworks

Chen, L., Chen, P., & Lin, Z. (2020). "Artificial intelligence in education: A review." IEEE Access, 8, 75264-75278.

Research review of AI in education. Provides evidence base for AI applications.

Best for: Research overview

AI Literacy

Long, D., & Magerko, B. (2020). "What is AI literacy? Competencies and design considerations." Proceedings of the 2020 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, 1-16.

Framework for AI literacy competencies. Useful for planning student AI education.

Best for: AI literacy curriculum design

Touretzky, D., Gardner-McCune, C., Martin, F., & Seehorn, D. (2019). "Envisioning AI for K-12: What should every child know about AI?" Proceedings of the AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence, 33(01), 9795-9799.

Framework for K-12 AI education. Provides developmental progression.

Best for: K-12 AI curriculum planning

Professional Learning Resources

Teacher Development

Knight, J. (2007). Instructional Coaching: A Partnership Approach to Improving Instruction. Corwin Press.

Framework for instructional coaching. Applicable to CBI implementation support.

Best for: Coaching and supporting teacher growth

Easton, L. B. (Ed.). (2015). Powerful Designs for Professional Learning (3rd ed.). Learning Forward.

Collection of professional learning designs. Useful for planning CBI professional development.

Best for: Professional learning design

DuFour, R., & Fullan, M. (2013). Cultures Built to Last: Systemic PLCs at Work. Solution Tree.

Guide to building sustainable professional learning communities. Supports collaborative CBI implementation.

Best for: Building collaborative structures

Reflective Practice

Schön, D. A. (1983). The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action. Basic Books.

Classic text on professional reflection. Foundational for understanding reflective practice.

Best for: Theoretical grounding in reflection

Brookfield, S. D. (2017). Becoming a Critically Reflective Teacher (2nd ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Practical guide to critical reflection. Provides specific strategies for examining practice.

Best for: Developing reflective habits

Organizations and Websites

Professional Organizations

Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction Network

Website: cbci.network
Resources: Workshops, conferences, practitioner network
Best for: Connecting with CBI community

ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development)

Website: ascd.org
Resources: Publications, professional learning, educational leadership resources
Best for: Broad educational resources

Learning Forward

Website: learningforward.org
Resources: Professional learning standards, publications, conferences
Best for: Professional development design

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)

Website: nctm.org
Resources: Publications, conferences, mathematics education resources
Best for: Mathematics-specific resources

National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)

Website: socialstudies.org
Resources: Publications, C3 Framework, conferences
Best for: Social studies-specific resources

National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)

Website: nsta.org
Resources: NGSS resources, publications, conferences
Best for: Science-specific resources

International Literacy Association (ILA)

Website: literacyworldwide.org
Resources: Publications, standards, professional learning
Best for: Literacy-specific resources

Online Resources

Project Zero (Harvard Graduate School of Education)

Website: pz.harvard.edu
Resources: Thinking routines, research, visible thinking resources
Best for: Thinking routines and visible thinking

Buck Institute for Education (PBLWorks)

Website: pblworks.org
Resources: Project-based learning resources, professional development
Best for: Project-based learning integration

Stanford History Education Group

Website: sheg.stanford.edu
Resources: Reading Like a Historian curriculum, assessment tools
Best for: Historical thinking resources

ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)

Website: iste.org
Resources: Technology standards, AI in education resources
Best for: Technology and AI integration

AI4K12 Initiative

Website: ai4k12.org
Resources: K-12 AI education guidelines and resources
Best for: AI curriculum for K-12

Building Your Professional Library

Essential Shelf (Start Here)

One foundational CBI text (Erickson or Lanning)
One subject-specific methodology text
Making Thinking Visible (Ritchhart et al.)
One assessment resource (Brookhart or Wiliam)

Expanded Collection

Additional subject-specific resources
Concept-Based Inquiry in Action (Marschall & French)
AI in education resource
Professional learning design resource

Reference Collection

Standards documents for your subject/grade
Understanding by Design (Wiggins & McTighe)
Current educational leadership subscription
Access to educational research databases

Staying Current

Journals to Follow

Educational Leadership (ASCD)
Subject-specific journals (NCTM, NCSS, NSTA, ILA publications)
Phi Delta Kappan
Journal of Curriculum Studies

Blogs and Newsletters

Cult of Pedagogy (Jennifer Gonzalez)
Edutopia
Education Week
Subject-specific organization newsletters

Social Media Hashtags

#ConceptBasedLearning
#InquiryBasedLearning
#EdChat
Subject-specific hashtags (#MTBoS, #SSchat, etc.)

Conferences

Learning Forward Annual Conference
ASCD Annual Conference
Subject-specific conferences (NCTM, NCSS, NSTA, NCTE)
Regional and state conferences

A Note on Resources

Educational resources are constantly evolving. The books, articles, and websites listed here represent excellent starting points as of this book's publication. However:

Verify currency: Check for updated editions
Evaluate critically: Apply the same critical thinking you teach
Adapt for context: What works in one setting may need modification for yours
Build your network: Colleagues are often the best resources
Contribute back: Share what you learn with the professional community

The best resource is often another thoughtful practitioner wrestling with the same questions you face. Seek out colleagues, join professional networks, and engage in the ongoing conversation about how we help students develop transferable understanding.

For additional resources and updates, visit [author website]. The CBI community continues to grow and develop new tools, strategies, and insights. Join us in the ongoing work of helping students think conceptually and transfer their learning.