Investigator Students
Investigator is a transformative phase in cognitive development. At this stage, student's minds are honing advanced problem-solving skills through hypothesis testing and abstract thinking. As they can now follow more difficult multi-step directions, learning becomes layered, adding depth to their basic understandings by introducing advanced cause and effect and inferential thinking.
As your child advances in this cognitive stage, they are also developing public speaking skills and persuasive and argumentative abilities. As investigators of their faith, students are becoming grounded in their faith developing a deeper understanding of scripture, cultivating the skills necessary for independent exploration to expand their belief system, and improving their research techniques leading to more thoughtful reflection. This phase serves as a pivotal academic and spiritual journey, equipping students with the tools to navigate complex biblical truths and encouraging a lifelong commitment to thoughtful inquiry within their faith.
In this stage, there is some flexibility introduced with the materials. With open spaces for writing, parents can require more or less of their students based on level of advancement, as well as require longer or more complex responses from their students.
General guidelines for Investigator students-
Cognitive Characteristics:
Students start developing abstract thinking, hypothesis testing, and more advanced problem-solving skills.
Educational Focus:
Aimed at learners who have a solid foundation in Bible knowledge.
Engages in in-depth biblical studies, ethical discussions, and activities that challenge students to explore and critically analyze biblical concepts and texts (making the truth their own!).
Explores in-depth Bible stories and historical context.
Incorporates analytical and interpretive activities.
Encourages deeper research and independent study.
Promotes discussions, debates, and personal reflections.
*It's important to remember that not all students will progress at the same rate. While your student may not meet all of the above guidelines, we recommend choosing the one that best describes your student currently. It is at the parents discretion as to when they want to try the next level to challenge their students. Our intent with tailoring materials and resources to these cognitive development levels is to ensure that homeschoolers receive age-appropriate and intellectually stimulating content for their spiritual and educational growth.