Systems analysis, problem solving, historical investigation, invention, experimental inquiry, and decision making are the six tasks that teachers can use to help students generate and test hypotheses (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K..2007). Decision-making is a task that can easily be incorporated in a middle school classroom. Over the years, I have found that middle school students love to formulate their own opinions and then discuss and debate them with their classmates. Using Decisions, Decisions computer software from Tom Snyder productions, students can participate in a real world problem based simulation. For example, earlier this year my students took on the role of President of the United States in a simulation. Our country was facing a severe energy shortage. Students had to use their knowledge of colonization and apply it to the simulation in which they were faced with the prospect of colonizing space.

Several years ago, I wrote a grant to purchase several of these simulations. They are amazing and my middle school students love them. They are thrilled that someone wants to hear their opinion. As the year progresses, they are able to articulate and prove their point of view often swaying classmates in the decision making process. With the use of simulations such as these, students are able to problem solve and develop critical thinking skills. It takes more time and effort on the part of the teacher to organize the simulation and manage the class, but it is worth it. When students actively participate in their learning, it will be more meaningful.


Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.