A biochemistry class was transformed to implement student‐centered, active‐learning pedagogies to help improve competencies associated with the scientific method. In responding to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the course content switched from the biochemistry of nucleic acids to the science of the newly discovered virus, SARS‐CoV‐2. This provided a unique opportunity to model authentic science inquiry through cycles of questioning, investigating, assessing, and critical thinking on a rapidly evolving, interdisciplinary topic. This learning experience helped enhance science literacy, supported self‐directed learning and curiosity, and emphasized the importance of evaluating information sources to recognize misinformation.