The central theme of this study is to understand selected elements of classroom culture and how this might affect the successful implementation of innovations such as "Inquiry" and "Cooperative learning" strategies. For the study several classes were observed and interviews were conducted to identify and explore the patterns of classroom culture. Meanings were derived from such elements as: teachers' actions, students' activities, classroom setting, and communications patterns. Available literature helped in deriving these meanings from actions, symbols and norms. To arrive at a conclusion, suggestions made by the interviewees guided me. A new understanding of the classroom was gained and the research provided directions about where to start, what actions and decisions to make before implementing new strategies in the future.