The Five E's of Science

One of the best practice models for teaching science is the Five E's Model.

"The philosophy about learning, that proposes learners need to build their own understanding of new ideas, has been labeled constructivism. Much has been researched and written by many eminent leaders in the fields of learning theory and cognition. Scholars such as Jean Piaget, Eleanor Duckworth, George Hein, and Howard Gardener have explored these ideas in-depth. The Biological Science Curriculum Study (BSCS), a team whose Principal Investigator is Roger Bybee developed an instructional model for constructivism, called the 'Five Es'."

Object, event or question used to engage students.
Connections facilitated between what students know and can do.
Objects and phenomena are explored.
Hands-on activities, with guidance.
Students explain their understanding of concepts and processes.
New concepts and skills are introduced as conceptual clarity and cohesion are sought.
Students assess their knowledge, skills and abilities. Activities permit evaluation of student development and lesson effectiveness.

In order to show an example to other teachers, I decided to document myself teaching, using the Five E's Model to demonstrate how this model can be used in the science classroom.

The great thing about this model, is that it can be used to teach any topic, in any subject. This can be easily modified to teach a math, social studies, or language arts lesson, as well as elective courses such as art, technology, music, and physical education. Give it a shot and your students will be appreciative!