The 5 E Instructional Model
A Framework for
Inquiry-Based Instruction
Science
Content
Concepts
of
Process
Skills of
Science
Science
Science Process Skills
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Observing
Communicating – writing objectively
Classifying
Measuring
Relating objects in space & time
Predicting
Inferring
Controlling variables
Defining operationally
Experimenting
Engage
Elicit
Evaluate
Explore
5 E’s
Science Lesson
Extend Elaborate
Explain
Engage
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Activity which will focus student’s attention,
stimulate their thinking, and access prior
knowledge.
Demonstration
Reading
Free Write
 Analyze a Graphic Organizer
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KWL (Know already ~ Want to know ~ Learn) This is the “elicit” part
 Brainstorming
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Student asks questions such as:
Why did this happen?
What do I already know about this?
What have I found out about this?
Shows interest in the topic.
Explore
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Activity which gives students time to think and
investigate/test/make decisions/problem solve,
and collect information.
Perform an Investigation
 Read Authentic Resources to Collect
Information
 Solve a Problem
 Construct a Model
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Explain
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Activity which allows students to analyze their
exploration. Student’s understanding is clarified
and modified through a reflective activity.
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Student Analysis & Explanation
Supporting Ideas with Evidence
Structured Questioning
Reading and Discussion
Teacher Explanation
Thinking Skill Activities: compare, classify,
error analysis
Elaborate
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Activity which expands and solidifies
student thinking and/or applies it to a
real-world situation.
Problem Solving
 Decision Making
 Experimental Inquiry
 Thinking Skill Activities: compare, classify, apply
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Evaluate
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Activity which allows the teacher to assess
student performance and/or understandings
of concepts, skills, processes, and
applications.
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Any of the Previous Activities
Develop a Scoring Tool or Rubric
Performance Assessment
Produce a Product
Journal Entry
Portfolio
Extend
Earth Central Activities & 5Es
Introductory PowerPoint about
our institute by Richard.
 GPS Practice
 Solar Challenge
 Making geological maps
 Curriculum Work
 Forum Interactions (online)
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 Engage/Elicit
 Explore
 Explain
 Elaborate
 Evaluate/Expand
References
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Montgomery Public Schools
Eisencraft, Arther, “Expanding the 5-C Model,”
“The Science Teacher”, Vol.70, 2003, National
Science Teacher Association
Harlen, W. (1985) Primary Science: Taking the
Plunge
Trowbridge, L. W., Bybee, R. W., & Powell, J. C.
(2000). Teaching secondary school science:
Strategies for developing scientific literacy
Weiss, Tarin, Former STEM Staff Member