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The 5E model: a framework for guided-inquiry

The 5E model: a
framework for
guided-inquiry
The 5E model provides a framework for a constructivist,
guided-inquiry approach where students are supported to
think and work scientifically by gathering and analysing
their own evidence, and communicate their ideas with
others.

Watch: Introduction to the

Primary Connections 5E model

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Primary Connections resources and professional learning is based on the

5E teaching and learning model. This evidenced-based approach is
effective in guiding teaching and learning of science because it supports
active, constructivist learning; students draw on their prior knowledge,
pose questions, participate in hands-on experiences, and conduct
exploratory and formal investigations, to develop their own explanations
about scientific phenomena. Students are given opportunities to
represent and re-represent their developing understanding using literacy
skills. They are actively engaged in the learning process. Students develop
science inquiry skills and an understanding of the nature of science.

Teaching and learning progresses through five phases: Engage, Explore,

Explain, Elaborate and Evaluate. The phases of the Primary Connections 5E
teaching and learning model are based on the 5Es instructional model
(Bybee, 1997).

The 5Es
Engage
The purpose of the Engage phase is to elicit students' prior knowledge,
stimulate interest and gather diagnostic data to inform teaching and
learning. Each unit begins with a lesson that mentally engages students
with an activity or question. It captures student interest, provides an
opportunity for them to express what they know about the concept or skill
being developed, and helps them to begin to make connections between
what they know and new ideas.
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Explore About Primary Connections Contact us

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Students carry out hands-on PROFESSIONAL
investigations in which theyINSPIRATION
can explore the
AND with the problem
concept or skill. They grapple LEARNINGor phenomenon and
PEDAGOGIES
describe it in their own words. This phase allows students to acquire a
shared set of experiences that they can refer to to help each other make
sense of the new concept or skill. The Explore phase is characterised by
multiple opportunities for students to experience hands-on learning and
represent their thinking.

Explain
The purpose of the Explain phase is to support students to develop
scientific explanations, drawing from experiences and observations,
using representations. Students continue to develop knowledge of
concepts and demonstrate their developing understanding.

Elaborate
This phase provides opportunities for students to apply what they have
learned to new situations and develop a deeper understanding of the
concept or greater use of their science inquiry skills. It is important for
students to discuss and compare their ideas with each other during this
phase. Investigations in the Elaborate phase build student capability for
science inquiry skills in a meaningful context.

Evaluate
The final phase provides an opportunity for students to review and reflect
on their own learning, and on their new understanding and skills.
Students represent changes to their understanding, beliefs and skills.

Learn more about the 5E model (PDF, 72.4KB)

TWLH charts
A TWLH chart is a learning tool used to elicit students’ prior knowledge by
asking what students Think they know, determine questions students

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students know they’ve learned.
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Download the at-a-glance guide

Questioning 
Effective questioning techniques are an essential part of a teacher's
toolkit. This guide provides suggested question stems that can be used
during each phase of the 5E model.

Download the at-a-glance guide

Resources

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