Monday, May 26, 2014

Successful Lesson Planning


If you are browsing the internet, you will find many sources that discuss the 5Es Instructional Method. From NASA to elementary science standards to fortune 500 companies, the 5E method has proved to be very successful.

What is the 5E method? The 5E method was developed by Rodger Bybee and the BSCS in the 80s. The 5E method represents a sequence of stages for instruction and learning. In each of the stages, instruction is given in a precise way to build on the previous stage. In the past, there were five concrete stages used in the method: engage, explore, explain, evaluate, and extend. Now, you will find a variety of different "Es" ranging from different words and order of the words.

The most common form now used in education and other areas of instruction are engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate. Notice that the order of "Es" is slightly different and extend has been  removed. Side note: NASA recognizes the 5E method as engage, explore, explain, extend, evaluate.

The many variations of the constructivist method is a good example of how as teachers we should follow a proven method, but tailor it to fit the specific needs of our students. Maybe your students need an extension as to compared to more elaboration over the current topic or vice versa. This is for you as a teacher to decide. The Tennessee state science lesson book actually uses the older version of the 5Es and provides an extension at the end of each chapter. You can even find 6E and 7E models now-a-days.

Whichever model you choose, I hope that you try this instructional method in your classroom. It can make planning fun, interactive, learning experiences easier and provides you a guideline for a well thought out lesson. Rodger Bybee has provided teachers with the ultimate game plan for getting children more interested in science.

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