Learning Through Inquir(EEEEE)y

A pedagogical approach to teaching science: 

Inquiry-Based Learning using the 5E instruction model. 

The 5E Instructional model promotes active, collaborative inquiry-based learning. The 5E model sequences learning experiences so that students have the opportunity to construct their understanding of a concept through exploration. 

The model leads students through five phases of learning:

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Inquiry allows students to become fully immmersed in real science by encouraging them to ask testable questions, create and carry out investigations, analyze and interpret data, draw warranted conclusions, and construct explanations that promote a deep conceptual understanding of science topics. 

Clarification: Inquiry-based learning is NOT discovery learning. The key distinction between the two approaches is that inquiry-based learning is scaffolded whereas discovery learning is not. During discovery learning, students are not guided through the process. The inquiry process is scaffolded during inquiry-based learning; meaning educators become facilitators. They facilitate the gradual progression from structured/guided inquiry to open inquiry. 

There are four levels of inquiry that are used during inquiry-based instruction. The image below is an informative representation of these levels: 

. . . ____________________ . . . ____________________ . . . ____________________ . . . 

Inquiry-based learning is a research-based approach to learning that challenges learners. This approach makes learning meaningful, enhances learning, teaches skills needed for all areas of learning, fosters curiosity in students, deepens student understanding of topics and concepts, allows students to take ownership of their learning and increases engagement.  Below I have linked and a brief simple sample of a 5E lesson plan, check it out!

Simple 5E Lesson Plan: How Do Different Drinks Affect our Teeth?


Constructing new learning is dependent on old learning. Check out this video on How to Use the 5E's in order to create a lesson with higher learner retention.