Chapter 4

Chapter four had some very interesting points. Here, we learn and discuss the 5-E model of instruction for teaching science. This model is not only practical and useful, but is also beneficial in making sure that all the important aspects of instruction are covered. On pages 94 & 95 of the text, the charts do a nice job illustrating the specific functions of what the teacher does applying the 5-E model, and what the student is expected to do using this same model. It brakes down the phases in detail and explains them in a manner that is very understandable and approachable. I also enjoy how the 5-E model provides specific focus on the NSES tasks of inquiry. I plan on using this approach when teaching science as a future educator.

Another method that I plan on using in my own teaching is the guided discovery approach. Here, the students are presented with interesting questions about the natural world, and they explore materials, make observations, and find the answers to their questions. I would serve as a guide in the discovery process, and I think this is important because children need to be motivated to want to explore and answer questions on their own terms, and I feel that the guided discovery approach makes this possible.