Implementing the 5E Instructional Model into an Algebra 1 Solving Equations Unit

Abstract

In recent years, the education field has increasingly pushed for a focus on student-centered learning. Theories that revolve around student-centered learning are supported by teachers, but teachers are often left with little guidance for how to implement it into their classroom. More specifically, educators have been struggling to determine how to increase student engagement and collaboration in the mathematics classroom. One way for mathematics teachers to provide student-centered learning and encourage engagement and discovery in the classroom is through the 5E instructional model. This model is designed for students to engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate problem solving. This curriculum project presents 5 sequential Algebra 1 lessons designed around the 5E model to teach the Solving Equations Unit. The lessons present how well this instructional model fits with mathematics instruction to support student learning.