The 7E learning cycle model is an instructional design framework that helps students actively construct new knowledge through a structured process. According to the provided reference, it involves seven phases: Elicit, Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate, and Extend. This model aims to help students understand problems and phenomena encountered in their environment. Teaching materials designed with the 7E learning cycle guide students through these stages, fostering deeper understanding and retention.
The 7Es Explained:
Here's a breakdown of each phase within the 7E learning cycle:
| Phase | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Elicit | Activate prior knowledge and identify existing student understanding of the topic. | Asking students what they already know about photosynthesis before starting a lesson on the topic. |
| Engage | Capture student interest and create a connection to the learning objectives. | Showing a captivating video about plant growth and asking students what questions it raises for them. |
| Explore | Provide hands-on activities and experiences for students to investigate the topic. | Conducting an experiment where students grow plants under different light conditions. |
| Explain | Help students develop explanations and understandings of the concepts. | Facilitating a class discussion where students share their observations and begin to formulate explanations. |
| Elaborate | Encourage students to apply their new understandings in different contexts and deepen their knowledge. | Assigning a project where students design a self-sustaining ecosystem. |
| Evaluate | Assess student learning and understanding through various methods. | Giving a quiz, having students present their projects, or observing their participation in class discussions. |
| Extend | Encourage students to expand their knowledge and make connections to other areas of study or real-world applications. | Researching different types of plants and their adaptations to various environments. |
Benefits of Using the 7E Learning Cycle:
- Active Learning: Students are actively involved in the learning process, leading to better retention and understanding.
- Conceptual Understanding: Focuses on building deep conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Encourages students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Real-World Relevance: Helps students connect learning to real-world situations.
Example Implementation:
Imagine teaching about the water cycle using the 7E model:
- Elicit: Ask students about their experiences with rain, rivers, and other water sources.
- Engage: Show a video of a dramatic thunderstorm or a flowing river.
- Explore: Conduct an experiment where students create a mini water cycle in a jar.
- Explain: Discuss the processes of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
- Elaborate: Have students research how the water cycle affects different ecosystems.
- Evaluate: Assess student understanding through a diagram labeling activity.
- Extend: Discuss the impact of pollution on the water cycle and explore solutions.
