The «5E» Educational Model as a Means of Designing Stem Lessons in Elementary School

The article examines the features of applying the «5E» educational model as a means of designing STEM lessons in elementary school. It is determined that the «5E» model consists of five stages (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate), each of which contributes to the consistent and systematic development of key and subject-specific competencies in younger students during STEM lessons. It is established that the «5E» educational model, when adapted, can be successfully used for preparing and conducting not only a cycle of lessons united by a common theme but also individual STEM lessons, significantly expanding its applicability in the educational process of elementary school. The correspondence between parts of a lesson and the stages of the «5E» educational model is identified. For instance, the introductory part of a STEM lesson corresponds to the «Engage» stage, aimed at capturing students' attention and stimulating their interest in the new topic. The main part of the lesson encompasses the «Explore», «Explain», and «Elaborate» stages, during which students actively explore the material, develop their own understanding of the topic, and complete practical tasks. The final part of the lesson corresponds to the «Evaluate» stage, where students assess their achievements, analyze the results obtained, and receive feedback on the quality of their material comprehension. An example of a STEM lesson on the topic «Getting to Know Water Better» is provided, demonstrating the practical implementation of the «5E» educational model in elementary school. Special attention is given to the teacher's preparation for conducting STEM lessons using the «5E» educational model, including the selection of teaching methods, the development of a practical work plan, and the assessment of results. The advantages of using the «5E» educational model for designing STEM lessons in elementary school are substantiated. The main advantages include the alignment of different teaching strategies, flexibility, active learning, connection with the real world, and research-based learning. The article notes the promising use of the «5E» model in elementary school, as it provides a systematic and structured approach to organizing STEM lessons, enhances students' motivation to learn, and contributes to a deeper understanding of the material.