The EXPLAIN phase consists of two parts. First, the teacher asks students to share their initial models and explanations from experiences in the Engage and Explore phases. Second, the teacher provides resources and information to support student learning and introduces scientific or technological concepts. Students use these resources and information, as well as ideas of other students, to construct or revise their evidence-based models and explanations. In engineering, students design solutions to problems based on established criteria.

STUDENT BEHAVIORS

• Shows models, explanations, answers, or possible solutions, to other students

• Listens critically to and questions explanations offered by others

• Explains using evidence from investigations

• Uses labels, terminology, and formal scientific language

• Compares current thinking with former thinking

• Records ideas and current understanding

• Adjusts ideas, models, and explanations as new evidence or reasoning is presented

TEACHING STRATEGIES

• Encourages students to explain concepts and definitions in their own words

• Asks for justification (evidence) and clarification from students

• Formally provides definitions, explanations, and information through mini-lecture, text, internet, or other resources

• Builds on student explanations

• Provides time for students to compare their ideas with others and if desired revise their ideas