This paper reports the first results of an experimental research, carried out in a private school with 9th grade students, where the 4C/ID-model was used for teaching and learning electric circuits. The authors describe the principles and features of the instructional model, that is suitability for the teaching and learning of complex knowledge and skills and yet their permeability to develop digital educational resources and learning environments. The authors analyse the preliminary experimental results in terms of students' performance (both reproduction and learning transfer), mental effort and instructional efficiency. They also suggest clues to future research.