Science

Throughout the fifth grade year, students develop a basic understanding of, and appreciation for, the world and how it functions. We practice making careful observations as we take a close look at the plants and animals in our environment. We study how energy flows through ecosystems, biodiversity, properties of matter, robotics, Earth’s systems, and resource use. We explore these issues and what we can do to help care for our planet. Over the course of the year, our activities build on basic science skills, with an emphasis on observation, data collection, interpretation, and communication. In addition, we spend significant time on developing good study skills and work habits.

Students will explore and discover scientific concepts, use science processing skills, and apply their inquiry and questioning abilities by performing a variety of scientific investigations. Earth and Space Science focuses on Earth’s place in the universe, Earth’s systems, the structure and change of the Earth over time, and the Earth and human activity, including climate change. Students will ask questions, develop and use models, analyze and interpret data, construct explanations, design solutions, engage in argument, and use these practices to demonstrate understanding of the core ideas.

Students will explore and discover scientific concepts, use science processing skills, and apply their inquiry and questioning abilities by performing a variety of scientific investigations. Within the study of life science, students will examine concepts in subjects like cell biology, the structure and function of living systems, the human body, genetics, evolution, biodiversity, the flow of matter and energy through ecosystems, and environmental problems and solutions. Students will ask questions, develop and use models, analyze and interpret data, construct explanations, design solutions, engage in argument, and use these practices to demonstrate understanding of core ideas.