In fifth grade, students become more sophisticated in their analysis of the interconnections within systems. When investigating, students use data to support their conclusions and logical arguments. They begin to determine factors that contribute to scientific bias.

Essential Question: How does our investigative process lead to new questions about the flow of matter and energy within a system?  (key concept for 5th grade Science)

Investigative Skills: Data analysis, inquiry skills, detecting scientific bias

EALR 1 – Analyze a system in terms of subsystems and larger, more inclusive systems.
Students learn that systems contain smaller sub-systems, and that systems are also parts of larger systems. Students learn about inputs and outputs, and how to predict what may happen to a system if the system’s inputs are changed. The concept of a hierarchy of systems provides a conceptual bridge for students to see the connections between mechanical systems (ie, cities), and natural systems (ecosystems).

EALR 2 – Plan different kinds of investigations, including field studies, systematic observations, models, and controlled experiments.

Students can also collect, display, and interpret data; summarize results; draw conclusions; and communicate their findings. Students are aware that scientific explanations emphasize evidence, involve logical arguments, and are consistent with scientific principles and theories.

EALR 3 – Work individually and collaboratively to design and produce a product to solve a problem. 

Note: EALR’s 1, 2, and 3 are taught throughout the domains in EALR 4 as part of experiments and observations

EALR 4 – Domains of Science:

Physical Science
Forces, Motion, and Energy
Students build on their intuitive understanding of energy and learn how heat, light, sound, and electrical energy are generated and can be transferred from place to place. For example, they learn that motion can be transferred from one object to another, they learn how heat is generated and than it is transferred from warmer to cooler places, and they learn how sound is generated by vibration. They will see that electricity can transform into many different forms such as light, heat, sound, and motion.

Topics/Performance Expectations

• Forces and Motion/PS1A, PS1B
• Energy / PS3B, PS3C, PS3E

Earth Science
Formation of Earth Materials

Students will learn how earth materials (rocks, soil, water, gases), change and can be used for various purposes. People use these materials as resources to meet their needs. Students will look more in-depth at soil as a resource and how it is formed.

Topics/Performance Expectations

• Formation of Earth Materials / ES2A
• Earth Processes/ES2B, ES2C, ES2D, ES2E, ES2F
• Earth Evolution/ES3A, ES3B

Living Systems
Ecosystems, Food webs

Students will learn how ecosystems change, and how these changes affect the capacity of an ecosystem to support populations. Some changes in ecosystems are caused by the organisms themselves. The ability of any organism to survive will depend on its characteristics and behaviors. Humans also play an important role in many ecosystems and may reduce negative impacts through careful use of natural resources. Concepts related to ecosystems make it possible for students to understand the interrelationships among the various forms of life and between living things and their environment.

Topics/Performance Expectations

• Life Processes/LS2B
• Biological Evolution/LS2D, LS2E
• Interdependence of Life/LS2A, LS2C, LS2F
• WASL Prep