Category: Grade 5 Science

Earth’s Systems: Processes That Shape the Earth: In Part I Students explore the solar system, gravitational force of Earth, the sun as a star in comparison to other stars, and the orbits of Earth around the sun, and of the moon around Earth. Students learn how these concepts help us to understand and recognize observable patterns that explain day vs night, daily changes in length and direction of shadows, and positions of the sun, moon, and stars at different times of the day, month, and year. In Part II students explore the interaction between Earth’s geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere to affect Earth’s surface materials and processes. Students learn how humans impact these systems, and ways we can protect Earth’s resources and environment.

Students explore the structure and properties of solids, liquids, and gases. They learn the basics of chemical reactions, and are introduced to the concept that regardless of the change that occurs, matter is conserved.

Students explore how energy from the sun is captured and used by plants to survive and to provide food for other living things.  They learn how energy from food is used to help animals grow and survive. Students investigate food chains and food webs to learn of the interdependent relationships in ecosystems, how matter cycles, and how energy transfer occurs in an ecosystem.