United States · Common Core State Standards
5th Grade Science
Students investigate the hidden structures of matter, the complex interdependencies within ecosystems, and the vast scale of the solar system. This curriculum emphasizes evidence-based reasoning through hands-on inquiry and the application of engineering design principles to solve real world problems.
The Structure and Properties of Matter
Students explore the particle nature of matter and how substances change when they are mixed or heated.
Investigating how matter is made of particles too small to be seen yet still possessing mass.
Using physical properties such as solubility, conductivity, and magnetism to identify mystery materials.
Conducting experiments to show that total weight does not change during physical or chemical shifts.
Energy and Matter in Ecosystems
Tracing the flow of energy from the sun through food webs and the recycling of matter in the environment.
Understanding that the energy in all animal food was once energy from the sun.
Evaluating evidence that plants acquire their material for growth chiefly from air and water rather than soil.
Modeling the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
Earth Systems and Human Impact
Examining the interaction between Earth's four major spheres and the human role in protecting resources.
Investigating how the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere interact to shape Earth.
Mapping the distribution of fresh and salt water across the planet's surface.
Designing and evaluating solutions to protect Earth's resources and environment.
Stars and the Solar System
Exploring the patterns of daily changes on Earth and our place in the wider universe.
Analyzing why the sun appears larger and brighter than other stars due to its distance from Earth.
Explaining patterns of shadows, day and night, and the seasonal appearance of stars.
Investigating the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects directed toward the center of the planet.
Engineering Design and Innovation
Applying scientific principles to define problems, develop models, and optimize solutions.
Learning how to specify criteria and constraints for a successful design solution.
Creating multiple solutions and testing them to see which best meets the criteria.
Using data from tests to make iterative improvements to a design.