Science

There are 5 topics in Grade 5 science:

 

In Grade 5, students normally show independence and the ability to work cooperatively in exploratory activities and, with some guidance, the ability to work independently or cooperatively in investigation activities. Throughout the year, students will actively enage in building various skills such as science inquiry—design and carry out an investigation, recognize the importance of accuracy in observation and measurement, and apply suitable methods to record, compile, interpret, and evaluate observations and measurements—as well as problem solving through technology—design and carry out an investigation of a practical problem and develop a possible solution. Students will also develop positive attitudes for the study of science and for the application of science in responsible ways.  

Students learn about electricity by building and testing circuits. Using batteries, bulbs and wires, students construct simple circuits and test the effects of various modifications. Through such tests, they discover that a circuit requires a closed pathway for electricity and that some materials conduct electricity and others do not. They learn that an electric current can affect a nearby magnet and that this property of electricity is used in making electromagnets and motors. Potential dangers are examined, as students learn about the safe use of electricity.

In this unit, students will demonstrate safe methods for the study of magnetism and electricity, identify methods for measurement and control, and apply techniques for evaluating magnetic and electrical properties of materials.

Specific Learner Expectations

Students will:

1. Recognize and appreciate the potential dangers involved in using sources of electrical currents:

·  understand that household electrical currents are potentially dangerous and not a suitable source for experimentation

·  understand that small batteries are a relatively safe source of electricity, for experimentation and study, but that care should be taken to avoid short circuits

·  understand that short circuits may cause wires to heat up, as well as waste the limited  amount of energy in batteries.

2. Describe and demonstrate example activities that show that electricity and magnetism are related:

·  demonstrate that electricity can be used to create magnetism

·  demonstrate that a moving magnet can be used to generate electricity.

3. Demonstrate and interpret evidence of magnetic fields around magnets and around current carrying wires, by use of iron filings or by use of one or more compasses.

4. Demonstrate that a continuous loop of conducting material is needed for an uninterrupted flow of current in a circuit.

5. Distinguish electrical conductors—materials that allow electricity to flow through them— from insulators—materials that do not allow electricity to flow through them.

6. Recognize and demonstrate that some materials, including resistors, are partial conductors of electricity.

7. Predict the effect of placing an electrical resistance in a simple circuit; e.g., in a circuit with a light bulb or electric motor.

8. Recognize that the amount of electricity we use in our homes is measured in kilowatt hours.

9. Interpret and explain:

·  the reading on a household electrical meter

·  efficiency labels on electrical appliances.

10. Draw and interpret, with guidance, circuit diagrams that include symbols for switches, power sources, resistors, lights and motors.