Course Description
We aim to help students develop higher-level scientific thinking by studying natural processes, analyzing complex systems, and presenting explanations based on clear scientific evidence.
Grade 5 marks a transitional milestone: students no longer study isolated phenomena but understand the interconnections between biology, physics, geology, and environmental science. They begin modeling processes, using data to reason, and posing hypothesis-driven questions.
Following the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the Grade 5 Science curriculum gradually introduces students to formal scientific research methods—from designing experiments and making observations to collecting data and writing reports to present conclusions.
Learning Content
The program is divided into 4 main domains:
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Life Science
Analyze the human and animal digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems; model food chains, food webs, and ecosystems; explore the role of microorganisms in nature; understand reproduction and basic heredity. -
Earth & Space Science
Study landform formation (mountains, rivers, valleys); the impact of natural events (floods, earthquakes, volcanoes) on habitats; examine human impacts on resources and climate; understand planetary life cycles and climate change. -
Physical Science
Explore material transformations (physical and chemical changes); distinguish reactions that produce new substances; study principles of light, sound, and electricity; analyze energy transfer within systems (e.g., ovens, solar panels, ecosystems). -
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
Design small-scale solar energy systems, bio-filtration units, or closed-loop ecosystems. Apply interdisciplinary knowledge to solve real-world problems through the scientific process: define problem → design → test → improve → present.
Learning Methodology
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Systems Modeling and Interdisciplinary Thinking – Build models of systems such as the digestive system, ecosystems, water cycle, and rock cycle; develop systems thinking to see interconnections across domains.
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Experimental Design and Variable Control – Guide students in designing their own experiments: define objectives, identify independent/dependent/controlled variables, plan data collection, draw conclusions, and propose improvements.
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Data Interpretation and Scientific Writing – Teach students to read and analyze charts; use data tables to support explanations; write scientific reports with clear structure: introduction, method, results, conclusion.
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Collaborative Inquiry and Role-Based Learning – Conduct group research projects with clear roles, work schedules, result compilation, and presentations; develop time management, academic communication, and scientific critique skills.
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Real-World Problem Solving – Use real issues such as water pollution, plastic waste, deforestation, and climate change as open-ended challenges for students to design feasible scientific solutions.
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5E Instructional Model – Engage → Explore → Explain → Elaborate → Evaluate.
Lessons:
