The fifth grade science curriculum in Virginia is all about transforming matter and energy. It covers the forms and uses of energy in relation to force, motion, work, electricity, sound, and light. It also covers the properties of matter and how energy affects it. In addition, fifth graders delve into the constant changes Earth undergoes, and how the ideas of conservation of matter and energy relate to Earth’s finite resources. Throughout the year, fifth graders build their scientific skills and processes through an emphasis on defining testable problems; designing and executing appropriate investigations; measuring, organizing and analyzing data; using and critiquing models; and communicating graphically, orally and in writing about their science learning.
The books presented here are intended to support science literacy as well as provide rich, interesting and meaningful connections with our young scientists as we move through the curriculum.
- Science is magic that works. — Kurt Vonnegut
Literacy in Science 