Course Description
5^th Grade General Science

 

This year the students will be studying:

• Astronomy: the night sky; how astronomers learn about space; the solar system; stars and galaxies.
• Earth Science: properties and uses of minerals and rocks; the rock cycle; Earth’s structure; fossils as clues to the age of rocks; the formation of mountains; faults.
• Light and Sound: properties of light; lenses and their uses; color; properties of sound; the sense of hearing; controlling, recording, and transmitting sound.
• Energy, Work, and Machines: properties of energy, including its forms, ability to change form, and effects; friction; simple machines.
• Plants: parts of flowering plants; plant cells; plant processes; classifying plants; structural adaptations.
• Populations and Ecosystems: dynamic interactions of living and nonliving things in a ecosystem; how energy and matter flow through an ecosystem; biomes; biodiversity.

 

Course Policies

Grading System

Student grades are determined using the following percentages:

Tests/Quizzes/Projects: 70%

Homework and Labs: 30%

 

Tests and Quizzes

Test dates will be announced 3 to 5 days in advance.  Tests and quizzes will include both objective and subjective style questions (e.g. multiple choice, true or false, matching, fill in the blank, problem solving, short answer, and essay).  Quizzes will be given regularly to check for understanding of reading assignments and class material.  Quizzes may or may not be announced.  Tests may include a section of cumulative material from previous tests.  This will allow for greater retention of material and less cramming for final exams.  Rubrics will accompany all projects. 

 

Homework and Labs

The majority of your homework, class work and labs will be turned into the appropriate class tray on the day it is due. 

 

Absence and Tardiness

YOU are responsible for making up any missed assignments or tests.  See me to schedule a time outside of class to make up missed tests, quizzes and labs.