Grade 5 – Science and Technology

Course Overview

The Grade 5 Science and Technology course deepens students’ scientific understanding while strengthening their ability to think critically, investigate systematically, and apply knowledge to real world contexts. As learners progress through the junior years, they move beyond observation toward more analytical exploration of scientific concepts and technological innovation.

Students examine the complexity of the human body, investigate how matter transforms, analyze the forces that act upon structures, and explore the responsible use of energy and natural resources. Through hands on inquiry, design challenges, and problem solving experiences, learners begin to understand the interconnected nature of science, technology, society, and the environment.

Scientific learning is positioned as both practical and forward looking, encouraging students to ask meaningful questions, evaluate evidence, and consider how scientific advancements influence the world around them.

Important Information

• No prerequisites are required for elementary courses
• Ontario elementary programs do not issue transcript credits
• Facilitated and independent learning pathways are available to support diverse learning needs

What Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students engage in investigative learning experiences that promote curiosity, analytical reasoning, and responsible decision making.

Students will:

• Understand how human body systems function and interact
• Examine physical and chemical changes in matter
• Analyze forces that influence structural stability
• Investigate renewable and nonrenewable energy sources
• Evaluate environmental impacts related to scientific innovation
• Apply the engineering design process to solve problems
• Develop coding skills connected to real world technology
• Strengthen scientific research and communication skills
• Interpret evidence and draw informed conclusions
• Recognize the relationship between science, technology, and society

These competencies support growing independence while preparing students for more advanced scientific study.

Course Structure

Learning is organized into engaging units that connect scientific theory with practical application.

STEM Skills and Connections

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are integrated throughout the course. Students conduct investigations, design solutions, and communicate findings while making meaningful connections between classroom learning and real world scientific challenges. Learners also examine the contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, recognizing how Indigenous knowledge has informed scientific and technological systems.

Human Health and Body Systems

Students explore how organ systems function collaboratively to sustain life. They examine how structure supports function and consider how lifestyle choices influence overall health. This unit promotes awareness of personal wellbeing while strengthening scientific reasoning.

Properties of and Changes in Matter

Learners investigate the three states of matter and distinguish between physical and chemical changes. Students analyze how material properties determine their practical uses and evaluate the societal and environmental implications of these transformations.

Forces Acting on Structures

Students examine how external and internal forces affect both natural and built structures. Through design challenges, learners build and test frame structures while applying engineering principles. They also analyze how forces resulting from natural events shape the environment.

Conservation of Energy and Resources

Students explore how energy is transformed and classify sources as renewable or nonrenewable. They assess the immediate and long term consequences of energy consumption and design devices that convert one form of energy into another. Emphasis is placed on responsible resource management and sustainable thinking.

Coding

Students investigate how data and coding influence everyday technologies. They write and execute code involving variables while developing logical thinking and computational problem solving skills.

Learning Resources

As a fully online course, Grade 5 Science and Technology does not rely on a traditional textbook. Students utilize digital tools alongside hands on materials that support inquiry based learning.

Recommended resources include:

• A device capable of capturing written work
• Audio recording tools
• Access to a printer
• A binder, folder, or notebook for offline activities
• Centimetre grid paper
• Basic lab and construction materials such as scissors, ruler, glue, cardboard, and a plastic bottle
• Household materials for experiments and design challenges

These resources help create an interactive environment where students actively explore scientific concepts.

Teaching and Learning Approach

Our approach blends direct instruction with inquiry based investigations so that students develop both conceptual understanding and practical scientific skills.

Key features of the learning experience include:

• Inquiry driven investigations that promote curiosity
• Integration of STEM concepts across units
• Opportunities for experimentation and engineering design
• Technology enriched instruction combined with offline exploration
• Interactive media that supports multiple learning styles
• Guided discussions that strengthen scientific communication
• Consistent teacher support that encourages analytical thinking

A learning coach may assist younger learners by supporting technical aspects of the course and encouraging engagement in collaborative activities.

Preparing Students for Continued Scientific Growth

By the end of Grade 5, students demonstrate stronger investigative skills, improved analytical thinking, and a deeper understanding of how scientific principles shape the modern world. Their ability to evaluate evidence, design solutions, and consider environmental impact prepares them for the increased rigor of intermediate science.

At Trinity Ontario Elementary School, every learning experience reflects the vision of Trinity Ontario Global Academy by combining academic excellence with character development and global perspective. Students complete Grade 5 Science and Technology equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and curiosity needed for continued success in their academic journey.