Science and Engineering Instructional Focus for Grade 5 Marking Period 1
What is the instructional focus for this marking period?
Throughout the marking period, the Measurement Topics of Physical Sciences and Engineering & Technology are
interwoven as students explore the physics of force and motion. Students demonstrate how scientists and engineers
collaborate when they apply the concepts of physics through an inquiry project in which they design amusement park
rides. In week 2, students observe and describe types of motion (i.e., uniform motion, variable motion, periodic motion). In
week 3, students use measurements to describe an object’s motion in relation to distance, time, direction, and speed.
During weeks 4–6, students investigate changes in an object’s motion related to the mass of the object and the forces of
gravity and friction acting upon an object. In weeks 7 and 8, students explore potential and kinetic energy and examine
energy transformations to develop an understanding regarding the conservation of energy. Week 9 brings the marking
period to a close as students combine their investigations in science with products in writing and information literacy to
present their amusement park ride design proposals.
Instruction in week 1 focuses on mental and emotional health concepts and topics. Students practice flexibility and
collaboration skills as they demonstrate healthy ways to communicate needs, wants, emotions, opinions, and information.
Verbal and non-verbal communication strategies are analyzed and practiced to express emotions. One of the six
components of personal well-being (i.e., spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional/mental, social, and environmental) is
analyzed and applied to develop a goal for positive self-change. Personal issues and problems are dramatized using the
decision-making process. Time management strategies are demonstrated to effectively reduce stress.
Why will students learn this?
Enduring Understandings and Essential Questions
An object’s motion is described using distance, time, direction, and speed.
 How is an object’s motion described?
Changes in mass and force affect an object’s motion.
 What causes an object’s motion to change?
Energy exists in various forms in mechanical systems.
 What evidence do you have that energy exists in various forms?
Tools, materials, and skills are used to carry out a task, conduct an investigation, or address a problem.
 What is needed to carry out a task or conduct an investigation?
 How can tools, materials, and skills be used to carry out a task, conduct an investigation, or address a problem?
Understanding and applying the steps of the engineering design process can be used to address a technological problem.
 What steps are used to carry out the engineering design process?
 How can the engineering design process address a technological problem?