Science 5 Home

In fifth grade we focus on the area of life science. The course begins with a project where we learn to employ the scientific method, by devising our own experiments. Followed by a unit on the origin of life, we learn to distinguish a living thing from an inanimate object. This unit will prepare us for an intensive look at the basic unit of structure and function in living things, cells. We will learn the basic principles of ecology and the classification of all living things before we embark on the outdoor education field trip. Following the outdoor education trip we will be prepared to begin the study of a variety of organisms from all the kingdoms of life - the Archaebacteria, Eubacteria, Protists, Fungi, Plants and Animals.  

In the spring, there is a three-day outdoor education trip to the Marin Headlands (go to the Marin Headlands for more details).  Here small group instruction encourages an understanding of the basic principles of ecology through an intimate association with the natural environment.  Each hiking group will promote cooperative learning and personal reflection.  The goal of the Headlands program is to broaden our awareness of the natural world and our relationship to it.  I see this as an exceptional educational opportunity and expect the boys and faculty will share a memorable time studying science and learning more about themselves in a beautiful natural setting. 

Throughout the year, we emphasize  hands-on, experiential learning in the classroom. In addition, students increase and demonstrate their understanding of the subject through art projects, experiments, debates, cooperative learning projects, field trips and outdoor activities.

Goals For Students:

1. To enhance curiosity and respect for the diversity of life in our environment.

2. To think like biologists and employ the scientific method.

3. To display exemplary teamwork and learn cooperatively.

4. To understand the importance of technology in science.

5. To develop organizational and study skills.

The texts we use are:

Science Explorer: The Nature of Science & Technology, Prentice-Hall Science Inc.

Science Explorer: From Bacteria to Plants, Prentice-Hall Science Inc.

Cells: The Building Blocks of Life, Prentice- Hall Science Inc.

Requirements:

All students must keep an organized section in their binders for class notes, homework assignments, lab reports and other course material.

An atmosphere of mutual respect for oneself, classmates, teachers, rules, the lab and the lab equipment will be maintained at all times.

We encourage you to be open to learning about science, yourself and being a student in school, who has successes and who is confronted with challenges.  Throughout the year we will ask you to reflect upon these things. 

Homework: 
Homework assignments are usually given on Tuesday and Thursday.   Assignments will be discussed in class and written on the board.  They will also be posted on the web at www.townschool.com. 

Grading: Science grades are based on the following criteria:

Tests & Quizzes (20%): A quiz takes only a small portion of the period to complete.  A test takes most or all of the period to complete.  They include multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, label the diagram and short answer questions.  A study guide will precede each quiz/test.  Students will often be required to create a “ticket to the quiz/test”.  A “ticket” is study aid that students produce and study from prior to the quiz/test. 

Projects (20%): Projects will vary depending on the topic being studied. At the start of a project you will be given a rubric.  The rubric is used as a way to communicate the project expectations and as a tool to help you stay organized. 

Homework (20%): You will be assigned at least 2 homework assignments each week.  We will review your homework and look at the following criteria: depth of thought in written responses, completeness, ability to follow instructions and punctuality of the assignments.

Labs (20%): Labs are evaluated for use of appropriate lab technique, effort, using equipment properly, and depth of thought in written responses, completeness, ability to follow procedures, understanding of the concepts and punctuality of the lab.

Class Work (20%):  Assignments worked on in class only.  We will consider depth of thought in written responses, completeness, evaluate if you were on task during the activity and ability to follow procedures.   

Citizenship: This is given an E, S, or U value.  Teamwork, attentiveness, your ability to focus on task at hand in class, perseverance, enthusiasm, cooperation and overall classroom behavior are taken into consideration for this mark.

Work Habits:  This is given an E, S or U value. Timeliness, coming to class prepared with materials, turning homework and lab work in on time and the sense of purpose you apply to your work are all taken into consideration for this mark. 

After School Help: We are available to help students after school on Monday and Thursday afternoons until 4:05 pm.
 

Test Day:  The fifth grade science test day is Thursdays.