Updated: 9/20/2003 cy

~ Inquiry Units for Grade 5 ~
2003 - 2004

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Because we had been alternating between fourth and fifth grade curriculum over the last three years of a combined 4/5 grade level, this year's units are a combination of fourth and fifth grade units, allowing us not to repeat any content for fifth graders.

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Astronomy
Our Place in Space

Central Idea: Human beings have sought to understand the universe and our place in it through an everexpanding reach of space exploration.

Inquiry into:
* Time, seasons, day and night as functions of the solar system
* Components of the solar system
* Manned and unmanned space explorations
* Forms of observation
* Contributions of individuals and civilizations

 

Colonization

Central Idea: Colonies are established for different reasons and they evolve in different ways.

Inquiry into:
* Conditions leading to people leaving their homelands to settle in new locations
* The different types of colonies developed
* The factors that affect the evolution of colonies

 

Magnetism
May the Force Be With You

Central Idea: Magnetism and electricity are phenomena with measurable properties and predictable behaviors.

Inquiry into:
* The forces of attraction and repulsion via magnets
* The workings of electrical circuits
* Energy transfer via electromagnets
* The use of electricity and magnets in science and technology

Revolution & Independence

Central Idea: Revolution has been a transforming event in human history. Many times, revolution redefines governments and leads to independence.

Inquiry into:
* What revolution is
* What causes revolutions
* How revolution affects human history
* Why people want independence

 

Human Growth and Development

Central Idea: Understanding our body systems provides a necessary foundation for making responsible choices in our health habits and social behavior.

Inquiry into:
* The systems of the human body
* Physical, emotional, and sexual
health
* Factors that allow us to nurture the health and safety of our own, and others’ bodies

 

IB-PYP Exhibition

Central Idea: Accumulated knowledge can be applied and presented in a meaningful way.

Inquiry into:
* How our knowledge can impact others
* How knowledge can be applied in an unfamiliar setting
* How we can involve family and community in our learning through action
* Creative and comprehensive presentation of acquired skills, attitudes, and knowledge

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