Virginia State Standards for Science: Grade 5

VA.5.1. Scientific Investigation, Reasoning, and Logic: The student will plan and conduct investigations in which a) rocks, minerals, and organisms are identified using a classification key; b) estimations of length, mass, and volume are made; c) appropriate instruments are selected and used for making quantitative observations of length, mass, volume, and elapsed time; d) accurate measurements are made using basic tools (thermometer, meter stick, balance, graduated cylinder); e) data are collected, recorded, and reported using the appropriate graphical representation (graphs, charts, diagrams); f) predictions are made using patterns, and simple graphical data are extrapolated; g) manipulated and responding variables are identified; and h) an understanding of the nature of science is developed and reinforced. 44
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.1.

VA.5.2. Force, Motion, and Energy: The student will investigate and understand how sound is transmitted and is used as a means of communication. Key concepts include a) frequency, waves, wavelength, vibration; b) the ability of different media (solids, liquids, and gases) to transmit sound; and c) uses and applications (voice, sonar, animal sounds, and musical instruments). 5
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.2.

VA.5.3. Force, Motion, and Energy: The student will investigate and understand basic characteristics of visible light and how it behaves. Key concepts include a) the visible spectrum and light waves; b) refraction of light through water and prisms; c) reflection of light from reflective surfaces (mirrors); d) opaque, transparent, and translucent; and e) historical contributions in understanding light. 7
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.3.

VA.5.4. Matter: The student will investigate and understand that matter is anything that has mass; takes up space; occurs as a solid, liquid, or gas. Key concepts include a) atoms, elements, molecules, and compounds; b) mixtures including solutions; and c) effect of heat on the states of matter. 8
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.4.

VA.5.5. Living Systems: The student will investigate and understand that organisms are made of cells and have distinguishing characteristics. Key concepts include a) basic cell structures and functions; b) kingdoms of living things; c) vascular and nonvascular plants; and d) vertebrates and invertebrates. 52
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.5.

VA.5.6. Interrelationships in Earth/Space Systems: The student will investigate and understand characteristics of the ocean environment. Key concepts include a) geological characteristics (continental shelf, slope, rise); b) physical characteristics (depth, salinity, major currents); and c) biological characteristics (ecosystems). 8
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.6.

VA.5.7. Earth Patterns, Cycles, and Change: The student will investigate and understand how the Earth's surface is constantly changing. Key concepts include a) the rock cycle including the identification of rock types; b) earth history and fossil evidence; c) the basic structure of the Earth's interior; d) plate tectonics (earthquakes and volcanoes); e) weathering and erosion; and f) human impact. 50
Suggested Titles for Virginia Science State Standard VA.5.7.