Science is such a fun topic to teach kids. They love the interactive nature of science and exploring concepts that feel like fantasy, but are in fact very real. Science can sometimes seem like a fantasy world because it is difficult for us to wrap our heads around things that we cannot fully understand. For example, most of us will never fully understand how much a billion dollars really is. The size of the universe is the same kind of concept.
Fifth graders especially spend a lot of time studying the sky and all that it entails. To infinity and beyond. Because the universe is so expansive and the planets within our solar system are also very large, solar system projects are a great way to explore science. This could include the planets, what makes up a planet, the stars and clouds in the sky, and everything about the sun. As with any good science project, make sure you have solidified a hypothesis before you begin.
Solar System
Solar system projects are great for teaching and demonstrating scale. The size of the planets are not all equal and the distance between the planets is astounding. Two solar system project ideas are to draw to scale the distance between the planets on a roll of toilet paper, and also to represent the size of planets using different sizes of fruit. Both of these ideas are explained in more detail in the above link for solar system projects.
Solar Oven
Who doesn’t love s’mores? With a solar oven you can cook up some delicious s’mores without any fire or electricity. The energy of the sun is so powerful and can be demonstrated in a variety of science projects, but this one is by far the most delicious. It also adds an element of creativity if you allow your child to decorate and design it themselves. This project helps children understand just how hot and powerful the sun really is even from so far away. Learn more about renewable energy advisors.
Make a Cloud
With just a few common household items you can make a cloud in a jar. If you are doing this one at home make sure you have a few helping hands on deck because it moves fast. This project helps children understand the similar process that the clouds in the sky go through as they form. You can choose to observe the cloud inside the jar or open it and watch the cloud escape. This is a great time to discuss different kinds of clouds as well.
Understanding Why
For any type of science project to be effective, a hypothesis must be in place before beginning. A hypothesis ensures that the learner isn’t just wowed by the experiment, but understands why and how things are happening. The student should be able to explain their reasoning and explanation for what they think is about to happen before ever beginning. After the project is completed, there should be a time to review and discuss what took place and why.
