Grade Five: Science

Typical Grade Five Science Performance on the CST

Advanced

Students in grade five at the advanced level are able to use science knowledge to make predictions about life, Earth, and physical science phenomena. Advanced students have an understanding of principles of the water and rock cycle and are able to describe outcomes based on changes to the respective cycles. They are able to make predictions about organisms' characteristics based on environment. Advanced students understand the role of body systems and the interrelatedness of each. Advanced students grasp how properties of materials affect how they conduct electricity and react with other substances. Advanced students demonstrate movements of celestial bodies and describe how each movement affects other bodies. They are able to take scientific information and plan follow-up studies to broaden understanding.

Proficient

Students in grade five at the proficient level demonstrate a good understanding of Earth, space, and living systems. They are able to conduct investigations based on questions and report data. Proficient students are able to describe the importance of the body's systems. They are able to compare properties of substances. They are able to describe which traits are beneficial to organisms and how those traits aid in survival. Proficient students know that planets and other bodies have predictable patterns. They are able to control variables when conducting investigations. They are able to describe the components of the water cycle.

Basic

Students in grade five at the basic level show an understanding of Earth, space, and living systems. They are able to conduct investigations using instructions. Basic students are able to identify the functions of the body's systems. They are able to describe properties of substances and some traits that are beneficial to organisms. They are able to identify components of the water cycle and can identify planets and other extraterrestrial bodies. They are able to make and record observations.

Below Basic

Students in grade five at the below basic level are able to identify Earth and the Sun. They are able to identify water and rock cycle diagrams. Below basic students can use a magnet to identify the magnetic properties of different substances.