"Science is dynamic and not static; it is constantly morphing and evolving." Carrie Wolinetz,PHD.
The Florida 5th grade Science FCAT Exam test the knowledge of students in the 8 strands of science knowledge as set forth by the Florida Sunshine State Standards. The test is comprised of multiple choice, short-response and extended-response questions that cover Strand A through Strand G, with 25% of the questions focusing on Strand H (The Nature of Science).
What exactly is Strand H? This is the strand that deals with the purpose and process of science. It involves the scientific process, the need for standardized communication, the world of a scientist, and the role that models play in understanding the natural world around us. To help our students understand this strand better, we use investigation, observations and experiments in the class room. We also conduct a yearly Science Fair that ends in April. Scroll to the bottom of this page and you will find the Science Fair Packet and other useful information for THIS YEAR's SCIENCE FAIR.
Continue reading to find some suggestions that will help you not only prepare your child for this standardized test, but help them become better observers of the world around them.
Go Titans! Go Science! Go Green!
The Science Committee
What Can I Do to Help My Child Prepare?
1. READ !!!
Reading non-fiction books that draw your child's interest will go a long way to helping them further understand science. Magazines, science articles, and science web sites are a great place to start. While you're at it, build a fiction library that focuses on your child's science interest. There are tons of GREAT books out there that really draw your child in while improving their content knowledge.
2. FCAT Explorer !!!
This well-known web site has a science component that is fun and interactive, aside from improving their science knowledge.
3. Web Sites !!!
Try some of the web sites below or find ones that interest your children ... Discovery Channel, PBS and Scholastic all have science-based, kid-friendly activities to capture your child's interest.
4. Investigation & Experiment !!!
Try out your own science questions and keep a log. All experiments or investigations do not have to follow every step of the scientific method, but keeping a journal of things you observe, try and research deepens the understanding of Strand H and the need to keep records. These can be journals of daily observations of plants in your yard or experiment ideas that you might use later for the Science Fair.
5. QUIA !!!
Click on the provided links to Quia games we create or find that will also help focus your learning. Games are a fun and non-threatening way to reinforce concepts that you learn in school.
6. VOCABULARY BUILDING !!!
Knowing what word parts mean can help your child improve their ability to build comprehension in science. Below you will find some games that focus on word parts that are specific to science. Playing the "Vocabulary" games can help your child break down the more difficult words in science into smaller parts that provide more meaning.
7. JOURNALS !!!
Have your child keep a journal of their wonderings and interest in science. Encourage them to create diagrams - pictures that are labeled. Remind them that if they diagram anything, then the ability to draw doesn't really matter as much since each part is labeled and allows the observer to understand what you are trying to convey. They should also include a short explanation that connect the item to content they know. This is a vital practice since the READING FCAT has questions on "Reference & Research" that focus on pictures, captions, diagrams and charts ... all of which are easily found in science.
8. SCIENCE BOX OF WONDER !!!
Have your child decorate a simple shoebox with recycled materials and cut-out pictures. Then place this box in a visual area where it will attract attention. Allow your child to collect items during trips, outtings, and visits that they really enjoy. Ask them to make a little journal to explain what the item is, why they like it and how it is related to science. If they collect bugs, have them draw a diagram of their bug and observe it for a few minutes before releasing back where they found it. Use this opportunity to discuss with your child the fair treatment of all living things and the importance of putting it back where you found it. A great book to read when creating this science box is ANNA'A TABLE by Eve Bunting so that your child's creative wheels start to spin.
These are just a few ideas and since this web site is for the purpose of Science preparation, we want it to be helpful. If you have any suggestions or know of information that would be helpful to you, the students and parents of Nova Eisenhower, please feel free to contact Ms. Marousky by clicking on "send e-mail to Titans" at the top of this page. We hope you enjoy this site.
Here's a basic letter letting you know about the upcoming Science Fair.
Science Fair Is Coming
Want to start working on your Science Fair Project now? Download the packet for this year's Science Fair and get a jump on your great project. Remember that all grade levels are invited to participate and it is mandatory in 5th grade.
2008-2009 Science Fair Packet
Wondering what your mini-board layout could look like? Want some suggestions? Download this suggested layout PDF to start forming your ideas. Remember that you can cut and paste your project, but how about adding some foldables to really make it pop. Check out the links below for a few web sites that provide directions on how to make various foldables.
Mini-Board Layout
Ready to put the final project together and want to make sure you have all the pieces? Download the Grading Rubric here ...
Science Fair Project Rubric
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