5th grade science project research paper example

Science Fair Projects for 5th Grade: Teacher's Guide

Finding meaningful science fair projects for 5th graders can be a real challenge for teachers.

This comprehensive guide for teachers promises to make planning and executing winning science fair projects for 5th grade easy and enjoyable.

You'll discover the top 10 project ideas, step-by-step instructions for developing testable experiments, gathering materials, recording observations, analyzing data, creating visual displays, tips for captivating presentations, and evaluating outcomes to celebrate student success.

Introduction to Science Fair Projects for 5th Grade

Science fair projects provide an engaging way for 5th grade students to explore science topics that interest them. As a teacher, guiding students through the process of developing a science fair project teaches important research, critical thinking, and communication skills. This guide offers tips and resources to help 5th grade teachers mentor students in creating meaningful science fair projects.

Exploring the Benefits of Science Fair Projects

Science fair projects have many benefits for 5th grade students:

• Spark interest and engagement in STEM topics
• Build research, experiment design, and data analysis skills
• Boost confidence through independent investigation of a topic
• Allow creativity and choice in project development
• Develop scientific thinking and communication abilities

By participating in science fairs, students gain exposure to the scientific method and learn how to conduct experiments.

Selecting Winning Science Fair Topics

Choosing an appropriate topic is key to developing a successful science fair project. Consider these strategies for helping 5th graders select a topic:

• Brainstorm areas of interest from the 5th grade science topics list
• Determine if a topic can be tested through an experiment at home
• Ensure required materials are easily accessible
• Match topics to students' abilities and skill levels

Some winning 5th grade science fair projects have focused on testing the effects of different variables on plant growth, modeling weather phenomena, investigating properties of matter, and more.

Crafting a Compelling Research Question

A strong research question guides the entire science experiment. Here are tips for developing a focused research question:

• Frame the question around testing a specific variable
• Make the question clear, narrow, and answerable through an experiment
• Use the scientific method to inform the phrasing of the question

For example, "How does the amount of sunlight affect the growth rate of bean plants?" is an effective research question.

What are the top 10 science fair project?

Here are 10 great science fair project ideas for 5th grade students:

1. Investigating the Effect of Different Soil Types on Plant Growth

This project tests how plants grow in different soil types like clay, sand, potting mix, etc. Students can measure plant height over time to compare growth rates.

2. Measuring the Effect of Music on Memory

Students can test how different music genres affect memorization of words or numbers. A control group with no music can be used for comparison.

3. Creating a Solar Water Heater

Using basic materials, students can build a solar powered water heater to test temperature changes over time. This explores renewable energy.

4. Investigating the Effect of pH on Enzyme Activity

By changing pH, students can measure how enzyme activity is affected. This shows how acidity impacts chemical reactions in living things.

5. Measuring the Effect of Temperature on Electrical Resistance

Using wire and a multimeter, the resistance of conductors can be tested at different temperatures. This demonstrates scientific principles.

6. Building a Simple Wind Turbine

Students can construct small wind turbines to power LED lights. This explores mechanical energy conversion.

7. Testing Strength of Different Bridge Designs

Using materials like popsicle sticks or toothpicks, students can build different bridge models and test their strength by adding weights until structural failure. This is an engineering design challenge.

8. Investigating Which Materials Best Insulate Heat

By timing how long ice cubes last when wrapped in various materials, insulation properties can be compared. Everyday items like cotton, foil, and Styrofoam can be tested.

9. Observing Osmosis in Cells

Using eggs, students can observe the process of osmosis and diffusion across semi-permeable membranes. This demonstrates biology concepts.

10. Testing Paper Airplane Designs

Students can build different paper airplane models and measure flight distance and duration. Aerodynamics principles are explored through iterative testing.

What is the best science project for Class 5?

Here are some of the best science fair project ideas for 5th grade students:

Bouncing on a Trampoline

This project looks at how the height of a trampoline bounce changes depending on the weight of the person jumping. Students could test different weights and record bounce heights.

The "Magic" Leakproof Bag

Students can create a bag out of a plastic zipper storage bag that seems to defy gravity and doesn't leak water even when turned upside down. This demonstrates air pressure and density.

Clothespin and Popsicle Stick Airplanes

Students can build simple airplanes out of clothespins and popsicle sticks and test how far they fly when launched by hand. They can experiment with different wing shapes and angles.

Tornado in a Bottle

Using a plastic bottle, water, glitter or small pieces of paper, and dish soap, students can create a mini tornado and observe how tornadoes form.

Float or Sink Pop Cans

By crushing pop cans and placing them in water, students can observe differences in density and record whether crushed cans float or sink compared to normal cans.

These are just a few fun and easy science project ideas that demonstrate science concepts like gravity, density, pressure, and forces. Students get hands-on experience coming up with a hypothesis, testing variables, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. And they'll learn some really cool science facts along the way!

What are the topics for grade 5 science?

Here are some of the most common science topics studied in 5th grade:

Earth and Space Science

• Structure and layers of the Earth
• Landforms and changes in the Earth's surface caused by weathering and erosion
• The water cycle
• Weather patterns and severe storms
• The solar system, planets, stars, galaxies

Life Science

• Plant structures and functions
• Plant life cycles and reproduction
• Ecosystems and food chains
• Human body systems and functions
• Animal classification, structures, and adaptations

Physical Science

• Properties and states of matter
• Atoms and molecules
• Energy, heat, light, and sound
• Forces and motion
• Electricity and magnetism

5th graders typically learn about these topics through hands-on activities, experiments, projects, and demonstrations that connect the concepts to real-world examples relevant to where they live. For instance, they may study local weather patterns, plant life cycles in their area, organisms in a nearby ecosystem, or conduct experiments with household materials related to physical science concepts. Tying the learning to their surroundings helps cement understanding.

What are testable questions for science fair projects 5th grade?

Science fair projects allow 5th grade students to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiments. When coming up with a testable question, it's important to choose a topic that interests your student and can be tested using the scientific method.

Here are some examples of testable questions for 5th grade science fair projects:

How does temperature affect crystal growth?

• Students can grow crystals using different solutions and observe how temperature impacts crystal size and shape. This allows them to learn about states of matter.

How do different liquids affect how quickly an ice cube melts?

• Students can measure how long it takes ice cubes to melt when placed in different liquids like water, oil, soda etc. This teaches them about heat transfer.

How does the angle of a ramp affect the distance a toy car travels?

• Students can build ramps at different angles and test how far toy cars roll down them. This demonstrates concepts of potential and kinetic energy.

How does the amount of light affect plant growth?

• Students can grow plants under different lighting conditions to observe the effects on plant height, leaf number etc. This illustrates photosynthesis and plant biology.

The key is choosing questions that allow students to measure data and draw conclusions. This teaches the scientific method and critical thinking skills. Review science fair project ideas for 5th grade when helping your student select a topic.

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Preparing and executing the experiment.

Executing a successful science experiment requires careful preparation and precise execution. As a teacher guiding 5th graders through science fair projects, focus on facilitating engaging hands-on learning experiences.

Gathering Data and Materials for Science Experiments

• Recommend students use household materials that are safe and easy to acquire. Simple materials like paper, cardboard, basic craft supplies, food items, and recycled containers work well.
• Have students research reliable sources to gather background information and data to inform their hypothesis and procedures. Useful sources include science textbooks, library books, museum websites, and other vetted educational sites.
• Compile a classroom kit of basic supplies like tape, scissors, rulers, notebooks, and pencils to have on hand. Consider creating a sharing system for students to borrow specialty items as needed.

Implementing Procedures Safely and Accurately

• Supervise all experiments to ensure safety protocols are followed properly. Review safety rules and demonstrate proper handling of any potentially hazardous materials.
• Guide students to follow procedures precisely as outlined to control variables and yield reliable results. Encourage recording detailed notes on each step.
• Allow flexibility for iterations and improvements if initial trials reveal flawed procedures. Discuss troubleshooting techniques.

Recording Observations with Precision

• Instruct students to record qualitative observations through detailed notes, drawings, photos, or videos. Emphasize thorough, objective descriptions.
• Have students take precise quantitative measurements with metric rulers, scales, timers, thermometers, etc. Stress the importance of accurate data.
• Consider using student-friendly apps, like Google Science Journal, to assist with gathering observational data.

Organizing and Analyzing Data Like a Scientist

• Help students organize recorded observations into user-friendly tables, charts, and graphs. Online tools like Google Sheets simplify data analysis.
• Explain basic statistical concepts like mean, percentages, rates of change, correlation vs causation, and margin of error. Guide analysis appropriate for 5th grade level.
• Compare results to background information gathered. Did the data support or contradict the original hypothesis? Why?

Drawing Conclusions from Experimental Results

• Facilitate constructive discussion around interpreting results and assessing hypotheses. What conclusions can reasonably be made given the data? How might the experiment be refined and expanded in future trials?
• Stress that "failed" experiments still provide learning opportunities if students can thoughtfully analyze their procedures, observations, and conclusions to determine improvements for next time. The scientific process involves ongoing questioning, testing, and refinement of ideas.

With thoughtful mentorship, 5th grade science projects grant meaningful opportunities to engage students in core aspects of the scientific process. Patience and creativity are key to guiding young scientists as they build critical thinking skills through hands-on discovery and analysis.

Creating a Standout Science Fair Presentation

Teachers can provide guidance to help students create an impactful science fair presentation that clearly communicates their project and findings.

Developing a Clear and Engaging Presentation

• Have students outline key sections to include in their presentation:
• Introduction
• Materials & Methods
• Suggest students make supplements like posters, models, or prototypes to showcase the project.

Incorporating Visuals and Science Fair Boards

• Encourage the use of charts, graphs, photos to present experiment data and results.
• Colorful visuals grab attention and illustrate findings.

Assembling the Science Fair Board with Creativity

• Use borders, title headers, and section dividers to organize display boards.
• Incorporate photos, diagrams, and other graphics to showcase the project.
• Utilize color strategically to highlight important elements.

Practicing the Oral Presentation for Impact

• Have students rehearse presenting to build confidence.
• Focus on clearly explaining the science concept.
• Prepare for likely questions to demonstrate knowledge.

Showcasing the Project at the Science Fair

• Strategically place projects to maximize foot traffic and visibility.
• Have students engage fairgoers to explain their project and findings.
• Collect feedback for students to help further develop projects.

With thorough preparation and creative presentation, students can effectively showcase their science fair projects and communicate experiment outcomes. Teachers play a key role in guiding the development of impactful science fair displays.

Evaluating and Reflecting on Science Fair Outcomes

Teachers can utilize several methods to evaluate student learning and development of science process skills through science fair projects.

Reflecting on Student Growth and Science Skills

• Have students complete self-reflection forms about their research process, including questions like:
• What science concepts did you learn through this project?
• What research skills did you develop or improve?
• What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
• Assign journal prompts for students to write about their science fair experience, such as:
• Describe the most interesting thing you learned while doing your science project.
• What science process skills (observing, inferring, predicting, etc.) did you use?
• Create rubrics to assess science process skills like developing a hypothesis, designing procedures, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating findings.

Gathering Feedback from Judges and Peers

• Survey science fair judges on project qualities like creativity, effort, scientific thought, and skill development.
• Have students share constructive critiques on peers' projects.
• Encourage audience members to leave feedback or ask engaging questions.
• Review judges' rubrics and comments for areas of growth.

Evaluating Learning Objectives Through Projects

• Align science fair projects to curriculum standards for scientific investigation.
• Create project guidelines and rubrics that assess specific learning objectives.
• Evaluate projects on the degree students demonstrate target skills like:
• Asking scientific questions
• Developing models
• Planning investigations
• Analyzing data
• Using mathematical thinking
• Constructing explanations
• Engaging in arguments from evidence

Adjusting Teaching Approaches Post-Science Fair

• Identify common gaps in understanding or skill that projects revealed.
• Differentiate instruction going forward, providing extra support in challenging areas.
• Update science units and activities to better scaffold key science and engineering practices.
• Reflect on how science fairs can be improved to maximize learning.

Innovative Science Fair Project Ideas for 5th Grade

Science fair projects allow 5th grade students to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and investigations. Choosing an innovative idea can help spark curiosity and engagement. Here are some creative science fair project suggestions suitable for 5th graders.

Science Fair Projects for 5th Grade at Home

• Test how different liquids affect the buoyancy of an egg. This allows students to learn about density at home using common household materials.
• Explore how sugar affects the rising process of yeast dough. Students can observe biological processes using ingredients found in most kitchens.
• Investigate how acidity impacts plant growth by watering plants with liquids of different pH levels. Everyday materials like lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda can be used.

Last Minute 5th Grade Science Projects

• Evaluate how different surfaces like carpet, tile, and wood impact the speed of a toy car. This fast experiment teaches concepts of friction and gravity.
• Test how the shape of pasta impacts the time it takes to cook. Students can explore why certain shapes cook faster, learning about geometry.
• Investigate how salt impacts the freezing point of water by freezing salty and plain water samples. This demonstrates states of matter.

5th Grade Science Fair Projects with Food

• Explore how freezing, heating, or mixing different liquids affects a hard-boiled egg inside the shell. Students can apply scientific concepts through edible experiments.
• Test how antioxidants in fruits impact oxidation by leaving apple slices exposed to air. Students can measure browning rates, learning about botany.
• Investigate how acids in vinaigrette salad dressing impact vegetable color. Students can explore concepts of chemistry using familiar foods.

5th Grade Science Fair Projects with Plants

• Analyze how natural and artificial light impacts plant growth by exposing plants to various light sources. This teaches foundations of botany and ecology.
• Explore how microwaving seeds impacts the sprouting ability compared to untreated seeds. Students can learn about plant reproduction through this experiment.
• Test how salt, sugar, vinegar, baking soda, etc. affect the wilting rate of flowers. Students can identify what damages or preserves plants.

Science Fair Projects for 5th Grade Biology

• Investigate how antibiotics impact bacterial growth by exposing cultures to antibiotics. This demonstrates germ theory and microbiology.
• Analyze how different liquids impact an earthworm's ability to move by exposing earthworms to assorted liquids. Students learn about invertebrate biology.
• Explore what insects are attracted to different food baits by leaving various foods outdoors. Students can categorize insects and analyze data.

Conclusion: Celebrating Science Fair Success

Science fairs provide an exciting opportunity for 5th grade students to explore science topics that interest them through hands-on projects. This guide has covered key tips for successfully mentoring students through the process, from choosing a topic to presenting the finished project.

Key Takeaways for 5th Grade Science Fair Projects

• Select an experiment-based project that aligns with your student's interests and grade level standards. Focus on testable questions.
• Set a realistic timeline for research, experimentation, analysis, and putting together the presentation.
• Provide guidance on research skills, scientific method, data collection, and safe procedures.
• Have students reflect on what they learned and how they can build on their project in the future.

Building on Projects for Future Success

Students can continue developing their science fair project by:

• Repeating experiments with different variables or sample sizes
• Competing at school, district, or state-level fairs
• Expanding into a long-term research project across multiple years
• Exploring extensions into engineering, computer science, or mathematics

The science fair experience allows students to build critical thinking, communication, and research skills that will serve them well in future science endeavors.

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Teaching Resources & Guides > How to Teach Science Tips > Writing a Science Report  

Writing a Science Report

With science fair season coming up as well as many end of the year projects, students are often required to write a research paper or a report on their project. Use this guide to help you in the process from finding a topic to revising and editing your final paper.

Brainstorming Topics

Sometimes one of the largest barriers to writing a research paper is trying to figure out what to write about. Many times the topic is supplied by the teacher, or the curriculum tells what the student should research and write about. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes the student is given a very broad concept to write a research paper on, for example, water. Within the category of water, there are many topics and subtopics that would be appropriate. Topics about water can include anything from the three states of water, different water sources, minerals found in water, how water is used by living organisms, the water cycle, or how to find water in the desert. The point is that “water” is a very large topic and would be too broad to be adequately covered in a typical 3-5 page research paper.

When given a broad category to write about, it is important to narrow it down to a topic that is much more manageable. Sometimes research needs to be done in order to find the best topic to write about. (Look for searching tips in “Finding and Gathering Information.”) Listed below are some tips and guidelines for picking a suitable research topic:

• Pick a topic within the category that you find interesting. It makes it that much easier to research and write about a topic if it interests you.
• You may find while researching a topic that the details of the topic are very boring to you. If this is the case, and you have the option to do this, change your topic.
• Pick a topic that you are already familiar with and research further into that area to build on your current knowledge.
• When researching topics to do your paper on, look at how much information you are finding. If you are finding very little information on your topic or you are finding an overwhelming amount, you may need to rethink your topic.
• If permissible, always leave yourself open to changing your topic. While researching for topics, you may come across one that you find really interesting and can use just as well as the previous topics you were searching for.
• Most importantly, does your research topic fit the guidelines set forth by your teacher or curriculum?

Finding and Gathering Information

There are numerous resources out there to help you find information on the topic selected for your research paper. One of the first places to begin research is at your local library. Use the Dewey Decimal System or ask the librarian to help you find books related to your topic. There are also a variety of reference materials, such as encyclopedias, available at the library.

A relatively new reference resource has become available with the power of technology – the Internet. While the Internet allows the user to access a wealth of information that is often more up-to-date than printed materials such as books and encyclopedias, there are certainly drawbacks to using it. It can be hard to tell whether or not a site contains factual information or just someone’s opinion. A site can also be dangerous or inappropriate for students to use.

You may find that certain science concepts and science terminology are not easy to find in regular dictionaries and encyclopedias. A science dictionary or science encyclopedia can help you find more in-depth and relevant information for your science report. If your topic is very technical or specific, reference materials such as medical dictionaries and chemistry encyclopedias may also be good resources to use.

If you are writing a report for your science fair project, not only will you be finding information from published sources, you will also be generating your own data, results, and conclusions. Keep a journal that tracks and records your experiments and results. When writing your report, you can either write out your findings from your experiments or display them using graphs or charts .

*As you are gathering information, keep a working bibliography of where you found your sources. Look under “Citing Sources” for more information. This will save you a lot of time in the long run!

Organizing Information

Most people find it hard to just take all the information they have gathered from their research and write it out in paper form. It is hard to get a starting point and go from the beginning to the end. You probably have several ideas you know you want to put in your paper, but you may be having trouble deciding where these ideas should go. Organizing your information in a way where new thoughts can be added to a subtopic at any time is a great way to organize the information you have about your topic. Here are two of the more popular ways to organize information so it can be used in a research paper:

• Graphic organizers such as a web or mind map . Mind maps are basically stating the main topic of your paper, then branching off into as many subtopics as possible about the main topic. Enchanted Learning has a list of several different types of mind maps as well as information on how to use them and what topics fit best for each type of mind map and graphic organizer.
• Sub-Subtopic: Low temperatures and adequate amounts of snow are needed to form glaciers.
• Sub-Subtopic: Glaciers move large amounts of earth and debris.
• Sub-Subtopic: Two basic types of glaciers: valley and continental.
• Subtopic: Icebergs – large masses of ice floating on liquid water

Different Formats For Your Paper

Depending on your topic and your writing preference, the layout of your paper can greatly enhance how well the information on your topic is displayed.

1. Process . This method is used to explain how something is done or how it works by listing the steps of the process. For most science fair projects and science experiments, this is the best format. Reports for science fairs need the entire project written out from start to finish. Your report should include a title page, statement of purpose, hypothesis, materials and procedures, results and conclusions, discussion, and credits and bibliography. If applicable, graphs, tables, or charts should be included with the results portion of your report.

2. Cause and effect . This is another common science experiment research paper format. The basic premise is that because event X happened, event Y happened.

3. Specific to general . This method works best when trying to draw conclusions about how little topics and details are connected to support one main topic or idea.

4. Climatic order . Similar to the “specific to general” category, here details are listed in order from least important to most important.

5. General to specific . Works in a similar fashion as the method for organizing your information. The main topic or subtopic is stated first, followed by supporting details that give more information about the topic.

6. Compare and contrast . This method works best when you wish to show the similarities and/or differences between two or more topics. A block pattern is used when you first write about one topic and all its details and then write about the second topic and all its details. An alternating pattern can be used to describe a detail about the first topic and then compare that to the related detail of the second topic. The block pattern and alternating pattern can also be combined to make a format that better fits your research paper.

Citing Sources

When writing a research paper, you must cite your sources! Otherwise you are plagiarizing (claiming someone else’s ideas as your own) which can cause severe penalties from failing your research paper assignment in primary and secondary grades to failing the entire course (most colleges and universities have this policy). To help you avoid plagiarism, follow these simple steps:

• Find out what format for citing your paper your teacher or curriculum wishes you to use. One of the most widely used and widely accepted citation formats by scholars and schools is the Modern Language Association (MLA) format. We recommended that you do an Internet search for the most recent format of the citation style you will be using in your paper.
• Keep a working bibliography when researching your topic. Have a document in your computer files or a page in your notebook where you write down every source that you found and may use in your paper. (You probably will not use every resource you find, but it is much easier to delete unused sources later rather than try to find them four weeks down the road.) To make this process even easier, write the source down in the citation format that will be used in your paper. No matter what citation format you use, you should always write down title, author, publisher, published date, page numbers used, and if applicable, the volume and issue number.
• When collecting ideas and information from your sources, write the author’s last name at the end of the idea. When revising and formatting your paper, keep the author’s last name attached to the end of the idea, no matter where you move that idea. This way, you won’t have to go back and try to remember where the ideas in your paper came from.
• There are two ways to use the information in your paper: paraphrasing and quotes. The majority of your paper will be paraphrasing the information you found. Paraphrasing is basically restating the idea being used in your own words.   As a general rule of thumb, no more than two of the original words should be used in sequence when paraphrasing information, and similes should be used for as many of the words as possible in the original passage without changing the meaning of the main point. Sometimes, you may find something stated so well by the original author that it would be best to use the author’s original words in your paper. When using the author’s original words, use quotation marks only around the words being directly quoted and work the quote into the body of your paper so that it makes sense grammatically. Search the Internet for more rules on paraphrasing and quoting information.

Revising and Editing Your Paper

Revising your paper basically means you are fixing grammatical errors or changing the meaning of what you wrote. After you have written the rough draft of your paper, read through it again to make sure the ideas in your paper flow and are cohesive. You may need to add in information, delete extra information, use a thesaurus to find a better word to better express a concept, reword a sentence, or just make sure your ideas are stated in a logical and progressive order.

After revising your paper, go back and edit it, correcting the capitalization, punctuation, and spelling errors – the mechanics of writing. If you are not 100% positive a word is spelled correctly, look it up in a dictionary. Ask a parent or teacher for help on the proper usage of commas, hyphens, capitalization, and numbers. You may also be able to find the answers to these questions by doing an Internet search on writing mechanics or by checking you local library for a book on writing mechanics.

It is also always a good idea to have someone else read your paper. Because this person did not write the paper and is not familiar with the topic, he or she is more likely to catch mistakes or ideas that do not quite make sense. This person can also give you insights or suggestions on how to reword or format your paper to make it flow better or convey your ideas better.

More Information:

• Quick Science Fair Guide
• Science Fair Project Ideas

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5th Grade Science Fair Projects

• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

By the 5th grade, students are expected to shoulder more responsibility in designing in doing a science fair project . There will still be a lot of parent and teacher help, but you want a straightforward project that ideally takes no longer than a week or two to complete. The ideal project is one the student can do pretty much by himself or herself, with guidance from adults as needed.

5th Grade Science Fair Project Ideas

• What household chemicals repel insects? Pick one particular type, common to your area, such as flies, ants, or roaches and test herbs, spice, etc. to see if you can come up with a non-toxic way to keep bugs away.
• Make a model tornado or vortex. You can use two bottles taped together or can make a cool tornado using water and vegetable oil. For the project, explain how the vortex works.
• Can people taste the difference between drinks sweetened with Stevia (a natural non-caloric sweetener) and sugar? Which do they prefer?
• Are there any dyes you can add to water living plants that change the color of their flowers ? Hint: Some modern orchids are tinted blue using dyes, so it's possible.
• Do people have the same sensitivity to smell? Place people at one end of a room. Have another person open a scent, such as lemon oil or vinegar. Have your test subjects write down what they smell and what time they smelled it. Is the time the same for different scents? Does it matter whether the test subject was male or female?
• Use the streak test to try to identify different mineral samples. What other tests might you try to confirm your results?
• Does storage temperature affect popcorn popping ? Store popcorn in the freezer, refrigerator, at room temperature , and in a heated location. Pop the same amount of each 'sample'. Count how many unpopped kernels remain. Can you explain the results?
• Does food cooked in the microwave cool at the same rate as food cooked in the oven or on the stove top? Heat foods to the same temperature. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature at set times. Explain your results.
• Can you sip the same amount of liquid through two straws at once as one straw? What about 3 straws?
• Collect a group of different substances. Rank the materials according to best to worse heat conductors (or insulators). See if you can explain your findings.
• Does the color of a light affect how bright it appears in fog? in water?
• For your project, explain how traffic lights work. What is the reason for the delay between when a light turns yellow and then turns red? How many cars are needed to trip a turn arrow? If you're examining a particular light, does its behavior change according to the time of day?
• Where is the best place to store apples? Where is the best place to store bananas? Are they the same?
• Does the temperature of a magnet affect its magnetic field lines? You can trace the magnetic field lines of a magnet by putting iron filings on a sheet of paper over the magnet.
• What brand of battery lasts the longest?
• Make ice cubes starting with different temperatures of water. Does the starting temperature of water affect how long it takes to freeze?
• Make a homemade sundial and explain how it works.
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Fifth Grade Science Fair Project Ideas

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50 Fantastic 5th Grade Science Projects, Experiments, and Activities

For the classroom or science fair.

There’s something so fascinating about hands-on science experiments and projects. They make learning so meaningful and so much fun! These 5th grade science projects help kids explore biology, physics, chemistry, and a whole lot more. Try one at the 5th grade science fair, or use a few to liven up your lesson plans.

To make things even easier, we’ve rated every one of these 5th grade science projects based on difficulty and materials:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

5th Grade Science Fair Projects

Stem challenge 5th grade science projects, 5th grade matter and energy science activities, more 5th grade science projects and activities.

Choosing a science fair project means finding a subject that really interests you and coming up with a unique question to answer. Use some of these 5th grade science fair project ideas to create a cool experiment all your own.

Stop soil erosion with plants

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Soil erosion is a serious problem that can lead to natural disasters like landslides as well as causing problems for farmers, who lose valuable topsoil. Try this experiment to learn how plants help keep soil in place naturally, and change up the variables like soil composition or types of plants.

Learn more: Soil Erosion Experiment at Life Is a Garden

Blow square bubbles

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium ADVERTISEMENT

Bubble science experiments are always a hit! In this one, kids construct a device to see if they can blow a square bubble instead of a round one.

Discover the delights of decomposition

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

This is a good chance to apply the scientific method and practice your observation skills, using only basic kitchen supplies. Ask the question: “Which food will rot (decompose) the fastest?” Have students hypothesize, observe, and then report their findings. Get a printable observation sheet at the link below.

Learn more: Food Decomposition at No Time for Flash Cards

Mix up some magic sand

What if you could make sand that was “afraid” of water? This 5th grade science experiment uses waterproofing spray to create you-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it hydrophobic sand.

Learn more: Hydrophobic Sand at Teaching Mama

Make your own bouncy balls

Students learn about polymers as they mix borax with cornstarch, glue, and water in this playful experiment. Experiment with size, shape, and ingredients to see which work best.

Learn more: DIY Bouncy Balls at Babble Dabble Do

Study water filtration

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

See the process of water purification firsthand. Layer coffee filters, sand, and gravel in the bottom of an empty cup punched with holes. Place the cup in an empty jar, pour in dirty water, and watch what happens. Mix up the variables, and you’ve got a cool 5th grade science fair project.

Learn more: Water Purification at Teach Beside Me

Find out if a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s

Settle an age-old debate with this 5th grade science fair project. Collect saliva from both humans and canines with cotton swabs and place each sample in labeled petri dishes. Check the bacterial colonies in each and compare the results.

Learn more: Dog’s Mouth Project at Sciencing

Explore basic genetics

Send your students on a quest to find out more about their genes and inherited traits. The link below includes a printable chart they can use to learn about recessive and dominant genes.

Learn more: Inherited Traits at Education.com

Design a biosphere

This project really brings out kids’ creativity and helps them understand that everything in a biosphere is really part of one big whole. You’ll be overwhelmed by what they come up with!

Learn more: Biosphere Project at Laney Lee

Measure heat capacity of different liquids

Your students will venture into the world of chemistry with this experiment that tests the heat capacity of different liquids, such as salt water, olive oil, and liquid soap, using a hot plate . They’ll incorporate math into their experiment when they plot their results!

Learn more: Heat Capacity at Education.com

A good STEM challenge can spark a terrific science fair project too. These also make terrific classroom activities for 5th grade science students.

Assemble an automatic water fountain

Water fountains were around long before humans harnessed the power of electricity to make pumps. Learn how they worked with this STEM challenge science project for 5th grade.

Race down a LEGO zip line

Every kid loves LEGO bricks, so incorporate them into your 5th grade science activities! Challenge kids to design and build their own zip line. You can set the parameters, like distance and slope, then let students get to work.

Learn more: Zipline at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Slow your roll

Ball-run challenges are always fun, but this one has a twist. Your goal is to build a run that gets the ball to the bottom taking the longest time possible! This requires kids to think about friction, slopes, and other creative features.

Fly clothespin airplanes

Put your 5th grade science students’ engineering skills to the test. Provide them with clothespins and wood craft sticks , and challenge them to build a realistic airplane. Bonus points if it can actually fly!

Learn more: Clothespin Airplane at STEAMsational

Spin a candle-powered pinwheel

Prove that hot air rises by using candles to spin a homemade pinwheel. Then experiment to see how the number of candles affects the spinning speed. (As always, make sure kids use fire under safe conditions.)

Set off a chain reaction

Learn about potential and kinetic energy when you try this cool 5th grade science experiment. All you need are wood craft sticks and a bit of patience.

Bounce on a trampoline

Kids love bouncing on trampolines, but can they build one themselves? Find out with this totally fun STEM challenge. Plus, check out more 5th grade STEM challenges here.

Learn more: Trampoline STEM Challenge at Student Savvy

Build a solar oven

Learn about the value of solar energy by building an oven that cooks food without electricity. Enjoy your tasty treats while discussing ways we can harness the energy of the sun and why alternative energy sources are important. ( Love edible science projects? Get more ideas here. )

Learn more: DIY Solar Oven S’mores at Desert Chica

Launch your own bottle rocket

Blast off with a few supplies and a little help from the laws of motion. Encourage kids to design and decorate their rockets first and see which one can fly the highest!

Learn more: Bottle Rocket at Science Sparks

Peer through a cardboard microscope

Microscopes can be pricey, so make your own at home! This is the kind of 5th grade science fair project that will really wow the judges.

Build a snack machine

Incorporate everything students learn about simple machines into one project when you challenge them to build a snack machine! Using basic supplies, they’ll need to design and construct a machine that delivers snacks from one location to another. ( Get more candy experiments here. )

Learn more: Snack Machine Challenge at Left Brain Craft Brain

Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics

Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber band “guitar.” (Your students will absolutely love playing with these!)

Learn more: Rubber Band Guitar at Science Sparks

Assemble Archimedes’ screw

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

It’s amazing how often science looks like magic—until you understand the principles behind it. Such is the case with the simple pump known as Archimedes’ screw. It’s easy to build your own and makes for a cool 5th grade science fair project.

Recycle newspaper into an engineering challenge

It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge students to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape.

Learn more: Newspaper Tower at STEM Activities for Kids

Construct a sturdy bridge

To design a safe bridge that meets the needs of the community, engineers must understand the capabilities and limitations of the bridge. This project is great for budding 5th grade engineers as they simulate constructing a bridge that serves its purpose and keeps community members safe.

Every 5th grade science curriculum is different, but many include some common concepts. Learn about the states of matter, matter and its interactions, and energy science with these neat 5th grade activities.

Model the states of matter

Create simple models to show the arrangement of molecules in solids, liquids, and gasses. Ping-Pong balls are perfect for this. ( Find more states of matter activities here. )

Drink root beer floats

This is our favorite way to learn about the various states of matter! Treat time becomes a learning lesson with this 5th grade science matter activity.

Learn more: Teaching Matter With Root Beer Floats at Learning Lab Resources

Fill a bubble with dry ice vapor

Discover the science of sublimation by turning dry ice from a solid directly into a gas. Then play around with surface tension as the resulting vapor fills a giant bubble. This one is so cool to see in action!

Discover density with hot and cold water

There are a lot of cool science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring.

Learn more: Hot and Cold Water Density at STEAMsational

Learn to layer liquids

This density demo is a little more complicated than other science projects, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Your 5th grade science students will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).

Learn more: Liquid Density at Wonder How To

Light(ning) it up indoors

On a cool, low-humidity day, use a foil-covered fork and a balloon to create a “lightning storm” in your classroom. Turn down the lights to give students a better view of the static electricity you’re creating.

Learn more: Indoor Lightning at Education.com

Create convection currents

This easy experiment uses hot and cold liquids and some food coloring to explore the thermal and kinetic energy that creates convection currents. Take things a step further and research how convection currents work in large bodies of water, like oceans.

Learn more: Heat Convection at Education.com

Sink or swim with soda cans

Here’s another easy density experiment. Place unopened cans of regular and diet soda into a bin of water to see which float and which sink. The differences are due to the use of sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Learn more: Sink or Swim at Cool Science Experiments HQ

Find out if water conducts electricity

We always tell kids to get out of the water as a storm approaches. This 5th grade science project helps explain why. (Conductivity vs. non-conductivity is one of the properties of matter too.)

Learn more: Electricity and Water at Rookie Parenting

Blow up a balloon—without blowing

This is the classic science experiment that helps you teach the reactions between acids and bases, plus what happens when you mix different substances together. Fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda. Fit the balloon over the top, shake the baking soda down into the vinegar, and watch the balloon inflate.

Learn more: Balloon Experiments

Use these hands-on science activities to spice up your lesson plans or as enrichment projects for science-loving kids to try at home.

Erupt a baking soda volcano

Need a 5th grade science fair project? Go with a classic: the volcano ! This one’s made from salt dough, which is easy to work with and inexpensive to make.

Learn more: Baking Soda Volcano Experiment (With Free Printable Student Recording Sheet)

Peel an orange to understand plate tectonics

If students are learning earth science, use an orange to make plate tectonics easier to understand. Peel it, then reassemble it and look at the pieces as plates floating on the Earth’s mantle.

Learn more: Orange Tectonics at Science Sparks

Discover the strength of eggshells

We think of eggshells as very fragile, but their shape makes them surprisingly strong. Try this experiment to learn why arches are such a useful shape in architecture.

Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

So simple and so amazing! All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and some water to blow your students’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.

Learn more: Magic Leakproof Bag at Paging Fun Mums

Explore the science of glow sticks

Glow sticks are always a big hit with kids, so they’ll have a terrific time learning about the chemical reactions that make glow sticks work.

Learn more: Glow Stick Science Experiment at A Dab of Glue Will Do

Grow crystal snowflakes

Kids love crystal projects, and this one results in winter decorations for your classroom. Your students will learn about supersaturated solutions and crystallization. ( See more winter science activities here. )

Learn more: Crystal Snowflakes at Little Bins for Little Hands

Escape from quicksand

Dive deep into the science of quicksand and learn about saturation and friction along the way. You’ll create a small “quicksand” pool from cornstarch and water, then experiment to find out the best ways to escape.

Learn more: Quicksand Experiment at Education.com

Watch the heart beat with marshmallows

If you can get your 5th grade science class to quiet down enough for this one, they might be able to see a marshmallow jump with each beat of their hearts!

Learn more: Heartbeat Marshmallows at Growing Grade by Grade

Make a foil bug walk on water

Surface tension allows water striders to dance across the surface of the water. Re-create this scientific phenomenon with little “bugs” made of aluminum foil.

Learn more: Foil Water Strider at The Homeschool Scientist

Find out how bile breaks down fat

Learning about the digestive system? This 5th grade science demo explores the purpose of the bile produced by the liver, which breaks down fat.

Learn more: Bile Experiment at Simple Southern

Construct a homemade lava lamp

This 1970s trend is back—as a 5th grade science project! Learn about acids and bases while putting together a totally groovy lava lamp.

Learn more: Homemade Lava Lamp at Education.com

Investigate osmosis with gummy bears

Gummy bears are not only tasty, but they can also help teach your 5th graders about the concepts of osmosis and equilibrium as well as solvents and solute.

Replicate a sunset

With just water, milk powder, a flashlight, and a glass dish, your 5th graders will investigate why the sky appears to change colors as the sun sets.

Learn more: Sunset Sky at Rookie Parenting

Defy gravity with floating water

This one might cause a bit of a mess, but it’s only water, and it’s all in the name of your students discovering air pressure. All you’ll need is a cup, index card, water, and crossed fingers that your classroom doesn’t become a puddle!

Model constellations

Space delights students of all ages. The mystery and mystique is intriguing, and creating a constellation out of pipe cleaners is a fun STEM activity to explore the night sky.

Learn more: Constellations Model at STEAM Powered Family

Continue the STEM learning with these 5th Grade Math Games for Teaching Fractions, Decimals, and More .

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All Science Fair Projects

1000 science fair projects with complete instructions.

80 Science Fair Projects for 5th Graders

Explore our specially selected science projects for fifth graders, with complete instructions and informative videos!

5th Grade Science Fair Project FAQ

What are some easy 5th grade science fair projects.

Any one of these easy 5th grade science fair projects will teach you important scientific concepts and help you have fun while learning. An easy science fair project is a great way to introduce the wonders of science to 5th graders!

Storing Bread Safely

Windy Wonders: Plant Growth

Dancing Spaghetti

Colorful Temperature

Collecting Micrometeorites

Can Fish Tell Time?

Levitating Train

The Painted Lady Butterfly

Staining Teeth with Beverages

Breakfast and School Performance

Science fair project details right above the FAQ!

What is the best 5th grade science project ever?

We absolutely love the Uncovering Fall Colors science fair project for 5th graders. This project uses chromatography to separate the colors in leaves and helps students discover the hidden colors inside them. It's a great way to learn how to use a common experiment used in chemistry to separate substances. If it's not fall or you can't find different colored leaves, you can always use flower petals of different colors instead.

If you're looking for more 5th grade science projects, check out the 5th grade science fair projects at the top of this page! 

Check out more Best Science Fair Projects →

What are some cool 5th grade science fair projects?

Get ready to be amazed by these super cool 5th grade science projects for 5th graders! With just a few simple things, introduce students to the wonders of science and have tons of fun!

Growing Mold

Is Yeast Alive?

Can You Taste With a Plugged Nose?

Electrifying Lemon Battery

Making Oobleck: Liquid or Solid?

Egg Drop Project

Colors of Skittles Experiment

Cloud in a Bottle

What are 5 testable questions for 5th grade?

A testable question is a question that we can answer through a science experiment. To do this, we do a control science experiment, then we change one thing in the experiment to see how it affects what happens. This is how we can discover the answer to our question!

What makes a cloud form?

Can drink and food taste different just by changing its color?

Does the color of light affect photosynthesis?

Does temperature affect seed sprouting?

What makes popcorn pop?

Here are more testable questions along with their science projects →

What are the top 10 science projects for 5th grade?

These are our top 10 5th grade science projects, with projects from Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These projects can be used as science fair project ideas or as a fun experiment to explore different areas of science!

Uncovering Fall Colors

How Temperature Affects Taste

The Doppler Effect

Science project details right above the FAQ!

Can I do a 5th grade science fair project in a day?

Yes! Quick experiments can be a great option for a science fair project! If you want to explore quick reactions, we have science project ideas on various topics to get you started.

Acid-base reactions: Mixing acids with bases quickly makes carbon dioxide gas!

Make a rocket fly sky high with just baking soda and vinegar! Rocket Film Canisters

Learn how to make your own acid/base indicator using red cabbage and use it to test different fluids! Make Your Own PH Indicator

Chromatography reactions: Separate out colors!

Did you know that some Skittles have a secret rainbow hiding inside them? Colors of Skittles Experiment

Have you ever wondered why leaves change color in the fall? Let's find out by using chromatography to separate the colors of a green leaf! Uncovering Fall Colors

Heat reactions: Heat speeds things up!

Do you want to find out which color candle burns the fastest? Which Candle Burns the Fastest?

Ever wondered if a balloon filled with water can withstand fire? Fire-Resistant Balloons

What are some hands-on ways to find inspiration for my science fair project?

There may be free admission days or free passes to a science museum near you! Check your local library for free museum passes, nearby science museums for free entrance days and your credit card for offers.

Find a science museum near you and prepare to be awed by all that you can learn there! I always learn something new and am inspired whenever I go to a science museum!

How do I start a science fair project?

What should I do after I have a science fair project idea?

How do I make a science fair board?

What is the scientific method?

What is the engineering design process?

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Finally, a guide for upper elementary teachers that will show you how to teach research reports in a step-by-step format!

If you are struggling with teaching the research report process, you are not alone. Seriously, we’ve all been there!

I spent several years avoiding research reports for my 5th grade writers or simply depending on the Library-Media Specialist to teach the research process.

One year, I decided to take the plunge and teach my students how to research a topic and write a research report.

The process was clunky at first, but I learned a lot about how students approach research and how to guide them from choosing a topic to completing their final copies.

Before we discuss the HOW , let’s talk about the WHY .

Why You Should Be Assigning Research Reports to Your 5th and 6th Grade Students

I have three main reasons for assigning research reports to my students.

First, the skill involved in finding reliable sources and citing sources is valuable.

Beginning in 5th grade, and possibly even before, students need to be able to discern the reliability of a source . They should be able to spot propaganda and distinguish between reputable sources and phony ones.

Teaching the procedure for citing sources is important because my 5th grade students need to grasp the reality of plagiarism and how to avoid it.

By providing information about the sources they used, students are consciously avoiding copying the work of authors and learning to give credit where credit is due.

Second, by taking notes and organizing their notes into an outline, students are exercising their ability to find main ideas and corresponding details.

Being able to organize ideas is crucial for young writers.

Third, when writing research reports, students are internalizing the writing process, including organizing, writing a rough draft, proofreading/editing, and writing a final draft.

When students write research reports about topics of interest, they are fine-tuning their reading and writing skills.

How to Teach Step-By-Step Research Reports in Grades 5 & 6

As a veteran upper elementary teacher, I know exactly what is going to happen when I tell my students that we are going to start research reports.

There will be a resounding groan followed by students voicing their displeasure. (It goes something like this…. “Mrs. Bazzit! That’s too haaaaaaard!” or “Ugh. That’s boring!” *Sigh*  I’ve heard it all, lol.)

This is when I put on my (somewhat fictional) excited teacher hat and help them to realize that the research report process will be fun and interesting.

Step 1: Help Students to Choose a Topic and Cite Sources for Research Reports

Students definitely get excited when they find out they are allowed to choose their own research topic. Providing choice leads to higher engagement and interest.

It’s best practice to provide a list of possible research topics to students, but also allow them to choose a different topic.

Be sure to make your research topics narrow to help students focus on sources. If students choose broad topics, the sources they find will overwhelm them with information.

Too Broad: American Revolution

Just Right: The Battle of Yorktown

Too Broad: Ocean Life

Just Right: Great White Shark

Too Broad: Important Women in History

Just Right: The Life of Abigail Adams

Be sure to discuss appropriate, reliable sources with students.

I suggest projecting several examples of internet sources on your technology board. Ask students to decide if the sources look reliable or unreliable.

While teaching students about citing sources, it’s a great time to discuss plagiarism and ways to avoid it.

Students should never copy the words of an author unless they are properly quoting the text.

In fact, I usually discourage students from quoting their sources in their research reports. In my experience, students will try to quote a great deal of text and will border on plagiarism.

I prefer to see students paraphrase from their sources because this skill helps them to refine their summarization skills.

Citing sources is not as hard as it sounds! I find that my students generally use books and internet sources, so those are the two types of citations that I focus on.

How to cite a book:

Author’s last name, First name. Title of Book. City of Publication: Publisher, Date.

How to cite an internet article:

Author’s last name, First name (if available). “Title of Article or Page.” Full http address, Date of access.

If you continue reading to the bottom of this post, I have created one free screencast for each of the five steps of the research process!

Step 2: Research Reports: Take Notes

During this step, students will use their sources to take notes.

I do provide instruction and examples during this step because from experience, I know that students will think every piece of information from each source is important and they will copy long passages from each source.

I teach students that taking notes is an exercise in main idea and details. They should read the source, write down the main idea, and list several details to support the main idea.

I encourage my students NOT to copy information from the source but instead to put the information in their own words. They will be less likely to plagiarize if their notes already contain their own words.

Additionally, during this step, I ask students to write a one-sentence thesis statement. I teach students that a thesis statement tells the main point of their research reports.

Their entire research report will support the thesis statement, so the thesis statement is actually a great way to help students maintain a laser focus on their research topic.

Step 3: Make a Research Report Outline

Making an outline can be intimidating for students, especially if they’ve never used this organization format.

However, this valuable step will teach students to organize their notes into the order that will be used to write the rough draft of their reports.

Because making an outline is usually a new concept for my 5th graders, we do 2-3 examples together before I allow students to make their outlines for their research reports.

I recommend copying an outline template for students to have at their fingertips while creating their first outline.

Be sure to look over students’ outlines for organization, order, and accuracy before allowing them to move on to the next step (writing rough drafts).

Step 4: Write a Research Report Draft

During this step, each student will write a rough draft of his/her research report.

If they completed their outlines correctly, this step will be fairly simple.

Students will write their research reports in paragraph form.

One problem that is common among my students is that instead of writing in paragraphs, they write their sentences in list format.

I find that it’s helpful to write a paragraph in front of and with students to remind them that when writing a paragraph, the next sentence begins immediately after the prior sentence.

Once students’ rough drafts are completed, it’s time to proofread/edit!

To begin, I ask my students to read their drafts aloud to listen for their own mistakes.

Next, I ask my students to have two individuals look over their draft and suggest changes.

Step 5: Research Reports – Students Will Write Their Final Drafts! 

It’s finally time to write final drafts!

After students have completed their rough drafts and made edits, I ask them to write final drafts.

Students’ final drafts should be as close to perfect as possible.

I prefer a typed final draft because students will have access to a spellchecker and other features that will make it easier to create their final draft.

Think of a creative way to display the finished product, because they will be SO proud of their research reports after all the hard work that went into creating them!

When grading the reports, use a rubric similar to the one shown in the image at the beginning of this section.

A detailed rubric will help students to clearly see their successes and areas of needed improvement.

Once students have completed their first research projects, I find that they have a much easier time with the other research topics assigned throughout the remainder of the school year.

If you are interested in a no-prep, step-by-step research report instructional unit, please click here to visit my Research Report Instructional Unit for 5th Grade and 6th Grade. 

This instructional unit will guide students step-by-step through the research process, including locating reliable sources, taking notes, creating an outline, writing a report, and making a “works cited” page.

I’d like to share a very special free resource with you. I created five screencast videos, one for each step of the research report process. These screencasts pair perfectly with my Research Report Instructional Unit for 5th Grade and 6th Grade! 

Research Report Step 1 Screencast

Research Report Step 2 Screencast

Research Report Step 3 Screencast

Research Report Step 4 Screencast

Research Report Step 5 Screencast

To keep this post for later, simply save this image to your teacher Pinterest board!

Hi, If i purchase your complete package on grade 5/6 writing does it come with your wonderful recordings on how to teach them? Thanks

Hi Gail! The recordings on this blog post can be used by anyone and I will leave them up 🙂 The writing bundle doesn’t come with any recordings but I did include step-by-step instructions for teachers. I hope this helps!

Thank you for sharing your information with everyone. I know how to write (I think, haha), but I wanted to really set my students up for success with their research and writing. Your directions and guides are just what I needed to jar my memory and help my students become original writers. Be blessed.

You are very welcome, Andrea! Thank you for this comment 🙂

Hi Andrea, I am a veteran teacher who has taught nothing but primary for 25 years. However, this is my first year in 5th. I’m so excited to have found your post. Can you direct me to how I can purchase your entire bundle for writing a 5-paragraph essay. Thanks, Sue

Sure, Susan, I can help with that! Here is the link for the 5th Grade Writing Bundle: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5th-Grade-Writing-Bundle-3611643

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8 Science Articles for 5th Graders

Kids love to discover new things. That’s why we like to give them access to recent scientific research ! In these four adaptations, we have brought peer-reviewed scientific papers down from the kind of language you find in academic journals to plain English that 5 th graders can understand.

Your pre-teen students will get a taste of what’s new in science and why it matters as they follow the researchers through the steps of the scientific method . Most of the articles focus on animals , including issues such as biodiversity, conservation, and human impacts on the world.

For convenience, you can download these 8 articles at once:

We’ve published more than 30 articles suitable for 5th graders. Check out the full list here:

Some articles come in TWO reading levels. Select the LOWER READING LEVEL.

Would beavers make good firefighters?

In this article, scientists found out that beavers ’ activities can protect plants and animals around them during a wildfire . There is an extensive lesson plan with town-hall role-play activity and an audio version of the article available for auditory learners or students with visual disabilities.

Why do bats need more food to call louder?

In this article, scientists wanted to find out if bats needed more energy to echolocate loudly. The students get to follow the researcher into a wind tunnel at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research where bats’ metabolism is tested under various experimental conditions . The results are presented as a scatter plot . There is an audio version of the article available for auditory learners or students with visual disabilities.

How do seabirds share?

In this article, concepts such as niche differentiation and resources partitioning are explained using the example of a joint coloring activity where each student wants to use a color but there are only so many yellow pencils. For this study, the researchers used GPS tracking data and field observations to determine how different species of seabirds can live together by learning how to divide their limited food resources. The results are presented as a bar graph and there is also a map of the study location in Canada.

How can your smartphone make water safe to drink?

In this technology -oriented article, inventors from the Georgia Institute of Technology developed a small device and an app that can be used with a smartphone to kill harmful bacteria in water . The human need for clean water is discussed and students can learn how a cell phone can help disinfect water so that it won’t make people who drink it sick. The article contains a pictogram of the device and an audio version for auditory learners or students with visual disabilities

Are poachers rhinos’ only problem?

In this article, students get to take a close look at Kruger National Park in South Africa, where many rhinoceroses live. The scientists already knew that poaching is a major threat to rhinos, but they were also interested in the impact of drought on the survival of the two different species in the park: white and black rhino. The researchers compared the rates of birth and death (from both natural causes and illegal hunting) for periods before, during, and after the drought. The results are presented in two simple line graphs , but students will need to be careful about the differing y-axis scales. Like the scientists, students will be pleased to learn that the obvious threat of poaching decreased for both species across the four-year period. However, they might be surprised to find out that the two species were affected differently by the drought – which helps illustrate the importance of paying attention to climate factors in preserving endangered species .

Where does Australia’s wildlife hide?

Kids are excited to spot wild animals near their schools and homes. They’ll likely be curious about the same question scientists in Australia asked: how much threatened wildlife lives in our cities? The researchers overlapped maps of species habitats with maps of urban areas and discovered that half of the threatened animals and a quarter of the threatened plants in Australia live in cities! We present a simplified map for students to examine and also include a few statistics from the US and the UK for comparison. Students will consider some ways we can make our cities more wildlife-friendly to help threatened species survive .

Counting the fish catch – why don’t the numbers match?

We actually created two versions of this adaptation, so you’ll need to scroll down the page to find the link to the elementary/middle-school version. Researchers in this article carried out a data collection project to calculate total catches from all marine fisheries in the world from 1950 to 2010. Students will quickly realize how complicated a task it is to track the many different kinds of fisheries. A line graph shows the total reconstructed catch figures peak at a much higher amount in comparison to the officially reported figures – and that they are now declining much faster than people thought. Students will understand how important it is to have accurate data in order for people to make the right decisions to protect global fish stocks .

What happens if we take laboratory mice outside?

This adaptation introduces students to the idea of a mouse model , explaining how scientists use mice as a model organism to learn more about human bodies. However, in this article, scientists wondered how well mice in the laboratory actually model real life. So they decided to test how a realistic environment impacts the ability of mice to fight off intestinal worms. They compared a group of mice who lived only in the lab, a group that lived only outdoors, and a group that moved from the lab to the outdoors. A pictograph helps to illustrate the method and timing. The final worm count and worm biomass are presented in scatter plots and show that the mice that lived outdoors the longest developed fatter and longer worms in their guts. Students will realize how important it is for experimental design to include different environmental conditions .

That’s Not All!

Our site offers hundreds of scientific articles suitable for students of all ages. Check for the latest elementary or middle school level articles. Everything is free to download! Just use the filter to find the ones you need.

• May 27, 2020

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120+ Exciting 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis In 2023

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of 5th-grade science projects with hypotheses? Science projects are not just about fun experiments; they also involve forming hypotheses to make educated guesses about outcomes. But what makes a good hypothesis for a science project? In this blog, we’ll explore the key components of a successful hypothesis.

Selecting the right 5th-grade science project can be a challenge, and we’ll share some valuable tips to help you choose the perfect one. We’ll dive into the importance of combining hypothesis with your science project and why it’s a vital aspect of learning and discovery.

But that’s not all! We’ve also compiled an extensive list of 120+ exciting 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis, providing you with a wealth of inspiration for your next scientific adventure. Stay tuned with us to unleash the world of  5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis  and nurture your curiosity in the process.

What Is A Good Hypothesis For A Science Project?

Table of Contents

A good hypothesis for a science project is like a smart guess. It helps scientists figure out what they think will happen in their experiment. To make a good hypothesis, you need to use words like  if  and  then.  For example,  If I water the plant every day, then it will grow taller.  This shows what you’re going to do and what you expect to see.

In addition, a strong hypothesis also needs to be testable. That means you can experiment to see if it’s true or not. It’s like a detective’s clue that leads you to find the answer. Scientists use good hypotheses to guide their experiments and learn new things about the world. So, making a good hypothesis is an important part of any science project.

Things To Remember While Selecting A 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis

Here are some things to remember while selecting a 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis:

1. Personal Interest

Choose a 5th-grade science project that interests you. Picking a topic you’re curious about makes the project more enjoyable. Whether it’s plants, animals, or space, your passion can make learning fun.

2. Age-Appropriate

Make sure the project is right for your grade level. A 5th-grade project shouldn’t be too simple or too complex. It should match your skills and what you’ve learned in school.

3. Available Resources

Check if you have access to the materials you need. Some projects might need special tools or expensive stuff. It’s essential to choose something you can do with the materials you have.

4. Safety First

Keep safety in mind. Select a project that’s safe to do at home or in school. Make sure you won’t be using anything harmful or dangerous.

5. Clear Instructions

Look for a project with clear instructions. It’s easier when you know what to do step by step. Projects with easy-to-follow directions help you succeed and learn better.

Developing A Hypothesis For Your Science Project

Developing a hypothesis for your science project is a crucial step. It’s like making an educated guess about what you think will happen during your experiment. Here are seven key points to consider while creating a hypothesis:

• Identify the Variables: Determine the two things you’re testing in your experiment, the  if  and  then  parts. For example, if you’re testing plant growth, the variables could be  amount of sunlight  and  plant height. 
• Be Specific: Make sure your hypothesis is clear and precise. Avoid vague or broad statements. The more specific, the better.
• Predict the Outcome: Your hypothesis should state what you expect to happen. Will one variable cause a change in the other? State your prediction clearly.
• Use  If-Then  Statements : Craft your hypothesis using  if-then  statements to show the relationship between the variables. For instance,  If the amount of sunlight increases, then the plant height will also increase. 
• Keep It Testable: Ensure that your hypothesis is something you can test through an experiment. It should lead to concrete results that you can measure.
• Avoid Bias: Make sure your hypothesis doesn’t show your personal beliefs. It should be based on research and evidence, not what you want to happen.
• Revisit and Revise : As you conduct your experiment, be ready to adjust your hypothesis if the results don’t match your initial prediction. Science is all about learning and adapting.

Here we have a list of 120+ exciting 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis in 2023: 

• Balloon Rocket

Hypothesis –   If I inflate a balloon and release it, then it will move forward because of the escaping air. 

• Moldy Bread

Hypothesis –  I think bread left in different conditions will develop mold at varying rates. 

• Growing Plants 

Hypothesis –   If I give plants different amounts of water, then they will grow differently. 

• Magnet Magic

Hypothesis –  I predict that magnets will attract some objects but not others. 

• Lemon Battery

Hypothesis –  I believe I can create a battery using a lemon because it is acidic. 

• Volcano Eruption

Hypothesis –   I expect that a mixture of vinegar and baking soda will create a volcanic eruption. 

• Density of Liquids

Hypothesis –   I think different liquids have different densities, and some will float on top of others. 

• Solar Still

Hypothesis –   I predict that a solar still can collect clean water from dirty water through evaporation. 

• Bouncing Balls

Hypothesis –   I believe that balls made from different materials will bounce to different heights. 

• Static Electricity

Hypothesis –   I think rubbing a balloon on my hair will create static electricity that attracts objects. 

• Fruit Battery

Hypothesis –  I expect that fruits like oranges and lemons can power a small light bulb. 

• Color-Changing Milk

Hypothesis –  I predict that adding soap to milk with food coloring will make colorful patterns. 

• Tornado in a Bottle

 Hypothesis –   I think that by swirling water and dish soap in a bottle, I can create a tornado-like vortex. 

• Water Filtration

Hypothesis –   I believe that by using sand and gravel, I can filter impurities from water. 

• Rust Formation

Hypothesis –  I predict that metal objects left in water will rust over time. 

• Candy Dissolving

Hypothesis –  I think that different candies will dissolve at different rates in water. 

• Seed Germination

Hypothesis –  If I plant seeds in various conditions, then they will sprout at different rates. 

Hypothesis –  I expect that by using a simple rain gauge, I can measure rainfall accurately. 

• Sound Vibrations

Hypothesis –   I believe that different objects will produce different sounds when struck. 

• Egg Drop Challenge

Hypothesis –   I predict that if I design a protective container, the egg will survive a fall. 

• Paper Airplanes

Hypothesis –   I think that altering the shape of paper airplanes will affect their flight distance. 

• Food Preservation

 Hypothesis –   I expect that different methods of food preservation will keep food fresh longer. 

• Homemade Slime

Hypothesis –  I believe that mixing glue and borax will create a slimy substance. 

Hypothesis –   I predict that combining oil and water with Alka-Seltzer will create a mesmerizing lava lamp effect. 

• Air Pressure

Hypothesis –   I think air pressure can be measured with a simple barometer. 

• Crystal Growth

Hypothesis –  I expect that I can grow crystals by dissolving substances in water. 

• Ocean Currents

Hypothesis –   I predict that hot water and cold water will create ocean currents in a container. 

• Rainbow in a Jar

Hypothesis –   I believe I can create a rainbow by layering different liquids with different densities. 

• Static Electricity Levitation

Hypothesis –  I think that static electricity can make a small object levitate. 

• Melting Ice

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding salt to ice will cause it to melt faster. 

• Potato Battery

Hypothesis –   I expect that a potato can conduct electricity and power a small device. 

• Pendulum Swing

Hypothesis –   I believe that the length of a pendulum will affect its swing time. 

• Soda Geyser

Hypothesis –   I predict that dropping Mentos candies into soda will create a geyser. 

• Chromatography

Hypothesis –  I think I can separate the colors in markers using chromatography. 

• Heat Transfer

Hypothesis –  I expect that different materials will transfer heat at varying rates. 

• Rainfall and Runoff

Hypothesis –   I predict that if I simulate rainfall on different surfaces, some will produce more runoff. 

• Fizzy Lemonade

Hypothesis –   I believe that combining lemon juice and baking soda will make lemonade fizzier. 

• Rock Identification

Hypothesis –  I think I can identify different rocks by their characteristics. 

Hypothesis –  I predict that by cutting a straw, I can make it produce musical sounds like an oboe. 

• Taste Perception

Hypothesis –   I expect that people’s taste perception may change when their sense of smell is altered. 

• Color-Changing Flowers

Hypothesis –   I believe that adding food coloring to water will change the color of white flowers. 

• Solar Cooker

Hypothesis –   I predict that a solar cooker can cook food using only the sun’s energy. 

• Tornado Formation

Hypothesis –  I think that rotating two bottles will create a tornado effect. 

• Vinegar and Baking Soda Rocket

Hypothesis –  I expect that mixing vinegar and baking soda in a bottle will launch it into the air. 

• Popsicle Stick Bridge

Hypothesis –  I predict that I can build a strong bridge using only popsicle sticks and glue. 

• Rainfall Patterns

Hypothesis –  I believe that rainfall patterns can be different in various parts of the world. 

• Chemical Reactions

Hypothesis –  I think mixing certain chemicals will result in a visible reaction. 

• Fruit Decomposition

Hypothesis –   I predict that different fruits will decompose at different rates. 

• Balancing Act

Hypothesis –  I expect that I can balance various objects on a pivot point. 

• Photosynthesis Simulation

Hypothesis –   I believe that using a simple setup, I can show how plants perform photosynthesis. 

• Sinking and Floating

Hypothesis –  I think that objects with different densities will either sink or float in water. 

• Tooth Decay

Hypothesis –  I predict that different liquids will affect teeth differently, simulating tooth decay. 

• Rainwater Collection

Hypothesis –   I expect that by using a funnel, I can collect rainwater efficiently. 

• Soundproofing

Hypothesis –  I think that different materials will block sound to varying degrees. 

• Egg in a Bottle

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can place a peeled hard-boiled egg into a bottle without breaking it.  

• Water Wheel

Hypothesis –   I believe that the flow of water can make a small wheel turn.  

• Invisible Ink

Hypothesis –   I expect that I can create invisible ink that reveals messages under certain conditions.  

•  Heat from the Sun

Hypothesis –   I predict that a dark-colored object will get hotter in the sun than a light-colored one.  

• Layered Liquids

Hypothesis –   I think that liquids of different densities will form layers when mixed.  

• Candle Burning

Hypothesis –   I predict that different types of candles will burn at different rates.  

• Buoyancy with Clay Boats

Hypothesis –   I believe I can make clay boats that float and carry small loads.  

Hypothesis –   I expect that a mixture of cornstarch and water will behave strangely, like a liquid and a solid.  

• Magnetic Slime

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding iron filings to slime will make it magnetic.  

• Stalactites and Stalagmites

Hypothesis –   I think I can grow stalactites and stalagmites using a simple solution.  

Hypothesis –   I expect that different substances will have varying pH levels, which can be tested with indicator paper.  

• Solar Still for Drinking Water

Hypothesis –   I believe that a solar still can produce clean drinking water from saltwater.  

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can create a sundial that tells time using the sun’s shadow.  

• Dissolving Sugar

Hypothesis –   I expect that sugar will dissolve faster in hot water than in cold water.  

• Balloon Inflator

Hypothesis –   I think that a chemical reaction in a bottle can inflate a balloon.  

• Baking Soda and Vinegar Boat

Hypothesis –   I predict that a boat made from materials like baking soda and vinegar will move.  

• Oil Spill Cleanup

Hypothesis –   I believe that using different materials can help clean up an oil spill in water.  

• Seed Dispersal

Hypothesis –   I predict that seeds can be dispersed in various ways, such as by wind or animals.  

• Lemonade Sweetness

Hypothesis –   I expect that lemonade sweetness can be adjusted by adding sugar in different amounts.  

• Density of Solids

Hypothesis –   I think different solid objects will have different densities, which can be measured.  

• Making Ice Cream

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can make ice cream by mxing ingredients and using ice and salt.  

• Conduction and Insulation

Hypothesis –   I believe that different materials will either conduct or insulate heat.  

• Centrifugal Force

Hypothesis –   I predict that spinning an object will create a centrifugal force that affects its path.  

• Balloon-Powered Car

Hypothesis –   I expect that a car powered by a balloon will move because of the escaping air.  

• Candle Extinguisher

Hypothesis –   I think that covering a candle with a glass will extinguish it by using up the oxygen inside.  

• Water Filter Comparison

Hypothesis –   I predict that different water filters will remove impurities to varying degrees.  

• Capillary Action

Hypothesis –   I expect that water will rise differently in materials with varying capillary action.  

• Static Electricity and Salt

Hypothesis –   I believe that salt can be moved with static electricity.  

• Food Coloring in Flowers

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding food coloring to water will change the color of flowers.  

• Bottle Trombone

Hypothesis –   I think I can make a simple trombone-like instrument using a plastic bottle.  

• Windmill Power

Hypothesis –   I expect that a windmill can generate power when exposed to wind.  

• Chewing Gum Flavor

Hypothesis –   I predict that the flavor of chewing gum changes over time as it’s chewed.  

• Yeast Balloons

Hypothesis –   I believe that yeast will produce gas that can inflate a balloon.  

• Water Wheel Efficiency

Hypothesis –   I think that the design of a water wheel affects its efficiency in generating power.  

• Simple Electric Circuit

Hypothesis –   I expect that I can make a light bulb glow by completing an electric circuit.  

• Sugar Crystal Lollipop

Hypothesis –   I predict that sugar crystals will grow on a string dipped in a sugary solution.  

• Temperature and Magnetism

Hypothesis –   I believe that magnets will behave differently at various temperatures.  

• Styrofoam and Acetone

Hypothesis –   I expect that acetone will dissolve styrofoam.  

• Starch in Foods

Hypothesis –   I think I can test for the presence of starch in different foods using iodine.  

• Balloon-Powered Boat

Hypothesis –   I predict that a boat powered by a balloon will move on water.  

• Melting Chocolate

Hypothesis –   I expect that chocolate will melt at different rates when heated.  

• Air Pollution and Plant Growth

Hypothesis –   I believe that exposing plants to air pollution will affect their growth.  

• Simple Motor

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can build a simple motor that turns when an electric current flows through it.  

• Lemon Battery Voltage

Hypothesis –   I expect that different fruits will produce varying amounts of electricity when used as batteries.  

• Fireworks in a Jar

Hypothesis –   I think that mixing oil and colored water will create a fireworks-like display in a jar.  

• Bending Water with Static Electricity

Hypothesis –   I predict that static electricity can bend a stream of water from a faucet.  

• Soda Can Fizz

Hypothesis –   I expect that dropping a mentos candy into a soda can will cause fizzing.  

• Tornado Tube

Hypothesis –   I believe that connecting two plastic bottles with a tornado tube will create a vortex.  

• Magnetic Attraction and Distance

Hypothesis –   I predict that magnets will attract objects from varying distances.  

• Heat Absorption by Colors

Hypothesis –   I think that objects of different colors will absorb heat differently under sunlight.  

• Lemon Battery Power

Hypothesis –   I expect that a lemon battery can power a small LED light.  

• Strawberry DNA Extraction

Hypothesis –   I believe I can extract DNA from strawberries using common household items.  

• Marshmallow Density

Hypothesis –   I predict that marshmallows of different shapes and sizes have different densities.  

• Balloon-Powered Windmill

Hypothesis –   I think a windmill with balloons will turn when exposed to air.  

• Spinning Colors

Hypothesis –   I expect that spinning a color wheel will create the illusion of blending colors.  

• Sound and Vibration

Hypothesis –   I predict that different objects will create different sounds when struck and vibrate differently.  

• Rock Erosion

Hypothesis –   I believe that different rocks will erode at varying rates when exposed to water.  

• Air Pressure and Crushed Can

Hypothesis –   I expect that changing air pressure will crush an empty can.  

• Straw Flute

Hypothesis –   I think that cutting and blowing through a straw can produce musical notes.  

• Bottle Rocket

Hypothesis –   I predict that a bottle rocket filled with water and pressurized air will launch into the air.  

• Fruit Electricity

Hypothesis –   I believe that different fruits can produce electricity using simple circuits.  

• Melting Snow and Ice

Hypothesis –   I expect that different substances can help melt snow and ice at varying rates.  

• Plant Growth in Different Soils

Hypothesis –   I think that different soils will affect the growth of plants differently.  

• Static Electricity and Salt and Pepper

Hypothesis –   I predict that salt and pepper can be moved with static electricity.  

• Floating Paperclip

Hypothesis –   I expect that surface tension can make a paperclip float on water.  

• Crayon Melt Art

Hypothesis –   I believe that crayons will melt and create art when heated.  

• Balloon-Powered Hovercraft

Hypothesis –   I predict that a hovercraft powered by balloons will glide over a smooth surface.  

• Research Topics For Commerce Students
• Maths Project Ideas For College Students

Importance Of 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis For Students 

In this section, we will discuss the importance of 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis for students: 

1. Hands-On Learning

5th-grade science projects with hypotheses offer students a chance to learn through doing. They get to experiment, make predictions, and see the real-world results. This hands-on approach helps students grasp scientific concepts better.

2. Critical Thinking

These projects encourage critical thinking. Students have to come up with educated guesses (hypotheses) and then analyze their experiments’ outcomes. It teaches them to think logically and solve problems.

3. Curiosity and Exploration

Science projects fuel curiosity. They allow students to explore topics they find interesting, making learning more engaging. This curiosity can spark a lifelong interest in science.

4. Application of Knowledge

The things that students have learned in school can be used in real life. It helps them understand that science is not just in books, but all around them. This makes their education more useful.

5. Confidence Building

Successfully completing a science project with a hypothesis can boost a student’s confidence. They see that they can tackle challenging tasks and find solutions. This confidence can extend to other areas of their education and life.

Understanding what makes a good hypothesis is the first step in any 5th-grade science project with a hypothesis. It’s all about making educated guesses and having clear  if-then  statements. Remember to choose a project that matches your interest, is safe, and fits your grade level. With over 120 exciting 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis, you have a world of possibilities to explore. 

Moreover, these projects offer hands-on learning, boost critical thinking, and ignite curiosity. They let you apply what you’ve learned in school to real life. Completing these projects can build your confidence, showing that you can tackle challenges and make discoveries. So, dive into the world of 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis and start your exciting scientific journey!

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5th Grade Science Project Ideas: Experiments, Model Building, DIYs, Challenges, And More

March 8, 2024 //  by  Sean Kivi

Hands-on experiments. They’re one of the greatest tool tips at a teacher or parent’s fingertips to ensure that their students understand new concepts. But where do you start with these? How do you know which experiments are the best for your 5th-graders, or which ones will help to promote learning in the most stimulating way? Well, look no further. This list of 65 5th-grade science projects compiles the best activities for encouraging your students’ discovery and passion for science, from biology, physics, chemistry, and more.

1. Bouncing on a trampoline

Get your kids learning while exercising! This mini trampoline experiment will help your 5th graders by challenging their construction skills and understand the basic principles of a rubber band. By adjusting their own contraption, they will discover how to make the highest bounce.

Learn More: Teach Student Savvy

2. The “magic” leakproof bag

Challenge your students to create a leakproof bag. They might think it’s magic, but you can use it to teach them all about the science of polymers. You can even develop on this by using other materials, too, like plastic bags that have a different size or thickness. Definitely one for your messier kids!

Learn More: Steve Spangler Science

3. Clothespin and popsicle stick airplanes

For this engineering activity, your student will need to create all sorts of airplanes using different household items, such as popsicle sticks and clothespins. Using different methods and construction material, they will see if their planes can actually fly! This experiment also has excellent links to STEAM, too.

Learn More: STEAMsational

4. Tornado in a Bottle

Bring the outside world inside with this fun and simple science experiment. You’ll only need a few things, like a bottle, water, and glitter, to help your students to understand the science behind natural disasters like a hurricane. You can even develop this to teach them about centripetal force as well.

Learn More: Cool Science Experiments Headquarters

5.  Float or Sink Pop Cans

Your students might already be familiar with the version of this experiment that uses eggs, so why not shake things up with soda cans instead? This experiment is a great way for your students to learn about density with different types of artificial sweeteners. You can also teach them about the dangers of too much sugar!

6. Invisible Ink

Your students will love transforming into secret agents with this amazing activity! Using baking soda as ink, they’ll turn their writing invisible. You can then reveal the message with grape juice or a heat source to teach them about paper fibers.

Learn More: ThoughtCo

7. D.I.Y. Snowflakes

All of the fun of snow, but with none of the mess and cold! This is a perfect way to teach your students about molecules and the separation of liquids in a way that they’ll find interesting. You can also use these as beautiful decorations all year round.

Learn More: Little Bins for Little Hands

8. Quicksand escape

Have you ever seen your students playing superhero games together? Well, this is your chance to turn those games into learning! This experiment scaffold kids’ learning of solid and liquid properties by learning through play. They will also discover the best ways to escape from this tricky texture!

Learn More: Education.com

9. Solar S’mores

Create a solar oven that traps the Sun’s energy in this delicious science experiment. Your students are to enjoy these tasty treats while they learn about alternative energy resources and greenhouse gases.

Learn More: Desert Chica  and   Climate Kids NASA

10. Monster Dry Ice Bubble

This experiment does require a little preparation, but it’s sure to be a hit with your students. They will explore the process of sublimation and learn about pressure as they watch the bubbles expand. As this involves dry ice, you will need to be careful with it.

Learn More: Wonder How To

11. Soil Erosion Experiment

This is a great activity to do outdoors on a nice day, as your students will find out about soil erosion and its harmful effects on the natural world. They’ll discover the importance of having vegetation cover the soil.

Learn More: Orlando Science Center

12. Newspaper STEM Challenge

Put those old newspapers to use in this innovative experiment that will foster the creative engineering skills of your kids. They will not only build up their teamwork skills but also develop their problem-solving capabilities by creating their own constructions using only paper materials. This makes it an excellent tool for introducing STEAM engineering concepts.

Learn More:  STEM Activities for Kids

13. Create a Bouncy Ball

Polymers are a hard concept for students to wrap their heads around, so you’ll want to keep the borax aside for this fun learning experiment. You’ll only need a few other spare ingredients to help create your own bouncy balls for your students. They can even play with them afterward!

Learn More:  Babble Dabble Do

14. Build a Snack Machine

Yet another delicious experiment, this one involves learning and applying everything they know about simple machines to create their own Mimi snack machine. It only requires a little basic mechanical engineering but it can be a little challenging trying to re-allocate the snacks.

Learn More:  Left Brain Craft Brain

15. Hot and Cold Density

If you’re looking for a quick science experiment, check out this rainbow density jar experiment. In less than 10 minutes, your kids will explore challenging concepts like water density, molecule science, and more. Try using food coloring for even better results!

Learn More:  STEAMsational

16. Build a Bridge

Challenge your students to re-construct their own models of famous bridges around the world to see which one is the strongest. You should encourage your students to make predictions about each bridge’s strongest design and weight limitations before testing.

Learn More:  Education

17. Testing Heat Capacity

This heat capacity experiment will answer any questions that your students have about why water takes so long to boil in comparison to oil. Your 5th-graders will also understand the different ways that liquids absorb heat and the amount of heat required to modify the object’s temperature by a certain amount (heat capacity).

Learn More: YouTube

18. Rock Candy

The tasty experiments continue with this rock candy creation. You can use it to show your kids the shape of sugar on a bigger scale. They will need your help with mixing boiling water, but they’ll definitely be able to enjoy the sweet results!

Learn More:   Steve Spangler Science

19. Sunlight vs. Artificial Light

Your students will learn about photosynthesis and the factors that can affect it in this science experiment. They will investigate whether plants grow better under natural sunlight or artificial light, as well as the plants’ general health, too.

20. Make a Compass

This excellent experiment is a great introduction to ideas about magnetism and the Earth’s magnetic field. Your students will make their own compass with a magnetized needle. Try challenging your students to compare the differences between magnetic north and geographic north.

21. Musical Glasses

Make some cross-curricular connections with this charming project. Using basic knowledge of physics, your students will create their own musical glasses of water. By studying the different types of material used, they can explore the various properties of glass with these musical masterpieces.

Learn More:  Teach Beside Me

22. Melting Ice Challenge

By adding different solids to ice cubes, your students will test what ingredients can be used to make ice melt faster. They can then record these to determine the melting time of each material. You’ll only need a few ingredients, such as salt, sugar, or baking soda.

Learn More:  Little Bins Little Hands

23. Exploring Fluorescence

This experiment will help your students to solve the mystery of “black lights” in an interesting way. It will also introduce them to the power of ultraviolet light and the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as the different ways that black light can be used.

Learn More:  Supply me

24. Flying Popsicle Sticks

Definitely one for your more active students! They’ll simply love learning about potential by weaving popsicle sticks together, then discovering kinetic energy when they throw them. You can challenge them further to see how long of a chain they can make.

Learn More:  Steve Spangler Science

25. Chalkboard Slime

Almost all 5th-graders love playing with slime, and this experiment is sure to be no different. By adding a few extra ingredients to a normal slime recipe, they’ll create their own slime that is thicker than ever before. An unmissable tool for learning about polymers.

26. Water Conductivity

This is a simple experiment, but it is certainly effective! Your 5th-graders will finally be able to understand the dangers of touching electrical sockets with wet hands. They’ll learn about conductivity and whether water really works as a conductor or not.

Learn More:  Rookie Parenting

27. Magic Marker Stick Man

Your students will think this marker stick man is magical when it comes to life! Instead, you can use this viral experiment to explain the solubility of materials and the use of adhesives.

Learn More:  Gizmodo

28. Making Lightning

A science experience that allows you to bend electricity to your will , even bring it … into the classroom? Dim the lights and bring on a foil-covered fork to find out how static electricity is created.

29. Watching the heartbeat with marshmallows

Mix this delicious treat with science to help your students learn about the circulatory system. They’ll see how the marshmallows “jump” with their heartbeats and understand even one of the hardest units on the human body.

Learn More: Growing Grade by Grade

30. Water Filtration

Demonstrate the water purification process as part of this engaging experiment. Your 5th-graders will explore ideas about water pollution and how to remedy it. You can try expanding on this by using different materials like oils and food coloring to see what happens.

31. Make Oxygen with the help of a plant

A plant’s ability to make oxygen is the main reason that we are alive today. Ene still, this is a difficult concept for students to understand. This project will help you teach how plants help us by producing oxygen. Try different plants to see which ones are best at producing the air we breathe.

Learn More: MEL Science

32. Pendulum Painting

This hands-on activity will help your students learn about important science concepts of potential and kinetic energy while making beautiful art they can be proud of.

Get painting at Jenny Rambles WordPress

33. Greenhouse Gases Experiment

Learn about how greenhouse gases affect the temperature of the planet by using baking soda and lights. You create a chemical reaction using baking soda and water to understand the effects of carbon dioxide on the atmosphere. Have fun!

Learn More: Da Vinci TV

34. Cabbage Chemistry Acid-Base Science Project

A great chemistry science fair experiment that will help your students learn about how acids, neutrals, and bases work. You will make a red cabbage acidity indicator. It’s a smelly but engaging experiment, so plug your nostrils and get to testing acidity.

35. Acid Rain Earth Science Effects

Acid rain is a big problem! It is created when we burn fuels to make electricity and has devastating effects on the areas where it falls. This project will teach Earth science principles by checking how acid rain affects chalk at different levels of acidity. Kids will love this!

36. Tooth Decay Model and Exploration

Teach your students the importance of oral health by demonstrating how tooth decay affects our teeth using our favorite body learning science experiment. You don’t need your teeth because you will use eggshells.

Learn More: Sciencing.com

37. Do Paper Clips Float?

This is a simple experiment to help your students understand surface tension. This is done with household products that you probably have lying around. You can substitute a paper clip for other items to see if they float and how surface tension affects the float-ability of objects. 

Learn More: Champak World

38. Make a Heart with Pumping Blood Model

Many people think that engineering projects are only good for earth sciences, but they work great for life sciences too. Your students will build a model of the circulatory system and test how it works in this hands-on project. 

Learn More: Exploratorium Teacher Institute

39. Electroscope Static Electricity

Built-up static electricity has given us all a shock once or again. This project aims to teach your students about how static electricity gathers and then shocks us. It can also teach about the best electrical conductors if you use various materials.

Learn More: The Kitchen Pantry Scientist

40. Apple Oxidation Experimentation

This is an engaging hands-on activity to get your students to understand the process of oxidization that takes place on objects left exposed to rain and water. We recommend using a variety of artificial sweeteners to test out how they affect the process.

Learn More: Mom Brite

41. Explore Density with a Lava Lamp

Acids and bases are a basic scientific concept and there is no better way to demonstrate them than with a groovy homemade lava lamp. Here you can also demonstrate the density of different liquids.

Learn More: OSC

42. Convection Currents in a Glass

By using water of different temperatures, students can observe convection currents when they drop food coloring in. This can be tied to ocean currents or currents in any large bodies of water.

Learn More: The Homeschool Scientist

43. Biospheres

Students must create one or several biospheres, each enclosed to show how they are all different. They must explain how the parts of each biosphere are interconnected and how it would be affected if one is removed.

Learn More: Laney-Lee

44. Discover Genetics

Students must collect basic information about their family’s characteristics on a gene table. This table must then be interpreted in a family tree to show how some traits can be inherited.

Learn More: Science Buddies

45. Digestive demonstration

With simple kitchen items, students can observe how bile from the liver breaks down fat in the digestive tract. Biological science is a fascinating world the students love exploring.

Learn More: Simple Southern

46. Archimedes’ Screw

This ancient invention is something students can make themselves, showing how a simple invention can change lives.

Learn More: Steps Engineers Ireland

47. Bottle Rocket Competition

Bottle rockets are an exhilarating way for students to explore aerodynamics and the laws of motion. They can change many aspects of their rockets to see who can fly higher or stay in the air longer.

Learn More: Teaching Engineering

48. Catapult Launches

Students can build their own catapults from popsicle sticks and try and catch the launches or aim them at a target. They must make conclusions about how shorter or longer arms on their design will change the outcomes.

49. Candle Carousel

This experiment lets your students prove that hot air rises! Start by having them follow the instructions to make cuts on an aluminum plate and then let them decorate it with colored markers before attaching a metal nut and straw. Once it’s set up, they can then add candles underneath and they’ll see the pinwheel at the top turning. More candles will also make it spin faster!

50. Water Balloon Density

Fill balloons with various liquids and have students predict which ones will float. They must explore the properties of each liquid that helps them to come to their conclusion.

Learn More: 123 Homeschool 4 Me

51. Self-Watering Plant

One hands-on way to teach your students about plant physiology is by having them create a self-watering plant system. While discovering how to create an efficient irrigation system, they’ll get to learn how plants absorb water through their roots and stems via capillary action.

52. Bottle Terrarium

Imagine a miniature world within a bottle! That’s exactly what your students get to build when creating a plant-based microcosm! It’s an exercise in understanding ecosystems, the water cycle, and photosynthesis. As they craft a terrarium in a bottle, they’ll observe firsthand how environmental changes impact these systems.

Learn More: Soul Flower

53. Homemade Battery

Electricity is fundamental to our world, but how is it generated? Your students can unravel this mystery by creating a homemade battery using everyday objects like lemons and pennies. Through this project, they’ll learn about core concepts such as current, voltage, and electrochemical reactions.

54. Dancing Rice Experiment

This fun and intriguing experiment demonstrates gas behaviors. To get their rice grains dancing, they’ll need to add vinegar to a mix of water, baking soda, and rice. What a nifty way to discover more about states of matter and gas production!

Learn More: Mott Children

55. Egg Drop Challenge

This isn’t just a fun science project- it’s a crash course in physics! Your students will need to construct a protective device to prevent an egg from cracking when dropped from a height. To do so they’ll need to think critically about concepts like gravity and force.

Learn More: Sciencing

56. Making a Sundial

Step back in time as your students take a crack at this project! As they craft a sundial, one of the earliest tools for telling time, they’ll learn about Earth’s rotation and how it affects our understanding of time.

Learn More: KDVR

57. Crystal Growing Experiment

What’s more fascinating than watching crystals grow? Your students are sure to love taking this project on! If they do, they’ll transform into little geologists and learn more about how geological processes result in amazing structures.

58. Homemade Rain Gauge

Who knew you could measure rainfall with a DIY tool? Students can build their own rain gauge and gain insights into the water cycle, precipitation, and the significance of data accuracy in science.

Learn More: Spectrum News

59. Sound Wave Experiment

Have your students explore the fascinating world of sound waves using just a spoon and a string. In conducting this experiment, they’ll dive into learning about how vibrations create sound and how sound travels differently through various mediums.

Learn More: KC Edventures

60. Invisible Extinguisher

Fire and oxygen – a relationship your students will explore by putting a candle out without blowing on it. As they pose various hypotheses, they’ll discover the role oxygen plays in combustion and observe what happens when fire is deprived of it.

61. Growing Mold Experiment

A slightly ‘yucky’, but fascinating experiment is to get your students to grow mold on different food items! This will provide them with insights into decomposition, microbial growth, and the importance of proper food storage.

62. Salt Water Desalination

This experiment prompts your pupils to consider how they could solve the world’s water crisis. As they take on a desalination experiment, they’ll develop an understanding of the processes of evaporation, condensation, and the water cycle.

Learn More: Teach Beside Me

63. DIY Barometer

Bring the weather station into your classroom with a DIY barometer! This science project will help students understand atmospheric pressure and how it’s used for weather predictions. All they’ll need to get started is a glass jar, rubber band, doctor’s glove, tape, markers, paper, and a straw. 

Learn More: Housing A Forest

64. DIY Wind Vane

Learning about wind direction becomes an art project when your students create their own! This fun project combines weather patterns, creativity, and problem-solving.

Learn More: Generation Genius

65. Paper Chromatography

Using paper chromatography, your students will break down black ink into its component colors. This project allows them to develop an understanding of solubility and intermolecular forces. 

Learn More: Rainy Day Mum

Science and STEM learning is best when it’s hands-on, and each of these experiments is a great example of this. Don’t forget to encourage your students to complete a write-up activity before and after each one to really push their scientific understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good science project for a 5th grader.

A good science project should introduce students to new concepts, but with hands-on and exciting experiments. Take a look at the list above for the most exciting.

What are some easy experiments?

Each of the experiments that we have listed above requires very little setup and is easy to do in the classroom or at home. Plus, they all have proven results that will get your students interested in learning science, too!

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Science Struck

5 Science Fair Projects For 5th Grade

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An essential step for many fifth graders, completing a successful science fair project can be seen as an achievement mark. When guided properly by mentors, these projects immerse students in core aspects of scientific inquiry and engage them as active participants in scientific discovery processes.

Selecting topics that engage students is the key to their success. From designing a glittering volcano model to exploring how various liquids affect plant growth, these fun experiments cover a range of science subjects.

1. Ball-Run Challenge

An interactive ball-run challenge helps students develop knowledge in physics and engineering while encouraging teamwork, planning and problem-solving abilities.

This density demo shows how liquids float atop each other without using expensive materials; students can then compare results with similar household materials to observe differences.

2. Airplane

Students can demonstrate their understanding of how things operate and analyze data through various projects. Some use experimentation to test a hypothesis while others utilize scientific method for research purposes.

Projects typically fall into three distinct categories depending on their approach: experiments, innovations or studies. Each category could win prizes at a science fair.

3. Acid-Base Experiment

Baking soda and vinegar experiments provide an easy way for students to learn about acids and bases. For an intriguing variation, use indicator compounds that change color to help students differentiate between acidic and basic solutions.

Encourage students to use charts, graphs and other visual aids when presenting their experiments and results. This can help draw more attention to their findings while making them easier for others to comprehend.

4. Catapult

At 5th grade, students should begin taking more responsibility in designing and conducting their science fair projects. A simple STEM challenge that introduces scientific concepts should do just fine!

Experiments such as these enable children to develop critical thinking skills. For instance, they could conduct tests to see whether crushed cans float or sink using household materials, or the effects of different lighting conditions on plant growth. All these efforts aim at expanding critical thinking abilities.

Students investigate how sound waves travel through various mediums with this science fair project idea.

Fluid near the center of a vortex circulates faster than fluid further from its center, which explains why tornadoes and whirlpools produce strong winds while hurricanes have calm eyewalls.

Utilise this fun experiment to investigate gravity and air pressure! Using duct tape and silicon caulking, connect two 2-liter bottles using this approach.

Producing and presenting a science fair project provides students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities, making this type of active learning one of the most efficient approaches to instruction.

Kids in eighth grade can explore the physics of Rube Goldberg machines with this experiment that allows them to create complex machines to complete simple tasks.

Students can study the effects of different liquids on plant growth. Furthermore, they can play different types of music to their plants to see how they react.

7. Heat Capacity

Learn the principles of matter and energy science with this fascinating experiment! Students slowly layer liquids such as honey, water and rubbing alcohol until they float freely one upon another.

Give 5th graders the tools to develop research, critical thinking and presentation skills with these hands-on STEM projects. Encourage them to apply what they have learned out in the world!

8. Ball-Run Challenge with a Twist

Students get creative with engineering as they design and construct a ball run from paper and tape, providing an enjoyable way to teach children about Newton’s Laws of Motion.

Guide fifth graders in creating engaging science fair projects on topics they find fascinating. Provide tips for setting testable questions, researching and collecting data, designing visual displays and creating captivating presentations.

9. Plant Growth

Plant growth experiments provide fifth graders with an engaging way of learning about photosynthesis, plant biology and environmental influences on plant height. By growing plants under various lighting conditions they can observe how these environmental elements impact plant height.

Students can conduct an easy experiment that utilizes household materials to determine how density affects buoyancy. They’ll also discover why surface tension allows water striders to dance on its surface.

10. Music Memory

Use this hands-on science experiment to teach 5th graders about how melodies, musical notes and chords are stored in their brains and study how music has impacted our culture and history.

Explore the effects of various liquids on plant growth with this simple experiment using household items. This science fair project offers children an engaging introduction to scientific method and observation skills.

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