Grade 5 Science

Optional Unit: Oceans

Unit Overview:

The physical characteristics of ocean basins and water, the types of motion in the water and the capability of the ocean system to support life are the main topics considered in this unit.

Related units:

This unit builds on the Optional Unit on Oceans in grade 2.

Several aspects of this unit relate to some of the other units studied in grade 5. The physical characteristics of ocean water could be considered as a topic in the Core Unit Matter and its Changes. The climatic effect of the ocean as a heat sink and moisture source could be dealt with during the Core Unit Heat. Ocean life could be one type of ecosystem discussed in Communities and Ecosystems.

Suggested themes

Factors of scientific literacy that should be emphasized:

• A3 holistic
• B2 interaction
• B4 organism
• B10 cause-effect
• B16 system
• C2 communicating
• C3 observing and describing
• F1 longing to know and understand
• F4 valuing natural environments
• G1 interest
• G3 continuous learner

Common Essential Learnings foundational objectives which should be emphasized:

• To develop students' abilities to meet their own learning needs. (IL)

Science foundational and learning objectives:

1. Describe the physical characteristics of the ocean.
   1. Compare the contents of ocean water and fresh water.
   2. Investigate the formation of waves.
   3. Describe how tides form.
   4. Consider the topography of the ocean floor.
   5. Describe how the ocean influences climate.
2. Describe the diversity of life in the ocean.
   1. Outline some marine food webs.
   2. Investigate the effect of pollutants on life in the ocean.