DC CAPE 2.0 Science Grade 5 study plan

Distinguish observations from inferences by labeling 20 phenomena statements as one or the other

Write 10 testable questions from everyday phenomena and rewrite 5 non-testable ones into testable form

Identify the variable being changed, measured, and held constant in 8 simple investigation descriptions

Define each Science and Engineering Practice in your own words in a personal glossary

Describe the steps of a fair test and explain why a control is needed in 3 written scenarios

Predict outcomes for 5 simple investigations and justify each prediction with prior knowledge

Construct a table and a bar graph from a provided data set of 12 values

Explain how repeated trials reduce error using a concrete example

Summarize the core idea of matter and its interactions (properties, mixtures, conservation of matter) in a concept map

Model the water cycle with labeled arrows showing energy transfer

Compare plant and animal structures and their functions in a two-column chart

Explain how Earth's systems (geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere) interact in 2 examples

Describe gravitational, magnetic, and electric forces and give one everyday example of each

Trace energy transfer through a food chain and label producers, consumers, and decomposers

Analyze a provided data set to identify a pattern and write a claim supported by that evidence

Distinguish a claim from evidence and from reasoning in 5 samples

Define a design problem by stating criteria and constraints for 3 real-world scenarios

Generate at least 3 alternative solutions to one problem and compare them on a decision matrix

Explain why prototypes are tested and revised rather than accepted on first try

Identify failure points in a described design and propose a specific fix

Build or sketch a prototype that meets stated criteria and record test results in a data table

Iterate the design at least once based on test evidence and document what changed and why

Apply a science concept (forces, energy, or materials) to justify a design choice

Evaluate two competing designs against the same criteria and defend a recommendation

Construct a model of a system and explain what the model shows and what it leaves out

Write a structured argument with claim, evidence, and reasoning and anticipate one counterargument

Communicate results in a short written report with data, graph, and conclusion

Critique a sample investigation for a flaw in design or reasoning and propose a correction

Integrate practices, design, and core ideas in one full mini-investigation from question to communication

Self-assess mastery of each domain against a checklist and list 3 weak spots to revisit

Complete timed practice sets and review every missed item with a written explanation

Summarize key vocabulary across all three domains in a single reference sheet