Earth Systems
5th Grade Science · 15 lessons
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Lessons
- 1Groundwater and AquifersGroundwater fills spaces between rocks and soil underground. Aquifers are underground layers of rock that hold and transmit water. Many communities depend on wells that tap into aquifers.Experiment
- 2What Causes EarthquakesEarthquakes happen when stress builds up along faults in Earth's crust and suddenly releases. Seismic waves radiate from the focus, shaking the ground.Lesson
- 3How Volcanoes FormVolcanoes form where magma from the mantle reaches Earth's surface. Shield volcanoes have gentle slopes with flowing lava, while composite volcanoes are steep with explosive eruptions.Lesson
- 4Soil Layers and HorizonsSoil forms slowly from weathered rock mixed with decomposed organic matter. Different layers (horizons) form with topsoil on top, subsoil below, and bedrock at the bottom.Experiment
- 5Renewable and Nonrenewable ResourcesNatural resources include materials from Earth that people use. Renewable resources (trees, solar energy) can be replenished. Nonrenewable resources (coal, oil) are limited.Lesson
- 6How Rivers Shape LandRiver systems shape the land over time. Young rivers have steep, V-shaped valleys. Mature rivers meander across floodplains. Old rivers have wide, flat valleys and deltas.Lesson
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