Grade 5 Science PSSA
Welcome to the Fifth Grade PSSA Science Resource Page
Elementary students will take the Science PSSA in Grade 5. The testing window usually occurs in April. If you are interested in learning more about these exams, please click on the links below. These resources are provided by the PA Department of Education.
Tips for preparing your students for the PSSA Science Test:
- Actively engage students in investigations. Nature of Science content is 50% of the test. This is all the stuff you think of when you hear the word science - asking questions, building models, recognizing patterns, doing experiments, analyzing data, using evidence, explaining, communicating…
- Incorporate pictures, diagrams, graphs, and tables whenever possible. Students should be able to read, interpret and create these! Have students critique each other's work to add details and labels using vocabulary.
- Remind students that scientific predictions and explanations should always include a "what and why." On Science PSSA open ended questions you need both of these components to get full credit. Here are some examples:
- The ice melted because the Sun heated it up.
- The ball stopped rolling because of friction.
- I know that plants need water because when I grew them without water they died.
- Encourage students to write in science.