Ukraine Grade 5 Curriculum - Physics

This curriculum outlines the Physics component integrated within the 5th-grade Environmental Studies course. The curriculum is structured into three main sections, with the Physics content primarily embedded within the first two sections.

Introduction (6 hours)

This introductory section lays the groundwork for the study of nature, encompassing various scientific disciplines including Physics. It introduces the methods of scientific inquiry, such as observation, experiment, and measurement, along with the necessary equipment. The importance of scientific knowledge for humanity is also emphasized.

Section I. Objects, Substances and Phenomena Around Us (15 hours)

This section delves into the properties of matter and the phenomena surrounding us. The Physics-related topics covered include:

• Objects: Characteristics of objects, including shape, size, mass, and volume. Measurement tools and techniques are also introduced.
• Substances: Physical properties of substances, such as color, gloss, smell, and state of matter (solid, liquid, and gas). The concepts of atoms and molecules are introduced, along with the phenomenon of diffusion.
• Phenomena: Physical phenomena and their diversity. Chemical phenomena, including combustion and putrefaction, are also discussed. The repeatability and interrelation of phenomena in nature are explored.

Section II. Universe (8 hours)

This section provides an introduction to astronomy and the universe. While not strictly Physics, it covers related concepts such as:

• Celestial Sphere: Introduction to the sky and celestial sphere, including constellations and celestial bodies. Visible movements of celestial bodies are discussed.
• Celestial Objects and Bodies: Stars, planets, galaxies, and interstellar space are introduced. The Solar System and its structure are also covered.
• Astronomy: The science of astronomy and its methods and tools are briefly discussed. The significance of astronomical research and humanity's place in the universe are also touched upon.

Section III. Earth is a Planet in the Solar System (Topic 1: 16 hours, Topic 2: 15 hours, Topic 3: 7 hours)

This section focuses on the Earth and its environment, with some Physics-related concepts integrated within Topic 1:

• Earth as a Planet: Shape, size, and internal structure of the Earth. Movements of the Earth, including rotation and revolution, are discussed, along with the resulting phenomena of day and night and seasons. The Moon as Earth's satellite and the phenomena of solar and lunar eclipses are also covered.

It is important to note that the 5th-grade Physics curriculum in Ukraine is integrated within the broader context of Environmental Studies and serves as a foundation for more specialized Physics education in later grades.