Overview

This 3-day unit integrates 5th grade science concepts from Savvas on solutions and solvents with 5th grade math standard 5.PAFR.2.2 (multiplying fractions by fractions/whole numbers). Students will investigate real-world phenomena involving solutions, engage in hands-on experiments, and apply fraction multiplication to solve practical problems. This blend builds deep conceptual understanding and cross-disciplinary skills aligned with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

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Standards Alignment

Science (Savvas / NGSS alignment)

• 5-PS1-1: Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
• 5-PS1-3: Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties (solutions and solvents).

Mathematics (Common Core State Standards)

• 5.NF.B.4: Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication to multiply a fraction by a fraction.
• 5.PAFR.2.2 (Pennsylvania specific): Multiply fractions by fractions or whole numbers in real-world situations with denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, and 12.

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Day 1: Understanding Solutions & Solvents

I Can Statements

• I can explain what a solution and a solvent are.
• I can identify real-life examples of solutions.
• I can ask questions to better understand how solutions form.

Success Criteria

• Students can define solution and solvent in their own words.
• Students can provide at least two examples of solutions from everyday life.
• Students formulate three questions about the phenomenon observed.

Materials

• Clear cups, water, salt, sugar, oil, sand, spoons
• Whiteboard and markers
• Science notebooks

Vocabulary

• Solution
• Solvent
• Solute
• Dissolve
• Mixture
• Saturation

Phenomenon

Show students two cups: one with sugar dissolved in water, another with oil on water, and ask: "Why does sugar disappear but oil stays separate?"

Essential Questions

1. What happens when we mix two substances?
2. Why do some substances dissolve while others don’t?
3. How can we tell if something is a solution?

Activities

Engage (10 minutes)

• Phenomenon demo with sugar and oil in water.
• Students discuss initial thoughts in pairs, then share as a group.

Investigate (25 minutes)

• Hands-on stations: dissolve sugar, salt, sand in water; observe. Record what dissolves and what doesn’t.
• Students draw or write observations in science notebooks.

Synthesize (15 minutes)

• Class discussion: Define "solution" and "solvent" based on observations.
• Vocabulary introduced and illustrated with examples.
• Students write three questions about solutions they want to explore.

Differentiation

• Provide sentence starters for ELL or struggling writers (e.g., “A solution is…”)
• Allow verbal explanations instead of writing if needed.
• Visual aids for vocabulary.

Extension

• Research and present examples of solutions used in cooking or cleaning at home.

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Day 2: Multiplying Fractions in Solutions

I Can Statements

• I can multiply fractions by whole numbers using real-world examples about solutions.
• I can solve word problems involving fractions with denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, or 12.

Success Criteria

• Students can correctly multiply fractions by whole numbers with denominators from the specified set.
• Students solve at least two real-world fraction problems connected to solutions.

Materials

• Fraction strips or bars
• Worksheets with fraction multiplication problems related to solutions
• Whiteboard/chart paper

Vocabulary

• Fraction multiplication
• Numerator
• Denominator
• Product

Phenomenon Revisited

Pose this question: "If 1/4 cup of salt dissolves in 1 cup of water, how much salt dissolves in 3 cups of water?"

Essential Questions

1. How do I multiply a fraction by a whole number?
2. How does multiplying fractions help me figure out solution concentrations?
3. Why do denominators matter when multiplying fractions?

Activities

Review (10 minutes)

• Quick review of fraction multiplication rules using fraction strips.
• Guided example: 1/4 × 3 = ?

Investigate (30 minutes)

• Worksheet activity: Students solve problems such as “If you have 2/5 cup sugar and want to mix it in 4 batches, how much sugar do you need total?”
• Partner work to discuss and check answers.

Demonstrate & Connect (15 minutes)

• Students create a “recipe card” showing how much solute is needed for multiple solvent cups (using fraction multiplication).
• Share with class and explain their reasoning.

Differentiation

• Use manipulatives (fraction strips, counters) for students who need concrete support.
• Provide scaffolded problem sets (start with simpler denominators and increase).
• Challenge advanced students with fraction × fraction problems (e.g., 2/3 × 3/4).

Extension

• Create your own word problems involving solutions and fractions to share with classmates.

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Day 3: Investigate, Synthesize & Apply

I Can Statements

• I can investigate a solution phenomenon using fraction multiplications.
• I can synthesize science and math knowledge to solve real-world problems.
• I can explain how solutions and fraction multiplication connect in daily life.

Success Criteria

• Students design a simple investigation involving solutions.
• Students solve fraction multiplication problems related to their investigation.
• Students present findings clearly using science and math vocabulary.

Materials

• Science investigation kits (salt, sugar, water, measuring tools)
• Chart paper/markers
• Notebooks

Vocabulary

• Hypothesis
• Observation
• Data
• Conclusion

Phenomenon Activity

Challenge: "How much of different solutes (salt, sugar) will dissolve in 1/2 cup, 3/4 cup, or full cup of water? What patterns do you notice?"

Essential Questions

1. How can I design an experiment to test solutions?
2. How do fraction multiplications help analyze my results?
3. How do my observations explain everyday phenomena involving solutions?

Activities

Investigate (20 minutes)

• In groups of 4-5, students choose a solute and solvent amount, then measure and mix.
• Record solute amounts needed for different water volumes using fraction multiplication.

Synthesize (20 minutes)

• Groups create a poster explaining their experiment, showing fraction calculations, and answering essential questions.

Demonstrate & Connect (15 minutes)

• Each group presents to class, explaining science concepts and math methods used.
• Class discussion on how this knowledge applies at home or in industry.

Differentiation

• Assign roles within groups (recorder, calculator, reporter) to support diverse learners.
• Provide calculation templates or calculators as needed.
• For students needing advanced challenge: vary solute concentration fractions for more complex multiplication.

Extension

• Write a short reflection describing how fractions and solutions will help in cooking, medicine, or cleaning.

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Summary of Unit Success

By the end of this unit, students will:

• Understand what solutions and solvents are.
• Use fraction multiplication to solve related real-world problems.
• Apply science inquiry and mathematical reasoning together.
• Communicate findings clearly, meeting both science and math standards.

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Teacher Notes

• Promote a hands-on, inquiry-based environment to build curiosity and critical thinking.
• Use visual and concrete tools heavily due to the abstract nature of fractions and molecular science.
• Encourage vocabulary journals for retention.
• Regularly connect math to science to emphasize interdisciplinary learning and relevance.