5.1A5.1(A) Ask questions and define problems based on observations, text, phenomena, models, or investigations
For 5.7B, students ask a specific testable question about a force system — such as 'How does changing ramp angle affect how far a car travels?' — with the independent variable, dependent variable, and system clearly defined in the question.
5.1B5.1(B) Plan and conduct descriptive and simple experimental investigations; use engineering practices to design solutions
For 5.7B, students design a simple experimental investigation — this TEKS IS the experimental investigation design SEP — with one independent variable, one dependent variable, all others controlled, and multiple trials.
5.1C5.1(C) Demonstrate safe practices and use of safety equipment per TEA-approved standards
For 5.7B, students demonstrate safe practices during the force investigation including securing ramps, controlling object speeds, and following TEA-approved safety protocols for the specific system.
5.1D5.1(D) Use tools: calculators, microscopes, rulers, thermometers, prisms, lenses, scales, balances, spring scales, cylinders, beakers, hot plates, magnets, circuit materials, digital tools
For 5.7B, students select and use the appropriate measurement tools for their investigation system — spring scales, rulers, timing devices, and system-specific materials (car and ramp or balloon rocket on string).
5.1E5.1(E) Collect observations and measurements as evidence
For 5.7B, students collect multiple trials of measurements for both the independent variable (ramp angle) and dependent variable (distance traveled) to produce a reliable, multi-trial data set.
5.1F5.1(F) Construct graphic organizers: tables, bar/line graphs, tree maps, concept maps, Venn diagrams, flow charts, cause-effect input-output tables
For 5.7B, students construct an organized data table with labeled columns for the independent variable, all controlled variables, and dependent variable — one row per trial — as the structured data record.
5.2B5.2(B) Analyze data: identify significant features, patterns, or sources of error
For 5.7B, students analyze the investigation data to identify significant patterns and sources of error, determining whether the data supports or refutes the original hypothesis.
5.2D5.2(D) Evaluate experimental and engineering designs
For 5.7B, students evaluate their own experimental design — identifying whether variables were properly controlled, whether enough trials were conducted, and what specific improvements would strengthen the investigation.
5.3A5.3(A) Develop explanations and propose solutions supported by data and models
For 5.7B, students develop an evidence-based explanation that explicitly supports or refutes the original hypothesis using the specific data collected, stating what the data shows and why it supports or contradicts the hypothesis.
5.3C5.3(C) Listen actively; identify relevant evidence; engage respectfully in scientific discussion
For 5.7B, students listen actively to classmates' experimental designs, identify the relevant evidence in their conclusions, and engage respectfully in discussion about which designs were most rigorously controlled.
