5th Grade

Aquariums allow people to explore underwater environments while keeping their feet on dry land. Learn how aquariums are created and how both their tiniest and mightiest members play big roles in these underwater...

The Wizard of Oz wasn't the first movie to use color. But it used color in a way that makes it hard to imagine the film without it. The Yellow Brick Road, the Emerald City, and Dorothy's iconic ruby slippers...

Magnets are the sparks that bring electric guitars to life! Learn how the guitar has changed over time and how it has impacted music. You'll also learn how electromagnets work and what they're made of. Follow the...

Long ago, farmers used natural farming methods. Then, faster ways to grow food were invented. Some of these methods were not natural. Organic farming has changed that. Farmers are working again with nature to grow...

Little green aliens have invaded the planet! No, not space invaders from Mars. These are plant invaders. Sure, they look harmless. But invasive species can wreak havoc on ecosystems. Learn how people are working to...

Did you know that steam can be used to power engines? In fact, steam power drastically changed the manufacturing and transportation industries. Learn about the history of steam power and the engineers who made it...

The first prosthetic devices consisted of wooden legs and hooks for hands. Today, many prostheses and bionics can do everything a natural limb can do--and more! Learn about inventions from the past that have been...

People at Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute are working hard to save animal species from extinction. Meet five animals they have saved and learn about the people on a mission to save...

Migration has huge benefits for birds, but the benefits of migration come at a cost. Learn how ornithologists are using modern technology to help these long-distance travelers. Created in collaboration with...

The Arctic ecosystem is changing. The temperature is getting warmer, and the polar ice is melting. Polar scientists from around the world study the Arctic because changes there affect the entire planet. What have...

How can you make ice cream creamier? What packaging keeps cookies fresh the longest? And how do you make potato chips that taste like a cheeseburger? These are some of the problems that a food scientist tries to...

Leap back into history and see the first skateboards in action. Investigate the how and the why behind the modern skateboard's design. Then, watch science in action as we break down the ins and outs of popular...