Phenomena In Focus, TX Science TEKS, Gr 5, Teacher Guide
This Phenomena In Focus Matter and Energy Strand pack is a supplemental Science resource developed by RPA Science! The newly adopted Science TEKS (2021) inform instruction and investigations that are anchored in phenomena. Phenomena are observable and detectable events. They are observed through the senses or technology and can be explained through scientific laws, ideas, principles, and theories. When observing a phenomenon, scientists look for patterns to help them understand and explain what is occurring.
This resource aims to close gaps in student mastery not filled by primary, or comprehensive, curriculum. Whether implemented via a Do Now (i.e., attention-getter or bell ringer), mini lesson, extra practice exercise, center activity, or tutorial session, each module enables teachers to:
Embed phenomena to support students in constructing, building, and developing knowledge through authentic application and performance of scientific and engineering practices, recurring themes and concepts, and grade-level content as outlined in the new TEKS;
Intentionally leverage students’ prior knowledge and experiences related to phenomena; and
Clearly outline the scientific concepts and goals behind each phenomenon.
Structure and Materials
Two modules aligned to the Matter & Energy TEKS*:
» Module 5.6AD: Physical Properties of Matter (5 phenomenon activities)
» Module 5.6BC: Mixtures & Solutions (4 phenomenon activities)
Each module is accompanied with:
» Teacher Instructions
» Phenomenon Reference Pages
» Student Activity Handout
The Flowchart for Selecting and Using Phenomena to Drive Instruction: a planning tool that can be used in conjunction with this resource or other instructional materials.
*Our complete Phenomena In Focus pack includes 18 modules covering all Science content TEKS. (Coming early Spring 2026.)
This Phenomena In Focus Matter and Energy Strand pack is a supplemental Science resource developed by RPA Science! The newly adopted Science TEKS (2021) inform instruction and investigations that are anchored in phenomena. Phenomena are observable and detectable events. They are observed through the senses or technology and can be explained through scientific laws, ideas, principles, and theories. When observing a phenomenon, scientists look for patterns to help them understand and explain what is occurring.
This resource aims to close gaps in student mastery not filled by primary, or comprehensive, curriculum. Whether implemented via a Do Now (i.e., attention-getter or bell ringer), mini lesson, extra practice exercise, center activity, or tutorial session, each module enables teachers to:
Embed phenomena to support students in constructing, building, and developing knowledge through authentic application and performance of scientific and engineering practices, recurring themes and concepts, and grade-level content as outlined in the new TEKS;
Intentionally leverage students’ prior knowledge and experiences related to phenomena; and
Clearly outline the scientific concepts and goals behind each phenomenon.
Structure and Materials
Two modules aligned to the Matter & Energy TEKS*:
» Module 5.6AD: Physical Properties of Matter (5 phenomenon activities)
» Module 5.6BC: Mixtures & Solutions (4 phenomenon activities)
Each module is accompanied with:
» Teacher Instructions
» Phenomenon Reference Pages
» Student Activity Handout
The Flowchart for Selecting and Using Phenomena to Drive Instruction: a planning tool that can be used in conjunction with this resource or other instructional materials.
*Our complete Phenomena In Focus pack includes 18 modules covering all Science content TEKS. (Coming early Spring 2026.)