Grade 5 · STEM Skills and Connections · STEM Data and Design

Design a Water-Saving System

Scientists and engineers collect evidence before making decisions. A coded system can store measurements, process them with a rule, and produce a useful response.

Visual model

See how the ideas connect

Look · connect · explain

Store and process data

Test a design against criteria

Communicate evidence clearly

STEM Data and Design

Start at the centre. Follow each line and explain how that idea belongs to STEM Data and Design.

For students

Notice, predict, explain

Choose one part of the model. Predict how it connects to another part, then use the lesson evidence to explain your thinking.

For teachers

Pause for science talk

Show the model before the explanation. Ask “What do you notice?” and “What might change?” Then revisit student ideas after the worked example.

The big idea

Evidence guides each design decision

A strong design connects a clear need with measurable criteria, reliable data, repeatable tests, and improvements supported by evidence.

Work it through

Test a garden watering plan

Step 1 Define the need: keep soil moist enough for plants while reducing wasted water.
Step 2 Record soil-moisture readings and store each reading with its time and location.
Step 3 Use a rule to compare the readings with a chosen threshold and signal when watering is needed.
Step 4 Test the system, compare the results with the criteria, and explain one evidence-based improvement.

For parents and educators

Ontario curriculum alignment

Grade 5 Science and Technology · Strand A: STEM Skills and Connections

View supported expectations

A1.3 · Engineering Design

Use an engineering design process and associated skills to design, build, and test devices, models, structures, and/or systems.
A1.5 · Communicating Findings

Communicate findings using science and technology vocabulary and formats appropriate for specific audiences and purposes.
A2.1 · Storing and Processing Data

Write and execute code in investigations and when modelling concepts, with a focus on using different methods to store and process data for a variety of purposes.
A2.2 · Technology Impacts

Identify and describe impacts of coding and emerging technologies on everyday life, including skilled trades.
A3.1 · Occupational Applications

Describe practical applications of science and technology concepts in various occupations, including skilled trades, and how these applications address real-world problems.