Name: ________________________

Date: _________________________

5th Grade Science Study Guide

MIXED LIFE SCIENCE OBJECTIVES--Modified
Life cycles, Classification of Vertebrates, Inherited Traits, Learned Behavior

Vocabulary to Know:
Study Hint: Write out the definitions of these words on index cards (flash cards) or make
a vocabulary flip book to help you study! Use the definitions from the science textbook
and information in your science binder to help.

organism inherited trait bird

reptile fish metamorphosis

amphibian direct development learned behavior

germination invertebrate egg

vertebrate larva pupa

mammals instinct life cycle

Things to think about:

Study Hint: Write out the answers to each of these questions on notebook paper or on
index cards. You can also draw pictures/diagrams on paper, and/or make your own
Power Point slides, etc. to help you study. You should also review the study aides that we
made in class. These should be in the Ziploc bag in your binder. Be sure to look the
information up in the science book and in your science binder so that you can study the
correct things for the test!

1. Name and describe the stages in the life cycles of the following organisms—
starting at ANY point in the life cycle:
Butterfly
Frog
Grasshopper
Dog
Flowering plant

2. List and describe the major characteristics of each class of vertebrates:

What physical features do all mammals have in common?
Birds?
Amphibians?
Reptiles?
Fish?
 3. Categorize organisms into one of 5 categories of vertebrates based on physical
characteristics:
EX: A “heffalump” is warm-blooded, has two wings, and is
covered with feathers. What kind of vertebrate is a “heffelump?”

Study hint: Make up your own riddles for family members and friends!

4. Identify common inherited traits in animals, including humans.

a. EX: hair color, eye color, skin color, etc.—look for as many examples as
you can find

5. Distinguish between inherited traits and learned behavior. What’s the difference?

6. Give examples of learned behavior in animals, including humans.

a. EX: brushing your teeth, tying your shoes, language, using tools—list as
many examples as you can find.

**EXTRA CREDIT REQUIREMENT**

STUDENT DECLARATION: I studied for at least 20 minutes every night for this test,
using the recommended study hints and other study techniques that I know work well for
me.

Student signature

PARENT/GUARDIAN DECLARATION: My child studied for at least 20 minutes

every night for this test. I affirm that I witnessed this study guide being used to help my
child prepare for the science exam.

Parent/Guardian Signature

THIS STUDY GUIDE IS TO BE RETURNED TO SCHOOL ON TEST DAY

(11/20/09). IT WILL BE COLLECTED ALONG WITH THE EXAM.

Thank you for your hard work!