This Grade 5 Term 3 Natural Sciences study guide includes the following topics:

• Fuel and Energy

  • Types of fuels: coal, wood, gas, crude oil

  • Energy output in living things and power stations

  • Greenhouse effect from burning fossil fuels

• Input and Output Energy

  • How energy transforms in systems

  • Example of a candle (input: match flame, output: heat and light)

• Combustion

  • Stored energy to heat energy transformation

• Electric Circuits

  • Components: batteries, wires, switches, lamps

  • Simple circuit diagram

  • How electricity flows from positive to negative terminals

• Mains Electricity

  • How electricity reaches homes from power stations

  • Examples: Gariepdam, Koeberg

  • Importance of electrical boxes and circuit breakers

• Electricity Safety Tips

  • Avoid contact with water

  • Do not overload plugs or expose wires

  • Dangers of electrocution and burns

• Stored and Kinetic Energy

  • Rubber bands and springs as examples

  • Energy transfer through stretching and release

• Simple Machines

  • Focus on wheel and axle systems

  • How these systems help in moving objects