If you’re teaching grade 5 space, one of the most engaging ways to bring this unit to life is by exploring how astronauts live and work aboard the International Space Station (ISS). It’s a topic that naturally taps into student curiosity and lends itself beautifully to inquiry-based learning. In this blog post, we’re sharing a breakdown of a space lesson idea that introduces students to the scientific and technological innovations that make life in space possible. You’ll get classroom-tested strategies for structuring the lesson, fostering rich discussions, and building independent research and writing skills. You can build your own resources from these ideas—or join the Ignited Lessons Club where it’s all done for you.
Why the International Space Station Is a Great Entry Point
The ISS offers a perfect balance of science, technology, and human interest. From the conditions of microgravity to high-tech inventions like robotic arms and water recycling systems, it allows students to connect big concepts—like survival in space—with everyday life on Earth.
This lesson supports key expectations in the Ontario Grade 5 Science curriculum, particularly around:
- How humans adapt to space environments
- The impact of space technology on daily life
- The structure and function of the solar system
Step 1: Spark Curiosity with Class Discussion and Shared Reading
Begin with a class brainstorm:
- What do students already know about the ISS?
- What do they wonder about daily life in space?
Then introduce a short article or reading passage about the ISS. This might include how it was built, who lives there, and how astronauts carry out research. You can find age-appropriate articles from NASA or the Canadian Space Agency—or write a summary based on student curiosity.
In the Ignited Lessons Club, we include a reading passage specifically about the ISS, ready to print and use in your classroom.
Step 2: Reinforce with a True or False Recap
Create a fun comprehension check by writing 8–10 true or false statements based on the reading. Students can respond using thumbs up/down, personal whiteboards, or quick writes in their notebooks. This helps clarify misunderstandings and solidify key facts.
Ignited Lessons Club members get this done for them—complete with ready-to-use statements that are perfect for whole-class, small group, or exit ticket use.
Step 3: Group Inquiry & Jigsaw Research
Split students into groups and assign each group a research question related to life on the ISS. Topics might include:
- How astronauts eat, sleep, or shower in space
- How they exercise to stay healthy
- What tools and technologies keep them safe
Students gather facts and record them in a graphic organizer or note-taking sheet. Then, they share their findings with the class while others add peer research to their own notes. This fosters independence and collaboration.
In the Ignited Lessons Club, this step includes a graphic organizer titled Inventions That Allow Us to Live in Space, built specifically for this lesson.
Step 4: Reflect with a Personal Writing Task
Have students respond to a reflective question like:
Would you want to live on the ISS? Why or why not?
Encourage them to support their answer using facts from their reading and research.
The Ignited Lessons Club resource includes a printable writing page and a rubric, so teachers can easily assess student understanding.
Optional Grade 5 Space Extension Ideas
Want to take it further? Try:
- Watching a live stream from the ISS
- Exploring the Canadian Space Agency’s kids’ section
- Comparing the ISS to satellites or Mars rovers in a Venn diagram
Wrap-Up: Teaching Grade 5 Space Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
This ISS lesson blends structure with inquiry and hits key expectations for the grade 5 space unit. Whether you’re pulling together resources on your own or looking to save time, the format gives you flexibility without sacrificing depth.
Want everything done for you? The Ignited Lessons Club includes:
- Reading passage
- Pre-made comprehension activities
- Note-taking templates
- Reflection writing tasks
- Assessment rubrics
Explore the Ignited Lessons Club here and get instant access to ready-to-teach science units, including your entire Grade 5 space unit!
Looking for more teaching help? Check out these blogs!
