[5th Grade Elementary School] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas That Lead to Learning
Elementary school students, have you decided what to do for your independent research project this year?
Since you can choose any theme for independent research—experiments, crafts, observations—it can be hard to decide what to do each year.
So in this article, we’ve gathered a variety of independent research ideas to help you not only search for ideas but also expand on any interests you come up with.
Because this is aimed at fifth graders, we’re introducing topics that lead to deeper learning.
Feel free to use this as a reference and keep making new discoveries!
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[5th Grade Elementary School] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas That Lead to Learning (71–80)
Fossil making

Get hands-on with shells! Here are some ideas for making your own “fossils.” We often hear that real fossilization can take over ten thousand years.
When dinosaur bones or ancient life fossils are discovered, they’re frequently featured in the news and media.
This time, let’s use shells to create specimens that look just like fossils! In the video, we clearly explain each step of the specimen-making process.
Take this opportunity to give it a try!
How to make a basic robot

Build a robot with your own hands! Here are some ideas for making a basic robot.
These days, we often see robots active in various roles.
In fast-food restaurants, there are robots that carry food and drinks, and some households even keep robot pets.
This time, let’s try making a simple robot.
You’ll need items like a ruler, scissors, a pen, thick paper or cardboard, batteries, a battery holder, a switch, a motor, and wires.
Be sure to work together with a teacher or a guardian.
Volcanic Eruption Research

Let’s experiment! Here are some ideas for researching volcanic eruptions.
When you hear the word “experiment,” some people might imagine something difficult and dangerous.
This time, let’s try a volcano eruption experiment following the steps shown in the video! Japan has volcanoes in a variety of shapes.
First, it’s a good idea to look into what kinds of volcanoes exist in Japan.
The materials you will use include a lidded plastic cup, a deep paper plate, a flat paper plate, a straw, water, plaster, baking soda, and more.
[5th Grade Elementary] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas that Lead to Learning (81–90)
autonomous self-driving robot car

Make and play! Here are some ideas for an autonomous robot car.
Many of you have probably played by moving toy vehicles like cars or trains by hand.
This time, let’s try building a robot car that moves on its own.
In the video, they use tools and kits.
The completed self-driving robot car runs along a course drawn with a black pen on paper.
When using tools, be sure to work together with a teacher or guardian.
Give it a try!
Sound experiment
Learn how sound travels! Here are some ideas for sound experiments.
What comes to mind when you think of sound? You’re surrounded by all kinds of sounds, aren’t you? This time, let’s deepen our learning with the theme of sound.
In the video, it seems you can learn about what sound is and how people perceive it differently.
By studying the properties of sound, you might make new discoveries in your daily life! The experiments feature ones using test tubes and ones using different materials.
Give them a try!
Three steps to make a haiku

Learn from the Haiku Koshien executive committee! Here are three-step ideas for composing haiku.
Many people want to try writing haiku but aren’t sure what process to follow, or simply want to learn how to make them.
These three steps are ideas you can use in such situations.
In the video, a member of the Haiku Koshien executive committee explains the key points clearly and carefully.
Give it a try!
Paper Art Triangle

This is a craft project where you can enjoy the fun of freely drawing with paper by playing with the width and shape of the strips.
Use a wide paper band to create a large triangular outer frame.
Make firm creases and then glue it down to complete the base.
Next, use narrow paper bands to create patterns on the inside.
By combining and attaching shapes you like—zigzags, waves, circles, and more—you’ll achieve a three-dimensional finish.
With creative color choices and placement, even the same triangle takes on a completely different look.
The result is a piece that showcases both mathematical elements and design appeal, and it stands out well in displays.
It’s an idea that trains creativity and concentration.
In conclusion
We introduced ideas for independent research projects for fifth graders.
There were lots of ideas that look like they’ll make research time fun.
Instead of choosing only one, try as many projects as you’re interested in, and experience lots of enjoyable discoveries.
You’ll surely find that the world you knew takes on new colors, and your own perspective will broaden greatly.




