Wonderful independent research

[5th Grade Elementary School] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas That Lead to Learning

Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

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!

[5th Grade Elementary] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas that Lead to Learning (81–90)

autonomous self-driving robot car

Let's Build a DIY Self-Driving Robot Car: Science Experiment [Azabu Science Experiment Classroom]

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!

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Sound experiment

[Environmental Experiment School] Let's experience how sound travels through 'things'

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!

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Three steps to make a haiku

Hamagakuen Presents: Haiku Workshop for Elementary School Students (2) — Three Steps to Composing Haiku

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!

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Paper Art Triangle

Paper Art Triangle: A 3D project you can make in a short time

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.

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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.