The Primary 5 Basic Science First Term Scheme of Work plays a vital role in shaping young learners’ understanding of the world around them. Designed and approved by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), this structured syllabus guides teachers in delivering weekly science lessons that build environmental awareness, critical thinking, and personal hygiene habits.
From Week 1 to Week 12, each topic encourages active participation and hands-on learning, helping pupils explore the basic principles of science through local examples and real-life observations. Teachers use this scheme to plan and execute lessons that meet national curriculum standards, laying a solid foundation for future exams and assessments.
Parents also benefit from this guide. By understanding the weekly objectives, they can track their child’s academic progress, reinforce classroom concepts at home, and partner with teachers in meaningful ways. For students, the structured progression from basic topics to more complex ideas like enhances their curiosity and improves retention.
This post provides a complete, easy-to-use table of the Primary 5 Basic Science Scheme of Work for First Term (Week 1–12), making it simple for educators and stakeholders to plan, teach, and revise effectively. Whether you’re preparing for lesson delivery, helping your child review topics, or aligning teaching goals with national expectations, this scheme serves as an essential academic tool.
Primary 5 Basic Science Scheme of Work (First Term)
| Week | Topic | Learning Objectives |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Readiness Test / Revision | Diagnostic review of previous knowledge |
| 2 | Environmental Quality | Define environmental quality, compare healthy vs degraded environments, explain effects and causes |
| 3 | Changes Around Us (Erosion) | Define erosion, identify types and causes, analyze environmental effects |
| 4 | Control of Erosion | Describe how erosion affects the environment and how to prevent it |
| 5 | Land and Noise Pollution | Identify pollutants, causes, effects, and control measures |
| 6 | Waste and Waste Disposal I | Explain waste, list types, and discuss environmental impacts |
| 7 | Mid-Term Break | — |
| 8 | Waste and Waste Disposal II | Methods of waste disposal, recycling, and its advantages |
| 9 | Environmental Changes (Water and Air) | Define pollution, discuss water and air pollution, its effects and controls |
| 10 | Environmental Quality (Revisited) | Explain ways and materials for maintaining a clean environment |
| 11 | Reproduction in Plants | Label parts of a flower, explain pollination types and agents |
| 12 | Revision | General term review |
Importance of the Scheme
Implementing the NERDC-approved Primary 5 Basic Science First Term Scheme of Work in schools delivers multiple educational benefits that align with Nigeria’s national goals for basic science education.
1. Curriculum Alignment
Teachers apply this scheme to maintain national consistency in science instruction across public and private schools in Nigeria. It guarantees that every pupil, regardless of location, receives the same quality of learning based on NERDC guidelines.
2. Exam Readiness
This scheme builds a strong academic foundation for external examinations such as WAEC and NECO. By mastering weekly topics, pupils become better prepared for standardized tests and national assessments in later classes.
3. Environmental Awareness
Schools use the weekly modules to teach pupils about pollution, waste disposal, and environmental conservation. These lessons develop lifelong habits that support sustainable living and community health.
4. Scientific Curiosity
Each topic sparks natural curiosity through observation, guided experiments, and active inquiry. Pupils explore science concepts like plant reproduction, erosion, and energy sources, which nurture early interest in STEM fields.
5. Holistic Learning
The scheme balances cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains of learning. Pupils don’t just memorize facts, they engage emotionally with environmental topics and apply knowledge through hands-on activities and social interactions.
By following this well-structured guide, schools empower pupils with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed for academic success and responsible citizenship.
How to Use the Scheme Effectively
To fully benefit from the Primary 5 Basic Science First Term Scheme of Work, each stakeholder—teachers, parents, and pupils, must play an active role in its implementation.
For Teachers
Teachers should use the weekly breakdown to prepare engaging, hands-on science lessons in advance. Align your teaching aids, visuals, and classroom experiments with the specific learning objectives for each week. To evaluate pupil understanding, conduct formative assessments such as quizzes, oral tests, and group projects regularly. This helps in tracking learning progress and addressing gaps early.
For Parents
Parents can support the scheme by reviewing weekly science topics at home. Reinforce learning by encouraging your child to engage in home-based experiments, nature walks, or recycling activities that relate to classroom lessons. Monitor your child’s homework consistently and discuss real-life environmental issues like pollution or water scarcity to deepen understanding.
For Pupils
Pupils should develop independent learning habits by reading ahead using recommended science textbooks and classroom notes. Join in group discussions and class observations actively, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Create a personal science diary to record experiments, observations, and new discoveries. This boosts retention and makes learning fun and interactive.
By working together, all stakeholders can turn the scheme of work into a powerful tool for academic success and environmental consciousness in Primary 5 Basic Science.
Conclusion
The Primary 5 Basic Science First Term Scheme of Work provides a structured weekly plan that builds pupils’ scientific knowledge and environmental awareness. It promotes curiosity, observation, and responsibility through topics like pollution, plant reproduction, and energy sources. Aligned with NERDC standards, the scheme supports classroom teaching, exam readiness, and real-life learning at home and school.
