I say put the $5k in a solid blue chip like WOW, WES, BHP or...

I say put the $5k in a solid blue chip like WOW, WES, BHP or RIO. Splitting the $5k among too many stocks will just kill you in entry and exit brokerage fees - expect to pay $60 to buy and sell a share on a $1,000 purchase. That's 6% lost to transaction fees alone, ie more than the dividend you get in a year.

alternatively you can speculate in smaller companies but be prepared for the prospect of losing half, or even all of your investment.