Fifth Grade
Language Arts
The fifth grade language arts program allows students to build on reading, writing, and spelling skills acquired in fourth grade. In reading, students expand skills of decoding, word analysis, vocabulary development, reading fluency, reading comprehension, and literary response. Phonics, syllabication, the use of word parts, and books read aloud will aid students in achieving reading fluency. Students will use word reference materials (e.g., glossary, dictionary, thesaurus) to determine the meaning and pronunciation of unknown words. They will ask questions, make connections, infer information, and evaluate text to improve their reading comprehension skills. Students will examine the characteristics of a variety of literary genres. Focusing on the 6+1 writing traits and using the Write Now, Right Now curriculum, students compose literary responses, narratives, expository pieces, descriptive pieces, poems, and autobiographies. Students will use multiple resources to develop research reports. Fifth-graders further develop conventional spelling through learning and applying more complex spelling rules and patterns.
Math
Through the use of manipulatives, visual models, hands on experiences, and problem solving opportunities, fifth grade students build on fourth grade math skills. Working with numbers into the billions, students broaden their understanding of number theory, place value, rounding, and estimation. Students evaluate expressions using positive and negative integers, applying order of operations, and solving for variables. Computational skills are furthered through instruction and practice in adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Conceptual understand and automatic recall are both emphasized as students solve multi-digit multiplication and division problems. Further work with fractions, decimals, and percents will be integrated as student use mathematical knowledge in practical application. Through geometry and measurement, students identify and measure properties of figures, determine perimeter, area, capacity, surface, and volume, and explore coordinate grid systems. Integrating data analysis and probability, students will use real life data to create and interpret graphs, make predictions, and solve problems.
Science
Students will engage in hands-on science experiences as they study a variety of science units throughout the fifth grade year. Field experiences and laboratory use will enrich the course study. Students will participate in research and scientific writing and journaling throughout the year. Beginning with Earth Science, students will study plate tectonics and how they move, creating changes in the earth’s surface. We will also look at slow changes through weathering and erosion. In Physical Science, we will explore the topics of magnetism and electricity. In Life Science, students will learn about the classification of animals, and how organisms change in order to adapt to their changing environments.
Social Studies
The fifth grade social studies curriculum examines pre-Columbian America and the founding of the United States. Our study of American history begins with the original people living on North America, then moves to the European explorers and how their exploration and colonization changed the world. We will finish up the year by discussing the European colonies in North America and the unrest that led to the American Revolution.
Technology
Fifth grade students will integrate technology into each area of learning. They will create, open, name, print, and save documents. They will edit and format by using spelling check, importing and arranging graphics, and cutting, copying, pasting, and highlighting text. Students will use data from a spreadsheet to create tables and graphs and give presentations using a variety of programs. Students will also have the opportunity to explore online learning activities and conduct research using internet sources. We discuss responsible internet usage and how to identify reliable sources of information.
Character Education
Character education in fifth grade is integrated into everyday classroom interactions as we work together to build a community that values and respects each of its members. In our Morning Meetings, we will discuss and participate in activities that encourage reflection on self, interpersonal interactions, and being part of a community. Reaching beyond the classroom, students will participate in community service projects.
