Fifth Grade Math

Fifth grade math is full of many new concepts but mastering these concepts requires a grasp on the BASICS! This means that even fifth graders should have and use their flashcards. This also means that we will review many of the most basic number concepts that will help the students when we introduce more complex mathematical procedures.

Addition and subtraction and multiplication and division all continue to be important because we learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. 

We learn new elements and review old elements of measurement which include converting standard units of measure and calculating elapsed time, time zones, temperature, and elapsed days.

We continue to learn to use new strategies for problem solving.

We learn to round numbers and numbers within problems to any place.

We identify numbers as prime and composite and we memorize rules of divisibility, which prove to be very helpful!

We also graph. We read graphs and we make graphs and we use graphs for information. 

We learn about every kind of polygon, regular and irregular. We learn to identify triangles, which of course includes learning how to measure and classify angles and triangles.

To review and reinforce all of these topics we use the Accelerated Math computer program which produces individual problems for the students. Fifth graders work at their own pace to achieve self-made goals.  

Fifth Grade Religion

Fifth grade religion focuses on two key areas:  Mass and  Sacraments.  We begin the year with an in-depth study of the celebration of the Eucharist.  We explore each of the four parts of the Mass, including the Introductory Rite, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Concluding Rite.  We discuss the specifics of each part as well as their significance and origins.  We attend Mass weekly to celebrate as a community and to reinforce what we are learning everyday.

After studying the Mass, we proceed to look at the individual sacraments.  Again, we discuss the specifics of each sacrament including the gestures, symbols, rite, and why we, as Catholic Christians, choose to receive the sacraments.

Fifth Grade Reading

A goal of the fifth grade reading curriculum is to move from learning to read to liking to read.  In class, we read from a variety of genres using novels and short stories.  Through class discussions we explore the themes and characterizations of the stories.  We also encourage the students to respond to literature through various types of writing. At times the students will complete in-class projects that further their understanding of the literature they are reading. 

To promote independent reading, the fifth graders participate in the Accelerated Reader program, an independent software-based reading program. The students choose from a large list of books with a wide range of age and grade level appropriate literature.  After completing the book, they take a short comprehension test generated by the computer. 

Fifth Grade Science

Fifth grade science is an eclectic mix of topics ranging from life science to physical science.  We begin the year with a discussion of the scientific method  and the general definition of science.  From there we move to the study of biomes and habitats, which includes a field trip to Shaker Lakes to study a local wetland and a project focusing on one particular land biome.  Next we explore simple machines culminating in a unit using Lego Robotics.  Next we will tackle chemistry:  atomic structure, periodic table, molecules, and compounds.  Finally, we will end the year with a study of life cycles and plant and animal adaptations.  This will include a brief unit on human sexuality.

Fifth Grade English

Fifth grade English is a balanced combination of grammar and writing.  We will review and expand on the seven parts of speech - nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, and interjections - through a variety of drill and practice exercises.  We will apply this knowledge and utilize Six Trait Writing to enhance our creative and content writing.

An exciting part of the English curriculum is the collaboration between the science and English classes.  We will work together on two projects:  the fall biome project and the spring Inventors' Tea report.  During this time we will discuss organized note-taking skills, and single paragraph writing.  With this knowledge we will develop cohesive, informational reports.  During our revision process, we will specifically focus on the traits of Organization, Sentence Fluency, and Conventions (Mechanics).

Social Studies

Fifth grade social studies is a chronological timeline of how America was founded.  In the beginning of the year we begin by reviewing basic map reading skills such as identifying cities/countries using latitude and longitude.  From there we will explore the culture of the early inhabitants of America.  Next we will delve into the Age of Exploration with Christopher Columbus and Vasco de Gama to name a few.  This will lead us into the different cultures that help make America the "melting pot".  The students will then put on their helmets and charge through the American Revolution.  After the Revolution the students will learn about the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the branches of government.