Grade 5 

Grade five offers a strong academic program that prepares students for sixth grade and the ISEE exam for middle school.  In a safe and nurturing classroom environment, the students receive whole class instruction, independent assignments, assessments, hands-on activities, and the use of technology. Cursive writing is practiced and required in all subjects. Study skills are taught and continually reinforced. Study aids are used (assignment notebook, index cards for vocabulary, outlines, notes, diagrams, charts, etc.) to prepare for a test. Students are taught to break the work into manageable pieces to prepare for tests and quizzes. Students can participate in enrichment programs if they are excelling academically. At the end of fifth grade, students are prepared with the academic and social skills necessary for continued growth and success in their education.

Religion

The fifth grade study of religion uses RCL Benziger’s Blest Are We, Faith and Word Edition to develop religious literacy, faith formation and moral development. The units of study focus on an understanding of God which leads students to a love of God and encourages them to serve God and the community. The curriculum ensures that the beliefs of our faith are introduced and reinforced as children grow, develop, and mature in their faith.

English/ Language Arts

The grade five English texts are Voyages in English and the corresponding workbook. The program consists of extensive instruction in the parts of speech.  It begins with the study of nouns followed by the study of pronouns, adjectives, verbs and adverbs. Throughout the year, students receive extensive practice in diagramming sentences. Writing grammatically correct sentences is the key to the development of a strong paragraph. In reading, students use Pearson: My View which focuses on reading different examples of literary genres to improve reading and critical thinking skills. Reading skills include reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, making connections, and understanding the differences among the various literary genres. The accompanying workbook provides practice with main idea, sequencing, cause/effect, vocabulary, and phonics. Wordly Wise, Book 2 is used to increase vocabulary knowledge and use.

Math

Grade five math uses Scott Foresman enVision Math Common Core. The topics of study are: operations and algebraic thinking, number and operations in base ten, fractions, measurements and data, and geometry. Students apply their understanding of numerical expressions and analyze patterns and relationships. Students learn the place value system and use the system when performing operations with multi-digit whole numbers and decimals to the hundredths. Fifth graders will expand their understanding of fractions by using the number line, comparing fractions, adding and subtracting fractions, and converting fractions into decimals. In geometry students label shapes, interpret data, and find volume. Students create interactive notebooks on each topic and use the notebook to apply the concepts to daily work.

Science

The grade five science curriculum based on Interactive Science, instructs the students in life science, physical science, and earth science. Students use inquiry and the scientific method to explore, investigate, and experiment. Technology is integrated into the program through interactive activities on the iPads and SMART board. Study skills are embedded in the science program. Students take notes, complete study guides and outlines to prepare for tests and quizzes. The fifth graders develop topic questions and formulate hypotheses which are presented as written, visual and oral reports to the school at the fifth grade Science Fair.

Social Studies

The fifth grade social studies text is Scott Foresman The United States and corresponding workbook.  It offers the students a comprehensive study of the formative years of the United States. From pre-Colombian civilizations (Maya, Inca, and Aztec) to the formation of our government under the Constitution, the students grow in their knowledge of the history and geography of our country. The students learn the importance of economic issues and the role of civics in their responsibilities as citizens.  Finally, current events are discussed using Scholastic News magazine.