Fifth Grade

The fifth grade year offers many activities and experiences that help prepare students for Middle School and the further transition to a fully departmentalized program. In fifth grade, students change classes and adjust to working with three teachers prior to moving to Middle School where they will experience instruction from at least six teachers daily. Students spend their days working as a whole class, in small groups or independently receiving instruction and completing assignments.

 In Language Arts, both textbooks and novels are used to teach skills. Novels are used to complement the integrated curriculum in social studies and science. Students use textbooks, their academic area books as well as reading basal texts, to practice reading for information. Within language arts, areas covered are reading comprehension, spelling and vocabulary, listening and speaking, grammar, usage and mechanics and writing incorporating the Six Traits Writing program. In Reading, each month a theme is presented and the year carries students through major genres in literature. In addition, students complete a book project each quarter focusing on a theme covered during that quarter.

 Through fourth grade, the Lower School uses the Everyday Mathematics program that incorporates a rich curriculum which enhances the ability to develop an understanding of numbers and acquire knowledge and skills from students’ own experiences. In fifth grade, students transition to the Harcourt mathematics series that is used in Middle School.  With the solid foundation formed through Everyday Mathematics, students are well prepared to cover in more depth the topics previously explored.

In science, fifth graders study life science, physical science and earth science. Throughout the year students participate in ongoing study of conservation and wise utilization of natural resources. Other areas of study include cell biology, body systems, taxonomy, matter and energy, space, the solar system and stars. Every student completes a conservation project that is displayed at the annual Lower School Science Night. Students complete a variety of research projects to supplement classroom instruction on topics studied and share material through classroom presentations.

 In social studies, students develop an understanding of the exploration and settlement of North America, study the distinct characteristics of the individual regions of the United States and study U.S. history through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Many collaborative projects complement classroom instruction and students are engaged routinely in hands-on activities.

Throughout the fifth grade year, students focus on work habits, organization, study skills and time management. Students have a study period twice each week during which they may receive extra help from teachers, study, read or complete homework.

 All fifth graders also receive instruction in music, art, physical education, computer and keyboarding skills and library skills. The school counselor provides lessons on test-taking strategies and interpersonal relationship skills, as well.