Fifth Grade Curriculum Highlights

Reading: Reading comprehension skills are emphasized. Students are required to read several texts selected by the teacher throughout the school year. Students are also required to participate in the Accelerated Reader program each quarter which allows freedom to choose reading material from a book list. Current events are also incorporated on a regular basis.

Mathematics: General math topics are introduced and reviewed. The topics selected are those that are prerequisites for making computations in algebra. Collaborative learning and math applications to everyday life are stressed. (During the 2002-2003 school year the Saxon Math Program was introduced. This program emphasizes repetition and review of all math concepts on a daily basis.)

Science: Earth science with some biology make up most of the curriculum which is taught through many hands-on experiments and cooperative learning settings.

Social Studies: The first half of the year focuses on United States geography through units on each U. S. region. The second semester studies world explorers and the history of world geography.

Bible: Several Old Testament stories are studied such as Joshua and the Judges of Israel. New Testament studies include the life of Jesus and His parables. Every student is required to memorize selected Bible verses each week.

English: Parts of speech and sentence structure are a part of the English study. Spelling and grammar are also emphasized throughout the school year.

Physical Education: Students are required to participate in thirty minutes of P.E. every day. Games are structured to include emphasis on sportsmanship and positive attitudes.

Computer: Students participate in general computer education twice a week. This is conducted in the computer lab by a specialized computer teacher.

Library: Students are required to attend library two days per week. Students may check out books and work on accelerated reading during this time.

Extracurricular: The fifth graders present a musical performance each year which is adapted from the Social Studies topics studied. The performance is all original and involves all fifth grade students.