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Language Arts Language Arts activities continue to be integrated into other curriculum areas, and higher levels of vocabulary and comprehension skills are demanded. There is an emphasis on high quality research skills as students are required to develop sophistication in note-taking, material organization and categorization of research materials. The focus of the Grade Five language arts curriculum is the exposure to great works of literature, refinement of the use of correct grammar and punctuation, vocabulary skills, spelling, and dictation. There is an emphasis on poetry and drama. The ability to draw inferences and discuss cause and effect are brought to a higher level and critical thinking skills are improved. Public speaking and oral presentations become more frequent, and debating skills are introduced. Greater sophistication in the use of computers for language arts research and writing projects is required. The texts used in Fifth Grade are:
Mathematics Ratios and percentages are introduced in the Fifth Grade math curriculum, along with pre-algebra skills, cross multiplication and fractions. Statistics and probability concepts become more refined and individualized instruction allows mathematically gifted students to work at their own pace. The texts used in Math are:
Social Studies, History, and Geography The ancient Americas are explored in the Fifth Grade, with focus on the Age of Exploration, the settlement and colonization of North America, the War of Independence, the establishment of government and westward expansion. Our studies culminate in the establishment of the United States’ place in the world during the world wars and the cold war. Development of research skills becomes more intense as students prepare for middle school. Current events form a large part of class discussion and debates. The texts used for Social Studies/History are:
Science In Fifth grade, students move toward more complex observations and explorations in nine subjects: plants, animals, ecology, matter, energy, space, earth, weather and the human body. Scientific methods are utilized to explore elements and compounds and chemical and nuclear changes in matter. The Full Option Science System kits focus on Landforms, Environments and Solar Energy. Our weather station is incorporated into the science curriculum. The texts used for Science are:
Additional Academic Subjects Fifth Grade students also receive instruction in Spanish, music/performing arts, computer/technology, religion, library, studio art, and physical education with special curriculum teachers. These subjects are detailed later in this publication.
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