Math
1. Number Sense-working with whole numbers, rounding, and estimation
2. Algebra- variables and expressions, equations and their solutions
3. Working with fractions, decimals, and percents
4. Data Analysis- creating graphs and interpreting data
5. Measurement and Geometry
6. Integers
7. Problem Solving
Social Studies
Emphasis is on the history of North America up to 1800, with secondary emphasis on citizenship and government. Students learn about complex societies that existed before 1500 and how events led to a period of colonization and settlement. They trace the development of self-government and conflicts that led to the American Revolution. Students will learn basic principles of democracy that were set forth in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
Religion
Students explore scripture and demonstrate the ability to locate Bible passages. The Sacraments and Catholic Social Teachings are taught as well as learning about holy men and women. They understand the importance of serving those in need , promoting the common good, and working for changes to society through our actions. Fifth grade students will participate in service activities throughout the year including the Kitiu Water Project, the Fifth Grade Food Drive, Feed My Starving Children, and gathering donations for Hastings Total Life Care Center.
Writing
Emphasis is on learning to produce clear and coherent writing in which development and organization are applied to the task, purpose, and audience. With input fro peers and adults, students will use a writing process to develop and strengthen writing as needed to include planning, drafting, revising, editing, rewriting, and trying a new approach.
Science
Life Science- Students will explore how living things adapt to their environments, determine relationships between living and non-living components, and study human effects on the environment.
Earth Science- Students will explore how soil is formed and study how weathering and erosion can cause damage to the Earth's surface.
Physical Science- Students study simple machines, forces, speed, and friction, and participate in a "Ruby Goldberg " project.
Practice of Science- Students will apply the steps of the scientific method by conducting a scientific investigation and communicate their findings through a presentation at a Science Showcase. They will also explore the STEM steps of inquiry by exploring various engineering designs and processes.
Language Arts
Students will build vocabulary through the study of word origins, decoding skills and the use of context clues. Graphic organizers are used to build skills such as drawing inferences, finding main ideas, summarizing, and recognizing cause and effect. Students read selections from various types of genres and build reading fluency through oral, peer, and independent reading opportunities. Students also participate in Literature Circles to enhance comprehension, determine author's purpose, character development, and setting details by taking on various leadership roles within a group setting. Studying figurative language, parts of speech, punctuation and sentence types will help develop writing skills.