Math: Bridges in Mathematics

In fifth grade, children understand the place value system, and be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide multi-digit whole numbers with decimals to the hundredths. By the end of the year, they will be able to add and subtract fractions using equivalent fractions and multiply and divide fractions. Students will study volume and relate it to multiplication and addition. The curriculum provides lots of hands-on practice to help children engage in learning. The Math Learning Center has a wide variety of resources for families to engage in fun math activities at home. CCSS Math Standards

Reading: Fountas and Pinnell Classroom

Students in fifth grade read many complex texts from a wide range of genres. Narrative texts can have complex plots and subplots requiring students to consider perspectives and cultures beyond their own. Nonfiction texts offer information on a wide range of topics. In addition to whole-class read aloud, the teacher supports student discussion and critical analysis of books and author’s craft through book clubs and small group instruction. Students learn new concepts and vocabulary through reading both fiction and nonfiction texts. Common Core ELA Standards

Writing: Being a Writer

In fifth grade, students continue to write a variety of genres, including personal narrative, fiction, nonfiction, opinion, and poetry. They learn how to incorporate sensory details and transitional words or phrases, including appropriate punctuation. They also continue to work on engaging openings that capture the reader’s interest, and effective closings. In nonfiction writing, students practice research skills such as taking notes, categorizing information, and conducting internet searches to include facts and details in their writing. Students learn to edit their writing for spelling, maintaining consistent verb tenses, using first- and third-person point of view, and using appropriate use of commas in sentences. Common Core ELA Standards

Science: FOSS (Full Options Science System)

Students learn about science and engineering through hands-on, collaborative units rooted in inquiry and discovery. Teachers refer to Next Generation Science Standards and use FOSS Science kits to create student-centered learning opportunities that help children learn to problem-solve, communicate and collaborate while learning important scientific concepts. Next Generation Science Standards

Social Studies: Social Studies Alive!  

Students learn about US History pre-colonial to the constitution in fifth grade. Teachers use Social Studies Alive! America’s Past to support the Washington State Social Studies Standards.

Health Education: Health Education Resources

Fifth grade students learn about anatomy and physiology, growth and development, reproduction, and HIV prevention.

Social-Emotional: Second Step

Children learn social-emotional skills in a variety of ways, including the behavior they see modeled by the adults in their lives. Social-emotional skills and concepts are also taught explicitly in the classroom, in much the same way math or reading is taught. Second Step provides whole class lessons in growth mindset and goal setting; emotion management; empathy and kindness; and problem solving.

Music: Spotlight on Music

Our music teachers use Spotlight on Music curriculum. Students learn about, listen to, and perform authentic music while building music and literacy skills. Music Standards

Physical Education: Five for Life Basic PE Curriculum

Our elementary students learn about and practice the five components of fitness, which include cardio-respiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition. They also practice The Skill-Related Components of Fitness: Agility, Reaction Time, Balance, and Coordination. Physical Education Standards