Fifth Grade Curriculum

 

       Standards based instruction is the focus in all subject areas.

 

Reading  -  We will be using the reading series, Reading, Focus on Florida, along with

      SRA and Blast Off.  Vocab words will come from the stories in the reading series.

      Supplementary books will be used for guided reading instruction. Tests will be given

      for each story, as well as Unit Theme Tests.  Students will be expected to meet the

      Superintendent’s reading goal of 25 books before the end of the school year.  Goals

      will be set for each grading period.  Oral & silent reading will be required at home.   

      Notebooks are required.

Math – We will use the Math Investigations series.  Concepts and problem solving

      strategies will be emphasized.  Homework will be given 3 days each week.  Grades

      will be based on vocab, timed tests, Accelerated Math, and other math

      assessments.  Students will be required to master a set number of Accelerated

      Math objectives each nine weeks.  Memorization of facts is essential to success.

      FCAT Explorer is recommended for skill review at home.  Notebooks are required. 

Language – DOL (Daily Oral Language) will be used for grammar instruction and will

      be tested weekly.

Social Studies, Science, & Health – Homework will be assigned 2-3 days each week to

      review concepts being studied.  Tests will be given upon completion of chapters

      and units.  Projects & reports will be assigned.  A spiral notebook is needed for

      DOG (Daily Oral Geography).  Students will be required to maintain a notebook in

      Science & Social Studies.

Spelling – Spelling words will be provided for weekly tests.


The Duval County Grading Scale is as follows:

 

A = 100-90
B = 89-80
C = 79-70
D = 69-60
F = Below 60

    

Duval County promotional requirements are based on teacher judgment that the student has met grade level performance standards as indicated by a final grade of

D or above in Reading, Math, and Science/Health AND a final grade of D or above in at least one of the other academic subject areas (English or Social Studies).


 

We appreciate your support in our efforts

 to teach your child to be self-reliant and more responsible.  Our goal is to help make a smooth transition from elementary school to middle school.


 Strategies for helping fifth graders:

 

1.       Ask to see your child’s planner each night.  Parent signature is required each week.  This is an excellent way for teachers and parents to keep in touch.

2.     Ask your child for tests/papers that have been returned and go over the mistakes together.

3.     Call the 5th grade hotline number each weekend to stay informed of all
important tests, activities, and events.

4.     Review with your child for every test.

5.     Help students with time management.


 

Help in Reading:

1.       Get a public library card and encourage your child to check out books.

    The Superintendent’s reading goal is 25 books.

2.     Have your child read to you, then ask questions, such as:  When did

     this take place?  Where did it happen?  Who are the main characters?

     What is the main idea?  Give the details of this story.

3.     Proofread reports and offer suggestions/corrections.

4.     Encourage letter writing.


Help in Math:

1.  Use flash cards to memorize basic facts.  Fifth graders should be able

    to answer 100 problems of each operation in 5 minutes or less.

2.  Review math vocabulary & definitions for tests.

3.  Look for Accelerated Math practices and offer help if needed.


Additional notes:

·        Planners are used daily to record assignments from each class

     and write down upcoming events.

·        Homework is required and is used in determining grades.

·        In order to receive full credit, work must be turned in on time.

·        Missing work receives a zero and will lower the child’s average.

·        Make up work can never take the place of daily instruction and

     class discussions.

·        Excused absences require a note from the parent and work will be expected to be made up promptly.

·        Students will not be permitted to call home for missing work/lunches/planner.