The Fifth graders take a weekly pretest and final test on words used in their reading story. Each list follows a pattern (i.e. compound words, verb & consonant patterns, or words ending in "ed" or "ing"). Other spelling lists are added for holidays or from the novels being read.
Fifth grade Spanish is an introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Students begin level la which will be continued in sixth grade. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to practice the vocabulary and grammar concepts through written, spoken, and listening activities.
The primary focus of computer classes at St. Peter is to equip the student with the necessary skills to succeed in an increasingly complex technological society. Young students are exposed to various educational games in order to build basic skills, computer skills, as well as providing support for regular classroom instruction. Students continue to learn about the Microsoft Office Suite with an emphasis on PowerPoint. Students also continue to develop touch typing skills.
Students begin with a short review or place value and then jump into working with decimals. Fifth graders also learn about algebra, graphing, and data. They learn to multiply and divide whole number and decimals. They study number theory {i.e. primes, composites, greatest common factor, least common multiplies, and exponents) as well as fractions. Algebra and geometry concepts are expanded upon with a focus on problem solving. Students study a unit on measurement, using both the customary and metric system. Finally, students study ratio, percent, and probability.
The music curriculum is supported through a series entitled "God Made Music". In this series, students will explore various musical elements as they strengthen their knowledge of our loving God and Savior. Students learn to read, write, and perform music, while at the same time, deepening their understanding of the role music plays in their lives.
The fifth grade Religion curriculum begins with an overview of the Bible's main teaching. The majority of fifth grade is spent studying the Old Testament, beginning with the Exodus and ending with the rebuilding of the temple. Fifth graders spend a good deal of time reading from their Bibles while learning the stories. During the seasons of Advent and Lent, they will review the life of Christ.. In October, 5th grade will study Martin Luther. Each day begins with devotions. The class will prepare and participate in a chapel service and sing twice in church.
The Science curriculum is split into 4 units: Populations and Ecosystems (students have the opportunity to dis¬sect owl pellets), The Solid Earth (a study of rocks and mineral), Energy, Work, and Machines (the class will learn about simple and complex machines), and Movement and Control (how our bodies work). A Sex Education unit will take place at the end of the year. Health is also part of the Science curriculum.
Language includes English, writing, and phonics. 5th grade will review and expand the fifth graders use of grammar and mechanics and the various parts of speech. Fifth graders will also learn to use the writing process to complete various types of compositions: narratives, tall tales, character sketches, poetry, and research reports.
The Reading curriculum reviews decoding skills, expands comprehension, and thinking skills, develops reference and study skills, and exposes the fifth graders to a variety of literature forms (i.e. non-fiction, narratives, historical fiction, biography, autobiography, and fantasy). The class will read 3 novels during the year.
After a quick review of map usage, the fifth graders begin their study of the United States and its history with the original inhabitants and the arrival of European explorers. Then their year follows our country's growth from the original colonies to the United States' place in the world today. Students will also take some time to study their neighbors: Canada, Mexico, Central, and South America.
Handwriting is taught once a week, using the D'Nealian style. Lessons are taken from a workbook. Students also practice using the Bible, novels, or textbooks.
The Art curriculum teaches basic art skills. The fifth graders will learn about line and shape, color and value, texture, and space, as they draw, color, paint, and sculpt. Students will be introduced to many different artists and their pieces and see examples of principles of design.
Click here to view the registration information.