Parent Information

For extra math practice try IXL and be sure to add the extension “@brunswick” after user name.

Math

Homework in math is given each day Monday through Thursday. This regular independent practice is necessary to supplement and reinforce the mastery of skills taught in the class.

An overview of the skills studies is as follows:

Place value through billions (999,999,999,999).
Addition and subtraction of five digit numbers.
Multiplication up to three-digit times (x) three-digit numbers
Multiplying by factors of 10, 100, and 1000
Estimating products
Division up to two-digit divisors and three digit quotients.

Graphing

Bar graphs
Line graphs
Circle graphs
Pictographs
Ordered pairs
Ratios

Equal ratios, cross-product equations, and use in problem solving.
Fractions (and mixed numbers)

Simplifying
Changing to a mixed number
Addition, subtraction and multiplication with unlike denominators
Factoring
Prime and composite numbers
Finding prime factors
Least common multiples
Greatest common factors

Decimals

Place value, and addition and subtraction through thousandths.

Measurement

Temperatures in Celsius and Fahrenheit
English and metric units of length, weight, volume and mass
Time measurements

Geometry

Basic geometric terms
Identification of polygons
Perimeter
Area of parallelograms and triangles
Problem Solving

Problem solving will be taught throughout the year.
Word problems will be solved using a variety of problem solving strategies.

Language Arts

Reading

They will be involved in reading novels in small groups to further discussion and critical thinking skills. Some reading experiences will come from magazines and the newspaper, and students will spend time reading and demonstrating understanding of books and stories of their own choosing.
Each student is expected to have an independent reading book of his/her choice available at all times and to read 20-30 minutes in this book each night!
English

Sentence structure, paragraph writing, and narrative writing skills are stressed. These skills are practiced in writing short stories, journals, and poetry.

Spelling

A new spelling pattern is presented each week with practice activities for homework. A sentence dictation is given on Fridays. It is important to note that weekly word lists are cumulative and any previously listed words may be used in the weekly dictation. Students will also be expected to use correct spelling in everyday writing

Science and Health

The fifth grade science units are taught through a variety of approaches including:

Self-discovery
Material manipulation
Direct observation
Record keeping
Acquisition and application of knowledge
Conclusion drawing
Topics of study include

Matter
Chemistry
Astronomy
Human body (including the reproductive system)

Social Studies

The fifth grade curriculum covers United States history and is divided into the following units:

Map and Globe Skills
Exploration and Settlement
Colonization
Revolutionary War
Government
Westward Movement