5th Grade Curriculum Overview
Learning God’s Word: Church History & Bible Memory
Your child will learn about Christian history, from the time of Christ to today, through stories, key events, and people in the church. They’ll explore topics like:
- Early Christianity and Constantine
- Major creeds and heresies
- Monasticism, the Crusades, Reformation, and modern Christianity
Every week includes a memory verse linked to this learning. These verses are discussed in class for relevance to both biblical times and present-day life.
Language Arts
Spelling & Vocabulary
- Emphasis on understanding word roots, prefixes, suffixes, and common English patterns.
- Vocabulary tied to high school-level SAT prep and challenging spelling exercises.
English & Writing
- Focuses on grammar, sentence structure, and writing basics.
- Students practice narrative, expository, and persuasive writing using peer editing and writing rubrics.
Literature
- Students explore fiction and nonfiction texts, discussing elements like plot, characters, and themes.
- Special units: Norse mythology, Shakespeare, creative writing, and accelerated reading goals.
Math (Honors-Level Algebra 1)
- Covers fundamental algebra topics for a smooth transition to Geometry in high school.
- Topics: linear equations, inequalities, quadratics, graphing, polynomials, square roots.
Social Studies: Middle Ages
Fifth graders dive into history, focusing on global events and their connection to church history with interactive projects and activities. Topics include:
- Fall of Rome, Feudalism, and the Byzantine Empire
- Crusades, Reformation, and Renaissance
Science: Life Science
This year is hands-on, including dissections, experiments, and fieldwork. Topics cover:
- Life characteristics, the human body, cells, plants, and animals
- Hands-on experience: Catalina Island trip focused on ecology and sustainability
Spanish (Online Software)
- Emphasis on Spanish vocabulary and grammar, including sentence structure, verb conjugations, and vocabulary for practical topics (e.g., household items, food, routines).
- Focused on reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Physical Education
Three sessions weekly, including games and health education with a Christ-centered perspective. Spring includes Presidential Fitness Testing.
Technology
Students practice Microsoft Office skills, type using Typingweb.com, and create multimedia projects (e.g., book trailers, company logos) using programs like Google Docs and PowerPoint.
Art
TK – 8th Students attend art class with Ms. Hailey once a week:
Throughout the year, students will work with a wide range of materials, tools, and mediums. They will explore the elements of art and principles of design to create art pieces inspired by significant art movements throughout history. This approach aims to ignite curiosity and foster a lifelong love of art.
Field Trips
- Fall: Museum of Tolerance
- March: Medieval Times
- Spring: Catalina Island (3 days, 2 nights)
- End of Year: Universal Studios Hollywood
This streamlined outline covers key elements of the curriculum for each subject, breaking it down into manageable highlights that will help keep you up-to-date with your child’s learning journey. Let me know if you’d like more details in any area!