North Ranch Fifth Grade

WELCOME TO FIFTH GRADE!

CURRICULUM
Standards
Reading
Writing
Math
Listening/Speaking
Science
Social Studies

LANGUAGE ARTS	Harcourt is a new program that integrates reading, language arts and spelling. Harcourt follows a clear, consistent pattern of instruction and provides support for all learners. The fifth grade curriculum focuses on personal literacy, intellectual literacy, and social literacy. Weaving in and out of Harcourt are skills that involve problem solving, teamwork, creative expression, personal voice, managing information, and community involvement. The Six Traits to writing are incorporated into our writing process as well as use of Step Up to Writing-Write from the Beginning Program. Communication skills are stressed throughout the school year.
MATH	Mathematics standards and performance objectives include: Number Sense, Data Analysis and Probability, Patterns, Geometry, and Measurement. It is assumed by this time that students are quick to know their math facts. In addition, fraction and decimal operations are mastered.
SCIENCE	The Solar System and Ecosystems are the main science units taught at North Ranch Elementary School. The students are involved in hands-on activities and use the scientific method. Foss kits are used. Students take notes, create constellation myths, use diagrams to make comparisons and work cooperatively in small groups to learn concepts.
SOCIAL STUDIES	Map and globe skills are incorporated in weekly lessons. The main focus of the social studies curriculum is on American History, which includes: Migration from Asia to North America, The Early Indian Civilizations, Exploration, Colonies, Revolutionary War, Constitution and Branches of Government, Western movement, the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution, President and State reports.

How We Communicate

Beginning of the year Meet the Teacher
Open House
Curriculum Night - a thorough explanation of our academic program
Opportunities to meet with us any time to discuss your child - just call in advance
Student daily planners - make notes, we will respond
Newsletter articles where we give curriculum updates
Parent volunteer participation in our classroom
Student Study Teams - when students are struggling academically, a team of professionals can meet to plan strategies to help your child
Progress Reports
Individual conferences

Why Choose North Ranch Fifth Grade?
It is a place where:

Students feel successful about themselves and their school work
Students are encouraged to think about things and ask questions
Students try new ideas, learn from their mistakes and build on their successes
Students acquire good organizational skills that include keeping a daily and long-term assignment planner
Students learn good study skills and habits including outlining, taking notes, and study techniques for different types of tests
Students make good choices and say "No" effectively
Parents are welcome to volunteer in our classrooms
Parents are encouraged to attend curriculum nights and special events to learn first hand from teachers the academic forces in fifth grade content areas
Parents are welcome to assist with student special events