Fifth Grade

Curriculum

Reading

Focus: In fifth grade we dive into informational texts. We are able to determine main ideas and summarize the texts. We focus on characters and analyze their thoughts. We are able to compare and contract our ideas and report on them. Students will build knowledge of topics such as westward expansion, the power of language, and the impact of sports in society.
 
Textbook: Wit and Wisdom and C.I.A. 
 

Writing

Focus: We are preparing ourselves for middle school by strengthening our writing and summarizing. We work on paraphrasing and elaboration ideas based on textual evidence. We craft topic statements and thesis for explanatory paragraphs and essays. We are able to research and gather evidence on topics in our text and practice narrative planning and revising. 
 
Textbook: Wit and Wisdom 
 

Math

Focus: Grade 5 mathematics is about developing fluency with addition and subtraction of fractions, and developing understanding of the multiplication of fractions and of division of fractions in limited cases We continue by extending division to two-digit divisors, integrating decimal fractions into the place value system and developing understanding of operations with decimals to hundredths, and developing fluency with whole number and decimal operations.
 
Textbook: Eureka Math
 

Science

Focus: We go over the scientific processes in an exciting way that shows us the effect of the world around us.
 
Textbook: Foss and Mystery Science
 

Social Studies

Focus: Our students study the geography of our nation and learn how early U.S. history shaped today's map of the 50 states. We bring history to life through a Colonial Williamsburg reenactment and historical play. With our State Project, all students study one state in depth and complete a written report, visual presentation board and travel brochure about their state
 
Textbook: TCI
 

Religion

Focus: Creation and emphasis that God the Father created us and continues to care for us and calls us to His kingdom. The mystery of the Incarnation and our encounter with Jesus in Baptism and Confirmation. Following Jesus, serving others and the seven Sacraments. Living Like Jesus and Making good moral decisions. 
 
Textbook: Finding God Loyola Press
 
 

Service and Leadership

In fifth grade we begin to show our role as leaders to the lower grades by being good examples. We are buddies with Kindergarten helping them with reading and other fun activities. We deliver thank you posters to neighboring businesses. We clean the church weekly and keep our campus clean with garbage pick up days. 
 

Enrichment

We incorporate March Madness into our math program by creating bar graphs and studying statistics. 
 
We dive deep into USA history and make it fun with our historical plays and State Fair. We get to attend outdoor education camp where we learn about our environment and become local and global stewards for the earth. 
 
Early spring the students put on historical plays about early life in the US including colonial life and the Boston Tea party. 
 

Special Events

Our students delve into US History through our State Fair. They become tour guides to attract people to their chosen state. The entire school as well as family and friends can come wander our State Fair and learn about each state. 
 
In fifth grade we travel to camp for outdoor education. We bond and learn about our local marine ecology and the environment around us. 
 
Life is so uncertain 
you must take it in stride
Until the final curtain
Live while you are alive
     -Grandpa DJ Meaux
I am originally from Louisiana and graduated from the University of Louisiana, Lafayette - GEAUX CAJUNS! I moved to Seattle in 2006 when I married my wife Laura. I received my teaching degree in 2009 from the University of Washington. I taught my first year in second grade and have been teaching 5th grade  ever since. Some of my favorite hobbies are playing basketball, running, playing golf, and hanging out with my dog Riggins. I believe in seeing the individual child and meeting their needs. Mahalo!