5th graders are taught core curriculum and essential skills to prepare for middle school and beyond.
The instruction and modeling of many important study skills such as time management, the use of organizational strategies and creating mnemonics are integrated into the school day as well. Personal responsibility, respect for self and others, and integrity are encouraged. Fifth grade students are taught via a variety of learning modalities, and hands-on activities are an important part of each student’s learning experience both in the classroom and on field trips. Art, drama, music and public speaking are incorporated in classroom lessons.
Additionally, technology is integrated in all curricular areas. Interactive and experiential learning opportunities abound in fifth grade! In math, for example, every child makes their own version of an abacus early in the year. With this foundation, they then go on to create even more complex original models that demonstrate a wide variety of mathematical concepts including fractions, decimals, geometry and more. Combining language arts and social studies classes gives the students ample opportunity to be creative with building visuals to demonstrate everything from vocabulary words to colonial crafts. Students are taught how to research effectively and then go on to use their research in imaginative ways that include making and narrating slide shows, writing and performing plays, developing musical numbers, and giving speeches as historical characters (dressed in costume, of course!). Finally, in science we are always looking for that connection between the information in our notes and the “real world” that we live in. By demonstration and investigation, we try to create that “Ah ha!” moment and allow the students’ natural curiosity about the world to take over and lead them in new and exciting directions. Students carry out experiments and become familiar with the scientific method, but are also encouraged to design and carry out their own research in an area that they may have a particular interest. As a result of our commitment to providing hands-on and experiential learning opportunities, we take a number of field trips throughout the year to support the curriculum. Local excursions might include museums and places to see the arts. We also embark on an all-day trip to a colonial re-enactment village where students participate in a multitude of colonial experiences. There are also two overnight field trips which focus on individual growth, solving group challenges and environmental awareness. In addition, several professional groups perform at Magellan for our students each year. “Poetry Alive!” is always a favorite!