MATHMath in fifth grade meets five times per week. Boys use a sixth grade math textbook as the basis of the program in which they estimate and solve equations with a variable for whole numbers, fractions and decimals; describe, extend and make generalizations about numerical and geometric patterns; and represent and analyze patterns and functions using words, graphs and tables. A key focus for all mathematical concepts is a deep understanding of the how and why of doing math. Boys work to discover how numbers and operations work together. Having a strong number sense is an important outcome of the course. Fifth graders express mathematical relationships, solve and graph functions on coordinate planes, apply order of operations, understand exponential notation, and compute fluently with multi-digit whole numbers. They add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions and decimals, convert fractions and decimals, and find least common multiple and greatest common factor using prime factorization. They understand and apply formulas for area and perimeter of rectangles, triangles and parallelograms, classify lines and angles, and measure angles. They also determine complimentary and supplementary angles, and classify triangles. While doing so, they choose appropriate operations to solve problems and validate and explain solutions to problems.
ENGLISH & SOCIAL STUDIESIn the departmentalized curriculum of fifth grade, English and social studies continue to be treated as an integrated discipline, and the boys enjoy a theme-based style of learning. Using these themes as a basis we integrate the language arts skills of oral and written language with the social studies components of geography, history, economics, and sociology. Along with our theme studies we incorporate a few “traditional” approaches toward English, and supplement our studies with a standard English text and comprehensive vocabulary program. The fifth grade English program uses a variety of fiction and non-fiction material, both theme-related and independently chosen. Through classroom discussions, written responses, and formal tests, students refine their comprehension and deepen their understanding of material. Writing is designed to meet a variety of purposes, including responses to questions, journal reflections, creation of stories, and the writing of research reports.
SCIENCEIn fifth grade, science meets five times a week. The interdisciplinary experience is enhanced because boys connect science to other themes in English and social studies. Areas of study are space and flight, planet research, weather, light and the eye, robotics, the reproductive system, ecology and biomes. Activities include simulated space shuttle missions, straw rocket engineering project, shuttle glider builder, sheep eye dissection, and the stream study.
LANGUAGES
In fifth grade, students elect to pursue French, Latin, or Spanish for their middle and upper school studies, embarking on an exciting journey into their chosen language and culture. Taught largely in the target language, the goal of the modern language courses is communication in both oral and written forms; whereas, Latin focuses primarily on fluent translation, though some aspects of spoken Latin are integrated into the courses. Boys complete Level 1 over the course of fifth and sixth grade.