RIO GRANDE, An independent school serving students pre-K through sixth grade in Santa Fe, NM

Fifth Grade

The fifth grade curriculum at Rio Grande School is based on learning through authentic experiences. Problem solving, creativity, and higher-level thinking skills are emphasized, as are research and working cooperatively with others. Some of the abilities we work to develop are questioning, risk-taking, and suspending certainty. Because of those values, assignments are frequently open-ended rather than having only one correct solution.

Our Language Arts program emphasizes  reading and writing for authentic purposes. A wide variety of literature is presented and students choose their own independent reading materials. Class novels in the historical and realistic fiction genres complement the fifth grade thematic studies. A strong connection is developed between reading and writing. The writing process is explored throughout the year, with each student publishing pieces in different subject areas.

Science and Social Studies are taught through a thematic approach. Under the theme of Exploration, major topics include space and early exploration, ocean studies, body systems, and American History.

The fifth grade Math program is designed to present real-life applications of math concepts to enhance critical thinking and teach students various ways to arrive at a solution, as well as to increase and strengthen basic skills.

The fifth grade Art program increases student understanding of technique and the elements and principles of design while encouraging individual creative spirit.

In Drama, students challenge themselves to become specific and detailed in dramatic processes, developing critical and creative thinking skills, their imaginations, and empathy for others.

In Multimedia, fifth graders become more proficient and confident in using word processing, keyboarding, concept-mapping, multimedia, Internet and CD-ROM Encyclopedias as learning tools. The library program encourages students to use all the resources of the collection for information and for pleasure. Students continue to hone the skills of the research process.

In Music, fifth graders are introduced to the intricacies of more advanced vocal music and the use of instrumental accompaniment. Music history is stressed.

In Physical Education, fifth grade students use combinations of skills in the context of actual performance situations.

In Spanish, students write complex sentences using present, idiomatic future, or progressive tenses. They study a modern Spanish speaking country and participate in cultural activities and sing songs in Spanish.

For their Service Project, fifth graders do a variety of activities focused on the environmental stewardship of our comunity.

>>  See "Sixth Grade" curriculum >>