Here are some highlights of the topics for third,Â
fourth, and fifth graders in GRR:
3rd Grade: The theme is Inventions and Inventors. We will begin the year by sharpening critical and creative thinking skills, including some outside-the-box math. We will take a look at Dayton inventors, including our own Wright Brothers. How did they get that heavier-than-air machine off the ground? For literature, we will read The Invention of Hugo Carbet, and even do a little inventing of our own! We will also analyze short stories through Jr. Great Books, developing questioning and discussion skills. Success will come from knowing ourselves, learning to organize, and working with others.
4th Grade: The theme is Mysteries & Investigations for the fourth grade, and they will start honing their detective skills as we study the mystery genre and begin investigating cases. As skills are developed, students will become forensic scientists. The math will be a little mysterious, too, but I'm sure it will be exciting! Students will continue their algebra studies from third grade and develop problem-solving skills. Success will build on the organizational skills from third grade and more self-study.
5th Grade: The theme is Space and Exploration, and what better way to explore than on a Road Trip? While enjoying the novel, students will get to plan their own adventures and will gain a new appreciation for planning those summer vacations. When we have finished traveling in the U.S., students will get ready to head to space by compleing their astronaut training. Later on, we will enjoy some reading analysis of classic short stories in Jr. Great Books. Along the way, students will explore some math challenges and work on their problem-solving skills. Success skills will focus on organizing at a higher level and learning to be leaders.