5th Grade Policies
Welcome to Fifth Grade!
2018-2019
Agendas: Your child will write all assignments in his/her agenda. Students should record approaching quizzes, tests, and project deadlines in their agendas. Please check these agendas daily. The recorded information will enable you to help your child with daily homework assignments and with test preparation.
Homework:
- Homework will be based on the material introduced and taught by the teacher. Students will have an opportunity for guided practice that relates to the assignments given and will be provide assistance if needed. Work not completed in class becomes homework.
- Homework is not busy work. It is assigned to reinforce taught skills during the instructional day. It is important for your child to complete his/her assignments so that they can master each skill taught.
- Parents are welcome and encouraged to give help on homework. It is best to
help only when the child does not completely understand the concept. After you
explain, expect your child to continue on his/her own.
- Incomplete homework will be completed in Work Room. Incomplete homework also results in a one point penalty. Please check PowerSchool to keep abreast of your child’s progress in regards to homework. We will notify you in the event that incomplete homework is a reoccurring issue by phone, email or a note.
Curriculum:
As in the past, our 5th grade will utilize many teaching materials in order to provide both instructional and interesting lessons throughout the year that are aligned with the Pennsylvania State Standards and the Common Core. Among these materials will be the 5th grade core subject textbooks, Internet and computer resources, chapter books/novels, Study Island, Weekly Reader, math games, science labs and additional supplements.
Make up Work:
Each student is assigned a “Study Buddy” for the year. Your child’s “Study Buddy” will graciously document what your child missed during his/her absence. This would include any work missed during the course of the day (instructional time, project descriptions, homework, etc.) The “Study Buddy” will also collect all of the necessary papers and materials your child will need to complete the work. This system has worked very well in the past for both students and parents.
When absent, your child has the number of days that he/she was absent to make up the missed assignments and tests. In the event a test is not made up within that time period, a 0 will be given.
Mrs. Reese – Grammar and Writing
Late Assignment Penalty: Graded assignments turned in after the deadline will result in a 2 point loss per day until the assignment is turned in.
Daily and Weekly Writing: 5th grade will be using the Collins Writing Program which is designed to increase the frequency of writing, build knowledge through content-rich nonfiction, and enhance intellectual ability. Some writings will be graded while others are for participation only. The majority of these assignments will be based on Social Studies content. A separate letter will be sent home with a thorough explanation of the Collins Writing Program.
Writing Projects: Students will be working on various writing projects throughout the course of the year: narrative, persuasive, and informational. During instruction students will learn various grammar and writing skills that will be assessed in the final writing piece. This is an assessment; therefore, parents are asked not to help students revise or edit their papers during any phase of the process.
Miss Jaber - Math:
Math:
1. Family Letter: Before each unit your child will bring home a “Family Letter”. This “Family Letter” explains the concepts in the upcoming unit. It also provides the parent with important terms and definitions, examples of problems, ways to help your child get ready for the unit, an explanation of the “games” your child will be playing, and answers to the homework to better help you assist your child. These “Family Letters” are to be kept throughout the unit.
2. Math Boxes: Math Boxes are independent practice during class to reinforce skills previously taught, to support skills taught during the day, and to challenge students with the upcoming skill. In the lower corner of each math box there is a “Student Reference Page” that the students can use for additional assistance.
3. Student Reference Book (SRB): The student reference book is a guide to help the student and parent. The Student Reference Book gives definitions, explanations, and examples. SRB are kept in the classroom but are permitted to be brought home upon request.
4. Home Link: Connects school to the home. “Home Links” are the student’s homework. The students are encouraged to use their “Student Reference Book” for guidance on the homework assignments if needed. If your child is experiencing difficulty, encourage him/her to use his/her SRB. If your child still experiences difficulty with a homework assignment even after he/she has referred to his/her SRB and you are not able to help, he/she is responsible to see me in the morning before 9:00.
Mrs. Valentine - Social Studies and Science:
Science:
Your child will be learning about the following topics in science this year using a reading based approach to learning which also incorporates hands on experiments. The topics include:
· Properties of Matter
· Forces and Motion
· Growth and Survival
· Ecosystems
· The Water Cycle
· Earth and Space
Social Studies:
The Social Studies curriculum will focus on the world outside of the United States. We will explore OUR place in the world as well as the history, cultures, and geography of the rest of the world. Current events assignments may be given periodically throughout the year.
Miss Lindrose - Reading:
Reading Street Curriculum: 5th grade has adopted the Reading Street Reading Series that is used on a daily basis in reading class. Students will engage in whole class read alouds, guided reading groups, and language based centers that will focus on various reading skills and strategies, enhancing their vocabulary, and improving their accuracy and fluency when reading. Reading homework will be assigned weekly and may include skill work sheets or reading of assigned passages in their reading book.
Accelerated Reader: Participation in the Accelerated Reader Program is required for students. Each student MUST earn 10 pts. per marking period. Students will earn rewards at each 10 point milestone (pencils, homework pass, pizza coupons, etc.) The reward system is designed to motivate students to continue reading beyond the 10 points require per marking period.
Literature Circles: Literature Circles may be used periodically throughout the year and are designed to encourage independent reading. Some of the reading will be done outside of class and some will be done in class. Students will meet with their group and discuss the book (characters, vocabulary, plot, setting, etc.). Assignments will be given to enhance and deepen the student’s understanding of the story. At the conclusion of the novel, students will be given a final assessment on the book.
*Accelerated Reader tests are available for each novel and will help students earn points towards their 10 points per marking period requirement.
Progress Reports:
Reports on student progress will be sent home each nine weeks at the midway mark for all students.
100-92% A
91-82% B
81-72% C
71-62% D
61- 0% E
Parent/Teacher Communication:
Communication between home and school is highly encouraged and supported. Please feel free to send a note, call or email with any questions or concerns during the school year.
Email addresses: Phone: 479-4080
jamie.jaber@ctasd.org Extension 3859
katelin.lindrose@ctsasd.org Extension 3863
lori.reese@ctasd.org Extension 3873
jennifer.valentine@ctasd.org Extension 3853
rebecca.parker@ctasd.org Extension 3871