ELAR (Ms. Dagger)
This week in reading, we will continue Module 3: Natural Disasters. Throughout this next unit, we will read and write informational texts about different natural disasters.
In writing, we will begin a persuasive essay. Students will compare/contrast natural disasters and determine "Who Will Win?"
Remember to set a time to read each night at home. Reading at home increases comprehension skills, as well as vocabulary.
Some questions to ask this week: Why do you think the author chose to use that particular word or phrase here instead of another one? What did the author mean when they said....? Did the author use any descriptive language or imagery that helped you picture what was happening?
Math (Ms. Lee)
We are finishing Unit 4 by learning how to divide decimals by a whole number. The students will also review this week and then take their UNIT 3 and 4 TEST on Monday, October 6. This unit covered multiplying larger numbers/dividing by a two digit divisor, adding and subtracting decimals, estimation problem solving, and multiplying/dividing decimals. The next unit will begin with estimation and identifying prime and composite numbers. The students will also be learning how to find common denominators and adding/subtracting fractions.
Homework
Due to the students being out of school on Friday, the students will need to complete 30 minutes in i-Ready and 3 fluency checks. Please note that for each fact fluency session, the students can only do one per day.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me at anne.hurstlee@gcisd.net
Questions to Ask Your Child:
How do you multiply a decimal by a whole number?
How do you multiply a three digit number times a two digit number?
How do you divide by a two digit divisor?
How do you divide with a decimal in a dividend?
What are key words to look for in word problems for a multiplication problem?
What are key words to look for in word problems for a division problem?
Science/SS (Ms. Whelan)
In science this week, we will be starting a new unit. We will be learning about the different structures and functions of organisms to determine how they adapt to survive in the same environment. I'm expecting some entertaining discussions!
In social studies, we will be learning about colonial government, as well as wrapping up our unit on Colonial America. We will take our unit test on Thursday.
Gifted and Talented Testing
The Gifted and Talented and ASPIRE referral window for students in 5th Grade is open October 14 - November 3.
If you would like to learn more, an informative presentation is available on the Advanced Academics page of the district website: https://bit.ly/GCISDGTinfo
If you are interested in referring your child for testing, you will need to complete the form in skyward no later than November 3, 2025. Directions are available on the Advanced Academics website (found below the presentations). https://bit.ly/GCISDGTinfo
The GT Specialist will administer any necessary testing in November and December. Parents will be notified regarding results as soon as the assessment process is completed.
Any questions please reach out to Donna Water at donna.waters@gcisd.net
Curriculum Night Presentation
Thank you to those of you who attended curriculum night. If you were unable to make it to curriculum night. Here is the link to the presentation.
We are continuing to use the dismissal procedure called SafeID. This system is more streamlined and much safer for dismissal times. If your child's form of transportation home changes, PLEASE let the front office know by calling or emailing sierra.salter@gcisd.net and paola.cervantes@gcisd.net as quickly as possible and before 2:00.
Chromebooks
Please have your child charge their chromebook each evening and bring it to school along with the charger and headphones.
If a question or concern arises, please contact one of the 5th-grade teachers as your first point of contact. We are here to help answer questions, alleviate concerns, and support you and your child.
EMAIL:
tiffany.daggercummin@gcisd.net
In middle school, students will use Canvas for their classes. We decided to utilize this platform this year to help prepare our students for middle school. You can view the Canvas platform through your child's classlink.