Math

Here is a general layout as to what topics are covered each trimester. We work on multi-step word problems throughout the year.

Trimester 1:

• Factors and multiples

• Fractions: Equivalent, comparing, adding, subtracting, and multiplying by whole numbers

Trimester 2:

• Changing between fraction and decimal forms

• Rounding and comparing whole numbers

• Number forms (standard, expanded, word)

• Adding and subtracting multi-digit numbers

Trimester 3:

• Multiplying and dividing multi-digit numbers

• Relative sizes of measurements

• Word problems using measurements

• Area and perimeter

Reading

Homework

It is a REQUIREMENT and important for students to practice reading at least 20 - 30 minutes each night. 

In-Class Reading

Throughout the year, we work on many specific reading strategies such as: visualizing, summarizing, comparing/contrasting, etc., and we have a basic list of when we cover each topic listed below. 

To meet the reading goals, we implement guided reading in our classrooms. Guided reading is beneficial because students will receive small-group instruction from teachers after a whole group lesson. During guided reading rotations, students will have independent assignments to complete when they are not meeting with the teacher, such as: spelling activities, read to self, and reading responses. It requires students to stay focused, quiet, organized, and responsible when working independently. We also read several whole-group novels throughout the year, complete research projects, and more. 

Trimester 1:

• Character Traits

• Summarizing Fiction

• Summarizing Non-Fiction

• Using Close Reading skills

Trimester 2:

• Text Features

• Text Structures

• Using text evidence to support answers and ideas

• Using Close Reading skills

Trimester 3:

• Point of View

• Author's Purpose

• Character Change

Please check out the article below for some very interesting and compelling reasons why children should be reading 20 minutes a night. 

Why can't we skip having kids read?

Writing

Narrative

Informative

Persusive

Spelling - Students focus on using phonics skills and patterns to spell familiar and unfamiliar words. We also work on using parts of the word to help us understanding the meaning (roots, prefixes, suffixes, etc.) of unfamiliar words.

Grammar - We work on following the rules of English grammar for complete sentences. Students also work to use parts of speech such as adjectives and adverbs to make their writing more interesting and easier for a reader to understand.

Social Studies

• Wisconsin & US Geography: Regions

• French & Indian War

• American Revolution & the Formation of the United States

• Early National Period

• Treaty Era

• Mining, Logging, & Slavery

• Wisconsin Territory to Seneca Falls 

• Science

• Human Body, Vision, & The Brain

• Animal and Plant Adaptations

• Earth’s Features & Processes

• Sound, Waves, & Communication

• Energy & Energy Transfer

• Electricity, Light & Heat