We will be using the Journeys reading program as our primary resource for literacy instruction.  Journeys offers a comprehensive approach to reading, incorporating fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and informational texts.  Through guided reading, whole-group lessons, and independent practice, students will develop their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency.

Key Components: 

• Weekly Themes: Each week, students will explore different themes that are connected to the stories we read.

• Spelling and Vocabulary: Students will receive weekly spelling lists and vocabulary words related to the texts they are studying.

• Grammar and Writing: Lessons in grammar, punctuation, and writing will be integrated into our reading instruction, with students practicing various types of writing such as narratives, opinion pieces, and informative texts.

• Novel Studies: In addition to Journeys, we will be conducting several novel studies throughout the year.  Novel studies allow students to dive deeper into extended texts, analyze characters, themes, and settings, and engage in discussions and projects related to the books.

Our science curriculum will be driven by the Mystery Science program, which is designed to engage students with hands-on, inquiry-based learning.  Mystery Science makes complex scientific concepts accessible and fun through interactive lessons and experiments. 

Units of Study:

• Forces and Interactions: Students will begin to explore the concepts of forces and interactions as a part of the science curriculum.  Students will understand how objects move and interact with one another in the physical world.

• Ecosystems: Students will explore the concept of ecosystems and how organisms within them are interconnected.  Students will understand how living things depend on each other and their environment for survival. 

• Life Cycles and Traits: Students will explore the concept of inheritance, variation of traits, and life cycles in living organisms.  Students will understand how organisms grow, develop, and inherit traits from their parents, and how these traits can vary within a species.

• Weather and Climate: Students will explore the concepts of weather and climate to understand how the Earth's atmosphere impacts daily life and long-term environmental conditions.  Students will understand the difference between weather and climate, understand weather patterns, and learn how climate varies across different regions.