5th Grade History

Grade 5 Social Studies examines ancient history through the medieval period [c. years 5000 B.C. – 1500 A.D.].

We are fortunate this year to use a new textbook, that being McMillan – McGraw-Hill’s Discovering Our Past. A History of the World. It offers some new methodologies and approaches. Like the previous textbook, this one also is written at a level approximately a year beyond fifth grade level, according to its lexile [text readability level] designation, so it’s challenging reading, which is a goal of the diocese and of our school. As such, we limit our daily dose of reading to no more than two pages per day, which includes informal student observation, read-aloud, discussion, vocabulary, and other oral and written exercises. My aim is to go more vertically than horizontal, in a way that is challenging but digestible.

The students typically enjoy doing projects, and so we once again will incorporate as many projects as possible within this newer text. To better ensure success, we will begin the first chapters with quizzes instead of tests, then as comfort with this reading level begins to grow, we’ll convert over to including tests with the quizzes and projects.

Homework

For both grades, homework, often started in class, is not mandatorily a nightly event. However, having said that, I feel that quickest-and-sneakiest way to obtain measurable additional success is to pre-read or re-read current content, one or two nights per week, for about 10-15 minutes a sitting. This is in addition to other previously-assigned homework assignments.

In the event that personal circumstances present a situation where finishing a homework exceeds reasonable efforts, please attach a note to your child’s planner or assignment. Be sure your child shows me the note prior to class if possible. As a 5/6-grade team member, collectively, our aim for 50 and 60 minutes per night, respectively. At times may exceed these minutes, so please view it as an average. Some nights are HW free; a few will be heavier.