Incoming 5th Grade Students and Families,

 

Welcome to a wonderfully exciting year in 5th Grade! This year you will read many exciting novels and learn the structure of English.  Also, you will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on science experiments, Lego Engineering and Lego Robotics, learn about atoms and compounds, raise Steelhead in the classroom while learning about the Russian River Watershed, and participate in fun and exciting field trips that support environmental education. You will also learn about the history of the United States including the Native Americans, European Explorers, the life of Colonial Americans, and the Revolutionary War. Fifth Grade will undoubtedly be a memorable year!

 

Students are highly encouraged to read a minimum of 20 minutes a day. There is scientific evidence that shows reading at least a minimum of 20 minutes a day will expand comprehension of any written text immensely  In 5th Grade, we move away from at home book reports, to reading assigned in class novels that allow for enriching discussion, expansion of comprehension, and above all to learn how to develop a love for reading and knowledge within an academic setting.

 

During the summer, students are required to read two out of the six novels:

 

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

 

In addition to reading the novels, students will choose their favorite out of the six and respond to the list of literature questions, and a review for the other chosen novel. The response to literature and the review of the novel will be due on the first day of school.

 

The public library is a free resource available to all and visiting the library is an experience all children should have.  This also allows students access to a wide variety of books throughout the summer and school year.

 

Students have worked very hard this past year, and in order to not lose any of the skills they gained in math, we are also asking students to complete a math review packet of basic computation facts, as well as the daily five-minute practice of multiplication and division facts.

In addition to reading, writing, and math practice, we are asking students to practice the attached cursive packet. All 5th grade is expected to fluently read and write in cursive on all language arts assignments during the 3rd trimester of the 5th Grade year. Throughout the year, there will be a daily practice that will ensure all students succeed in reading and writing cursive.

 

We look forward to seeing you in August!

 

The 5th Grade Team