Grade 5 Curriculum Overview

History
Students explore the fascinating world of ancient civilizations, focusing on India, Persia, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. The study culminates with Alexander the Great and includes rich biographical stories of figures like Manu, Rama, Buddha, Gilgamesh, and Orpheus. These tales foster an understanding of different cultures and their legacies, creating both windows and mirrors for students to view the past.

Literature
Literature in fifth grade typically includes Greek mythology, scenes from ancient history, and inspiring biographies of historical figures. Students gain insight into these stories' moral lessons, enhancing their reading comprehension and appreciation for cultural heritage.

Language Arts
Grammar instruction focuses on independent writing, with an emphasis on syntax, punctuation, and the structure of sentences. Writing skills are developed through descriptive compositions and research-based oral presentations—complimenting the art of eloquence taught in Greek studies. Spelling and vocabulary are practiced through games and movement, and students are introduced to the dictionary as a tool for language exploration.

Geography
Students will study the United States and explore the land and its biomes, flora, fauna, and inhabitants in depth. There is a reverence for those who inhabited the land before us, with local cultural studies acknowledged. Students also conduct individual research projects on states and present their findings in written, artistic, and oral formats, developing their skills in sourcing and continuously practicing the art of public speaking.

Science
The hands-on study of botany in nature covers both lower plants (mosses, algae) and higher plants (flowering species). Students engage in observational studies of their natural surroundings, learning about the symbiotic relationships between plants and animals and developing a deeper understanding of the local environment through time in the field. The phenomenological approach to learning is paramount in the upper-grade sciences. Students arrive at concepts on their own through critical thinking and problem-solving, using pieces of information then organized into concepts over the course of days or weeks.

Mathematics
Arithmetic covers the relationship between fractions and decimals and the introduction of mixed numbers, reciprocals, and the metric system. Math is taught through various methods (visual, auditory, tactile) to meet different learning styles. Dictated word problems help students develop listening and problem-solving skills. Often, it is fun to incorporate cooking into math class.

Arts
In free-hand Geometry, students study patterns from Babylonian, Egyptian, and Greek art, learning to draw geometric designs and borders. This work helps build both fine motor skills and a sense of artistic symmetry. These skills will later develop into the concepts of symmetry required to draw portraits in the middle school years.

Painting
The focus in painting shifts to exploring the transition from darkness to light, emphasizing blending and introducing more form into the artwork. Students often paint images inspired by animals and plants, developing both fine technique and creativity.

Handwork
Students continue developing their knitting skills, using four needles to create useful items such as socks, mittens, and hats. This practical work fosters patience, precision, and self-sufficiency, further developing willpower.

Woodworking
Fifth graders begin learning how to use carving knives to begin creating projects from wood. Reinforcing botany lessons brought in the main lesson, students are taught growth patterns and the internal anatomy of a tree. The first project is typically carving an egg, followed by more intricate items such as spoons and other utensils, enhancing fine motor skills and creativity.

Sculptural Arts
Students will model clay to create objects inspired by ancient cultures, such as Greek columns and vases. They will focus on refining their understanding of form and detail in their work. Some projects may take multiple classes to complete, further developing patience and will—removing instant gratification and reinforcing perseverance.

Music & Choir
Fifth-grade students engage in three-part singing and explore both major and minor scales. They learn to sing rounds and harmonies, often incorporating movement or dance, with a focus on pieces from the ancient world.

Games & Movement
The year culminates in the Pentathlon, a physical competition inspired by the ancient Greek Games, for which students train the entire year in preparation. Fifth graders compete in events like running, Greek wrestling, long jump, javelin throwing, and other ancient games, marking a rite of passage and celebrating their physical and personal growth.