Our fifth grade mathematicians are working hard in their multiplication and division unit.  Your children are pushing and flexing their math thinking in multiple ways.  They are doing so by solving two and three digit multiplication and division word problems through group work and postering.

     Some of the strategies your students are exploring include:  partial products, partial quotients, ratio tables, skip counting, and the standard algorithms.  Ask your students about these fifth grade math words, and what DISEQUILIBRIUM means!

     This school year our 5th grade scientists will be doing many hands-on science investigations.  We have begun by getting our science notebooks organized and every 5th grade scientist has a role in their groups! 

     Our first unit of study is called Physical and Chemical Changes/Variables.  We will explore how matter can change or stay the same when combined!   At home, you can explore what happens when you mix some everyday items found in your kitchen such as salt and water or sugar and water.  Always have an adult explore with you!

     Technology curriculum topics that 5th graders will study this year include Applications Review (Microsoft Word/Microsoft PowerPoint), Digital Citizenship, Typing (By the end of 5th grade, students should type 20-25 words per minute), G-Suite, and Creation Tools.  All students have been given a Keyboarding Without Tears account.  We encourage students to use their accounts at home for no more than 10 minutes a day.  Parent G-Suite Permission Slips are due by 10/12.

    Feel free to email me with any questions: Kconnolly8@schools.nyc.gov

     This month, in Social Studies, the fifth graders will be focusing on reviewing essential map skills and geographical awareness (using map features, comparing maps, knowledge of the world map).  While class activities may vary, all students are spending time studying maps. 

     Additionally, students will be studying the concepts of continental drift and plate tectonics, and how the Earth is changing.  After that, students will be studying Indigenous people of the Americas (Maya, Aztec, Inuit, Inca, Pueblo), and will be answering the essential question:  How does climate and geography affect culture and civilization development?

In Advisory…

     We are very excited to announce that advisory has been started! In this exciting new program, your child will have an opportunity to form a relationship with another adult besides their classroom teacher.  In advisory they will focus on building the school community, executive functioning, organization, and the transition to middle school.

In gym…
     Motor Skills & Fitnessgram!  We will begin the City Fitnessgram testing with height/weight measurements.  Also, we will stay active by utilizing our 9 locomotive
skills in fun high energy activities to stimulate our bodies and minds!

In Health…
     The Anatomy of the body!  We will dive into the different systems of the human body.  We will understand why it's important, how it works and do fun activities to further explore!