Fifth Grade Course Descriptions
(Download Lower School Course Descriptions)
Language Arts
The fifth grade course continues the development of reading and writing proficiency. Higher order thinking skills are emphasized through the analysis of literature from a biblical worldview. Reading comprehension strategies, vocabulary development, and basic literary concepts are integrated into the curriculum. Students use the five step writing process to produce at least three compositions of different genres, in addition to a multi-source research paper. Consistent practice in the craft of writing is provided. More complex grammar concepts are introduced. Cursive handwriting and spelling are reviewed in this course.
Math
This course reviews and expands the study of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and applies them in depth to problem solving, fractions, decimals, and percent. New concepts introduced in fifth grade include: exponents, prime numbers, algebraic equations, coordinate pairs, three-dimensional geometry, measurement formulas, cross products, mean, mode, and median.
Science
In this fifth grade science course, the students will learn lessons covering life, earth, and physical science. The first semester lessons will include a study of forensic science, a study of weather patterns and their effects on the earth, culminating with a visit from a local meteorologist. The spring semester concentrates on an in-depth study of the human body. Students learn functions within the human body and how the systems relate to each other. There are scripture values that tie directly to each weeks science concept.
Social Studies
The fifth grade social studies program concludes WPAs first three-year cyclical study of history. The course begins with America, the New World and continues through the 20th Century. In addition to the chronological study of American history, students learn the states and capitols and geography skills. Through direct instruction, group work, and hands-on activities and projects, students receive a solid, chronological understanding of the history of America and the world.
Lower School (1-6) Elective Course Descriptions
(Download Lower School Elective Course Descriptions)
Computer Explorers
This computer course introduces students to basic keyboarding and computer skills. During the first semester, students will concentrate on learning how to type correctly and become comfortable with the computer. In the second semester, they will continue their knowledge of basic keyboarding and discover how to apply this knowledge through exposure to various computer applications.
Computer Pathways
This class is for those students with basic typing skills. Students will be exposed to a variety of common computer applications including: word processing, spreadsheets, and power point. Students taking this class must be able to type accurately and consistently.
Home Economics
This course is divided into separate themes for each semester. The first semester begins with the students learning about personal finances. They not only learn about writing checks and balancing a checkbook, they learn about making a personal budget and experiencing an employment-type position to earn wages. They move to the cooking portion of the class, where they learn about appliances, reading recipes, and hands-on cooking! The second semester concentrates on sewing with a machine and hand-stitching. They will create two sewing projects that are sure to be a hit! The semester culminates with a unit on childcare (from infancy through preschool age). They receive hands-on experience working with pre-school age children.
Intermediate Art
This course introduces and reinforces a simplified artistic vocabulary and builds a greater understanding of how to compose a successful piece of art. Students will be exposed to a variety of media and techniques including drawing, painting, and 3-Dimensional art. History is introduced through artists and art period studies relating to the art elements being taught. Through this class, students begin to discover their unique talents and interests and how to use them to glorify the Master Creator.
Intermediate Music and Drama
This course will focus on fine tuning our abilities to praise the Lord and share His truths with others through fine arts. Vocal skills taught will include solfege, breathing, posture, tone, diction, and pitch matching. We will move into blending our voices, harmonic and melodic intervals, sight reading, finding the key, major chords and music appreciation/ history. We will work on rhythm and incorporate a number of different instruments in the classroom. We will discover various composers and appropriate musical genres. Theatrical components will focus on both onstage and offstage production techniques. We will build confidence on stage and have multiple opportunities to perform for others. Students will learn the importance of sacrifice, dedication, and teamwork to create an onstage production that honors our Lord.
Intermediate Physical Education
In this course, the students will concentrate on the development of Godly character qualities through the playing of various sports, games, and skill building activities. The students will learn the proper way to warm-up, cool-down, and stretch. A concentration on the basic fundamentals of exercise will also be given. Most importantly, they will be encouraged to develop a life-long appreciation for and enjoyment of physical education.
Introduction to Music and Drama
This energetic music and drama class will focus on introducing students to creative avenues of expression. Students will learn different ways to glorify God through music as well as basic music theory. They will experience the joy of using instruments, sign language, drama, and singing to praise our Lord and share with others. Students will have the opportunity to perform in class and on stage.
Keyboarding
The class is designed to introduce the student to the new and exciting world of computers. In this class, the student will learn how to type correctly and learn how to utilize the computer in different ways by discovering the different aspects of a computer. In the second semester, they will continue with their knowledge of typing basics, but also be encouraged to apply this knowledge while discovering the history of the computer.
Lego Builders
The Lego Course challenges students to learn design principles and explore problem solving using a familiar and favorite medium...Lego bricks! Students will be presented with scenarios, problems or questions that they'll engage on their own and as part of a team. They'll have the opportunity to modify designs as scenarios change and handle the occasional challenging twist to assignments. They'll learn teamwork and cooperation while earning peer awards.
Primary Art
This course is designed to stimulate an interest in art and creation for the young student. Using a variety of artistic media, students will learn what makes a good composition as well as being exposed to artists and periods in history that illustrate concepts being taught. At this level, creativity and vocabulary are stressed over media mastery. An enthusiasm for creation and an appreciation of the works of our Creator is the primary focus for this class.
Primary Bible
This course is an overview of the Bible using a curriculum called Route 66: A Trip through the 66 Books of the Bible. The students will journey through each book of the Bible to learn about the author, time frame, key people, and the books purpose. We will use activities such as word searches and crossword puzzles, games, and discussion to study the Bible. At the end of the course each student will have a Souvenir Scrapbook to remember the journey.
Primary Physical Education
In this course, the students will concentrate on the development of Godly character qualities through the playing of various sports, games, and skill building activities. The students will also learn about developing physical strength, endurance, and abilities. Most importantly, they will be encouraged to develop a life-long appreciation for, and enjoyment of, physical education.
Primary Spanish
This course is a fun, hands-on class. Students learn basic Spanish through games, music and activities. This class has little or no homework.
Study Hall
Each day during regular school hours, a study hall area will be open for students remaining on campus but not enrolled in a class. Students may register for any hour of study hall during this time frame, but may not register for more than two periods on the same day. Registration in a study hall is required for any students expecting to be on campus but not in class during school hours.
Fifth Grade Core Class Schedule
(Download Lower School Core Courses Schedule)
Language Arts V
Math V
Study Hall 1
Language Arts V
Math V
Study Hall 2
Science V
Social Studies V
Study Hall 3
Science V
Social Studies V
Study Hall 4
5th Period: 1:45-2:40 (Elective Class)
6th Period: 2:45-3:40 (Elective Class)
Elective Course Schedule
(Download Elective Course Schedule)
Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays unless otherwise noted.
Intermediate PE
Intermediate Art
Intermediate Music & Drama
Computer Pathways
Intermediate PE
Intermediate Art
Computer Explorers
Study Hall is available for all grades during fifth and sixth periods.