Word Study: Students in the fifth grade study both the spelling and definitions of words. The Houghton Mifflin Spelling and Vocabulary book is used as a guide for spelling instruction. Students learn common letter blends, vowel patterns, suffixes, and prefixes through writing activities, crossword puzzles, and games. Vocabulary instruction is aided by the use of the Wordly Wise series and the various novels that students read throughout the year. Students are not only expected to learn the definitions of the words, but to also be able to use the words in context. Students explore words through art, charades, and writing activities.

Reading: One goal for students in the fifth grade is to understand and enjoy what they are reading. Students will always have an independent reading book at their desk that they may enjoy if they finish their work early. In addition to reading books of their choice, students will participate in classroom novel selections throughout the year. Students will read diverse novels such as Holes and Esperanza Rising. Students will participate in independent, group, and whole-class readings while practicing comprehension, sequencing, vocabulary, questioning, and visualizing skills. Students have the opportunity to make connections to what they are reading by writing, creating novel-based plays, discussion, and art projects.

Writing: Students write frequently during the fifth grade, focusing on the steps of the writing process. Fluency, detail, clarity, format, and better word choices are also major areas of focus of the writing curriculum. Students will practice their writing abilities through journal and writing projects that focus on different skill sets. Writing projects are often tied to other areas of the curriculum, such as reading and social studies. Students will be able to learn about the United States by writing a state research report, as well as make connections to their novels by writing book reports. Students work through the writing process, proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes, and discuss and critique each others’ works, while learning respect for one another.

Students entering the fifth grade have mastered basic arithmetic skills. During the fifth grade, students will harness those skills to solve more complex problems. Using and manipulating decimals, fractions, and larger numbers are a main focus. Geometry, probability, and algebra readiness are also explored. Students will use technology, word problems, and group investigation to master the math curriculum. Reviews, games, and group activities that include art, movement, and discussion are used to engage all students. Standards-based quizzes and tests will be used throughout the year to measure each student’s progress.

In the fifth grade, students explore concepts such as human body systems, cells, plant processes, the periodic table, weather, and energy. Students investigate these topics through hands-on experiments, representational drawings, and interaction with the Smart Board. Real-world science exploration also enhances science instruction. Students take field trips to the Academy of Sciences and Exploratorium.

At Krouzian-Zekarian-Vasbouragan Armenian School, the Armenian Studies program is designed to teach, promote, and perpetuate the wealth of the Armenian language and culture. The Armenian Language Arts and Armenian History curriculum are developed by the Prelacy Board of Regents.
Students mainly use the Fifth grade textbook (Dzareroo Kaghdnike) for reading and comprehension. Supplemental materials are provided by the teacher. They use the workbook for their vocabulary and comprehension.  The students also read additional books throughout the year.

Grammar is a review of 4th-grade concepts with some new elements.  It is taught and revised through various styles and exercises. Students have Spelling quizzes on a regular basis. The words and the sentences are taken from the passages read. Students write about different topics. Students use technology and various other sources for their research projects and presentations.

The Armenian History focuses mainly on Armenians in America. Besides the history book, which is provided by the Prelacy Board of Regents, students learn about Armenian holidays, current events, and special traditions. Students participate in Armenian assemblies Hanteses.

United States history is the main focus of the fifth grade social science curriculum. Through reading and studying maps, students explore concepts about geography and how that affects the way people live, as well as how the different regions of the United States are affected by location. Early Native American life, life in the American colonies, the American Revolution, and early American government are all examined topics in the fifth grade. Students will use various resources and methods, such as discussion, presentations, internet web quests, and research projects, to engage in the social science curriculum.

Not only do students explore a rigorous academic curriculum, but they also learn important character values and social skills. The classroom is a responsive environment in which every student is valued and respected. Each student learns to be respectful, responsible, and independent, while also supporting their classmates succeed. Students are encouraged to respectfully talk through their problems, trying to understand others’ perspectives. Classroom issues are discussed as they arise, as well as during weekly classroom meetings. Additionally, character values are stressed during class meetings. A different character value is highlighted each month. These values include: accountability, self-control, cooperation, gratitude, kindness, cheerfulness, respectful, integrity, cleanliness, perseverance, and communication. Activities, games, and discussions will be used to illustrate the importance of each character value. Students are expected to follow the class values at all times to create a cohesive, safe, and nurturing classroom environment.