Mountain LakesHigh School

Fifth Grade Mathematics is the regular course of study offered in fifth grade. Topics of study range from basic computation and place value to solving algebraic equations and more advanced thinking than basic computation requires. Data Collection, Graphing and Probability get the students excited about math, and also assist them in understanding what is needed for fifth grade Science. An in-depth look at our Base 10 number system up through hundred trillion, and down to thousandths helps the students begin to think about very large and very small numbers. Review of addition and subtraction (including addition and subtraction of decimals) is next, and is followed by the rest of the computation: multiplication and division of two or more digits (again including decimals). Customary Measurement, addition and subtraction of fractions and mixed numbers, and a Geometry unit finish off the year.

The fifth grade math curriculum offers a step-by-step approach to developing mathematical skills and understanding mathematical concepts. This real-life approach directs student focus to why they need to learn this particular topic or skill, and each skill is built upon the previous skill learned to further reinforce the importance of internalizing and truly understanding a concept. A HOW & WHY approach is also used, so that students understand not only how to do a problem, but why numbers manipulated in such a way result in a specific answer. Problem solving is emphasized during every unit, and a variety of problem solving techniques are used, including but not limited to: drawing a picture, creating an equation, using a proportion, underlining important phrases or key words. The following instructional approaches will be used: demonstration and note-taking, hands-on experimentation, use of technology, small group and individual research, prediction and testing numerical theories, in-class and at home projects. These methods assist students in developing essential study skills, time management strategies and utilizing technology appropriately.

This course is intended for all regular education students. This course can be modified to meet the needs of the gifted or advanced learner. A pre-test is given before each unit, and those students who test at a level of 90% successor higher are given a material that is considerably more challenging than the regular class materials, yet follows the theme of the unit, so the learner expands their thinking and knowledge laterally rather than advancing them into the next grade.

Evaluation of student performance will include various types of assessment strategies such as teacher-generated tests, quizzes, oral response, class participation, homework, writing samples, in-class and outside research opportunities, as well as individual projects.