5th Grade Math Update

5^th Grade Math Update

Math in fifth grade expands on topics introduced in fourth grade. We have taken what students have learned in place value and adding powers of ten and exponents to express large numbers and gain a better grasp of our base-ten system. We have taken what students have learned in previous years - to add and subtract multi-digit numbers - and combined that with algebra; using variables, simplifying expressions and finding values in functional relationships.

We have continued to teach/learn problem solving strategies using: guess and check (a pre-algebra and pre-long division skill); working backwards (pre-algebraic skill of inverse operations); estimate or exact answers and more. These lessons are woven into the computation and concepts lessons. Concepts, procedures, problem solving and computation are integrated seamlessly in our units of study.

For students who need extra help, now is the time to memorize and master basic facts. Using flash cards at home and websites (see below) that have drill and practice games, students can become fluent with numbers and operations. Students who need to be challenged beyond the fifth grade curriculum are provided with those enrichments and should follow through with what the teachers offer them. In fifth grade the student is expected to take more responsibility in the learning process with all the help and support that is needed, still provided.

Let’s work together to make every student successful. We all want to see these fifth graders grow in confidence in their math abilities as they work hard and add success to success. (Or should we say multiply successes!)