Fourth and Fifth Grade

4^th and 5^th grade is a time when children’s intellectual and emotional development is preparing them for the transition to pre-adolescence. The challenging academic curriculum builds upon the foundation from kindergarten through 3^rd grade, and provides children with opportunities to learn and practice time management, organization, and self-discipline.  

As fully independent readers, children experience a variety of novels with social or historically relevant themes that are explored through a vigorous course of writing, discussion groups, and projects.

Mathematics instruction focuses on the development of computation skills and strategies to solve problems as children’s thinking develops from the concrete to complex. An emphasis on numeration, operations, applications, and problem solving prepares children for a greater focus on pre-algebra.  

Children at this age seek to define themselves and their place in the larger community. Our social emotional curriculum facilitates opportunities to learn effective communication, consideration and tolerance of others, development of teamwork skills, and the strengthening of one’s value system. By the end of 5^th grade, children are prepared for the academic demands and citizenship expectations of life in our Upper School.