Language Arts: reading and writing
We begin with becoming familiar with the reader's/writer's workshop. Students will read various genres, read for fluency and comprehension, and develop reading strategies throughout the year. We will focus on two 5th grade titles, Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen and The Fighting Ground, by Avi. Students will write narrative, persuasive, and expository pieces as well as poetry. Lessons include understanding a plot mountain, the writing process, and the 6+ Traits of Effective Writing with the Lucy Caulkins writing program.
Currently in Language Arts
In ELA Reading we are continuing to build stamina as readers while strengthening comprehension through reading strategies. We are enjoying a read aloud, The Julian Chapter, by R.J. Palaccio to build upon the school-wide goal of acceptance and kindness. While reading students are practicing synthesizing information to gain a new perspective.
In ELA Writing we will continue to look at Non-fiction writing, text structures and text features. Also, after the February vacation we will use the information gained in social studies to write persuasive letters, using the voice of a colonist, to convince others to move to their region of the New World.
Up Next in Language Arts
We are looking forward to a new grade level read, The Fighting Ground, by Avi. A book about a 13 year old boy who runs off to join a battle during the American Revolution.