5th Grade – September Curriculum Overview
September in Fifth Grade is a time for gratitude, deeper thinking, and exploring the changes of autumn. This month, we’re connecting math, science, language arts, and history through the lens of estimation, place value, geography, and the wonders of the natural world. Activities are hands-on, open-and-go, and designed for both independent and family learning. Let’s celebrate curiosity and community as we step into fall!
Weekly Subjects
- Language Arts (Mon–Thu)
- Week 5: Write a gratitude journal entry and share a family tradition or recipe. Practice spelling words about value and estimation.
- Week 6: Research a continent or country and write a short report. Practice sequencing and summarizing nonfiction texts.
- Week 7: Interview a family member about their favorite autumn memory. Write a descriptive paragraph using new vocabulary.
- Week 8: Explore balance and change in nature. Write a letter to a community helper or create a poem about autumn.
- Spelling:
- Week 5: value, digit, million, hundred, thousand, estimate, compare, greater, lesser, equal
- Week 6: fraction, numerator, denominator, simplify, equivalent, divide, multiply, decimal, percent, portion
- Week 7: continent, country, boundary, region, climate, mountain, plain, plateau, riverbank, valley
- Week 8: canyon, prairie, desert, tundra, peninsula, island, coastline, border, capital, state
- Reflection Prompt: What are you grateful for this month? How do you see change happening in your family, community, or nature?
- Math (Mon & Wed)
- Week 5: Practice estimation and comparing numbers. Use real-life examples like shopping or cooking.
- Week 6: Work with fractions—identify, compare, and use them in recipes or crafts.
- Week 7: Explore basic geography through map reading and coordinate grids.
- Week 8: Review place value, estimation, and fractions with games and group projects.
- Science (Mon & Wed)
- Week 5: Observe seasonal changes in plants and animals. Start a simple weather log.
- Week 6: Study food webs and how living things prepare for autumn.
- Week 7: Investigate different landforms and their formation.
- Week 8: Explore balance in ecosystems—what happens when things change?
- History (Tue & Thu)
- Week 5: Learn about family heritage and traditions. Share a story or recipe from your culture.
- Week 6: Explore world geography—continents, countries, and landforms.
- Week 7: Research how communities celebrate autumn and harvest time.
- Week 8: Study the autumn equinox (Mabon) and its significance in different cultures.
- Music (Tue)
- Week 5: Listen to autumn-themed music or folk songs.
- Week 6: Try rhythm games with fall objects (acorns, leaves, etc.).
- Week 7: Make homemade shakers or simple drums.
- Week 8: Write a simple song or chant about gratitude or the harvest.
- Art (Thu)
- Week 5: Create a gratitude jar or collage with fall colors.
- Week 6: Draw or paint a map of your neighborhood or town.
- Week 7: Make leaf rubbings or fall crafts using natural materials.
- Week 8: Design a harvest or Mabon-themed centerpiece.
- Physical Education (Mon–Thu)
- Each Week: Daily movement—nature walks, stretching, outdoor games, or scavenger hunts.
- Reading (Mon–Thu)
- Each Week: Read independently for at least 30 minutes each day. Add to your reading log and share a favorite book with your family.
Fun Fridays
- September 5: Visit a farmer’s market and explore local produce.
- September 12: DIY fall crafts—make leaf rubbings, bookmarks, or autumn decorations.
- September 19: Birthday holiday for Stephanie! Celebrate with a favorite family activity.
- September 26: Mabon celebration with a gratitude picnic and nature walk.
Recommended Free Resources
- Geography & Landforms:
- Math & Science:
- Reading & Literacy:
- Science & Nature:
- Classroom:
September in 5th grade is about gratitude, exploring new ideas, and connecting learning to real life. Choose what fits your family, and enjoy a season of curiosity and growth!