5th Grade – October Curriculum Overview
October in Fifth Grade is a month of transformation, creativity, and honoring traditions. We’re diving into geometry, mythology, and autumn science while exploring the cycles of nature and celebrating Samhain. Lessons are hands-on, flexible, and designed for both independent and family learning. Let’s explore, create, and connect as the seasons change!
Weekly Subjects
- Language Arts (Mon–Thu)
- Week 9: Read and retell a myth or legend. Write your own version with a twist.
- Week 10: Explore the structure of stories—identify plot, characters, and setting in mythology.
- Week 11: Write a letter to an ancestor or create a story inspired by family history.
- Week 12: Reflect on transformation—how do characters (and people!) change over time?
- Spelling:
- Week 9: grammar, sentence, subject, predicate, verb, adjective, adverb, conjunction, pronoun, preposition
- Week 10: essay, revise, edit, draft, publish, introduction, conclusion, topic, thesis, evidence
- Week 11: myth, legend, hero, monster, labyrinth, oracle, prophecy, immortal, mortal, wisdom
- Week 12: Olympian, trident, lightning, chariot, lyre, shield, helmet, spear, temple, offering
- Reflection Prompt: Who are your heroes, in stories or real life? How do you honor your ancestors or family traditions?
- Math (Mon & Wed)
- Week 9: Introduction to geometry—explore shapes, angles, and symmetry.
- Week 10: Measure and draw polygons. Identify sides, angles, and vertices.
- Week 11: Practice classifying shapes and finding patterns in nature.
- Week 12: Create geometric art or mosaics using polygons and symmetry.
- Science (Mon & Wed)
- Week 9: Study the science of autumn—why do leaves change color?
- Week 10: Investigate animal adaptations for fall and winter.
- Week 11: Explore the moon phases and their role in seasonal celebrations.
- Week 12: Conduct a simple experiment on decomposition or composting.
- History (Tue & Thu)
- Week 9: Learn about myths and legends from different cultures.
- Week 10: Compare ancient and modern celebrations of the harvest and ancestors.
- Week 11: Research Samhain and how it’s celebrated around the world.
- Week 12: Present a story, poem, or art project honoring family or cultural traditions.
- Music (Tue)
- Week 9: Listen to music inspired by myths or legends.
- Week 10: Try rhythm games with autumn themes.
- Week 11: Explore traditional Samhain or autumn festival songs.
- Week 12: Compose a simple melody or chant for the season.
- Art (Thu)
- Week 9: Create myth-inspired masks or puppets.
- Week 10: Make leaf prints or autumn mosaics.
- Week 11: Design a Samhain altar or ancestor collage.
- Week 12: Carve a pumpkin or make lanterns for Samhain.
- Physical Education (Mon–Thu)
- Each Week: Daily movement—nature walks, leaf hunts, outdoor games, or stretching.
- Reading (Mon–Thu)
- Each Week: Read independently for at least 30 minutes each day. Add to your reading log and share a favorite myth or autumn story with your family.
Fun Fridays
- October 3: Pumpkin patch visit and story time.
- October 10: Leaf rubbings and fall crafts.
- October 17: Nature center visit and outdoor exploration.
- October 24: Samhain prep—make lanterns or ancestor altars.
- October 31: Samhain celebration with stories, crafts, and seasonal treats.
Recommended Free Resources
- Geometry & Math:
- Mythology & History:
- Science & Nature:
- Reading & Literacy:
- Classroom:
October in 5th grade is about transformation, honoring the past, and finding inspiration in the changing world. Choose what fits your family, and enjoy a month of creativity and connection!