Gregg International School G5 Class
Course Descriptions
Mathematics - By Grade 5, students are gaining higher level thinking skills and are ready to deal with mathematical concepts of a more challenging nature, such as those in algebra, geometry, and statistics. The key objective we have for students in G5 math class is that they learn how to correctly analyze and solve problems involving numbers. Whether the mathematical problems are purely numerical or are contained in word problems, students should be able to find solutions by using their practical skills and conceptual knowledge of math. A wide variety of problems are studied in which students develop, apply, test, and discuss mathematical concepts, thus gaining critical knowledge about the representation of numbers and their relationships in particular circumstances. Operations consisting of fractions and decimals are assiduously studied to impart proficiency in these indispensable areas of math. Algebraic patterns and functions are introduced to extend the range of students' understanding of quantitative relationships. For solving problems of a spatial nature, geometric concepts and relationships are studied by using concrete and tangible examples. Students will also gain fluency in units, processes, and systems of measurement and learn to use correct techniques, tools, and formulas to measure accurately. Finally, given the abundance of statistics we face in our daily lives, students are taught the fundamentals of data analysis, such as how to gather, organize, and chart data by using clear and logical reasoning.
Language Arts - READING - In G5 Language Arts, the dynamic interplay between reading and writing is emphasized. As students read a particular style of writing, their attention is directed to the various methods employed by writers to convey different kinds of information. For example, students reading an expository selection on global warming will see how the writer uses techniques to show cause and effect and to make generalizations about that information, both of which would communicate central points of the writer's thesis. Other types of reading material will have other methods used by writers to get their messages across. Whether students are reading short stories, drama, biography, or books of their own selection, they will learn to find literary devices used by writers and understand how to comprehend what they have read. However, building reading comprehension skills is not the sole purpose of G5 Reading class. We also aim to develop students' skills in distinguishing fact from fiction, drawing conclusions about an author's intentions, and making judgments about the significance of what they have read. WRITING ? As an intellectual activity that is crucial to one's survival in the modern world, we place great emphasis on teaching our students the fundamentals of the writing process. Like most skills, the more one practices, the better one becomes. However, it is imperative that the correct skills are being taught; otherwise, lots of writing practice without using proper rhetorical and grammatical techniques will just reinforce poor writing skills. While all students have an individual voice to express through writing, that voice won't be communicated if the writing is incoherent and disorganized. Given the increase in globalization and the sophistication of knowledge in all fields, it is essential that students gain the practical ability to communicate clearly and articulately, especially in writing, since so much communication occurs today in written form through electronic means. Thus, students need to be able to write in a way that can be understood by people from vastly different cultural and educational backgrounds. Our writing program at GIS insures that students will develop the skills to write clearly and articulately and use those skills practically and effectively.
Science - G5 science class at GIS is an adventure into the microscopic and macroscopic worlds of entities, forces, and relationships that thrive around us. An important part of learning in the sciences involves knowledge development in tandem with skill acquisition, which together enables us to produce useful technological applications. When students study elements and compounds in physical science, or landforms and atmospheric cycles in earth science, or biomes and populations in life science, they will also advance their skills in experimentation, observation, and analysis. Yet, maybe the most significant thing we teach our G5 science students is that, to get the right answer for a problem, you must first ask the right question. We help our students learn how to ask the right questions.
Social Studies - Social studies comprises a vast range of disciplines and knowledge that enable us to learn and understand more about ourselves, as well as others. In conjunction with developing the students' knowledge of culture, society, geography, and history, they will also gain practical skills, such as graphing data on charts and tables, displaying geographical information on maps, and constructing chronologies of historical events. Many of the G5 social studies projects at GIS involve collaborative work so that students learn to work well with others while also acquiring practical skills. One of the subjects of inquiry in G5 social studies class investigates diversity and change in human cultural patterns by region. Basic economic and political concepts are also introduced in a way that is understandable and relevant to the students' lives. As in all GIS courses, students are strongly encouraged to use critical inquiry as they seek and share the knowledge that they obtain.
Art/Music/Drama - Besides giving our students a comprehensive and challenging curriculum in scholastic subjects, we offer ample opportunities for our students to pursue activities in the fine arts. We help our G5 students to cultivate and refine their creative inclinations by guiding them in technical aspects of the arts. That way, they can develop aesthetic sensibilities while also gaining creative abilities that will give them the power to express themselves visually, dramatically, and musically as they so desire. Of course, each year GIS also organizes art exhibits and produces performances of drama and music starring our students.
Physical Education - The G5 physical education class does more than just give students a chance to improve their fitness and motor skills. We also place a strong emphasis on helping them develop personal and social skills that will enhance their abilities to interact with others in any situation. G5 students participate in a variety of games and sports that will augment their capacities for both competition and cooperation.
Computer Lab - Computer technology and its myriad applications are an indispensable part of our world today. G5 students receive instruction and computer time that is practical for their educational level. Our trans-disciplinary approach to learning also helps reinforce children's verbal, visual, and numerical skills as they develop their computer skills.
