Fifth Grade - Structure

Structure

While courses of study are not regimented nationwide across either country, some conventional expectations of subject matter are generally taught in this grade:

• In mathematics, students usually master long division and work with multiplication of vulgar fractions and decimals. Sometimes this also includes initial exposure to ratios and percentages. Pre-Algebra is sometimes offered as an honors course. Fifth graders may also work more on more advanced long division, such as dividing in the double digits, hundreds, and thousands.
• In language classes the study of grammar begins. This begins as early as the third grade in some schools.
• In social studies, the study of history and geography are furthered. In Ontario, this grade focuses on the history of the student's province (as opposed to fourth grade which covers the student's municipality, and sixth grade which focuses on the country).
• In physical science, the states of matter are introduced, and an introduction to the basics of machines. This could be also introduced as early as the third and fourth grade.
• In life science, the structures and mechanics of plants and animals are illustrated.
• In music, classes may start or continue recorders (sometimes called the flutaphone). The band and choir program usually starts at that age.
• In P.E. (physical education) or health education, schools start sexual education or gender-specific health education. Basic psychology is started to be taught at that age.