Parent's Guide to the Common Core: 5th Grade

Book excerpt: Helping Your Child Succeed in Fifth Grade: A Parent’s Guide to the Common Core Schools across America are rolling out new, more rigorous curricula in order to meet the demands created by a new set of English and Mathematics standards – known nationally as the Common Core State Learning Standards. You can expect to see a number of changes in your child’s fifth grade class. In English, students will now read more Informational Texts. This type of passage provides facts and often deals with current events, science, and social studies. In addition, questions posed about these readings will ask students to find evidence and use it to formulate an argument. In order to master new Literacy standards, students will need a larger and stronger vocabulary to allow them to both tackle complex readings and write acceptable arguments. In Mathematics, students will spend more time developing their understanding of specific and important math concepts. Students will be expected to both demonstrate understanding of each topic and apply their mathematical skills to real-world situations. As a parent, it is important not only to understand the new standards, but also to have the tools to help your child do his or her best in school. This book is designed to provide you with the guidance and resources to support classroom learning and help your child succeed. It includes: An annotated review of the standards highlighting what your child should master during third grade 20 Important lessons that you can do – together with your child – to support them as they progress through the school year A Vocabulary section designed to make sure your child masters the most important academic words 200+ practice questions to improve your child’s skills Diagnostic quiz and 20+ mini-quizzes to check for understanding