Trinity Lutheran School - Sturgis, Michigan

RELIGION
The CPH Voyages curriculum is used for religion instruction. Within the context of each lesson, students are taught key concepts of faith such as Law, Gospel, confession, repentance, forgiveness, and grace, and are encouraged to put the concepts into action in their lives. The fifth grade course focuses on the life and work of Martin Luther and a study of biblical history of the Old Testament. The sixth grade lessons include early church history as recorded in Acts, the beginnings of the Christian Church in America, an overview of the Sacraments and the life of Christ. Through a planned memory program students learn Scripture verses, hymns and portions of the Catechism.
READING
In the fifth and sixth grade reading program, students are exposed to genre which include; realism and fantasy, historical fiction, adventure, biography, nonfiction and more. Trade books are used to help the students improve their reading skills while developing a lifelong love of reading. Skills such as recalling, analyzing, summarizing, outlining and using reference materials are also a part of the reading curriculum.
ENGLISH
English 5
In fifth grade English, communications skills are emphasized through a study of sentence and paragraph structure, parts of speech, grammar, mechanics, vocabulary building and study skills. Students are given a variety of writing experiences including narrative, descriptive, informative, and report writing.
English 6
Learning parts of speech; a variety of sentence structures; paragraphing; and story, theme, research paper, letter, and poetry- writing develops the structure of language. Presentations of speeches, reports, and drama provide oral speaking and listening experiences.
SPELLING
The spelling curriculum uses word lists based on sound patterns. The list includes words that are educationally appropriate and commonly used. Correct spelling in daily use is practiced. Fifth and sixth grades use separate spelling texts.
MATH
Saxon Math is used in the fifth and sixth grade. Fifth grade math includes problem solving, estimation and measurement. Whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percents are a major part of this curriculum. Sixth grade math provides theory, practice and practical application of all basic math concepts, preparing students for higher math.
SCIENCE
The fifth and sixth grade science curriculum provides opportunities for students to investigate, observe, and draw conclusions. They do this through hands-on experiments, demonstrations, and exploration activities combined with information from their text. Topics include earth science, the solar system, matter and its properties, energy and motion, plants, animals, biomes, cells, and health science.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Fifth and sixth grade social studies is divided into two distinct topics. One year is spent on United States history beginning with native Americans and continuing through the time line to the present. The Western Hemisphere (including Canada, Mexico, Central and South America) is the second topic of study. Skills are developed in interpreting and using maps, understanding and making charts and graphs and interpreting timelines.
COMPUTERS
Fifth and sixth graders develop computer skills by working with keyboarding, word processing, spreadsheets, and Power Point. Students also use the computer to enhance math skills, use reference materials, and explore the internet.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
This class focuses on various sports and activities. Emphasis is placed on learning and developing specific skills for sports such as basketball, softball, floor hockey and volleyball. Leadership, cooperation, sports etiquette, fair play, and best effort are stressed.
ART
5th & 6th grade art focuses on the quality of and the effort put into art projects. Students are encouraged to experiment with different colors, arrangements, and patterns while following multi-step instructions. Projects include prospective drawings, working with colors and making collages. Students work with watercolors, tempra paint, pastels, pencils and clay.
MUSIC
CHOIR- Choir is for students in fifth through eighth grade who enjoy singing and are interested in learning vocal skills. The main goal of the choir is to give glory to God through singing together while providing musical enjoyment and growth in vocal technique. Choir is a performing group, singing as scheduled at church services, chapel, and special events.
HAND BELLS- Students in grades 5-8 will have the opportunity to participate in a hand bell choir. The students will read music, practice proper hand bell technique and perform in different settings.
ELECTIVES
Students in grades 5-8 will have the opportunity to participate in the following electives during their school career:
- Music Appreciation
- Current events
- German
- Spanish
- Space Studies
- Problem Solving