Grade 5. Fifth
Grade at Kenston Forest
provides an enriching
educational experience
centered on reading and
the core curriculum. Our
reading program is based
on the Scott Foresman
Reading Series focusing
on the development of
fluent readers with an
emphasis on literature,
language and
communication, and
research and study
skills.
The Science curriculum
utilizes a hands-on
approach to introduce
fifth graders to
investigating weather
and climate, cells and
body systems, the solar
system, matter and
energy, biomes, and
force and motion.
Mathematics instruction is based on the Houghton Mifflin program, which utilizes a systematic step-by-step approach to developing mathematics concepts. Skills include multiplication, division, equations, decimals, measurement, integers, fractions, and statistics.
The Houghton Mifflin Social Studies program focuses on American History from early exploration through the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Students participate in physical education and weekly resource classes with instruction in library, music, and art. Monthly chapel programs are included at Kenston Forest School and are dedicated to teaching Christian values. The D.A.R.E. program presents an excellent learning opportunity for fifth graders. For 9 weeks, a Nottoway County deputy sheriff instructs students on drug and alcohol resistance. Students learn about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. The program culminates with a classroom graduation and each student's promise to say "NO" to drug and alcohol use.
While classroom learning is essential, other educational opportunities exist. Each year, field trips designed to enhance classroom instruction are scheduled. Trips have included The Thomas Jefferson Learning Center, Monticello, and The Science Museum of Virginia. Other important extracurricular activities include a Christmas program, May Day, Field Day, and forensics competition.
The end of the fifth grade year is highlighted with a parent-sponsored overnight cabin-camping trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains where students view Crabtree Falls, the longest continuous waterfall east of the Mississippi. The trip continues with a hike up Spy Rock and visits to Cyrus McCormick's Farm and the American Museum of Frontier Culture.
The goal of these programs is to help students build self-confidence and teamwork skills. All aspects of fifth grade help provide for the overall healthy development of each student. Kenston Forest strives to build life skills as well as academic skills.