4th and 5th Grades

The transition into upper elementary is one where the students become more independent in their study skills and schoolwork as they become more responsible for themselves. In 4th and 5th grade the idea of community is taught and stressed. Students learn to become respectful, responsible, and ready citizens of a community of learning. The students have a homeroom teacher, but then trade classes throughout the day, getting them accustomed to going from one class to another and being responsible to get all their materials to class with them. Students enjoy the opportunity to learn from four different teachers who bring both mastery and passion to the subjects which they teach.

Bible
Both fourth and fifth grade students study “Building on the Rock,” a Summit Ministries curriculum designed to teach both a Christian worldview and continued Bible survey. The principles of wisdom, fellowship, image-bearing, servanthood, and stewardship are taught with regards to relationships—with God, self, others, and the earth. Students memorize short scripture passages relating to the principles studied. Seeing God as an amazing Creator, who loved mankind enough to sacrifice His Son so we can spend eternity with Him is why we live to praise God’s Glory.

Language
Language study in the 4/5 Block focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary development, spelling, the study of English grammar, and writing. Reading comprehension strategies are taught and a wide variety of literature is read throughout the year. Students read Christian and secular literature and often are reading works that correspond to their studies in history. Using a Christian worldview, students are taught how to evaluate and respond to different texts.

Fourth and fifth graders take weekly spelling tests and are taught grammar in an orderly sequence. Using the 6 + 1 Writing Traits as a foundation for the writing instruction and assessment, students are able to apply their language learning to a variety of written projects and assignments. Students are able to go through the writing process and utilize technology in order to become strong communicators.

To increase and develop vocabulary for written and spoken communication, fourth graders learn a specific “word of the day” using comics, whereas fifth grade vocabulary development involves the study of grouped words by Latin and Greek roots.

Math
Fourth grade students begin to develop mastery of the basic math facts and operations as well as develop strong problem solving skills throughout the year. Our topics of study include fractions and mixed numbers, decimals, multi-digit multiplication and division as well as measurement and graphing.

Fifth grade students continue to hone their mastery of the basic math facts and operations as well begin to apply their mathematical knowledge to real world situations. The students in fifth grade begin to cover more in-depth algebra concepts, measuring geometric shapes and solids, and work to understand the relationship between different mathematical operations.

History
Fourth grade students study Indiana history including citizenship, culture, economics, geography, and government. Units include studying the land, exploration and conquest, the development of the state, trials of being involved in the Civil War, growth, and finally the 21st century.

Fifth grade students study U.S. history and geography. Beginning with the first Americans, the students then study regions of the country including features of the land, flora and fauna, the history of people groups, special Christian leaders, industry, economy and the political climate of each.

A special Junior Achievement curriculum called “JA BizTown” is the culmination of history as students learn about community and economy, work readiness, financial literacy and business management. This month-long study prepares the students for a simulated day as a producer/consumer in the town.

Science
In science students begin to understand and appreciate God’s creation and view it as His blessing to mankind. On even years, students learn about vertebrates, oceans, astronomy, geology, forces, and engines. On odd years, students learn about insects, birds, plants, matter, and energy. Each of the learning units usually includes a project or an activity to engage students with the topic. During both years, the fourth and fifth graders will study health, learning how God designed human bodies and how we can care for them properly.

 

Field Trips
Matea Park
Honeywell Center
Shrine Circus (4th only)
DeKalb Memorial hospital (4th only)
McMillen Health Center
Junior Achievement BizTown
End of elementary trip (5th grade only)

Enrichment Opportunities
Band (5th), Art, Music, Physical Education, Computer, Library, Private Piano Lessons, 4th/5th grade spring musical

4th and 5th Grade Teachers

		Mrs. Lauri Carnahan 4th/5th Grade History and Bible I accepted Christ’s salvation for my life in the second grade. After graduating from Leo High School, I attended Anderson University for two years, and Indiana-Purdue at Fort Wayne for my final two years, graduating with honors with a B.S. degree in elementary education. I married my high school sweetheart, David, and after teaching third grade in Fort Wayne at Price Elementary for one year, I had my oldest daughter Megan. Wanting to stay at home with my daughter, I quit the teaching profession temporarily. My second daughter Logan was born, followed by two more daughters, Jensen and Brittan. As a stay-at-home mom, I enjoyed being involved in several ministries at Grabill Missionary Church, including directing children’s musicals and Vacation Bible School, singing in the choir and on the Praise Team, leading women’s Bible studies, participating in short term mission’s trips, and contributing to the Christian Education Committee. Knowing my youngest daughter was to enter school, I felt the strong desire to find a ministry that would allow me to serve God, yet allow some flexibility with my daughters. Since all four girls attended Lakewood Park Christian School, I decided to explore the possibilities of returning to the teaching profession. In 2000, I was hired to teach sixth grade with my former sixth grade teacher and friend, Bob Anderson. Along with teaching, I also hope to influence students’ lives through coaching. By being a role model, striving for excellence, and teaching skills, knowledge, and wisdom, I hope to influence many young lives to desire a deeper walk with Christ. lcarnahan@lakewoodpark.org
		Mr. Tom Leitner 4th/5th Grade Math I graduated from Huntington College in 2000 and after working as a substitute teacher in my hometown of Richmond, Indiana for a year, I have been at Lakewood Park since 2001. During my time here, I have taught 4th and 6th grade and coached the 6th grade boys basketball team. I am currently pursuing my master's degree in Elementary Math Education through Walden University. My wife, Maleah, and I attend the Auburn Church of Christ where I am involved on the Deacon Board. Growing up, I attended a small Christian elementary school and had always desired to return to Christian education when I graduated. Being at Lakewood gives me the opportunity to positively impact the lives of students by sharing the love of Christ with them and helping them grow in their physical, emotional, and spiritual maturity. tleitner@lakewoodpark.org
		Mr. Brian Rayle 4th/5th Grade Science I graduated from Huntington University in May of 2008 with a Bachelors degree in Primary and Intermediate Elementary Education. I am certified to teach Kindergarten through eighth grade, in all subjects. I live here in Auburn and attend County Line Church of God where I am actively involved in the junior high youth and with the music and children’s ministries. I enjoy teaching fourth and fifth grade because students are at that wonderful age of still being excited about learning, but getting old enough to start doing some interesting and fun things. I also help coach the girls varsity volleyball team here at Lakewood Park. brayle@lakewoodpark.org
		Mrs. Kaicy Barnett I am a 2009 graduate of Huntington University. I enjoy teaching, riding horses, and scrapbooking. My favorite authors are Jane Austin and Dr. Seuss. My favorite Bible verses are Proverbs 3:3-5: "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write then on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." kbarnett@lakewoodpark.org