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
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Mrs. Teri Krafft
4th/5th Grade History and Bible
I grew up in home in which church was a part of our lives. I asked Christ to come into my life at a Good News Club, but did not fully understand what that meant. I fully commited my life to Christ in high school while attending Youth For Christ meetings. I was doubly blessed to begin living a life for Christ and meeting my husband through these YFC meetings. I graduated from Indiana/Purdue University in Ft. Wayne where I first earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1985 and then a Master of Science in Education in 1989. I hold a Professional Teaching License through the state of Indiana and Lifetime Professional Certification through the Association of Christian Schools International. I previously taught in a local public school system for 11 years in grades 1-3 and have taught 14 years at Lakewood Park in third grade. I will be teaching Bible and history in the 4/5 block the 2011-2012 school year. I enjoy reading, making cookies, and spending time with family.
tkrafft@lakewoodpark.org
4th/5th Grade website |
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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
4th/5th Grade website
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Mr. Brian Rayle
4th/5th Grade Science and Bible
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
4th/5th Grade website
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Mrs. Kaicy Barnett
4th/5th Language Arts
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
4th/5th Grade website |
