Frequently Asked Questions

F.A.Q.

Q: Will there be grades in fifth grade?

A: Yes! Students will have grades in each of the main subject areas, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. What makes up the grades are daily assignments, projects, tests and quizzes. Please see this link for a letter explaining Mr. Schiller's grading policies and procedures.

Q: Are there any special skills my child will need this coming year in fifth grade math to be successful?

A: Students should arrive in fifth grade knowing their basic math facts (+, -, x, /) very well. The very first unit in Math Expressions is multiplication and division word problems. If you know your child needs to work on these facts, please make time to work on them at home so your child can catch up.

Q: Is it OK for me to teach my child to do a problem the way I learned to do it?

A: Yes. Today we teach students to solve problems in different ways, and it is OK for them to learn a new way from you too.

Q: What materials will my child need for this school year?

A: Most of what your child will need will be supplied by me at school. Extra pencils, erasers, crayons, and colored pencils are always a good idea. There are some things that will make math homework easier to complete. Those items are:

• A scientific calculator. At school we use the Texas Instruments TI 34-2 if you happen to find this calculator on sale.
• A protractor that is marked off in single degree units.
• A helix compass.
• A ruler (wooden or plastic is your preference) with metric and standard measurements. Standard units should be to 1/16th inch.

Items that I DO NOT encourage are LARGE binders with multiple folders. These take up storage space in desks that is needed for other items.

Q: What should I do if my child is going to be absent from school?

A: Please call the school (850-5300) and leave a message.

Q: What should I do if my child is going to be late to school?

A: Please call the office and have your child stop at the office on his or her way to class. Often attendance has been taken by the time your child arrives at school and our records will need to be changed from an absence.

This page last updated on:
August 3, 2009