5th Grade Behavior

Each child is unique in her emotional and behavioral development. Children may show behaviors that are above grade levels in some areas, and below grade levels in other areas. Children also do not develop at a consistent rate. They may seem to show no growth a for long time and then show a lot of growth in a short span of time. The following social and emotional expectations are general and to be used as a guideline to help you understand your child's development.

What to expect from your child in 5th grade

Children at this age...

• are very dependent on their peer groups. They are able to think independently but often give into their peers.
• have increased concentration and, as a result, teachers are able to lead longer lessons.
• begin to request independence from adults and may fight directions given and/or authority figures.
• are able to follow directions when supported and rewarded for compliance.
• begin to develop their own interests in hobbies and sports.
• form good relationships with adults in the school setting especially if they feel supported and heard.
• are beginning to recognize the perspectives of others, and will begin to recognize others' needs.
• begin to show increased ability to work independently on school work when they understand the task.
• begin to developing self-confidence and self-concept (how they see themselves), and will continue this development into middle school. Children will often have high's and low's in these areas as they discover who they are.

Grade Level Content Expectations

The Michigan Department of Education requires children in fifth grade to work on the following skills:

• Describe the harmful impact of bullying to both the bully and the victim
• Demonstrate the ability to manage bullying, including getting help from a trusted adult
• Advocate for a caring school environment
• Predict situations that might lead to trouble, including violence and describe how to get help from an adult when someone is in danger of hurting self or others
• Describe the characteristics of people who can help make decisions, and can solve problems and demonstrate the ability to use decision making and problem solving steps in both real and hypothetical situations. Children are asked to review their decision after following the steps.
• Demonstrate strategies to avoid situations that might lead to trouble
• Demonstrate strategies to manage strong feelings including anger
• Demonstrate how to communicate assertively and demonstrate effective listening strategies
• Set a personal goal and plan the steps necessary to achieve the goal