Page 8 - GRADE 5 Curriculum Guide

Our curriculum is crafted into three sections:

The Composed Curriculum: As important as WHAT we know is HOW we know it and, WHY it is worth
knowing
Grade Level Units of Study are based on 9 Meta Concepts of which have the NY Standards woven into
them. These specifically written, developmentally appropriate units of study specifically focused on Dubai as
the laboratory for learning.

The Coached Curriculum: As important as WHAT we learn is Learning HOW to learn
Experiential learning, integrated studies, student centered planned teaching and learning engagements.
Differentiated, authentic, relevant, connected learning opportunities for students to collaboratively problem
find and solve.

The Considered Curriculum – As important as WHAT we do is HOW do we do it.
Students demonstrate what they have learned and what they know. With guidance students apply their
knowledge and skills in meaningful investigations and projects. Students reflect, share and celebrate.

Unit of Study

GRADE 5 CHINA: The Land, the People, the History
Enduring Understandings;
A deeper understanding of geography and the Three Gorges Dam helps us know more
about ancient Chinese culture, emperors and dynasties, and the cultural revolution.
Research skills: independent, group, internet and across the year

* The Geography of China
Students will develop an understanding of geographical concepts, vocabulary, and other map skills by
exploring a three-dimensional terrain model, and later building a relief map of China. Students will also
research, write, and create a visual project representing the flora, fauna, human culture, and man-made
structures that exist in the areas.

* Three Gorges Dam
Students will discover the wonders of the world’s biggest and most expansive dam, built on the Yangtze
River. Students will learn the reasons for the dam being built and how the feat of engineering the world’s
largest hydro-electric power plant was accomplished. Students will debate the positive and negative effects
of the dam on the people and the natural environment.

* Ancient Chinese Culture
Students will explore the concept of culture, beginning with their own, and moving on toward the exploration
of ancient Chinese culture, and into the China of present day. This exploration will take place through field
trips including those to Chinatown, Dragon Mart, and area museums. The class will discover the teachings
of Confucius as well as other amazing Chinese philosophers. Students will learn to understand the values
of the people of ancient China, and how those values may be reflected in their own lives today.

* Emperors and Dynasties
Students will explore the advantages and disadvantages of dynastic rule. The class will act as
archeologists in order to discover how we know about the ancient people of China. Students will develop
an understanding about the Forbidden City, construct a timeline, and delve into the religions of China and
how they developed over time.

* The Cultural Revolution
The class will explore the Chinese Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of China.
Students will learn about the new political parties that emerged and follow the Chinese people into the
modern era.

Throughout the Unit of Study, the Art, Music, Literacy, Math, and Science will be integrated whenever
possible, in order to further connect students to their learning.
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