Fourth - Fifth Grade
Developmental Characteristics
Physical
May be careless about their clothes, room and body cleanliness
Girls may have sudden growth spurt and beginning signs of puberty
Enjoy physical activities that master specific skills
Enjoy competitive games
Possess a high activity level
Enjoy games that allow for comparison of skills
Enjoy games that allow for self-improvement
Social Emotional
Enjoy small, peer-dominated group discussions
Like to join organized groups
Are anxious to grow up
Are intensely loyal to their peer group
Form a close one-on-one friendship
Have a growing desire to assert individuality and independence
Can be daring and competitive
Can be critical of peers and adults
Are self-conscious of their abilities
Cognitive
Ask many questions and what thoughtful answers
Can often understand other points of view
Developing strong interests, hobbies, and collections
Enjoy daydreaming
Enjoy problem solving games and puzzles, etc.
Enjoy rule-based games
Are beginning to develop view about social/global issues
Beginning to enjoy humor by telling jokes and understanding sarcasm
World Changers
After listening to "The Dark and the Light" story, each student designs a poster presenting their own idea to make the world better — including a step-by-step plan — then presents it in a class exhibition where judges and peers vote on their favorites.
My People Poem
Students reflect on their identity and heritage by writing personal poems inspired by Langston Hughes’ My People.
Girls vs. Boys
Students examine and challenge gender stereotypes by analyzing outdated messages and creating modern comics that promote gender equality.
Clustergrams
Students move around the room to find classmates who share the same answer to each statement (same breakfast, shoe size, favorite food, etc.), cluster together, and act out a mime representing their group before the next statement is called.