INSPIRING ST. PAUL STEM-SCHOLARS
IN 5th GRADE
IMAGINE A NEW WAY OF LEARNING AT LAURA JEFFREY ACADEMY, WHERE WE BELIEVE THAT YOU MATTER. WE’RE CHANGING THE WORLD, ONE CLASSROOM AT A TIME, AND DEVELOPING WELL-ROUNDED SCHOLARS WITH BIG HEARTS, BRIGHT FUTURES AND THE ABILITY TO THINK CRITICALLY. WE FOCUS ON STEM CLASSES THAT STIMULATE AN INTEREST IN LEARNING AND PURSUING CAREERS IN THE STEM FIELDS. YOUR FUTURE IS LOADING.
THE LJA WAY
At Laura Jeffrey Academy, we are committed to doing what works best for kids, even if it looks a little different from the traditional model of schooling. At LJA, students learn to think, dream, and do, which leads to empowered scholars and alums who continually find solutions, push beyond stereotypes and dismantle glass ceilings. LJA graduates are articulate, thoughtful, conscientious citizens, and eager participants in their own learning and growth.
With our STEM-focused learning, we incorporate strong science content, technology, and critical thinking throughout all content areas. We help our students nurture their curiosity and wonderment, become innovative thinkers and resilient problem solvers, and apply STEM thinking in and out of the classroom.
Our middle school experience fosters academic, social and emotional development in our scholars.
WHY START MIDDLE SCHOOL IN GRADE 5?
We’re glad you asked! Research shows that early adolescents often lose interest in academics during the tween years, particularly in math, science, technology and physical activity. Plus, sixth grade can be a particularly challenging year as students mature at a rapid pace: they’re dealing with physical, social and emotional changes at the same time academic rigor ramps up.
Starting middle school in fifth grade ensures time for staff to get to know each individual scholar and their family before the rate of developmental change and challenge increases in sixth grade. Our staff prioritizes forming authentic relationships with each student to understand their unique interests, strengths, hopes and dreams. Our scholars are just beginning their journey to understand how they fit into the world and develop a sense of belonging to a larger community.
At LJA, we believe it’s crucial to begin fostering a love of learning and STEM thinking in the 5th-grade year.
GRADE 5 CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
5th Grade Advisory: Our 5th-grade advisory program focuses on nurturing well-rounded LJA scholars and helping them foster friendships. We believe that both academic growth and meaningful connections are essential during this stage of education.
Mathematics in 5th Grade: In the realm of mathematics, 5th graders delve into concepts such as adding and subtracting fractions and decimals, mastering multiplication and division of whole numbers, and taking their first steps into the world of algebraic thinking and geometry. Scholars also engage in fascinating lessons about functions and 3-dimensional shapes.
Language Arts and Social Studies (LASS): LASS scholars honing their reading, writing, and discussion skills. Our curriculum integrates language arts and social studies content to increase relevancy and foster exploration of meaning across subjects. Cooperative learning, listening, speaking skills, and critical literacy are strongly emphasized. New 5th-grade students benefit from exploring content alongside returning 6th-grade students.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics): Our STEM classes empower scholars to observe and understand everyday phenomena happening all around them. The focus is not just on academic proficiency but on building competency and confidence. This foundation prepares our students for advanced studies in high school and future careers, particularly in fields where women are traditionally underrepresented. Scientific literacy and the ability to analyze and interpret information are core skills taught in our STEM classes.
Holistic Education: In addition to the core subjects, 5th graders also receive a well-rounded education encompassing art, music, and wellness (health and physical education). We believe in nurturing the whole student and providing them with a diverse and enriching learning experience.