Reading and Viewing

In Grade 5, students engage with a wide range of texts, developing advanced comprehension and critical thinking skills. They explore author's craft, make sophisticated connections across texts and cultures, and appreciate Caribbean literature and global perspectives.

Grade Five Expectations for Reading and Viewing

Read for Pleasure and Personal Growth

  • Develop increased personal choice in favorite authors, genres, and text forms
  • Reflect on and identify their strengths as readers, areas for improvement and the strategies they found most useful before, during and after reading

Specific Curriculum Outcomes

By the end of Grade Five, the learner will be expected to:

Inclusive Assessment Strategies

Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:

  • Observations: Teacher observations during reading and viewing activities, noting student engagement, comprehension, and critical thinking skills
  • Conversations: One-on-one discussions with students about their reading and viewing experiences, strategies, and insights
  • Products: Student reading logs, response journals, character analyses, and multimedia presentations

Sample Assessment Tools:

  • Running records to assess reading fluency and accuracy
  • Checklists for evaluating critical thinking skills
  • Rubrics for assessing character analysis and theme exploration
  • Self-assessment tools for students to reflect on their reading habits
  • Peer assessment forms for collaborative discussions

Inclusive Learning Strategies

Additional Resources and Materials

Comprehensive resources to support Grade 5 reading and viewing instruction

Recommended Literature and Texts

Caribbean Authors and Literature
  • Jamaica Kincaid: "Annie John" (excerpts appropriate for Grade 5)
  • Earl Lovelace: "Jestina's Calypso" and other short stories
  • Olive Senior: "Birthday in the Bush" and selected poems
  • Lynn Joseph: "The Mermaid's Twin Sister" and other Caribbean folktales
  • Richardo Keens-Douglas: "The Nutmeg Princess" and other stories
  • Dionne Brand: Selected poems suitable for Grade 5
Global Literature with Caribbean Connections
  • Multicultural Poetry Collections: Featuring Caribbean diaspora voices
  • Historical Fiction: Books about Caribbean history and culture
  • Graphic Novels: Age-appropriate titles exploring cultural themes
  • Biography Series: Caribbean leaders, artists, and changemakers
Text Types and Genres
  • Informational texts about Caribbean ecosystems and geography
  • Historical documents and primary sources (adapted for Grade 5)
  • Contemporary realistic fiction with Caribbean settings
  • Traditional and modern Caribbean folktales and legends
  • Poetry collections celebrating Caribbean culture and nature

Implementation Notes:

  • Ensure all selected materials reflect the diversity of Caribbean cultures and experiences
  • Provide texts at various reading levels to support all learners
  • Include both print and digital formats to accommodate different learning preferences
  • Regularly update resources to include contemporary Caribbean voices and perspectives
  • Consider accessibility features for students with diverse learning needs