Grade 5 Arts, Music & PE Curriculum Supplement

About This Supplement

This 36-week curriculum supplement for 5th grade in Visual Art, Music, and Physical Education is designed to culminate students' elementary-level learning, emphasizing independent application of skills, critical analysis, and the development of personal expression. It aligns with the general principles and content areas found in the standards of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, preparing students for middle school.

Fifth-grade students demonstrate greater independence in their creative thinking, deeper analytical abilities, and more sophisticated technical skills—making this a pivotal year for establishing a strong foundation in arts and physical education before the transition to middle school.

Curriculum Assumptions

Time Allocation: Each category (Visual Art, Music, Physical Education) will have approximately 90 minutes of dedicated instruction per week.
Supplemental Focus: This is a supplement that builds upon or enhances a core curriculum, offering additional depth and resources.
Resources Required: The curriculum assumes access to a classroom, gymnasium/outdoor space, and basic art and music supplies.

Curriculum Overview

Visual Art

Synthesize elements and principles in complex compositions, develop individual artistic style, and use art for communication and advocacy.

Overarching Themes

Synthesizing Elements of Art and Principles of Design in Complex Compositions
Developing Individual Artistic Style and Voice
Critically Analyzing Art from Diverse Cultures and Historical Periods
Using Art as a Powerful Tool for Communication and Advocacy

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Drawing and Realistic Representation

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Painting and Personal Expression

Weeks 13-18: Sculpture, Mixed Media, and Installation Art

Weeks 19-24: Printmaking and Digital Design

Weeks 25-30: Global Art Traditions and Art Criticism

Weeks 31-36: Art as a Career, Portfolio, and Exhibition

Music

Master advanced rhythm and melody concepts, explore music theory, understand diverse musical traditions, and develop ensemble performance skills.

Overarching Themes

Advanced Music Literacy and Interpretation
Exploring Music Theory Concepts (Chords, Key Signatures, Scales)
Understanding Music's Role in Culture, History, and Society
Developing Independent Musicianship and Collaborative Performance Skills

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Rhythmic Complexity and Ensemble Performance

Weeks 7-12: Melodic Theory and Key Signatures

Weeks 13-18: Harmony, Form, and Structure in Music

Weeks 19-24: Music History, Genres, and Cultural Significance

Weeks 25-30: World Music Traditions and Intercultural Connections

Weeks 31-36: Advanced Composition, Improvisation, and Ensemble Performance

Physical Education

Master motor skills with greater precision, develop comprehensive fitness knowledge, apply strategic thinking in games, and demonstrate leadership in physical activities.

Overarching Themes

Mastering a Wide Range of Motor Skills in Dynamic Environments
Developing Personal Fitness Plans and Understanding Long-Term Health
Applying Advanced Game Strategies and Tactics in Team Sports
Demonstrating Exemplary Sportsmanship, Leadership, and Conflict Resolution

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Locomotor, Agility, and Coordination

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Balance, Body Control, and Rhythmic Movement

Weeks 13-18: Manipulative Skills (Accuracy, Power, and Strategy)

Weeks 19-24: Manipulative Skills (Striking with Implements and Defensive Tactics)

Weeks 25-30: Health-Related Fitness and Personal Wellness Planning

Weeks 31-36: Leadership, Officiating, and Lifetime Activity

Visual Art Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Drawing and Realistic Representation

Focus: Two-point perspective (drawing objects/scenes from multiple angles); detailed observational drawing (texture, form, light/shadow); introduction to portraiture (features, expression, contour drawing).

Activities:

Drawing buildings or street scenes using two-point perspective.
Creating detailed still life drawings, emphasizing variations in texture and reflected light.
Drawing realistic facial features (eyes, nose, mouth) and then assembling them into a self-portrait or portrait of a peer, focusing on capturing emotion.
Using charcoal or pastels to create expressive value studies.

Resources:

Books:

Drawing for the Absolute Beginner: A Clear & Easy Guide to Successful Drawing by Mark Willenbrink and Mary Willenbrink (simplified concepts for teacher)
Cartooning Cartoon Animals by Christopher Hart (for facial expression and character development)

Supplies:

Sketchbooks, variety of drawing pencils (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B), charcoal, pastels (chalk or oil), blending stumps, kneaded erasers, drawing paper, mirrors.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos demonstrating two-point perspective.
Online tutorials for drawing realistic features.
Examples of Renaissance and Baroque portraits.

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Painting and Personal Expression

Focus: Advanced color theory (color schemes: monochromatic, analogous, triadic; color psychology); developing personal brushwork and style; painting from imagination and memory.

Activities:

Creating paintings using specific color schemes to evoke different moods or themes.
Painting landscapes or fantasy scenes from imagination, focusing on expressing a personal vision.
Exploring different painting styles (e.g., abstract expressionism, realism, impressionism) and discussing their impact.
Creating a multi-layered painting, building up from thin washes to thick impasto.

Resources:

Books:

When Marian Sang by Pam Muñoz Ryan (can inspire expressive portraiture)
Art That Changed the World (simplified versions for kids)

Supplies:

Acrylic paints, tempera paints, various brushes, canvases or canvas boards, palettes, water containers.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos on advanced color theory and color psychology in art.
Virtual museum tours focusing on different painting movements.

Weeks 13-18: Sculpture, Mixed Media, and Installation Art

Focus: Combining diverse materials (mixed media) in sculpture; creating more complex 3D forms with structural integrity; introduction to installation art concepts (art that interacts with its space).

Activities:

Creating mixed-media sculptures using found objects, wire, fabric, and clay.
Designing and constructing a functional art piece (e.g., a decorative box with compartments, a sculptural bookend).
Collaboratively creating a small-scale "installation" piece in the classroom that responds to its environment (e.g., a "forest" of paper trees, a "cloud" mobile).
Introduction to wire sculpture (bending and shaping wire to create forms).

Resources:

Books:

The Girl Who Made a Million Things by Paula Bossio (creativity with materials)

Supplies:

Air-dry clay, modeling tools, wire (various gauges), pliers (child-safe), found objects (recycled materials), fabric scraps, yarn, strong adhesives, paper maché.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos showcasing contemporary mixed-media and installation art.
Tutorials for wire sculpture.

Weeks 19-24: Printmaking and Digital Design

Focus: Multi-color relief prints; understanding the screen-printing process in more detail; advanced digital art tools (layers, selection tools, typography); creating digital illustrations and designs.

Activities:

Creating multi-color relief prints using registration techniques to align colors.
Designing a poster or T-shirt graphic using stencils and paint for a screen-printing effect (without actual screen printing equipment, if not available).
Using digital drawing software to create illustrations with layers and effects.
Designing a digital logo or social media graphic that communicates a message.

Resources:

Books:

The Artist's Way for Kids by Julia Cameron (creative expression)

Supplies:

Soft linoleum blocks, carving tools, brayers, multi-color water-soluble block printing ink, printing paper, acetate/cardboard for stencils, digital devices (computers, tablets) with drawing software.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos demonstrating multi-color printmaking.
Tutorials for basic digital art software (e.g., Google Canvas, Pixlr, or simplified versions of Photoshop/Procreate).

Weeks 25-30: Global Art Traditions and Art Criticism

Focus: In-depth study of art from non-Western cultures (e.g., Indigenous art, Islamic art, Renaissance art, African art, Asian calligraphy); understanding the role of art in different societies; introducing formal art criticism (describe, analyze, interpret, judge).

Activities:

Analyzing and discussing artworks from various global traditions, identifying cultural symbols and meanings.
Creating artwork inspired by specific cultural traditions (e.g., a simplified batik design, a mosaic, calligraphy-inspired art).
Applying the steps of art criticism to analyze famous artworks and their own pieces.
Researching and presenting on a global art tradition or artist.

Resources:

Books:

The Adventures of TinTin (can inspire global themes)
Global Art by MaryAnn F. Kohl and Jean Potter

Supplies:

Variety of art materials, research resources (books, online access).

Multimedia/Online:

Google Arts & Culture (extensive global art collections).
Documentaries on art from diverse cultures.

Weeks 31-36: Art as a Career, Portfolio, and Exhibition

Focus: Exploring various art-related careers (e.g., animator, architect, graphic designer, curator, art therapist); preparing a culminating art portfolio; curating and presenting a class art exhibition.

Activities:

Researching different art careers and interviewing (virtually or in person) an artist.
Selecting and arranging their best artwork for a final portfolio, writing artist statements for each piece.
Collaborating to plan, set up, and promote a class art exhibition for the school community.
Reflecting on their artistic journey and growth throughout elementary school.

Resources:

Books:

What Do Artists Do All Day? by JoAnn Early Macken

Supplies:

Portfolio folders, display materials for exhibition (boards, labels), art supplies for final projects.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos showcasing different art careers and creative industries.
Examples of student art exhibitions online.

Music Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Rhythmic Complexity and Ensemble Performance

Focus: Identifying and performing syncopated rhythms, triplets, and dotted rhythms with precision; understanding complex meter (e.g., 5/4, 7/8 - simplified); performing in rhythmic ensembles with multiple independent parts.

Activities:

Rhythmic dictation (transcribing rhythms heard) and sight-reading rhythm patterns.
Performing complex rhythmic pieces using body percussion and classroom instruments.
Working in small groups to create and perform layered rhythmic compositions.
Introduction to conducting basic meter patterns.

Resources:

Books:

Ben's Trumpet by Rachel Isadora (jazz rhythm)

Supplies:

Variety of rhythm instruments, staff paper, whiteboards, metronome.

Multimedia/Online:

Advanced rhythm reading drills and games.
Videos of drumming ensembles (e.g., African drumming, Stomp).

Weeks 7-12: Melodic Theory and Key Signatures

Focus: Identifying and writing all notes on the treble and bass clef; understanding sharps, flats, and naturals; introduction to key signatures (C, G, D Major); singing and playing major and minor scales.

Activities:

Intensive note identification practice on both clefs, including accidentals.
Playing and identifying major and minor scales on pitched instruments.
Singing songs in different major keys.
Composing short melodies that use a specific key signature.

Resources:

Books:

Lives of the Composers: Good Times, Bad Times (And What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull

Supplies:

Classroom keyboard/piano, pitched instruments, staff paper, musical flashcards (notes, key signatures).

Multimedia/Online:

Online music theory games focusing on notes, scales, and key signatures.
Videos explaining sharps, flats, and key signatures.

Weeks 13-18: Harmony, Form, and Structure in Music

Focus: Identifying and building primary chords (I, IV, V) in various keys; understanding inversions (simplified); analyzing musical form (sonata form, theme and variations); identifying counterpoint (simplified).

Activities:

Playing chord progressions (I-IV-V) on keyboard or ukulele, accompanying songs.
Listening to classical pieces and identifying different sections and themes.
Singing or playing simple ostinato patterns as accompaniment.
Discussing how musical elements create structure and meaning.

Resources:

Books:

Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev (review for thematic development)
The Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saëns (for orchestral textures)

Supplies:

Classroom keyboard/piano, recordings of pieces with clear forms.

Multimedia/Online:

SFSKids: "Music Structures" and "Harmony."
Videos illustrating musical forms (e.g., rondo, theme and variations).

Weeks 19-24: Music History, Genres, and Cultural Significance

Focus: Deeper exploration of specific periods (e.g., Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century) and their musical characteristics; understanding the historical and social context of music; analyzing diverse music genres and their evolution.

Activities:

Listening to and comparing music from different historical periods, discussing stylistic differences.
Researching a specific composer or genre and presenting findings.
Exploring the origins and development of genres like rock and roll, hip hop, country, etc.
Discussing how music reflects social change or historical events.

Resources:

Books:

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill
This is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession by Daniel J. Levitin (simplified concepts for teacher)

Supplies:

Recordings of music from various periods and genres, access to online research.

Multimedia/Online:

NPR Music (Tiny Desk Concerts for diverse genres).
History Channel documentaries on music history (age-appropriate segments).

Weeks 25-30: World Music Traditions and Intercultural Connections

Focus: In-depth study of music from specific world regions (e.g., West African drumming, Indian classical music, Japanese Koto music, Latin American dance forms); understanding cultural fusion and the global exchange of music.

Activities:

Learning and performing rhythmic patterns from specific world traditions (e.g., call and response, polyrhythms).
Listening to and analyzing vocal and instrumental techniques unique to different cultures.
Discussing how music travels and mixes between cultures.
Researching and presenting on a specific world music tradition or instrument.

Resources:

Books:

We Got the Jazz: The Story of Jazz Music by John O'Brien

Supplies:

World music recordings, maps, various percussion instruments.

Multimedia/Online:

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings (extensive collection).
TED-Ed videos on global music.

Weeks 31-36: Advanced Composition, Improvisation, and Ensemble Performance

Focus: Composing multi-part pieces (rhythmic, melodic, or both); improvising over chord changes; leading and conducting small ensembles; preparing and presenting a significant musical performance.

Activities:

Students compose a full class piece or collaborate on a mini-musical.
Improvisation circles with given scales or chord progressions.
Students take turns conducting the class in a song or instrumental piece.
Rehearsing and performing a varied program of learned songs and instrumental pieces, demonstrating musicianship and stage presence.
Creating a "listening guide" or program notes for their performance.

Resources:

Books:

The Composer's Handbook by Alice C. Evans (simple composition ideas)

Supplies:

Classroom instruments, staff paper, whiteboards, music stands, recording equipment, performance space.

Multimedia/Online:

More advanced features of Chrome Music Lab.
Videos of youth orchestras and choirs.

Physical Education Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Locomotor, Agility, and Coordination

Focus: Performing complex sequences of locomotor skills with fluidity and efficiency; advanced agility drills (e.g., reaction drills, ladder drills with changes); hand-foot-eye coordination in complex tasks.

Activities:

Designing and navigating challenging obstacle courses incorporating all locomotor skills.
Partner and group agility drills with reaction time components.
Creating and performing choreographed movement sequences to music.
Games requiring rapid decision-making and precise movement (e.g., 'ultimate frisbee' strategies, complex tag games).

Resources:

Books:

Ready, Set, Go!: A Kid's Guide to Playing Safe, Smart, and Healthy by Sarah L. Schuette

Supplies:

Cones, agility ladders, speed ropes, music.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos of advanced agility and coordination drills for youth athletes.

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Balance, Body Control, and Rhythmic Movement

Focus: Static and dynamic balance in increasingly challenging and unpredictable situations; expressive movement and creative dance forms; combining balance, flexibility, and strength in sequences.

Activities:

Performing complex balance challenges (e.g., group balancing acts, balancing objects while moving).
Learning and performing a short, choreographed dance routine (e.g., line dance, simple folk dance).
Creating individual or small group gymnastic routines incorporating rolls, balances, and jumps.
Introduction to basic yoga or Pilates movements for core strength and flexibility.

Resources:

Books:

Yoga Pretzels: 50 Fun Yoga Activities for Kids by Tara Guber and Leah Kalish

Supplies:

Mats, balance boards or stepping stones, music.

Multimedia/Online:

"Cosmic Kids Yoga" (more advanced episodes).
Videos demonstrating various dance styles.

Weeks 13-18: Manipulative Skills (Accuracy, Power, and Strategy)

Focus: Throwing, catching, and kicking with consistent accuracy and power in game situations; understanding and executing offensive strategies (e.g., passing patterns, set plays); advanced dribbling.

Activities:

Basketball: dribbling with speed and control, executing layups, shooting from different positions.
Soccer: passing for accuracy, receiving passes, shooting with power, basic offensive formations.
Football (modified): throwing spiral passes, catching, basic route running.
Target games with moving targets or defensive pressure.

Resources:

Books:

Basketball (Usborne Guides)
Soccer (Usborne Guides)

Supplies:

Basketballs, soccer balls, footballs (junior size), cones, various targets, goals.

Multimedia/Online:

Instructional videos for specific sport skills for elementary/middle school.

Weeks 19-24: Manipulative Skills (Striking with Implements and Defensive Tactics)

Focus: Striking with implements (baseball/softball bats, tennis/badminton racquets) for accuracy and power; understanding and executing defensive strategies (e.g., man-to-man vs. zone defense, intercepting, blocking).

Activities:

Baseball/Softball: Batting against a pitcher (soft toss), fielding ground balls and fly balls, throwing to bases.
Tennis/Badminton/Pickleball: Serving, forehand, backhand, rallying over a net.
Volleyball: Serving (underhand/overhand), forearm pass (bump), setting.
Modified team games with emphasis on defensive roles and communication.

Resources:

Books:

Girls Play Baseball by Jennifer Gordon (breaking stereotypes)

Supplies:

Baseball/softball equipment, tennis/badminton/pickleball racquets, shuttlecocks, tennis balls (foam/low compression), volleyballs, nets.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos demonstrating advanced striking and defensive skills in sports.

Weeks 25-30: Health-Related Fitness and Personal Wellness Planning

Focus: In-depth understanding of all fitness components and their importance for lifelong health; developing comprehensive personal fitness plans; understanding nutrition, hydration, and sleep for performance.

Activities:

Designing and implementing a multi-week personal fitness plan, including goal setting, exercise selection, and progress tracking.
Participating in fitness assessments (e.g., PACER test, push-up/sit-up tests) and setting improvement goals.
Discussions and activities on healthy eating, portion control, and the benefits of sleep.
Exploring various forms of physical activity beyond traditional sports (e.g., hiking, biking, swimming, dancing).

Resources:

Books:

The Everything Kids' Healthy Cooking Cookbook by Sandra K Nissenberg

Supplies:

Fitness assessment tools, journals for tracking, educational materials on nutrition.

Multimedia/Online:

MyPlate.gov (for nutrition information).
Videos on healthy lifestyle choices.

Weeks 31-36: Leadership, Officiating, and Lifetime Activity

Focus: Assuming leadership roles in games and activities (e.g., coaching, officiating, organizing); designing and leading activities for younger students; understanding the importance of physical activity for mental well-being; developing skills for lifelong participation in chosen activities.

Activities:

Students take turns leading warm-ups, drills, or games for the class.
Organizing and officiating modified sports games.
Planning and leading a physical activity session for a younger grade level (if feasible).
Researching and demonstrating a new physical activity they could pursue outside of school (e.g., rock climbing, martial arts, dance style).
Class discussion and reflection on their physical education journey and plans for staying active.

Resources:

Books:

The Value of Sportsmanship by Spencer Brinker

Supplies:

Various sports equipment.

Multimedia/Online:

Videos on sports officiating and coaching basics.
Resources on various lifetime physical activities.

Preparing for Middle School

Transition Strategies

Fifth grade is a pivotal year for preparing students for the transition to middle school arts and physical education:

Portfolio Development: Create comprehensive portfolios of work that showcase skills and growth
Increased Independence: Gradually reduce scaffolding to encourage self-directed learning
Specialized Interests: Allow students to develop deeper expertise in areas of particular interest
Technical Vocabulary: Integrate more sophisticated disciplinary vocabulary

Skills Assessment Checklist

By the end of fifth grade, students should demonstrate these foundational skills:

Visual Art & Music

Use elements of art and principles of design with intent
Critique artwork using appropriate vocabulary
Read and write basic musical notation
Perform rhythmic and melodic patterns
Identify instruments and music genres
Create original compositions and artworks
Understand cultural contexts of art and music

Physical Education

Demonstrate proper form in locomotor movements
Successfully combine movements in sequences
Throw, catch, and strike with accuracy
Apply offensive and defensive strategies
Create and follow personal fitness plans
Show leadership in group activities
Understand rules and officiate basic games

Resources & Extensions

Digital Resources

Fifth Grade Reading List

Books that support arts and physical education for fifth graders:

The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau by Jon Agee (artistic creativity)
The Music of Dolphins by Karen Hesse (music appreciation)
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander (basketball and poetry)
Art & Max by David Wiesner (artistic exploration)
Diego Rivera: His World and Ours by Duncan Tonatiuh
Listen to the Birds: An Introduction to Classical Music by Ana Gerhard
Ghost by Jason Reynolds (track team and personal growth)
Drawing Comics Lab by Robyn Chapman (art techniques)

Extension Activities

Arts Mentorship: Connect with local artists, musicians, or athletes for virtual or in-person mentoring
Community Art Project: Participate in or organize a community mural, concert, or sports event
Family Cultural Exploration: Visit museums, concerts, or sporting events as a family
Teaching Younger Students: Have fifth graders prepare and teach a simple lesson to younger children
Arts & Athletics Camp: Organize a week-long intensive focus in a specific area of interest

Grade 5 Arts, Music & Physical Education

About This Supplement

Curriculum Assumptions

Curriculum Overview

Visual Art

Overarching Themes

Music

Overarching Themes

Physical Education

Overarching Themes

Visual Art Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Drawing and Realistic Representation

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Painting and Personal Expression

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 13-18: Sculpture, Mixed Media, and Installation Art

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 19-24: Printmaking and Digital Design

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 25-30: Global Art Traditions and Art Criticism

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 31-36: Art as a Career, Portfolio, and Exhibition

Activities:

Resources:

Music Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Rhythmic Complexity and Ensemble Performance

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 7-12: Melodic Theory and Key Signatures

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 13-18: Harmony, Form, and Structure in Music

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 19-24: Music History, Genres, and Cultural Significance

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 25-30: World Music Traditions and Intercultural Connections

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 31-36: Advanced Composition, Improvisation, and Ensemble Performance

Activities:

Resources:

Physical Education Detailed Curriculum

Weeks 1-6: Advanced Locomotor, Agility, and Coordination

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Balance, Body Control, and Rhythmic Movement

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 13-18: Manipulative Skills (Accuracy, Power, and Strategy)

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 19-24: Manipulative Skills (Striking with Implements and Defensive Tactics)

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 25-30: Health-Related Fitness and Personal Wellness Planning

Activities:

Resources:

Weeks 31-36: Leadership, Officiating, and Lifetime Activity

Activities:

Resources:

Preparing for Middle School

Transition Strategies

Skills Assessment Checklist

Visual Art & Music

Physical Education

Resources & Extensions

Digital Resources

Fifth Grade Reading List

Extension Activities

Completing the Elementary Journey