There are many subject-based activities for fifth-graders to do on the computer. Some of these activities are described step-by-step. For example, there are many step-by-step, subject-based activities written for fifth-graders linked at the Amphitheater Public Schools website (at amphi.com). Some of the activities for social studies include "Coming to the World," "Children of Yesteryear" and "George Washington's Primary Documents."
A large part of learning computers in the fifth grade consists of navigating the Internet. Activities can include assessing whether websites are citing facts or opinions, defining parts of URL configurations, using Internet browser options to copy to a clipboard, printing, creating tabs and windows and saving websites as favorites.
There are many lessons to learn about software. Most teachers introduce students to Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel. Students can also go online to access similar programs in Google Docs. An activity can be based upon the following standard: "Use word processing editing tools to revise a document (e.g., cut and paste, tabs and margins, font size, font style, delete and undo, selecting, spell check, click and drag)." The activity could be rewriting a book review using the revision concepts stated in the standard.
Activities that teach computer etiquette are a must. Students need to engage in these activities before they are permitted to use the Internet. They also need to engage in etiquette activities throughout the year. Activities can range from writing an email correctly in standard English to judging the appropriateness of a website.