Fifth grade pupils are expected to produce writing assignments with a clear introduction, body and conclusion. They are able to write using the appropriate tone in various styles of writing. These pupils will make an outline, take notes, collect sources and write a lengthy research paper. Book reports are an important part of fifth grade language arts. Pupils keep a daily journal of writing assignments. In weekly writing tasks, they practice making a smooth transition between sentences and paragraphs and incorporating details. Fifth grade pupils understand subject verb agreement and are expected to use correct punctuation.
In persuasive writing, fifth grade pupils must be able to give an opinion, tell about their opinion and try to sway the reader with evidence to support their opinion. Prompts include writing a persuasive letter to a parent or guardian explaining why you should have a phone in your room; a television or computer in your room or have your own room. Another persuasive prompt lists the four seasons of the year. Pupils are challenged to chose the season that is the best. Their writing presents the special qualities of the season and make a persuasive argument for why it is the best season.
Fifth grade students learn about various writing styles. Expository writing makes a statement. In their own words, pupils present a clear description, give information and an explanation about a specific topic. Prompts include favorite hobbies, personal goals, respect and admiration. In writing about favorite hobbies, pupils present information about an activity or hobby in which they participate. They describe their personal interest and explain the importance of the activity. When writing about personal goals, the pupil describes the qualities needed for reaching the goal. They explain why the goal is important.
When writing a narrative, fifth grade students tell a personal story in which they are involved. Their story includes a plot with a beginning, middle and end and characters. Narrative writing includes figurative language. Examples of narrative writing prompts include writing about a day in the pupil's life where things kept going wrong. Another is to write about the funniest things that have happened in their lives. Pupils may write about what they would do if they came to school and found a "School's Closed" sign on door of the school. Pupil's returning to school in the fall might write about a trip they took over the summer break.