What Age Are Children in the Fifth Grade?

Children in the fifth grade in the United States are generally 10 to 11 years old. Fifth graders commonly perform research projects that test their writing skills, read literature of various genres, study physical science and basic chemistry, do more complex math problems with fractions and focus on American history. Children at this grade level also commonly struggle with changes during puberty and peer pressure.

Fifth grade is often the last year of elementary school, so students need to gain the skills needed to move on to sixth grade in middle or junior high school. Sixth graders usually start the year as 11 or 12 year olds. Student ages can depend on other factors, however. A student may be held back a grade or allowed to advance.