Hi Deb,
Yes, I usually use 5th gear, as when you are using power from the wheels to the engine, 5th gives you the most torque. I use the clutch as gently as possible, so "popping" is not quite the term I would use.
Bump starting is a little more efficient than using the starter, since the battery has to then be recharged using the alternator, so there is a bit more energy loss doing it this way.