Fourth Grade
ELA
The fourth grade reading curriculum is based on the literature series, Wonders, from Macmillan/McGraw-Hill. The series implements strategies for developing comprehension and phonemic awareness. In each unit, there are different reading selections to focus on. Each selection includes new vocabulary words, as well as grammar and writing exercises.
Students keep a reading journal, where they practice vocabulary and respond to specific discussion questions. These questions may include reactions to the text, plot summaries, predictions, character analysis, or inferences based on what the students have read.
Students read at least four (4) novels (one per quarter) throughout the year. Book selections may include Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Shiloh, and Sign of the Beaver, in addition to a study of author Roald Dahl. Students complete projects and writing assignments which correspond with the novels.
In addition to the reading series, the students write in their journals several times per week. They write responses to specific prompts, in addition to topics of their own choice.
Students use the writing process to compose several formal pieces that may include letters, persuasive essays, expository pieces, narratives, biographies, and descriptive pieces.
In fourth grade, we focus on specific skills such as locating main idea and key details, and making text connections. Additionally, we teach grade-level phonics and word-decoding strategies. Although we do not take the NYS assessments, our curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards.
Math
The math curriculum is based upon the common-core aligned series, My Math. Students will focus on concepts that include place value, adding and subtracting whole numbers, multiplying and dividing one and two digit numbers, patterns and sequences, fractions, decimals, and measurement.
Students use various various technologies, including Smart Notebook software, Google Apps, and at times, calculators during class. Students also use white boards and math games to gain understanding.
We post course material in our learning management software, Schoology. In addition, we subscribe to IXL Learning for fluency practice and reinforcement of skills taught during the day.
Students are assessed formally and informally. Formal assessments include lesson quizzes and chapter tests. Informal assessments include homework assignments and teacher observations.
Social Studies
The fourth grade reading curriculum is based on the literature series, Wonders, from Macmillan/McGraw-Hill. The series implements strategies for developing comprehension and phonemic awareness. In each unit, there are different reading selections to focus on. Each selection includes new vocabulary words, as well as grammar and writing exercises.
Students keep a reading journal, where they practice vocabulary and respond to specific discussion questions. These questions may include reactions to the text, plot summaries, predictions, character analysis, or inferences based on what the students have read.
Students read at least four (4) novels (one per quarter) throughout the year. Book selections may include Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Shiloh, and Sign of the Beaver, in addition to a study of author Roald Dahl. Students complete projects and writing assignments which correspond with the novels.
In addition to the reading series, the students write in their journals several times per week. They write responses to specific prompts, in addition to topics of their own choice.
Students use the writing process to compose several formal pieces that may include letters, persuasive essays, expository pieces, narratives, biographies, and descriptive pieces.
In fourth grade, we focus on specific skills such as locating main idea and key details, and making text connections. Additionally, we teach grade-level phonics and word-decoding strategies. Although we do not take the NYS assessments, our curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards.
Science
In this course, students discover the physical world around them through lectures, labs, projects, and online activities. Topics include: habitat, life cycle of a plant, Earth’s resources and structure, fossils, ecosystems, space (Earth and Moon’s relationship), electricity, and magnetism. The course establishes a strong foundation in problem solving skills and scientific methods while working through scientific investigations.