Religion:
The main focus of the fourth grade religion curriculum is on the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes. Other points of interest throughout the year include:
o Explaining the Liturgical Calendar
o Celebration of various Saints
o Stations of the Cross
o Reconciliation
o Adoration weekly
Math:
In fourth grade students will have many ways to demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts. Many forms of assessment will be used.
Students keep journals in math where they answer word problems and keep track of math vocabulary words. Manipulatives will be used throughout the year as students are taught various skills. Listed below are topics we will be studying in fourth grade.
1st Trimester-
* Number Concepts: Numeration, Place Value, Estimation
o Problem Solving strategies
o Order of operations
* Addition & Subtraction
o Fact families
o Commutative and Identity properties of addition
o Estimating Sums by Rounding
* Second Trimester
o Algebraic Patterns
o Multiplication of 1 and 2 digit numbers
o Geometry
* Third Trimester
o Measurement
o Fractions
o Decimal place value
o Adding and subtracting decimals
Science:
In fourth grade students will study science through a hands-on/ investigative approach. Labs and investigations will take place within small groups. Themes include: animal habitats, digestive system, solar system, oceans, and the scientific method.
Writing:
Fourth graders will be exposed to writing on a daily basis. It is integrated throughout all academic areas. Students will keep writing journals in which they will respond to daily prompts. There will be opportunities for "free choice" time where students can pick their own topic to write about. Our writing curriculum also includes:
* Writing Workshop
o Follow steps in writing process to publish student work. Teacher and peer conferencing will occur.
o Narrative/Expository Essays
* Conventions (throughout year)
o Mini lessons will occur weekly on topics suchs as comma rules, punctuation, grammar, etc.
Social Studies:
* Mapping Skills
* Geography Terms
* Regions of the United States
o Guest speakers
o Assortment of Projects
o State Reports
o Illinois Unit
Reading:
In fourth grade, the goal of reading instruction is to teach students how to apply reading strategies and skills automatically, flexibly, and strategically to comprehend all forms of text. Both fiction and non-fiction will be studied as well as genres including mystery, fantasy, science fiction, poetry, plays, and historical fiction. Reading is taught through a combination of shared reading, guided reading, and independent reading. Using our textbook series Houghton Mifflin, students will be taught to use a variety of comprehension strategies in order to become successful readers.
Our independent reading program in fourth grade is called RINGO. Students will be expected to select a book from a specific genre and participate in weekly reading conferences with parent volunteers. For each book read, the student will create a short presentation to the class. In addition students are expected to be reading every night for at least 20-30 minutes.
108 South Linden St., Westmont, IL
(630) 971-0184