4th Grade Curriculum Highlights
Spelling
Spelling tests will be each Friday, consisting of a list of 20 words and 2 sentences created by your child to use a spelling word. We will work on the phonics skill associated with the list during class, but the majority of spelling practice will be done at home. Weekly spelling lists can be accessed below.
List 2.1 List 2.2 List 2.3 List 2.4
List 4.1 List 4.2 List 4.3 List 4.4 List 4.5 List 4 Review
List 5.1 List 5.2 List 5.3 List 5 Review
List 6.1 List 6.2 List 6.3 List 6.4 List 6.5
List 7.1 Units 1-3 Review Units 4-7 Review
Many students enjoy practicing spelling through the use of online games and activities. Class lists can be accessed and practiced at http://www.spellingcity.com/danapemrick/
Religion
Fourth grade Religion expands on many topics introduced in earlier grades. A big fourth grade focus is on Saints. Students will choose a saint to study and present during Mass on All Saint's Day. This project is the "highlight of the year" for many! We will also study The 10 Commandments, lead Mass, and pray in the Adoration Chapel.
Math
Math in fourth grade is significantly more detailed and time consuming than in previous grades. Fourth grade students now use a textbook for math lessons and daily homework. Our math curriculum spirals throughout the year and focuses on reviewing a variety of math topics each day in addition to the focus skill. Each math lesson begins with a daily fact practice of up to 100 problems in addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. It is essential that students have their multiplication facts completely memorized. We wil utilize these facts as we learn division, fractions, and more!
Language Arts
Our Language Arts curriculum encompasses reading, writing, and phonics skills. Spelling lists will focus on a particuluar phonics skill each week. Reading skills taught involve both fiction and nonfiction pieces, with emphasis on fluency, accuracy, comprehension, and vocabulary expansion. Students will participate in independent reading every day at school and will also be required to read and keep a log at home. Please remember that reading TO and WITH your child are still essential in fourth grade! Writing focuses on both grammar and elements of composition.
Social studies
Fourth grade social studies covers the United States states and regions. The country is broken down into sections and each is studied from past to present. Students will memorize the locations of the states and their capitals. The end of the year focuses solely on Minnesota history.
Science
Science extends learning in physical, earth, and life sciences. Some units of study include: biomes, rocks, electricity and magnetism, body systems, properties of matter, and planets. We have several field trips that help reinforce these concepts as well.
