What to Expect

Fourth grade is an exciting year! No longer in primary, fourth graders enjoy many new privileges and responsibilities. Lockers are the big hit this year. They can be a lot of fun to organize and decorate, but students are expected to have everything they need out of them when class starts.

In religion, the main focus is on the Ten Commandments. We also study the Beatitudes and memorize some important prayers.

In social studies, we will study the fifty states one region at a time. In each region we will have a map test identifying states and capitals and a project on one state in that region. In the spring, we will have the "Big 50" map test. We will also study Oklahoma history.

In math, we will continue to explore many topics such as measurement, graphing and geometry, but our main thrusts will be learning two-digit multiplication and one- and two-digit division. In order to ensure success, it is imperitive that fourth graders have memorized their basic facts. (Addition and subtraction 1-9 and multiplication 1-12) We will continue using the FactsMaster program, but flashcards and practice tests at home will still be needed for students who do not have these facts at their fingertips.

In science, we will continue to learn in each of the categories: Earth, Physical, and Life Science.

In English, we will be writing more this year schoolwide. Students will be held accountable for topics mastered in previous grade levels. For example, I will deduct points in all subject areas for sentences beginning with lowercase letters and ending without punctuation. I encourage parental involvement in any writing activities done at home. Please take advantage of these one-on-one teaching opportunities when proofreading your child's work. This is also a great way to see for yourself what your child is doing at school and how well your child is writing. Not all papers will be sent home this year as the teachers will be keeping portfolios of every child's writing. Parents are free to view these portfolios and I will be glad to copy anything in it for you. Just ask!

Of course, in reading, we will use the textbook and workbook, but we will do so much more! We use the Accelerated Reader program extensively in fourth grade. We also have one book report each month, and we will study at least two novels together as a class. Students will be expected to read silently for at least ten minutes each day when classwork is completed, before taking advantage of other enrichment activities in the classroom. They should each have a novel and a reading log at their desks with them at all times.

All of this may seem overwhelming at first, but we still have plenty of time for fun! Classroom games are often a terrific way to reinforce skills in math and vocabulary, and you'll just have to see for yourself how soccer balls and basketballs can be used outside to study for tests!