Wyndcroft School

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What’s New in Fourth Grade?

Our fourth graders demonstrate even greater student independence and responsibility. They take part in their first overnight school trip to Paradise Farms, a local nature camp in which students learn more about science and take part in team building exercises. Fourth graders work on their first major research paper, complete with note cards, outlines, and a bibliography. In fourth grade, students begin to receive letter grades in the second half of the year. They participate in Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) as part of their health education. Fourth graders end their year with an introduction to Latin as part of their preparation for entering the Upper School (grades 5-8).

The following is a typical fourth grade daily schedule at Wyndcroft:

6 periods with the classroom teacher learning Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies
3 periods with Special area teachers (Art, Computer, French, Health, Library, Music, Physical Education, Science)

Language Arts

Fourth graders further their reading skills through phonetic instruction, basal texts, and supplements of various types of literature and activities. The writing process is taught through daily writing and book reports. Students complete a research project on a U.S. president which uses all the skills taught throughout the year. As part of their study of literature, fourth graders will read Mr. Popper’s Penguins, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, A Lion to Guard Us, and Maniac Magee. Fourth graders work on their spelling through weekly tests and workbook use in order to broaden the understanding of words and spelling patterns. Cursive handwriting is practiced throughout the entire year with its own book and through class assignments.

The following are our language arts objectives for fourth graders:

to recognize and understand sentence characteristics, structure, and types
to recognize and understand the parts of a sentence
to recognize and use parts of speech correctly in a sentence
to demonstrate proper punctuation usage
to use capitalization correctly
to spell given words correctly on a weekly test
to learn spelling patterns on a weekly basis to improve overall spelling
to read fluently
to understand vocabulary for a given story
to understand the elements of a story
to maintain good handwriting through practice
to write a sentence, paragraph, friendly letter, business letter, book report, and research paper
to know and understand the writing process
to correct mistakes in written sentences

Textbooks: English Level 5 (Houghton Mifflin), Spelling Level 5 (Houghton Mifflin), Reading Grade 4 (Silver Burdett Ginn), Literature Works (Silver Burdett Ginn), Handwriting Grade 4 (Zaner-Bloser), Mr. Popper’s Penguins (Atwater), Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (Blume), A Lion to Guard Us (Bulla), Maniac Magee (Spinelli)

Mathematics

In fourth grade, students add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Within the area of fractions, students calculate least common denominators, common factors, and common multiples. Each area of study reflects the practical application of the concept through the solving of story problems. Within the program, fourth graders are instructed through computations and problem solving. Each concept also presents practical applications and critical thinking activities. Activities are available for re-teaching skills not mastered at first by students, as well as enrichment activities for students ready for a greater challenge.

The following are our mathematics objectives for fourth graders:

to understand the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions
to master numerous problem solving methods
to read and write whole numbers and decimals through 12 digits
to interpret, compare, and order whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages
to round whole numbers and decimals
to read, interpret, and create graphs
to find the mean, median, mode, and range of data
to manipulate metric and customary measurement (time permitting)

Textbook: Mathematics Applications and Concepts Course 1 (Glencoe)

Social Studies

Fourth graders examine American history from the early migration of the Native Americans from Asia to early colonial days. The study includes exploration, early colonization, and the various struggles within the nation to preserve our freedom. The course of study includes mapping, graphing, and writing skills, as well as an overview of United States geography. Students also complete a research paper.

The following are our social studies objectives for fourth graders:

to read, interpret, and make different map types including latitude and longitude
to identify and interpret the physical features of the United States
to list the characteristics of the main North and South American civilizations
to determine the Vikings and Europeans contribution to exploration
to analyze the difficulties of the early American settlements
to understand the founding and evolving of the American Colonies

Textbook: United States History: The Early Years (Houghton Mifflin)

Special Subjects:

Art

Fourth graders learn new techniques, often learning from the study of historical artists’ works. They examine the world of art in these areas:
Space: progression
Light: neutrals, complements, color wheel
Texture: contrast

The following are our art objectives for fourth graders:

to reinforce skills and techniques met in previous grades
to use more detail with water colors, tempera, transfer, and still life
to compose art using more complex models (ex. human figure)
to appreciate historical artists and their major works
to learn pointillism
to create murals in groups
to learn the history and techniques of grid drawing
to create paper sculptures

Computer

This course reviews all previous skills introduced while adding the concepts of technology productivity and the developmentally appropriate usage of multimedia resources to support learning. Fourth graders study the basics of computer components, their function, and the proper care of computers. Students begin to learn how to conduct research using software programs through independent class work and worksheets.

The following are our computer objectives for fourth graders:

to discuss common uses of technology in daily life and the advantages and disadvantages those uses provide
to discuss basic issues related to responsible use of technology and information
to evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias of electronic information sources
to maneuver within a network for the storage and retrieval of data
to use multimedia software to explore and interpret a variety of subject matter
to use keyboards and other common input and output devices efficiently and effectively
to use keyboarding software to develop proper technique and efficiency
to use general purpose productivity tools and peripherals to support personal productivity, remediate skill deficits, and facilitate learning throughout the curriculum
to use curriculum supportive software to enhance classroom curriculum
to use multimedia-authoring software for individual and collaborative writing, communication, and publishing activities to create age appropriate products
to use technology resources for problem solving, self-directed learning, and extended learning activities
to determine which technology is most useful for a given task and select the appropriate tool(s) and technology resources to address a variety of tasks and problems
to integrate several levels of media

French

Fourth graders use a more advanced elementary level text and workbook along with story/song/poetry cassettes for listening exercises. Each new unit presents a story or dialogue with new vocabulary, expressions, and grammar. Fourth graders listen to stories from cassettes and then discuss the content. They listen to the story several times and read parts of the text as the teacher checks pronunciation and comprehension of the new vocabulary. There are many opportunities for speaking exercises. Students use flashcards to learn new vocabulary. A basic dictionary at the end of each lesson helps review and reinforce vocabulary. New themes presented this year include l’esprit de la communication (the spirit of communication), le rythme des saisons (the rhythm of the seasons), ah! l’eau (ah! the water!), plume et poil (feathers and fur). Fourth graders enhance their cultural understanding as they complete art and craft projects. The students present a special project to the entire school during the annual French Fête.

The following are our French objectives for fourth graders:

to reinforce formal French grammar, vocabulary, and culture met in previous years
to ask questions using inversion
to demonstrate proper use of superlative adjectives
to continue to conjugate “er” verbs in the present tense
to conjugate several irregular verbs in the present tense
to practice using the imperative mood
to write sentences using verb forms and new vocabulary
to read, comprehend, and translate French stories

Textbooks: Aventures Book 3 (NTC / McGraw Hill), Hélico Level 3 (ELI – Pierre Bordas et Fils – Paris), Trampoline Level 1 (CLE international – Paris)

Health

This course is divided into two sections. For the majority of the year, students continue using the Totally Awesome Health series. This is a comprehensive health education course which sequentially follows the third grade course. The course is divided into eight units: mental and emotional health; family and social health; body systems; nutrition; personal health; communicable and chronic diseases; consumer and community health; and environmental health. For the last part of the year, students participate in Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.). In this program students learn how to recognize and resist the pressures that may influence them to experiment with tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, inhalants, or other drugs. D.A.R.E. also covers violence.

The following are our health objectives for fourth graders:

Totally Awesome Health

to describe how physical, social, and emotional environments influence health
to explain how to take responsibility for one’s own health
to explain how media influences the selection of health information, products, and services
to apply skills to manage stress
to discuss reasons why people need friends and how to make and treat friends
to demonstrate ways to communicate care, consideration, and respect of self and others

D.A.R.E:

to understand basic facts about mind-altering drugs and the harmful effects that may result from the misuse of drugs
to identify consequences of using and not using tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol
to identify the negative consequences of gang and group violence and will suggest ways to avoid becoming involved
to take a positive stand to be drug-free and to avoid violence by putting their commitment in writing
to respond assertively in refusing offers to use drugs
to recognize media influences

Textbooks: Totally Awesome Health (Big Book), D.A.R.E. Student Workbook

Latin

As part of their preparation for entry into the Upper School (grades 5-8), fourth graders take an ungraded introductory Latin class in the spring. Using a conversational approach, students learn Latin greetings, numbers, family members, classroom items, Roman names, basic word etymology, and mythology.

The following are our Latin objectives for fourth graders:

to gain enthusiasm for future language learning
to understand basic Latin vocabulary
to learn about ancient Rome history and mythology
to connect Latin vocabulary and culture with topics met outside of class
to understand Latin’s connection to English vocabulary

Library

Fourth graders develop the ability to find and use materials independently. They apply their communication skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking to learning. The students begin to use the library to research and report on topics in subject areas of the curriculum. They become more able to evaluate and to select material for information and enjoyment.

The following are our library objectives for fourth graders:

to locate materials using call numbers on catalog cards
to use the card and computer catalogs to locate materials by author, title, and subject
to interpret information on catalog cards, e.g. type of material, level of material, how recently published, whether illustrated
to understand that the purpose of the Dewey Decimal System is to pull together materials on the same subject and literary form
to learn the main Dewey Decimal classes
to use encyclopedias and dictionaries
to learn that the atlas is a book of maps
to locate information about a person
to use intermediate magazines for information and pleasure reading
to evaluate a book for quality
to interpret literature and relate it to past experiences\
to use the library to complete research for the French Fete

Music

Fourth graders continue to review and reinforce previously learned materials and to learn new material in a sequential manner. Preparation for chorus is continued throughout the year. In addition, fourth graders take part in an on-stage music performance.

The following are our music objectives for fourth graders:

to be able to read music in the treble clef
to continue to expand the knowledge of melodic and rhythmic notation
to continue recorder instruction
to perform a musical play
to continue to prepare for chorus with warm-up exercises
to learn to sing two-part harmony
to continue to learn about composers and their music
through monthly fact sheets and audio samples
to continue to use rhythm instruments in an ostinato pattern
to reinforce learned musical skills through computer work and theory worksheets

Textbook: Yamaha Recorder Student, Book I (Alfred)

Physical Education

This course focuses on the importance of physical education and well being to succeed in any activity. Higher level cognitive thinking is introduced to enhance the level of play. In fourth grade, students engage in such activities as basketball, floor hockey, lacrosse, kickball, and volleyball.

The following are our physical education objectives for fourth graders:

to use proper safety techniques in a gymnasium setting
to develop throwing and catching skills while kicking with a mature form
to develop a longer stamina to increase game play time
to develop an understanding that performing skills correctly improves performance
to choose teammates without disrupting the classroom environment
to understand that physical activity creates a healthy lifestyle and an overall sense of well-being
to control emotions during game play and not overreact
to encourage physical activity on a regular basis
to gain a sense of confidence and a positive attitude toward physical activity
to work productively with a partner and in groups

Science

The fourth grade curriculum is designed to incorporate all areas of general science. The units are designed to provide an in-depth look at selected science concepts and introduce new words to further build upon. Each unit uses various teaching modes and experiments to show the students how these concepts play a role in real life situations and their importance in society. The fourth grade focuses on a variety of topics, such as the scientific method, space, and an introduction to chemistry. Fourth graders begin the year by taking part in various activities following the steps of the scientific method. Students are challenged both in their imagination and observation skills as we move through this unit. Fourth graders especially enjoy their in-depth study of space, in which they select a planet, complete some basic guided research, and write a paper. There are various activities and labs scattered throughout this unit to make it as interesting as possible. One of the highlights is viewing the video “Zero Gravity” which shows the students every aspect of space living. Another favorite is the unit that gives the students an introduction to basic chemistry and the elements. This unit is packed full of eye-catching demonstrations to help the students better understanding the concepts being presented. At the fourth grade level labs are written up following the scientific method and are much more detailed. All units incorporate quizzes and a unit test.

The following are our science objectives for fourth graders:

to use techniques and experiments that can be safely reproduced at home
to improve students’ fine motor skills and communication skills both orally and written
to develop an awareness of children’s literature to science concepts and improve reading skills
to develop a better understanding of the scientific method and its importance when performing lab activities
to develop a broader understanding of basic science terms
to increase confidence in successfully completing science experiments
to build confidence in mastering concepts
to improve researching skills and writing skills
to increase responsibility in discussions and labs
to develop an appreciation for space and an understanding of its changing pace and developments
to gain a basic understanding of chemistry and the periodic table

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