Fourth grade is an exciting and formative year filled with California History, fractions, and lots of reading and writing! We follow the California Common Core Standards for all subject areas: http://www.cde.ca.gov/re/cc/
Reading: In reading, our emphasis is on developing a love of reading in our students and teaching them the skills and strategies used by strong readers. Students are taught to read "Just Right" books (books that are neither too difficult nor too easy), and to read voraciously. We use various techniques for instruction, such as modeled Read Alouds, Reading Workshop, and Guided Reading groups. Throughout the year, students read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts. Both classrooms have extensive classroom libraries, and students are encouraged to chose books for both in class and at home reading.
We also use the Accelerated Reader program, in which students read books at their level and take comprehension quizzes on the books to work toward a "point goal." In fourth grade, our expectation is that every single student makes all three of his or her A.R. Goals.
Writing: We use "The Write Tools" to continue with the writing skills students have developed in grades K-3. Our central focus is on writing five-paragraph essays across content areas. Students are also exposed to summary and narrative writing.
Math: Throughout the year, students study concepts such as numbers up to one million, long multiplication and division, fractions, and geometry. We use a student-centered approach: children are encouraged to discover and develop deep and lasting mathematical understandings. Students work frequently in small "guided math" groups with their teacher, and use math workshop time to build their knowledge. Particular emphasis is placed on problem solving and word problems.
Fluency with math facts are also very important. Students are expected to master their multiplication facts (0-12) with speed and accuracy to aid them in their problem solving.
PBL: Both Ms. Gomez and Ms. Krooss are enthusiastically dedicated to Roosevelt's PBL program! During PBL, children engage in student-centered and student-led learning that leads to lasting understanding and helps them develop strong study skills and character traits. Throughout the year, we have seven PBL units: four "mini" units (2-3 weeks long) and three "main" units (8-10 weeks long). All main units culminate with a project.
Our Units
September: Passport To California (mini)
September-November: California Gold Rush (main)
December: Land Formations and Changes (mini)
January: The Constitution and Our Rights (mini)
January-March: Electricity and Energy (main)
March-April: Plant Structures and Functions (mini)
April-June: California Missions (main)
Reading: In reading, our emphasis is on developing a love of reading in our students and teaching them the skills and strategies used by strong readers. Students are taught to read "Just Right" books (books that are neither too difficult nor too easy), and to read voraciously. We use various techniques for instruction, such as modeled Read Alouds, Reading Workshop, and Guided Reading groups. Throughout the year, students read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts. Both classrooms have extensive classroom libraries, and students are encouraged to chose books for both in class and at home reading.
We also use the Accelerated Reader program, in which students read books at their level and take comprehension quizzes on the books to work toward a "point goal." In fourth grade, our expectation is that every single student makes all three of his or her A.R. Goals.
Writing: We use "The Write Tools" to continue with the writing skills students have developed in grades K-3. Our central focus is on writing five-paragraph essays across content areas. Students are also exposed to summary and narrative writing.
Math: Throughout the year, students study concepts such as numbers up to one million, long multiplication and division, fractions, and geometry. We use a student-centered approach: children are encouraged to discover and develop deep and lasting mathematical understandings. Students work frequently in small "guided math" groups with their teacher, and use math workshop time to build their knowledge. Particular emphasis is placed on problem solving and word problems.
Fluency with math facts are also very important. Students are expected to master their multiplication facts (0-12) with speed and accuracy to aid them in their problem solving.
PBL: Both Ms. Gomez and Ms. Krooss are enthusiastically dedicated to Roosevelt's PBL program! During PBL, children engage in student-centered and student-led learning that leads to lasting understanding and helps them develop strong study skills and character traits. Throughout the year, we have seven PBL units: four "mini" units (2-3 weeks long) and three "main" units (8-10 weeks long). All main units culminate with a project.
Our Units
September: Passport To California (mini)
September-November: California Gold Rush (main)
December: Land Formations and Changes (mini)
January: The Constitution and Our Rights (mini)
January-March: Electricity and Energy (main)
March-April: Plant Structures and Functions (mini)
April-June: California Missions (main)