Grade 4
The Fourth grade curriculum focuses on academic, social, emotional, and physical
growth. These areas are addressed in all subject matter through the development
of a safe, caring environment in the classroom.
The primary goal of the mathematics program is to expand the basic operations of
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers. The
program includes instruction in elementary fractions, averages, measurements,
decimals, graphing, problem solving, shapes, number theory, and algebra.
The Language Arts program includes reading, spelling, English, and writing. It
increases skill levels in composition and vocabulary development. The reading
program follows unit themes, and skills are incorporated throughout the units.
These skills increase vocabulary, comprehension, study skills, and creative
writing. Students participate in the Accelerated Reader program by testing on
the computer. English consists of grammar, syntax, language usage, and the
mechanics of the language. Spelling reinforces phonics and is incorporated into
the language arts program.
Social Studies involves learning about the geography and the early history of
Virginia. Students visit Jamestown for a hands-on experience of life in the
colony. For their two main projects, fourth graders construct a replica of the
Jamestown fort and put together a Virginia scrapbook.
Science topics include earth, physical and life science studies. The current
series relies heavily on hands-on experiments and reasoning, predicting and
evaluating the material.
In addition to traditional subjects, the children enjoy regularly scheduled
classes in physical education, music, library skills, Spanish, art, and Russian
culture.