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Fourth Grade General Studies
"I like doing science because we do a lot of experiments. Experiments are a lot of fun because you can find so many different things."
Language Arts
The goal of the language arts program is to develop fluent readers who can appreciate various types of literature for the content and technique used by authors and illustrators. Through the Houghton Mifflin reading series, the use of trade books and historic novels, students can read at individual reading levels. Reading strategies for more sophisticated phonic decoding, spelling, and comprehension are taught. Oral discussions center on analysis of characters, setting, plot, or literary style and are often developed in written responses or small group activities. Students are taught to recognize the purpose of a writing task and to organize their writing into coherent and well-structured paragraphs. Proofreading skills for grammar, punctuation, and omissions are incorporated into the development of good writing habits. Book reports are often coordinated with the social studies curriculum through historic novels and projects that bring history to life.
Mathematics
The Everyday Mathematics program covers a broad range of mathematical content: numeration and order, patterns, functions, beginning algebra and uses of variables, data, chance, geometry and spatial sense, measurement, and operations. The spiral presentation of material develops topics in small bites allowing the material to be integrated into practical applications and keep variety in the child's pursuit and interest in math. Mastery of facts and strong computation skills are expected. Drills are interspersed with real life examples of math used in maps, geography and science. Careful attention is paid to individual abilities by enrichment offered in class and a challenge program for small groups taught by a separate teacher.
Social Studies
The study of New York State is the primary focus of social studies. Geography, history, and cultural contributions of various ethnic groups are covered. Units of study examine the early Jewish settlers of New Amsterdam and the immigrant experience in New York City. Introduction of primary source documents and many field trips incorporate the richness of our local history. Fourth grade studies Henry Hudson and goes aboard the replica of the Half Moon. We study the instruments of the orchestra and classical composers and go to the Empire State Youth Orchestra. We learn about life in the 1850's and visit the Hart Cluet Mansion in Troy. We study NYS government and visit the Capitol. At the NYS museum we examine the logging industry and turn of the century New York City from the life-size dioramas. The capital region is the home of the Hudson River Painters and we try our own painting, and then visit the Albany Historic Society to see original paintings of that style.
Science
Scientific method and experimentation through science kits guide the science curriculum. Topics include: force, speed, energy, electricity, magnetism, simple machines,
and digestive, respiratory, and circulatory body systems. Children share information with the class using a variety of projects. The use of art, technology, power point, and drama add interest to these assignments. Children prepare presentations to teach their classmates and through this
approach, they develop speaking skills and gain self-confidence.
"I like math because there's great directions. My favorites are addition and algebra because they really stand out to me." |
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