Language Arts

Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking are developed through numerous activities. Students study novels, short stories, plays, poetry, and media. Concepts such as plot, setting, characterization, sequencing, literary devices, and vocabulary are covered as they learn to respond critically to fiction and non-fiction text.

Students will be expected to write reports, letters, stories, poetry and critical responses as they develop their skills in using punctuation, sentence/paragraph structure and increased vocabulary.

Our spelling program this year will not include weekly testing. Spelling will be incorporated into our reading and writing workshops. There is little evidence of transfer of knowledge and understanding from spelling tests and exercises to personal writing. Spelling growth occurs as children write and read on a daily basis. A list of frequently used words will be given, and the expectation is for students to spell these words correctly in all of their writing. Students are encouraged to attempt to spell unknown words as best they can in first drafts, without having the flow of ideas hindered by a focus on correct spelling. They will be taught to examine spelling when they edit and proofread their writing. Over 60 years of research has proven conclusively that conventions are best taught one type of error at a time and within the context of actual student writing.

Speech is modeled and practiced through individual and group presentations, oral reading, interviews and other multi-media presentations.

Math

Grade 4 math topics include number theory, mental math, estimation, addition/subtraction, multiplication/division, fractions, decimals, data collection, measurement, probability and geometry. Problem solving is ongoing throughout these areas. Addition and subtraction facts should be mastered by now. Multiplication facts to 11 should be practiced throughout the year and be mastered by the end of grade four. Please practice math facts at home on a regular basis. The Multiplication Study Log will be an asset in accomplishing this task.

Social Studies

Possible topics covered through the social studies program include Explorations and Innovations, Explorers: Past and Present, Exploring the World Today and Exploring Canada Today. Cultural diversity, mapping and current events will also be explored.

Science

Students will explore, observe, predict, investigate, experiment, solve and record through the possible topics of Habitats, Light, Sound, and Rocks and Minerals.

Health

Topics covered through the health program include: Growth and Development, Strategies, Values and Practices for Healthy Living, Positive Personal Development and Healthy Relationships. Class discussion is a large component of the health curriculum.

Visual Arts

Art is integrated with other core subjects such as language arts or science. Students will make, look and reflect on art utilizing a range of materials. Some themes include painting, sculpting, and drawing. We encourage you to send items to school that we might use in art classes. For example fabric, yarn, string, Styrofoam trays, buttons, magazines (age appropriate), etc. It’s amazing what can be created from recycled materials with a little imagination.

Information Technology

We will be using the school computer lab to develop skills such as word processing, basic research and proper internet use.

As required by the Department of Education, general curriculum outcomes are the foundation for all curriculum guides. They identify what students are expected to know and be able to do upon completion of study. This does not suggest mastery and all outcomes are interrelated. For an in depth look at Grade 4 outcomes, please log on to www.ednet.ns.ca.

French

Formal French classes begin in grade 4 and take place each day for 30 minutes. Our French teacher is Madame Quackenbush.

Library

Students have scheduled library classes once per week. Please show an interest in your child’s books and help them to return them on time. Reading is an essential part of positive school and life experiences. Many grade four students are strong, independent readers, however all students can benefit from reading aloud and receiving encouragement at home.

Homework

Homework is given to:

a) develop a sense of responsibility

b) develop organizational skills

c) develop time management skills

d) reinforce learned skills

Homework is recorded daily. Parents are requested to sign the student’s agenda so that the classroom teacher knows the parent is aware of the work that is being covered. Your signature also acknowledges that the homework has been completed. In addition, homework agendas serve as a method of communication with home. Please refer to the separate homework notice for more detailed information concerning weekly homework routines.

You Can Help

A child’s education is a team effort between home, school, and child. The home should be an active participant in the child’s education.

We’re looking forward to a great year!

Grade 4 Teachers

S. Paris, J. Miller, D. Milhet, E. Babinec, E. Cameron