Fourth Grade

Fourth Grade Curriculum

Reading and Writing

Reading in fourth grade is strongly emphasized both in the classroom as well as at home. Your child will focus on reading to learn in each of the content areas. Fourth graders study Number the Stars, which allows students to go back in time to study World War II and the Holocaust. The English program will help your child conquer the rules of grammar and encourages creativity through the writing process.

Math

Singapore math in the fourth grade covers the four basic operations, place value, problem-solving, estimation, fractions and decimals. In our fourth grade, girls and boys study math in separate classes. This provides space for the girls to engage in the thoughtful discussions that research indicates truly cultivate their learning. Meanwhile, the boys’ math class participates in physical activities that demonstrate the math lesson and meet their need for more hands-on learning.

STEM

Our fourth graders explore the world of science and engineering in our lower school STEM lab, which they visit twice a week. Working collaboratively in NASA-inspired “crews” of four, students learn about rocks and minerals, motion, advanced robotics, microbiology, skyscrapers, extreme storms, rocketry, stop-motion animation, renewable energy, and amusement park design. One of the highlights of the year is collaboratively building a race car to drive around the JA track.

History and Social Studies

The Social Studies program is a combination of map skills, the states, regions of the United States, and the study of Mississippi. In the study of the states and regions, your child will learn more about the country in which they live. In each region, they learn early history and the states and capitals of that area. While studying the Southeast, students enjoy a unit on Mississippi.

Physical Education

Your fourth grader will participate in physical education three days a week. Students are exposed to a greater variety of activities with the intent that they will find some activity they will enjoy and continue to participate in throughout their lives. More advanced eurhythmics, juggling and ropes are offered, as well as aerobics. Students in the fourth grade continue to participate in Running Club, a popular after school activity that promotes healthy lifestyle habits. Continued emphasis on sportsmanship, respect, and character education, as well as more personal accountability is required.