Mathematics

In fourth grade we use Everyday Mathematics which is a district adopted mathematics curriculum. Everyday Mathematics is organized into six mathematical content strands that cover a number of concepts and skills. This provides a rich yet balanced curriculum - attention to numeration and computation without neglecting geometry, data, and algebraic thinking.

Every strand is addressed throughout all grade levels of the program. Each grade level builds on and extends concept understanding so that children approach each new challenge from a firmly established foundation.

Within the content of Everyday Mathematics, emphasis is placed on:

• establishing links from past experience
• discussing and sharing ideas
• using and comparing equivalent expressions
• expressing numbers in context by including units
• learning about the reversibility of most things

Reading and Language Arts

Our reading series provides success in reading through high interest and multilevel literature. Students become independent readers through phonics, skills, and strategy instruction. Children will develop language arts competency through lessons and activities for spelling, writing, grammar, listening, speaking, and viewing.

We also use the balanced literacy approach. We use multiple class sets of literature to enhance guided reading. Teachers select books to read aloud for shared literature. Students are encouraged to read Accelerated Reading Literature, at their "just right level"and take the comprehension & vocabulary tests for individual assessment of reading skills.

Our writing program is based on the balanced literacy approach. Students will be introduced to a variety of genre to collect styles of writing in their writers notebook. Examples of student work will include: responses to literature, personal narratives, letter writing, reflections, procedures, nonfiction publications, and personal experiences. The writing seeds planted in the notebooks are to inspire ideas for a final published product.  In addition to the entries that focus on content, great emphasis is also placed on writing mechanics.


Core Knowledge /Social Studies

Core Knowledge was an adopted curriculum in our school a few years ago. It is a very exciting program which is enjoyed by teachers and students alike. The program is a building process beginning in kindergarten and continuing through grade six. As part of the core knowledge curriculum, children will be studying the following throughout the year: American Revolution, French and Indian War, Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Minnesota History, Medieval Africa, Middle Ages, Feudalism, Islam and Minnesota history.