Grade Four


Religion

The religion curriculum in grade four focuses on how we can grow in our faith. The focus is to learn about the Ten Commandments so we can love God and be followers of Him. Jesus taught us how to live happy lives by following the Beatitudes. By studying and participating in the liturgical year and the seasons of Advent, Lent, Triduum, and Easter, we grow in faith. By learning the prayers of the Catholic Church we can participate fully with other members of the body of Christ. In turn we share our faith by how we live our lives and by praying for others.

English Language Arts (ELA)

The grade four English Language Arts program is a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on both the aesthetic and efferent stances to learning. ELA is divided monthly into three components. Each month details areas of concentration. Please note that this curriculum map is a fluid document that is subject to ongoing changes:

Word Study: This area focuses on utilizing reading foundational skills, as well as increasing vocabulary that includes study of Latin and Greek roots and content area vocabulary that enhances understanding. Spelling is included in this area.

Literacy/Reading: This incorporates reading skills and strategies that are essential to become a more thoughtful and in-depth reader. Students will be reading several literary genres.

Writing: Students will be using several genres of writing while learning the conventions of the language. Instruction will be organized by the 6+Traits, and students will work towards mastery in grade-level content, style, organization, and mechanics as determined by the Collins Writing Program. The focus is to become a more skillful written communicator.

Math
The grade four math curriculum is aligned with the National Common Core Standards, and enhanced to ensure students are receiving a well-rounded and solid understanding of important math concepts. In 4th grade students start the year learning the meaning of multiplication and division; what is happening when they complete a problem. From there they review patterns, place value, and addition and subtraction. Students work to build fluency with their multiplication and division skills, learning many strategies to help them solve problems. They also develop a deeper understanding of fractions and geometric shapes. Students finish the year by learning about measurement and data, as well as area and perimeter.

Social Studies

Grade four social studies curriculum is derived from the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for Social Sciences and History. Over the course of the year, students will explore five regions of the United States and Canada, learning about and comparing physical landscapes, resources, and cultural influences from immigrant groups and Native Americans. Through their discovery of the United States’ diverse geography, students will hone map reading skills and deepen their understanding of landforms, natural resources, and economics vocabulary. In addition, students will study the United States government: levels, federal branches, and symbols.

Science
The overall goal of science in grade four is to build a fundamental understanding of science. This is realized by carrying out scientific investigations, asking questions, making predictions, learning scientific truths, and performing in-depth study in each area of focus. The results are recorded and explained using literacy skills and knowledge.


Curriculum Maps