|
|
|
Reading/Language Arts Our reading class divides into small groups, where we read different trade books. We work on many different reading skills, such as identifying plot, setting, character traits, etc. We also distinguish between fact and opinion, cause and effect, as well as summarizing and predicting in our stories. Students also enjoy participating in Literature Circles, where we compare/contrast the books the different groups are reading or have read. We tie the language arts into this as well, with our writing skills. In addition to writing, our language arts classes work on grammar. Spelling Each Monday, the students get a new spelling list of approximately 20 words to work on for the week. Students write these words out three times each as practice. During most weeks, some type of additional assignment will also be given either on Tuesday or Thursday. On Wednesdays, they take a practice test of their word lists. Any student receiving 100% on the practice test is not required to take the final test on Friday of that week. Occasionally, we will spend a week at a time reviewing previous lists. Students are responsible for studying their words at home, as well as at school. Math Fourth graders work on many different things in math class. The beginning of the year has a lot of review of all of the basic facts. We then move on to place value, ordering numbers, estimating and rounding. Fractions and decimals are taught, as well as measuring units of length, area, and volume. Geometry will be taught toward the end of the year. Science Students are using the Science Writing Heuristic Approach this year. The SWH approach is an inquiry based science method, where students do experiments rather than just reading out of the book and memorizing facts for a test. They start each unit creating a concept map of their topic, continue with experiments where they make claims and evidence, and negotiate for mutual agreements. Students using this approach have a deeper understanding of the material because it has stronger meaning to them. Social Studies Students do a lot of work with the regions of the United States, along with individual states, Iowa History, government, and map skills. At the end of the year, all students will take a test over the 50 states, their abbreviations, and their capitals. Computers Our fourth graders are very fortunate to have access to technology daily. We have twelve laptop computers in our room of 20 students. Students work on creating their own works which are published to the internet.
|
|
School Telephone (712) 769-2221 |