Fourth grade marks an important transition year from the primary grades to the intermediate grades of elementary school. It is a year of learning increased responsibility and independence in completing school assignments and projects. The emphasis gradually changes from "learning to read to reading to learn." Our curriculum guides us as we work toward these goals.
The integrated language arts include reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, and grammar. Many genres of literature are read and analyzed, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, plays, and the oral tradition. Writing is emphasized as we explore narrative, descriptive, explanatory, and persuasive writing elements. A writing journal is kept with narrative writings on many topics throughout the year.
Our math program consists of many components, including Smart Board presentations and manipulative activities. New computation skills of double-digit multiplication and long division are taught, and fractions are explored. There is also a strong emphasis on problem-solving skills.
Science – A "hands-on" approach is often used as we explore the following units of study: Animals and their Classification, Earth Science with an emphasis on Geology, Weather, Simple Machines, Matter and the Periodic Table of the Elements, Electricity, and Magnetism.
Social studies focus on Pennsylvania's history, geography, and economics, including a study of the history of the Diocese of Harrisburg. Many small group activities are conducted as students learn to use maps, globes, and other materials to examine our state's physical and cultural features.
In religion, 4th graders learn to follow the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes. Other topics of study include the seasons and major feasts of the liturgical year, the Mass, the saints, and the rosary.
This is an exciting year for students as we strive to prepare students for middle school. We utilize hands-on, engaging lessons to motivate the students and make them excited to learn. We stress the importance of the written word in all subject areas. We also believe in incorporating technology into our lessons, as it is the way of the world. We teach the students how to use the internet safely and appropriately and instruct them to use the many excellent learning tools and programs that technology offers.
In ILA we use the Savvas My View Literacy series and read several novels and do book studies on them throughout the year. Several book reports will also be assigned during the year as well. Students also study and are assessed on Spelling words, Vocabulary, and Grammar. Additionally, students have the opportunity to engage in the Writing Process through their own pieces and major assignments. We incorporate Learning Centers during W.I.N. (What I Need) Monday-Thursday to meet with students in small groups and ensure they get what they need!
The math curriculum broadens concepts previously learned, such as multiplication and long division. New concepts are taught, including place value, multi-digit multiplication and division, interpreting data, and decimal and fraction concepts.
Fifth grade uses two textbooks, Interactive Science and Scott Foresman Science. The topics that are covered include Weather, Matter, Astronomy, Cells, Systems of the Body, and Plants/Animals. Labs and activities provide the students with hands-on experience to gain insight into the world of science and inspire them to think deeper about their known world.
Fifth grade social studies we learn about early civilizations from pre-historic people to the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas; we travel the world! Various religions that were practiced during these times will also be taught. Students will complete a variety of projects and presentations throughout the year to demonstrate their learning.
The 5th grade religion curriculum, there is a strong focus on the seven sacraments. We will also learn about a variety of saints and work on becoming strong leaders in life and in faith through the 7 Habits. We are responsible for planning Masses at various times throughout the year. The students create a sacrament book all year long.