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Grade 4
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Welcome to the 4th grade
The fourth grade curriculum includes Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
In the 4th grade we focus on becoming independent thinkers and responsible students. Learning takes place in a nurturing environment. The children are using critical thinking skills to become problem solvers whether working independently or in cooperative groups. Learning is enhanced with the use of the smartboard, chromebooks, computers, STREAM activities, labs, and manipulatives.
Each year the 4th grade goes to Sandy Hook for a field trip where we study the marsh and ocean environments. In computer class we make an ICS brochure which is displayed for Catholic Schools Week. In their brochure, the children highlight the things that are special to them about our school.
There are many "firsts" in the 4th grade. It is the first time that they can run for Student Council Homeroom Representative, use the chromebooks, and participate in the ICS Musical and Career Day. The 4th graders love Field Day, Grandparent's Day, the annual Art Show and being part of Faith Families!
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Religion
The main focus of the fourth grade Religion program is the study of the Beatitudes and the Ten Commandments. The students also study the Liturgical Year to help them make connections to the Church seasons and holy days. The students plan and participate in one of the Masses during the school year. The Family Life Program and Good God Choices enrich the Religion curriculum by providing opportunities for discussions and activities in which the children grow in God’s love. This year we are focusing on the Parables of Jesus which guide the children to live the way Jesus wants us to, showing respect and compassion for others.
Language Arts
The 4th Grade Language Arts curriculum includes many of the Common Core State Standards. Students use the McGraw-Hill Reading Wonders Program which is designed to develop the student's ability to comprehend text of varied genres while continuing to build foundational skills. Writing instruction includes informative and persuasive compositions, narratives, friendly letters, figurative language, comparing and contrasting pieces, and research reports. Graphic organizers are tools used to help students organize their thoughts and ideas. Book reports afford the students an opportunity to show their creative side as well as share their love for books. Skills for editing and revising are expanded throughout the program. The study of Vocabulary, Spelling, and Grammar are integrated throughout the curriculum. Students are encouraged to become independent thinkers by using critical thinking skills. The Chromebooks are used for differentiated instruction in the Language Arts program.
Mathematics
The Math curriculum also incorporates many of the Common Core Standards. The Math Connects series by Macmillan McGraw-Hill is used by the fourth grade students. The emphasis on realistic problem solving includes manipulatives, books, and technology such as calculators and computers. Students investigate various problem-solving strategies. The program offers computer games and activities to practice skills being taught. The SmartBoard is another technological tool that is used to enhance learning. The fourth grade focuses on multiplication, division, fractions, and problem-solving. Differentiated instruction enables students to grasp concepts to the best of their abilities.
Science
The Science program is one of investigating topics through experiments and hands-on activities. Students explore earth and life sciences as well as the human body systems. The DiscoveryEd program as well as the use of Chromebooks encourages discussions which enable students to practice their logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. Our Science program is supplemented with "Science Studies Weekly," an up to date resource that incorporates interactive activities that can be used on the Chromebooks.
Social Studies
The fourth grade begins the year with the study of Map Skills. The DiscoveryEd program as well as other reference sources used on the Chromebooks provide supplemental materials which help students to better understand the concepts being presented. The students then move to a study of the Regions of the United States with a comparison to our own state, New Jersey. Each region’s geography, climate, agriculture, ways of earning a living, natural resources, major cities, and tourist attractions are among the topics presented.. Individual student projects as well as cooperative group work enhance the curriculum. The year ends with a focus on New Jersey! The Social Studies program is enriched through the "Social Studies Weekly" supplement which focuses on the study of New Jersey.
