Foundations of Fourth Grade

Fourth grade is a major step in students becoming independent learners.  Much of the teacher directed activity is gradually replaced by more student initiated and directed work.  They are no longer learning to read but are reading to learn.  Building on the third grade, the students learn more organization and self-discipline.  This grade takes students to the next level of responsibility.
 
Religion
Using the Bible, students grow in their knowledge of Bible history and the life and teachings of Jesus.  This knowledge is used to live out their faith in their daily lives.  Memory work is an important part of their faith foundation.
 
Reading
Accelerated Reader is an important part of the reading program because each student reads at his/her level.  This enables each student to grow in his personal level of comprehension.  Using novel studies and other authentic literature, the students grow in their critical thinking skills.  These skills will help them in other curricular areas.  Book report projects are ways for students to show comprehension and critical thinking and enhance their public speaking skills.
 
English
By using the Shurley English Curriculum, students will be able to classify the first four sentence patterns.  Good writing skills are expected to be used in all subject areas.  Writing is used in other curricular areas to show comprehension and learning.
 
Spelling/Handwriting
Weekly lessons and tests help students learn specific spelling rules and related writing skills.  Neat cursive handwriting is expected in all subject areas.
 
Math
Logic and problem solving are the backbone of the coursework.  Geometry, data organization, numeration, measuring, and algebra are studied along with mastery of the four basic groups of math facts.  A variety of hands-on activities are used to help students understand math concepts.
 
Social Studies
Indiana state history is the basis for studying historical, geographical, economic, and social changes in our state and the rest of the country.
 
Science
Hands-on activities and written materials are used to learn about life, Earth, physical science, space, and technology.
 
Health
This study creates the awareness that our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that we do not harm it by abusing drugs and alcohol.
 
Computers
Keyboarding skills are the primary focus in the fourth grade.  Use of the Internet and Microsoft Office are used to support other areas of learning.
 
Choir
All fourth graders are in a choir which sings in chapel and Sunday worship serices.  This is one way to live out their faith by praising God through song.
 
Special Classes
Physical Education, Music, & Art.
 
Staff
Sandi Herman
B.A. Concordia University Nebraska
M.A. Indiana University
 
Sara Zielinski, Mathematics
B.S. Concordia University Chicago•M.S. Northwest Missouri State University