RIO GRANDE, An independent school serving students pre-K through sixth grade in Santa Fe, NM

Fourth Grade

Fourth grade is a time of curiosity and the development of individual interests. These attributes are nurtured in all areas of classroom instruction by fostering exploration, experimentation, and discussion, as well as respect for individual learning styles. Developing respect for the ideas of others and valuing individual qualities are inherent in all facets of the fourth grade program.
 

Our Language Arts program emphasizes reading and writing for real purposes. Students read several class novels and short stories that complement the fourth grade thematic studies. Fourth graders study realistic fiction, fantasy, fairy tale, and mystery genres. They also read nonfiction materials as part of the research process. The writing process is practiced throughout the year, with each student publishing a nonfiction endangered species book, a multimedia report on Ancient Egypt, and several pieces of creative writing. Journal writing and daily independent choice reading are also emphasized. Our goal is to help students become fluent, avid, and critical readers and writers.

The Math program in fourth grade is designed to present real-life applications of math concepts to enhance critical thinking and teach students various ways to arrive at a solution, as well as increase and strengthen basic skills.

Science and Social Studies are taught through a thematic approach, linking environmental science with cultural studies. Major topics include ecosystems, environmental issues, culture and technology in Ancient Egypt, and modern forensic science. Students also embark upon an imaginary "World Tour," allowing them to study cultures of their choice.

The fourth grade Art program increases student understanding of technique and the elements and principles of design while encouraging individual creative spirit.

In Drama, students challenge their imaginations to become specific and detailed in scenes and improvisations, and develop self-awareness and their creative and critical thinking skills.

In Multimedia, fourth graders develop greater independence and confidence in word processing, keyboarding, concept-mapping, computer painting, and basic multimedia. The library program increases students' ability to use the media center independently. Students also begin to acquire more proficient research skills.

In Music, the fourth grade program introduces simple harmony singing, further development of instrumental skills, and large group performance.

In Physical Education, students attain mature motor patterns for the basic locomotor, non-locomotor, and selected manipulative skills.

In Spanish, students learn vocabulary for classroom objects and activities, possessives, "ser," "estar," and present and idiomatic future tenses. They read and write in Spanish and study ancient cultures.

For their Service Project, the fourth grade class works in conjunction with the Española Animal Shelter. Students volunteer at the shelter each month, and donate all proceeds raised through sales of homemade dog biscuits and cat toys produced in class biweekly.

>>  See "Fifth Grade" curriculum >>