The 411 on 4^th Grade

This information is a general guideline of what to expect this year.

Curriculum

Spelling: 

• Spelling list in workbook
• Daily practice work includes workbook and class activities
• Graded test on Friday
• Homework: Study daily, finish workbook pages if not completed during given class time

Language/Writing

• Creative Writing/Journaling
• Daily MUG Shots (Mechanics, Usage, Grammar)
• 6 Trait Writing
• Homework: Occasionally

Reading

• Novel Units (such as Little House in the Big Woods)
• Reading textbook
• Book reports- approx. every other month
• Use of classroom and school library for independent reading
• Homework: Strive to read 20 minutes per day, other work occasionally

Math

• Math textbook- group/partner work in-class
• Math workbook- individual daily homework
• Manipulatives and games
• Focus on understanding and use of concepts, not perfection!
• Homework: Monday-Thursday, workbook page on lesson of the day

Social Studies

• All about WISCONSIN! J
• Variety of sources: Textbook, Internet, worksheets, videos, magazines, etc.
• Encourage students to bring in items/info from trips around the state
• Homework: Occasionally

Science

• Science textbook and other sources
• National Geographic kids magazine monthly
• Encourage students to bring in items of interest to share, study, research
• Homework: Occasionally

Community Building

• Focus on working together and building understanding of one another
• Includes: games, worksheets, journaling, etc.

Assessment

Homework

• Unless otherwise noted, is due the following day
• Incomplete/late work = Subtract 10% each day
• If there are consistent incomplete/late homework problems I will contact parents to come up with an alternate consequence plan
• *If a student is absent, class work and homework will be collected for them and recorded on “We Missed You” form.  Due date?  See me!

Quizzes:

• Given on occasion- planned and unplanned

Tests:

• Given at end of units, chapters, etc.

Other informal methods of assessment such as observations and group/individual discussions will also be used.

Behavior

Guidelines:  It’s simple!  Actions must be…

• Respectful, Responsible, and Reliable

Consequences:

• 1^st: Verbal Warning
• 2^nd: Recess time to discuss behavior
• 3^rd: Phone call/Note home
• 4^th: Office visit

Rewards

• Brag Tags
  • Given for good choices, following directions, etc.
  • Raffle for small prizes (pencils, erasers, and such)

Food

Snacks: Morning and Afternoon- healthy only, please!

Lunch: Your child will write information about hot lunch opportunities in their assignment notebook

Birthday Treats: Welcome anytime, enough for 23 students.  We have a peanut allergy, so please consider this when choosing a treat!

Classroom Parties

Planned by students

Assistance from adults (baking, shopping) and adults are welcome to join us!

Dates: (2:15-end of the day)                         Harvest Party: October 26^th

                                                                  Holiday Party:  December 22^nd

                                                                  Valentine’s Party:  February 14^th

Expectations of 4^th Grade Students

• Behave according to classroom and school rules
• Take home notes, graded assignments/tests daily- TAKE HOME FOLDER
• Complete homework on time- use assignment notebook
• Most importantly: take responsibility for their own education!

Expectations of 4^th Grade Parents

• Go through take home folder with your child each night
• Look at your child’s assignment notebook each night and initial, please!
• Most importantly: encourage and allow your child take responsibility for their education! J