Fourth grade is a year of securing the foundational pegs of grammar school as we begin to transition from the concrete learning stage into a more abstract learning atmosphere. In math, our students study the importance of place value first so that they have a better understanding of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of multi-digit numbers. We also focus on being more fluent as we secure the pegs of our foundational math skills. In reading and language arts, our students are applying learned reading skills as they explore literature, Bible verses, and poems.

Through this exploration, students are expected to discuss the main ideas; draw their own conclusions; and decipher the author’s purpose. In keeping with Classical Christian education model, prepared written literature projects are presented orally to their peers. In order for the 4^th grade students to write well, writing skills are developed and practiced using the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) methodology.

When applicable, writing assignments relate to the history that is being studied. Through IEW, students learn how to take notes; write from notes; add required elements; and edit. New elements are gradually added throughout the year. The IEW writing assignments vary from nonfiction to fiction and from one to five paragraphs. Our students are taught history through the study of the Old Testament and Ancient Egypt using Veritas History Cards. Biblical references are included with relevant dates and people being highlighted. Science is brought to life by learning about God’s creations in the order that He created them through many class experiments and projects.

By studying the world He made, we learn more about God. In the study of the Bible, our fourth graders learn 35 attributes of God while memorizing supporting scripture and discovering how man is to respond to God as he is revealed in His Word through music, drama, and pictures. The students begin their day with a devotion and prayer time as a class. Throughout the day, students are encouraged to seek what is true, good, and beautiful in God’s eyes.
‍