Writing
Our writing program emphasizes writing for a variety of purposes and audiences. Students learn the five steps in the writing process including prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. We also teach the six traits of writing: ideas and content, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions.
Reading
The 4th grade reading program is primarily based on literature circles, in which students select books of varied reading levels based on a common theme. Students developing the skills necessary to read specialized material—including textbooks, newspaper and magazine articles, pamphlets, and encyclopedias, to find specific information.
Math
4th grade math is based on the Common Core State Standards. Content areas include multi-digit multiplication, fractions, decimals, mixed numbers, and area. Core processes include reasoning, problem solving and communication.
Science
We focus on the scientific method as we explore the water cycle, the human body, measurement, magnetism and electricity. Students keep a science journal in which they take notes and record their thinking and findings in relation to class experiments.
Social Studies
Students dive into the study of history, geography, economy, government, and culture of Washington state, as well as a study of the Northwest Coastal Native American culture and history. Classes create a Native American 4th Grade Museum and take a day-trip to Olympia, which includes a guided tour of the Capitol and Legislative buildings where students can observe the branches of government at work and participate in a mock trial at the Temple of Justice.
Religion
We continued the study of doctrine with an emphasis on Christian living, as well as Catholic Social Teachings. We also champion the importance of serving one's community.
