Fourth Grade Classroom Goals

Grade four is a transition year for students in the program. Time and activities are more structured than in the primary grades. Expectations of academic performance are heightened in order to meet and exceed Oregon's rigorous standards in math, writing, and reading. A thematic approach, often utilizing Storyline Design, is used to integrate various curriculum areas. Themes may include:

Human body systems
Oregon geography
Pioneers
Native Americans
Computer technology
Castle technology

Work is project-based with testing included for reinforcement and accountability. Students are given a body of knowledge from which to construct larger ideas. For instance, students are taught a great deal about human body systems; with this knowledge they construct their own insights and understanding as to how the various systems collaborate as one organic being.

In Storyline Design students create a setting and characters upon which events occur. A narrative develops which is the delivery method of curriculum; students then become involved and invested in activities related to their created environment. The idea is to make academic learning a hands-on experience that students will take and make their own. In a fun and meaningful way, students actively cover large blocks of curriculum in reading, writing, reading, speaking, science, art, and social studies.

Reading is novel-based and often connected to our science themes.

Students are given frequent and varied writing experiences. State standards are taught under an umbrella of inspiration and creativity.

Students' personal growth is nourished through discussions and activities built around a series of Lifeskills/Virtues. These include perseverance, respect, gratitude, cooperation, integrity, organization, and responsibility.