The 4th grade reading curriculum teaches students how to analyze the books they read. Rather than just understand the plot and information given in a text, students are encouraged to think about the messages and how they relate to their own lives. They also compare texts to each other and make connections both within one text and across multiple texts. 4th graders begin to learn how to think and talk about a text to find deeper meanings and messages. 
We will begin the school year finding main ideas and we will read Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. We won't want to be like Sheila!

The 4th grade writing curriculum focuses on developing writing that has clarity and structure, and that uses reasons, facts, and details to support and strengthen arguments. Fourth graders are taught to organize their writing, ensure that it flows well, and group together related components. They do this by going beyond simply stating the facts — they express ideas, make connections, and provide details and emotions when appropriate.They will uses technology to publish, research, and communicate with others under the proper guidance of their teachers.
By fourth grade, students have learned the basics of grammar but parts of speech, mechanics, punctuation, word usage and sentence structure will be worked on through the year.

The 4th grade social studies curriculum is local history and local govenment. We learn all about our great NEW YORK State!  They expand their knowledge and appreciation of their own local and American history. Students compare different perspectives using both primary and secondary texts. 4th graders also use technology to research past and current events. In all of their work, they are taught to analyze the reasons why certain things occur and form strong supported opinions and ideas, which encourages them to think more deeply about the world. We will begin learning about the geography of NYS.

Why we assign homework: We believe homework is important because it is a valuable aid in helping students make the most of their experience in school. We give homework because it is useful in reinforcing what has been learned in class, prepares students for upcoming lessons, teaches responsibility, and helps students develop positive study habits.
When we assign homework: Homework will be assigned Monday through Friday. Assignments may either be written or online. We do not give a lot of homework and we expect the students to complete the assignments when given. Students should be studying and reviewing material each night as part of their homework. 
Student’s homework responsibilities: We expect students to do their best job on their homework. We expect homework to be neat. We expect students to do their work on their own and only ask for help after they have given their BEST effort. We expect all assignments to be returned on the day it is due. Any incomplete classwork is also considered homework and should be completed that night. An "OOPS" slip will be given for missing homework. Three "OOPS" slips becomes a Yellow Light. 
Parent homework responsibility: Parents play an important role in making homework a positive experience for their children. Therefore, I ask that parents make homework a top priority. Parents should supervise and guide, but not complete the homework for your child.