4th Graders Analyze Data for Annual Science Fair on 3/26--Updated 3/10/2020
In Math, we are working on our next unit. This unit introduces division of numbers. Students were introduced to the strategy of using place-value to help them understand and practice dividing by 2, 4, and 8. Students will also be working on adding and subtracting mixed numbers.
For the skills in our math unit, it is very important that the students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge remind them to go onto Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working in class.
During social studies the students will be learning about major documents that shaped the United States. They will be examining the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution and will be able to explain why we have it and who it supports. Students will also be looking at the 10 Amendments in the Constitution that make up the Bill of Rights. Students will be able to explain what each of these mean along with illustrating each of them to help them understand them better.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 26. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us to learn about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
For the skills in our math unit, it is very important that the students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge remind them to go onto Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working in class.
During social studies the students will be learning about major documents that shaped the United States. They will be examining the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution and will be able to explain why we have it and who it supports. Students will also be looking at the 10 Amendments in the Constitution that make up the Bill of Rights. Students will be able to explain what each of these mean along with illustrating each of them to help them understand them better.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 26. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us to learn about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Fourth Grade Students Connected to their Community--Updated 02/11/2020
In Math, we have been continuing our practice of multiplying large numbers. Students have been reviewing how to use the partial-product method to solve these problems. Students have also been exploring how to convert measurements within the U.S. customary and metric systems. Students have also been busy exploring geometry concepts such as classifying and measuring angles. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
In Science, we have continued our study of energy through hands-on explorations. Students have also taken on the role of a scientist and have begun working through the scientific method in preparation for the science fair. Students have developed a question and hypothesis for the project they are interested in. After that, they will work through their experiment, collect data, and write a conclusion about what they learned. Students will present their projects at the 4th Grade Science Fair on Thursday, March 26th. We encourage families and special guests to attend that day!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining social studies and writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading, we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing the texts, determining the main idea that the author is expressing, and then writing the reasons that support the main idea. This type of reading is also supporting our writing unit. In this unit, students have been learning to write an opinion piece by clearly stating their thesis and including strong pieces of evidence to support their opinions. The students have been doing a great job with this!!
Some of our students have also participated in the Wood Dale Public Library’s Battle of the Books competition. Each team read a specific list of books and the competitions required them to listen to a scenario from a story and answer the title and author of the book it matches. For each correct answer, the team received points. We are so proud of all the students that have worked hard reading their books! The Mexicano Readers (below, right) and the Reading Rhinos (below, left) made it to the finals! Congratulations to the Reading Rhinos on their championship win!
The Fourth Graders also had an amazing community outreach experience where we took a trip to The Radcliff Senior Living facility, here in Wood Dale! Students enjoyed singing songs to the residents, reading acrostic poems they wrote, helping the residents with a craft, and asking them questions they were curious about. We had a wonderful time connecting with the community and making the residents smile!
In Science, we have continued our study of energy through hands-on explorations. Students have also taken on the role of a scientist and have begun working through the scientific method in preparation for the science fair. Students have developed a question and hypothesis for the project they are interested in. After that, they will work through their experiment, collect data, and write a conclusion about what they learned. Students will present their projects at the 4th Grade Science Fair on Thursday, March 26th. We encourage families and special guests to attend that day!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining social studies and writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading, we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing the texts, determining the main idea that the author is expressing, and then writing the reasons that support the main idea. This type of reading is also supporting our writing unit. In this unit, students have been learning to write an opinion piece by clearly stating their thesis and including strong pieces of evidence to support their opinions. The students have been doing a great job with this!!
Some of our students have also participated in the Wood Dale Public Library’s Battle of the Books competition. Each team read a specific list of books and the competitions required them to listen to a scenario from a story and answer the title and author of the book it matches. For each correct answer, the team received points. We are so proud of all the students that have worked hard reading their books! The Mexicano Readers (below, right) and the Reading Rhinos (below, left) made it to the finals! Congratulations to the Reading Rhinos on their championship win!
The Fourth Graders also had an amazing community outreach experience where we took a trip to The Radcliff Senior Living facility, here in Wood Dale! Students enjoyed singing songs to the residents, reading acrostic poems they wrote, helping the residents with a craft, and asking them questions they were curious about. We had a wonderful time connecting with the community and making the residents smile!
Fourth Graders Explore Energy Through Experiments--Updated 01/17/2020
We have had an exciting start to the new year. There are many things we are looking forward to in 2019!
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Students are diving into everything energy in Science. Everything from: Potential Energy, Kinetic Energy, to Transfer of Energy and anything in between. They will be observing the relationship of Potential Energy with the Speed of an object and the distance it travels as seen in these photos!
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Students are diving into everything energy in Science. Everything from: Potential Energy, Kinetic Energy, to Transfer of Energy and anything in between. They will be observing the relationship of Potential Energy with the Speed of an object and the distance it travels as seen in these photos!
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
Fourth Graders Study Cause of American Revolution--Updated December 9, 2019
In Social Studies we are continuing our study of the causes leading up to the American Revolution. The students are investigating some of the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. They will also be developing a newspaper article to capture two important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist.
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident. We will also be taking a field trip to Naper Settlement this month. On the field trip we will experience what life was like for the colonists; especially during the cold winter months!
In Writing, students have been learning the skills to become essayists! They are learning on how to express their opinions. Many of them are realizing that it is not that easy to come up with good pieces of evidence that support their reason. We look forward to seeing how the students can express their thoughts by stating their thesis, providing evidence, explaining their evidence and closing their writing. These are going to be fun pieces of writing to read!
4th grade Bilingual students are finding their way into other classrooms. In hopes of having more unity within the grade level, dual language students have started to mingle with students that they have never interacted with before.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident. We will also be taking a field trip to Naper Settlement this month. On the field trip we will experience what life was like for the colonists; especially during the cold winter months!
In Writing, students have been learning the skills to become essayists! They are learning on how to express their opinions. Many of them are realizing that it is not that easy to come up with good pieces of evidence that support their reason. We look forward to seeing how the students can express their thoughts by stating their thesis, providing evidence, explaining their evidence and closing their writing. These are going to be fun pieces of writing to read!
4th grade Bilingual students are finding their way into other classrooms. In hopes of having more unity within the grade level, dual language students have started to mingle with students that they have never interacted with before.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
Fourth Grade Students Expand Opinions in Persuasive Writing Project--Updated 11/14
Fall is here! Thank you to all the family members that helped out to make our Halloween parties a success! We appreciate you taking the time to volunteer; the students had a great time!!
Students have been working hard in math identifying factors and multiples. This concept helps them to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, the students will be tackling subtraction of large numbers and exploring different aspects of fractions. We strongly encourage students to continue to practice their multiplication facts daily as students will need to know their facts when working with fractions.
In Writing, students have drafted their realistic fiction stories, based on a special memory in their lives. Students focused on developing characters by identifying internal and external traits along with trying to include dialogue to make their story more realistic. Students also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive! Next, we will be working on learning how to write a good opinion piece and how they can use their writing to try and persuade someone to think or feel the same way they do.
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 25th and 26th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth grade families. We look forward to seeing you then!
Students have been working hard in math identifying factors and multiples. This concept helps them to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, the students will be tackling subtraction of large numbers and exploring different aspects of fractions. We strongly encourage students to continue to practice their multiplication facts daily as students will need to know their facts when working with fractions.
In Writing, students have drafted their realistic fiction stories, based on a special memory in their lives. Students focused on developing characters by identifying internal and external traits along with trying to include dialogue to make their story more realistic. Students also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive! Next, we will be working on learning how to write a good opinion piece and how they can use their writing to try and persuade someone to think or feel the same way they do.
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 25th and 26th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth grade families. We look forward to seeing you then!
4th Graders Draft Realistic Stories with Character Challenges--Updated 10.16.19
In Shared Reading, 4th graders have been focusing on identifying the theme of a story. Theme is the message, moral, or lesson that the author is trying to convey through the story.
In Writing, the students have been learning about how to write a realistic fiction story. Students have been working very hard to develop their main character and have begun writing scenes for their realistic fiction story. They are learning how to draft possible story arcs that aim to intensify the problem or challenge that their character is facing. Please continue to read and respond to your child’s Friday letter. They love to share what they have learned in school and look forward to reading your response each week!
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up creating their own colonial settlements. Students will compare and contrast two of the major groups of colonists that came to settle in the Americas. Furthermore, students will take a deeper look into the different colonial regions and what they had to offer.
KABOOM!!!! 4th graders had a great time exploring the SciTech Hands on Museum on October 4th. This opportunity was granted by the Wood Dale Foundation for Educational Excellence in coordination with our new playground being built that day. Students are enjoying the park and were very happy with their involvement in choosing the design!
In Writing, the students have been learning about how to write a realistic fiction story. Students have been working very hard to develop their main character and have begun writing scenes for their realistic fiction story. They are learning how to draft possible story arcs that aim to intensify the problem or challenge that their character is facing. Please continue to read and respond to your child’s Friday letter. They love to share what they have learned in school and look forward to reading your response each week!
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up creating their own colonial settlements. Students will compare and contrast two of the major groups of colonists that came to settle in the Americas. Furthermore, students will take a deeper look into the different colonial regions and what they had to offer.
KABOOM!!!! 4th graders had a great time exploring the SciTech Hands on Museum on October 4th. This opportunity was granted by the Wood Dale Foundation for Educational Excellence in coordination with our new playground being built that day. Students are enjoying the park and were very happy with their involvement in choosing the design!
Fourth Graders Collaborate with Classmates Across Subjects to Maximize Learning
In Shared Reading, we are reviewing text features found in informational text and discussing how these features help a reader better understand what they have read. In addition we have been reviewing how to write a good summary after reading a piece of literature or informational text.
Each week in writing students are writing friendly letters home in their Friday Notebook. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Science, we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations. We will also continue to work on our focus of the engineering process as well as working in teams.
We continue working hard in math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Social Studies has started with a focus on Digital Citizenship. Students discuss how they are connected to the world through technology and discuss what is internet safe and what is not. We will start Colonial America soon and take a closer look at what it took to move to a new place and start a new life.
It has been a busy start to the school year but we are excited for a fun year together!!
Each week in writing students are writing friendly letters home in their Friday Notebook. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Science, we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations. We will also continue to work on our focus of the engineering process as well as working in teams.
We continue working hard in math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Social Studies has started with a focus on Digital Citizenship. Students discuss how they are connected to the world through technology and discuss what is internet safe and what is not. We will start Colonial America soon and take a closer look at what it took to move to a new place and start a new life.
It has been a busy start to the school year but we are excited for a fun year together!!
Fourth Graders Finish Year with Region Research Project--Updated 5/13/2019
For this month the subjects of Reading, Writing and Social Studies are incorporated together. In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating a brochure as a visual way to present their learning.
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for Wood Dale City Council positions. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting on the 16th a great success! The students were excited about that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math, we finished exploring geometry and the different aspects in this area. Students are now learning to convert decimals and fractions using the denominators 10 and 100. Students will also work on comparing and ordering decimals. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
We also celebrated the students and how they have developed into wonderful authors. Each year we participate with Oakbrook in a celebration called Young Authors. Each class at Oakbrook is paired up with a class at Westview and the students share a story that they have written and talk about the writing process. The students really enjoy this day of sharing and celebrating writing!
The end of the year is right around the corner! With many exciting and fun activities planned for the end of the year, please remind your child that it is important to stay focused as we will continue to host a positive learning environment as the year wraps up. Thank you for your support!
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for Wood Dale City Council positions. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting on the 16th a great success! The students were excited about that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math, we finished exploring geometry and the different aspects in this area. Students are now learning to convert decimals and fractions using the denominators 10 and 100. Students will also work on comparing and ordering decimals. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
We also celebrated the students and how they have developed into wonderful authors. Each year we participate with Oakbrook in a celebration called Young Authors. Each class at Oakbrook is paired up with a class at Westview and the students share a story that they have written and talk about the writing process. The students really enjoy this day of sharing and celebrating writing!
The end of the year is right around the corner! With many exciting and fun activities planned for the end of the year, please remind your child that it is important to stay focused as we will continue to host a positive learning environment as the year wraps up. Thank you for your support!
Fourth Graders Explore Heros & Heroines in History and Literature--Updated 4/9/19
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war.
In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with Leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and how they check each other so power is distributed evenly. Students also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall! Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore division strategies. The students are using place value to help them divide using the partial quotients strategy. By knowing their multiplication facts, students will be able able to solve these problems with ease. Students will also be working on multiplying fractions. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations in March! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or by visiting local museums.
Students also had a wonderful hands-on science experience during their in-school field trip presented by High Touch-High Tech, Science Made Fun. Students learned about mechanical and electrical engineering. They built prototypes and designed a mechanical grabber, bug bots, and hovercrafts in this event sponsored by the Oakbrook & Westview PTO! Thank you for your support!
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with Leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and how they check each other so power is distributed evenly. Students also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall! Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore division strategies. The students are using place value to help them divide using the partial quotients strategy. By knowing their multiplication facts, students will be able able to solve these problems with ease. Students will also be working on multiplying fractions. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations in March! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or by visiting local museums.
Students also had a wonderful hands-on science experience during their in-school field trip presented by High Touch-High Tech, Science Made Fun. Students learned about mechanical and electrical engineering. They built prototypes and designed a mechanical grabber, bug bots, and hovercrafts in this event sponsored by the Oakbrook & Westview PTO! Thank you for your support!
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
4th Graders Elect to Study Federal, State, and Local Government--Updated 3/12/19
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students will review the 3 Branches of Government and they will also learn about the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how these concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer; and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math, we are working on our next unit. This unit introduces division of numbers. Students were introduced to the strategy of using place-value to help them understand and practice dividing by 2, 4 and 8. Students will also be working on adding and subtracting mixed numbers. For the skills in our math unit it is very important that the students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge, remind them to log onto Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working on in class.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 21. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedures step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Math, we are working on our next unit. This unit introduces division of numbers. Students were introduced to the strategy of using place-value to help them understand and practice dividing by 2, 4 and 8. Students will also be working on adding and subtracting mixed numbers. For the skills in our math unit it is very important that the students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge, remind them to log onto Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working on in class.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 21. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedures step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
4th Graders Enjoy Battle of the Books Competitions at WDPL--updated 2/13/19
In Math, we have been continuing our practice of multiplying large numbers. Students have been reviewing how to use the partial-product method to solve these problems. Students have also been exploring how to convert measurements within the U.S. customary and metric systems. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. Student have also taken on the role of a scientist and have begun working through the scientific method in preparation for the science fair. Students have developed a question and hypothesis for a project they are interested in. After that they will work through their experiment, collect data, and write a conclusion about what they learned. Students will present their projects at the 4th Grade Science Fair on Thursday, March 21st. Specific details coming soon!!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weakness of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining Social Studies and Writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing the texts, determining the main idea that the author is expressing, and then writing the reasons that support the main idea. This type of reading is also supporting our Writing unit. In this unit students have been learning to write an opinion piece by clearly stating their thesis and including strong pieces of evidence to support their opinions. The students have been doing a great job with this!!
Some of our students have also been participating in the Wood Dale Public Library’s Battle of the Books competition. Each team has to read a specific list of books and the competition requires them to listen to a scenario from a story and answer the title and author of the book it matches. For each correct answer the team gets points. We are so proud of all the students that have been working hard reading their books. G ood luck to them in the rest of their competitions this month!!
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. Student have also taken on the role of a scientist and have begun working through the scientific method in preparation for the science fair. Students have developed a question and hypothesis for a project they are interested in. After that they will work through their experiment, collect data, and write a conclusion about what they learned. Students will present their projects at the 4th Grade Science Fair on Thursday, March 21st. Specific details coming soon!!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weakness of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining Social Studies and Writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing the texts, determining the main idea that the author is expressing, and then writing the reasons that support the main idea. This type of reading is also supporting our Writing unit. In this unit students have been learning to write an opinion piece by clearly stating their thesis and including strong pieces of evidence to support their opinions. The students have been doing a great job with this!!
Some of our students have also been participating in the Wood Dale Public Library’s Battle of the Books competition. Each team has to read a specific list of books and the competition requires them to listen to a scenario from a story and answer the title and author of the book it matches. For each correct answer the team gets points. We are so proud of all the students that have been working hard reading their books. G ood luck to them in the rest of their competitions this month!!
Fourth Graders Explore Strategies to Convert Measurements--Updated 1/21/2019
We have had an exciting start to the new year! There are many things we are looking forward to in 2019!
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas. We also had an amazing trip to Naper Settlement last month. We experienced what life was life for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and how this is all related to waves in water. Students will be introduced to the Science Fair Project they will be working on through March.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas. We also had an amazing trip to Naper Settlement last month. We experienced what life was life for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and how this is all related to waves in water. Students will be introduced to the Science Fair Project they will be working on through March.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
Fourth Graders Debate American Revolution Causes--Updated 12/10/2018
In Social Studies we are continuing our study of the causes leading up to the American Revolution. The students are investigating some of the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. They will also be developing a newspaper article to capture two important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, students worked hard using the standard algorithm to subtract multi-digit whole numbers. We are now starting to explore fractions! Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We will also be finding fraction equivalence through the use of fraction bars and number lines. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
In Writing, students have been learning the skills to become essayists! They are learning on how to express their opinions. Many of them are realizing that it is not that easy to come up with good pieces of evidence that support their reason. We look forward to seeing how the students can express their thoughts by stating their thesis, providing evidence, explaining their evidence, and closing their writing. These are going to be fun pieces of writing to read!
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
In Math, students worked hard using the standard algorithm to subtract multi-digit whole numbers. We are now starting to explore fractions! Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We will also be finding fraction equivalence through the use of fraction bars and number lines. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
In Writing, students have been learning the skills to become essayists! They are learning on how to express their opinions. Many of them are realizing that it is not that easy to come up with good pieces of evidence that support their reason. We look forward to seeing how the students can express their thoughts by stating their thesis, providing evidence, explaining their evidence, and closing their writing. These are going to be fun pieces of writing to read!
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
Special Memories Explored in 4th Grade Writing Projects--Updated 11/12/2018
Fall is here! Students are learning the struggles of Colonial America and thinking about what life would be like as the land was being explored. These discussions will lead into how life is very different in America and how the colonists began discussing changing laws from what the King of England expected. Students will soon explore life during the American Revolution and what the war did to families and communities.
Students have been working hard in math identifying factors and multiples. This concept helps them to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, the students will be tackling subtraction of large numbers and exploring different aspects of fractions. We strongly encourage students to continue to practice their multiplication facts daily as students will need to know their facts when working with fractions.
In Reading, we have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each, working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their realistic fiction stories, based on a special memory in their lives. Students focused on developing characters by identifying internal and external traits along with trying to include dialogue to make their story more realistic. Students also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 19th and 20th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
Students have been working hard in math identifying factors and multiples. This concept helps them to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, the students will be tackling subtraction of large numbers and exploring different aspects of fractions. We strongly encourage students to continue to practice their multiplication facts daily as students will need to know their facts when working with fractions.
In Reading, we have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each, working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their realistic fiction stories, based on a special memory in their lives. Students focused on developing characters by identifying internal and external traits along with trying to include dialogue to make their story more realistic. Students also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 19th and 20th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
Survival Skills Explored by Fourth Grade Scientists & Colonists--Updated 10/11/2018
In Shared Reading, 4th graders have been focusing on identifying the theme of a story. Theme is the message, moral, or lesson that the author is trying to convey through the story. In Writing, the students have been learning about how to write a realistic fiction story. Students have been working very hard to develop their main character and have begun writing scenes for their realistic fiction story. They are learning how to draft possible story arcs that aim to intensify the problem or challenge that their character is facing. Please continue to read and respond to your child’s Friday letter. They love to share what they have learned in school and look forward to reading your response each week!
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
In Math, students have been working hard adding multi-digit whole numbers, as well as reviewing helpful multiplication strategies that will help them with their fact fluency. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
In Math, students have been working hard adding multi-digit whole numbers, as well as reviewing helpful multiplication strategies that will help them with their fact fluency. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Fourth Grade Family Letter Connects Families to Classrooms--Updated 9/13/2018
In Shared Reading, we are reviewing text features found in informational text and discussing how these features help a reader better understand what they have read. In addition we have been reviewing how to write a good summary after reading a piece of literature or informational text.
Each week in Writing students have begun writing friendly letters home in their Friday Folder. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind the families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Social Studies, the 4th graders are starting up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students are going to be reading and researching about Illinois’ land features, investigating competition within businesses, and discussing how an economic supply chain works.
In Science we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations.
We continue working hard in Math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Students have also begun to experience MakerSpace. This is an opportunity they get twice a month where they can explore, design, or create different activities that they want to learn more about. The students really enjoy participating in MakerSpace so be sure to ask your 4th grader what they have created. The 4th graders have also learned about what it means to have good digital citizenship and to leave a positive digital footprint. They completed a variety of activities using the Digital Passport website along with going over the District 7 technology guidelines.
It has been a busy start to the school year but we are excited for a fun year!!
Each week in Writing students have begun writing friendly letters home in their Friday Folder. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind the families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Social Studies, the 4th graders are starting up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students are going to be reading and researching about Illinois’ land features, investigating competition within businesses, and discussing how an economic supply chain works.
In Science we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations.
We continue working hard in Math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Students have also begun to experience MakerSpace. This is an opportunity they get twice a month where they can explore, design, or create different activities that they want to learn more about. The students really enjoy participating in MakerSpace so be sure to ask your 4th grader what they have created. The 4th graders have also learned about what it means to have good digital citizenship and to leave a positive digital footprint. They completed a variety of activities using the Digital Passport website along with going over the District 7 technology guidelines.
It has been a busy start to the school year but we are excited for a fun year!!
4th Graders to Present Region Research through Infographics--Updated 5/22/2018
For this month, the subjects of Reading, Writing and Social Studies are incorporated together. In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an infographic as a visual way to present their learning!
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for a Wood Dale City Council position in April. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting a great success! The students had a wonderful time that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math we finished exploring geometry and the different aspects in this area. Students then learned to convert decimals and fractions using the denominators 10 and 100. Students also worked on comparing and ordering decimals. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. There are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
In Science, we will take a look at different rock layers to determine when the rock was formed. Students will create their own fossils between the different layers of earth using clay and other materials. They will observe an ice core sample to determine when it was formed and draw conclusions based on the evidence provided.
We also celebrated our students and how they have developed into wonderful authors. Each year we participate with Oakbrook in a celebration called Young Authors. On May 1st, each class from Oakbrook was paired up with a class at Westview and the students shared a story that they had written and talked about the writing process. The students really enjoy this day!
The end of the year is right around the corner! With many exciting and fun activities planned for the end of the year, please remind your child that is important to stay focused as we will continue to host a positive learning environment as the year wraps up!
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for a Wood Dale City Council position in April. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting a great success! The students had a wonderful time that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math we finished exploring geometry and the different aspects in this area. Students then learned to convert decimals and fractions using the denominators 10 and 100. Students also worked on comparing and ordering decimals. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. There are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
In Science, we will take a look at different rock layers to determine when the rock was formed. Students will create their own fossils between the different layers of earth using clay and other materials. They will observe an ice core sample to determine when it was formed and draw conclusions based on the evidence provided.
We also celebrated our students and how they have developed into wonderful authors. Each year we participate with Oakbrook in a celebration called Young Authors. On May 1st, each class from Oakbrook was paired up with a class at Westview and the students shared a story that they had written and talked about the writing process. The students really enjoy this day!
The end of the year is right around the corner! With many exciting and fun activities planned for the end of the year, please remind your child that is important to stay focused as we will continue to host a positive learning environment as the year wraps up!
Ease of Division in Math Connected to Mastery of Multiplication--updated 4/9/18
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war. In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and how they check each other so power is distributed evenly. Students also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore division strategies. The students are using place value to help them divide using the partial quotients strategy. By knowing their multiplication facts, students will be able able to solve these problems with ease. Students will also be working on multiplying fractions. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations a few weeks ago! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or by visiting local museums.
The students also had a wonderful hands-on science experience during their in-school field trip presented by High Touch-High Tech, Science Made Fun. Through the financial support of the PTO, students learned about mechanical and electrical engineering. They built prototypes and designed a mechanical grabber, bug bots, and hovercrafts.
We continue to intermingle our classrooms to get students to know other fellow 4th graders. This time is mostly used as a form of team building within the different classrooms.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and how they check each other so power is distributed evenly. Students also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore division strategies. The students are using place value to help them divide using the partial quotients strategy. By knowing their multiplication facts, students will be able able to solve these problems with ease. Students will also be working on multiplying fractions. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations a few weeks ago! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or by visiting local museums.
The students also had a wonderful hands-on science experience during their in-school field trip presented by High Touch-High Tech, Science Made Fun. Through the financial support of the PTO, students learned about mechanical and electrical engineering. They built prototypes and designed a mechanical grabber, bug bots, and hovercrafts.
We continue to intermingle our classrooms to get students to know other fellow 4th graders. This time is mostly used as a form of team building within the different classrooms.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
4th Graders Exploring City Government and Annual Science Fair--Updated 3/15/18
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students will review the 3 Branches of Government and they will also learn about the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how these concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the Police Department, and hear about the Business Office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer; and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math, we are working on our next unit. This unit introduces division of numbers. Students were introduced to the strategy of using place-value to help them understand and practice dividing by 2, 4 and 8. Students will also be working on adding and subtracting mixed numbers. To be successful with the skills in our current math unit, it is very important that students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge, remind them to go on to Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working in class.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 22. Children worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day. For more information, including a class schedule, click HERE.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Math, we are working on our next unit. This unit introduces division of numbers. Students were introduced to the strategy of using place-value to help them understand and practice dividing by 2, 4 and 8. Students will also be working on adding and subtracting mixed numbers. To be successful with the skills in our current math unit, it is very important that students know their multiplication facts. If your student does not know these fluently please have them practice their facts for 10 minutes each night. Knowing these facts will help make division and fraction skills easier. If students are looking for more of a challenge, remind them to go on to Khan Academy to continue practicing the skills they are working in class.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 22. Children worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day. For more information, including a class schedule, click HERE.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Fourth Graders Explore Patriot & Loyalist Points of View--Updated Feb. 12, 2018
In Math, we have been continuing our practice of multiplying large numbers. Students have been reviewing how to use the partial-product method to solve these problems. Students have also been exploring how to convert measurements within the U.S. customary and metric systems. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. We will also become engineers and design a house that can withstand hurricane-force wind speeds with the materials that are provided. Students will work together to design their structure and solve problems as they revise their models.
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the majors battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weakness of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining social studies and writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading we have been digging into informational text! We have been analyzing firsthand and secondhand accounts by looking at their similarities and differences. Students also read several pieces of text to identify the text structure and use evidence to support their thinking. We are currently learning about identifying an author's point of view and using text evidence to support our thinking.
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. We will also become engineers and design a house that can withstand hurricane-force wind speeds with the materials that are provided. Students will work together to design their structure and solve problems as they revise their models.
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the majors battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weakness of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. Students will also be working on a persuasive letter combining social studies and writing. They will be writing a letter to a friend trying to convince them to join either the Loyalist or Patriots’ side.
In Reading we have been digging into informational text! We have been analyzing firsthand and secondhand accounts by looking at their similarities and differences. Students also read several pieces of text to identify the text structure and use evidence to support their thinking. We are currently learning about identifying an author's point of view and using text evidence to support our thinking.
4th Grade Students Reflect on Old Ways of Living in New Year--updated 1/16/18
We have had an exciting start to the new year. There are many things we are looking forward to in 2018!
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas. We also had an amazing trip to Naper Settlement, where we experienced what life was life for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Ask your child about their favorite part of their trip to Naper Settlement! Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and how this is all related to waves in water.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month! We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments and band books on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to review past concepts to ensure mastery and we have begun exploring some measurement. This month students will be looking at the strategies to convert between the different metric measurements for length, mass, and capacity. The students will be introduced to the “rules” that each conversion follows along with being able to solve measurement word problem. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas. We also had an amazing trip to Naper Settlement, where we experienced what life was life for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Ask your child about their favorite part of their trip to Naper Settlement! Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and how this is all related to waves in water.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month! We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments and band books on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
Fourth Graders Explore Causes of the American Revolution--updated 12/11/17
In Social Studies we are continuing our study of the causes leading up to the American Revolution. The students are investigating some of the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. They will also be developing a newspaper article to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist.
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help students with this skill. Children will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are starting to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story. The students are going to begin learning how to write a persuasive piece of writing. Writing is going to be incorporated into social studies a lot as we look at different perspectives of people and we convince each other to be either against the King or in support of the King.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help students with this skill. Children will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are starting to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story. The students are going to begin learning how to write a persuasive piece of writing. Writing is going to be incorporated into social studies a lot as we look at different perspectives of people and we convince each other to be either against the King or in support of the King.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!
Fourth Graders Design Colonies to Integrate Learning--Updated 11/15/2017
Fall is here! Students are learning the struggles of starting their own colony, as we have begun studying Colonial America. They are learning to use Google Draw to design a colony, keeping in mind that they need to protect themselves, grow or trade food, and stay healthy from diseases. After their initial design they will meet with small groups to provide constructive feedback on how they can improve their design. They will then have the opportunity to go back and make any changes to help ensure their survival in the New Land.
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. To go along with this concept students have been connecting their skills to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading we finished reading and discussed The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job making connections to our social studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out! We have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their personal narratives, focusing on a special memory in their lives. They chose a special memory (watermelon story) and focused on a specific moment from that memory (seed story) to write about. They also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 20th and 21st. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. To go along with this concept students have been connecting their skills to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading we finished reading and discussed The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job making connections to our social studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out! We have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their personal narratives, focusing on a special memory in their lives. They chose a special memory (watermelon story) and focused on a specific moment from that memory (seed story) to write about. They also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 20th and 21st. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
4th Graders Explore Competition through Lemonade Businesses--Updated 10/19/17
In Shared Reading, we are reading Lemonade War and the 4th graders are LOVING this book, especially because Jacqueline Davies uses such descriptive writing. Students are completing a variety of projects to summarize the story along with making connections to our social studies unit.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations in math. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. Students have experienced how their senses help them receive and process information and then respond to a situation appropriately; they then took that information to make inferences about how animals use their senses to survive in their environment.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations in math. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Friday Letters Feature Fourth Grade Fun & Learning Each Week--Updated 9/11/17
In Shared Reading, we are reviewing text features found in informational text and discussing how these features help a read better understand what they have read. In addition we have been reviewing how to write a good summary after reading a piece of literature or informational text.
Each week in writing students have begun writing friendly letters home in their Friday Folder. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind the families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are starting up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students are going to be reading and researching about Illinois’ land features, investigating competition within businesses, and discussing how an economic supply chain works.
In Science we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations.
We continue working hard in math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Students have also begun to experience MakerSpace. This is an opportunity they get twice a month where they can explore, design, or create different activities that they want to learn more about. The students really enjoy participating in MakerSpace so be sure to ask your 4th grader what they have created. The 4th graders have also learned about what it means to have good digital citizenship and how to leave a positive digital footprint. They completed a variety of activities using the Digital Passport website along with going over the District 7 technology guidelines.
It has been a busy start to the new school year and we are excited for a fun year together!!
Each week in writing students have begun writing friendly letters home in their Friday Folder. The students have really enjoyed writing these letters to their family explaining different activities that they did during the week. We would like to remind the families to also please write back to their student each week.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are starting up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students are going to be reading and researching about Illinois’ land features, investigating competition within businesses, and discussing how an economic supply chain works.
In Science we will be studying different animal parts. We will focus on how internal and external structures affect how animals grow, survive, behave, and reproduce. We will also be practicing how to provide evidence and reasoning to support a scientific claim on animal adaptations.
We continue working hard in math. The students are reviewing place value and how to read large numbers correctly. We are also exploring how to write numbers in a variety of forms: standard, expanded, and word. Please make sure you keep practicing multiplication and division facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Students have also begun to experience MakerSpace. This is an opportunity they get twice a month where they can explore, design, or create different activities that they want to learn more about. The students really enjoy participating in MakerSpace so be sure to ask your 4th grader what they have created. The 4th graders have also learned about what it means to have good digital citizenship and how to leave a positive digital footprint. They completed a variety of activities using the Digital Passport website along with going over the District 7 technology guidelines.
It has been a busy start to the new school year and we are excited for a fun year together!!
Fourth Graders Integrating Skills During Final Month of School--Updated 05/09/2017
For this month the subjects of Reading, Writing and Social Studies are incorporated together. In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an infographic as a visual way to present their learning.
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for a Wood Dale City Council position in April. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting a great success! The students had a wonderful time that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math we finished exploring conversions in measurement. Students learned to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these conversions. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
In Science, we will take a look at different rock layers to determine when the rock was formed. Students will create their own fossils between the different layers of earth using clay and other materials. They will observe an ice core sample to determine when it was formed and draw conclusions based on the evidence provided.
Fourth graders are having a blast participating in our ABC countdown. With many exciting and fun activities planned at the end of the year, please help to remind your child that is important to stay focused as we will continue to host a positive learning environment as the year wraps up.
Fourth Graders Explore Concept of Being a Hero or Heroine--Updated 4/10/2017
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heroes during the war. In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. As our exploration continues students will be looking at converting measurement, volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or visiting local museums.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. As our exploration continues students will be looking at converting measurement, volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
The students did a fantastic job on their science fair presentations! We are very proud of their hard work as they explored how to be a scientist. Please consider continuing these types of explorations over the summer or visiting local museums.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
4th Grade Scientists Prepare for Annual Science Fair--updated 03/14/2017
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students will review the 3 Branches of Government and they will also learn about the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how these concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer; and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math, we are wrapping up our study of decimals and are starting to work on reading line plots. Students will practice analyzing the line plot and using the information to answer questions regarding the line plot. Next, we will be moving on to exploring measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 23rd. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Math, we are wrapping up our study of decimals and are starting to work on reading line plots. Students will practice analyzing the line plot and using the information to answer questions regarding the line plot. Next, we will be moving on to exploring measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system.
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Thursday, March 23rd. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Authentic Experiences Impact Fourth Grade Learning--Updated 02/14/2017
In Math, we have been continuing our exploration of fractions and the students have been working very hard adding and subtracting mixed numbers. Students will be multiplying fractions and moving on to recognize the relationship between fractions and decimals. Please continue to encourage your child to practice their math facts at home and work on Khan Academy goals for extra math practice!
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. We will also become engineers and design a house that can withstand hurricane-force wind speeds with the materials that are provided. Students will work together to design their structure and solve problems as they revise their models.
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. We also had an amazing field trip to Naper Settlement, where we experienced what life was like for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Ask your child about their favorite part of their trip to Naper Settlement! Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
In Reading, we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing firsthand and secondhand accounts by looking at their similarities and differences. Students have also had to read several pieces of text to identify the text structure and use evidence to support their thinking. We are currently learning about identifying an author's point of view and using text evidence to support our thinking.
In Science, we will be learning about Energy and Speed through hands-on explorations. We will also become engineers and design a house that can withstand hurricane-force wind speeds with the materials that are provided. Students will work together to design their structure and solve problems as they revise their models.
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the major battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles. We also had an amazing field trip to Naper Settlement, where we experienced what life was like for settlers in colonial times. The students enjoyed their realistic experience and learned a vast amount of information through this opportunity. Ask your child about their favorite part of their trip to Naper Settlement! Thank you to the parents who volunteered to join us on the trip!
In Reading, we have been digging into informational text. We have been analyzing firsthand and secondhand accounts by looking at their similarities and differences. Students have also had to read several pieces of text to identify the text structure and use evidence to support their thinking. We are currently learning about identifying an author's point of view and using text evidence to support our thinking.
Exciting Start to 2017 for Fourth Grade Students--Updated 1/9/2017
We have had an exciting start to the new year. There are many things we are looking forward to in 2017!
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade and beyond!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and this is all related to waves in water. They will also explore the difference between beach waves and waves deep in the ocean.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade and beyond!
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about waves and motion in Science. They will learn about the terms wavelength and amplitude, observe and identify distance between waves and the height of waves, and this is all related to waves in water. They will also explore the difference between beach waves and waves deep in the ocean.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
4th Graders Examine Points of View with American Revolution--Updated 12/14/16
In Social Studies we are continuing our study of the causes leading up to the American Revolution. The students are investigating some of the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. They will also be developing a newspaper article to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist.
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are starting to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are starting to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and decomposing fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
Fourth Graders Use Google Draw to Design Colonies for Survival--Updated 11/15/16
Fall is here! Students are learning the struggles of starting their own colony, as we have begun studying Colonial America. They are learning to use Google Draw to design a colony, keeping in mind that they need to protect themselves, grow or trade food, and stay healthy from diseases. After their initial design they will meet with small groups to provide constructive feedback on how they can improve their design. They will then have the opportunity to go back and make any changes to help ensure their survival in the New Land.
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. To go along with this concept students have been connecting their skills to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading, we finished reading and discussing The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job making connections to our social studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out!
We have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their personal narratives, focusing on a special memory in their lives. They chose a special memory (watermelon story) and focused on a specific moment from that memory (seed story) to write about. They also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 21st and 22nd. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. To go along with this concept students have been connecting their skills to be able to solve area and perimeter problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading, we finished reading and discussing The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job making connections to our social studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out!
We have learned to identify the structural differences between poetry, drama and prose. Students read several examples of each working on identifying the key structural elements and how they impact the story. While reading several short pieces of literature students practiced identifying the theme and point of view from which the story was told.
In Writing, students have started drafting their personal narratives, focusing on a special memory in their lives. They chose a special memory (watermelon story) and focused on a specific moment from that memory (seed story) to write about. They also worked on adding sensory details to their writing to make their stories come alive!
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 21st and 22nd. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders. We look forward to seeing you then!
Fourth Grade Math Unit: Solve Problems & Explain Thinking--updated 9/11/2016
The 4th graders have had a busy start to the school year! We have completed our MAP testing, and the students did a wonderful job!
In Math, we began the year with learning about the Standards for Mathematical Practices, focusing on analyzing and generating patterns. The practices encourage perseverance, solving problems in many ways and being able to explain your thinking.
Our first unit is on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students will be practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at Illinois state symbols and labeling a map of Illinois identifying important places and bodies of water. We will also be researching Illinois’ geography, economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, the fourth graders have working on building stamina during "Read-to Self" time. This foundation will help them to be a better reader and writer. The students have been learning strategies to use when they are reading independently. They also learned the importance of choosing a “good fit” book. In addition, we are focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read a realistic story, Scared Kelly, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We will also be working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we will review different informational text features and summarize each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the process that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be learning about how the different structures of plants and animals help them to survive. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in Band have received their instruments and are learning how to manage the responsibility of practicing their instrument at home daily along with completing their homework. Many students are also excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to in fourth grade!
In Math, we began the year with learning about the Standards for Mathematical Practices, focusing on analyzing and generating patterns. The practices encourage perseverance, solving problems in many ways and being able to explain your thinking.
Our first unit is on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students will be practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at Illinois state symbols and labeling a map of Illinois identifying important places and bodies of water. We will also be researching Illinois’ geography, economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, the fourth graders have working on building stamina during "Read-to Self" time. This foundation will help them to be a better reader and writer. The students have been learning strategies to use when they are reading independently. They also learned the importance of choosing a “good fit” book. In addition, we are focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read a realistic story, Scared Kelly, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We will also be working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we will review different informational text features and summarize each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the process that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be learning about how the different structures of plants and animals help them to survive. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in Band have received their instruments and are learning how to manage the responsibility of practicing their instrument at home daily along with completing their homework. Many students are also excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to in fourth grade!
Science Fair and End of Year Projects Excite Fourth Graders--Updated 5/09/2016
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Wednesday, May 18th. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedures step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event! We look forward to seeing families and friends joining us for learning about the students’ experiments that day.
For this month, Reading, Writing and Social Studies are incorporated together! In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an "infographic" as a visual way to present their learning.
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for a Wood Dale City Council position. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting a great success! The students had a wonderful time that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math, we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps. Please also make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
For this month, Reading, Writing and Social Studies are incorporated together! In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an "infographic" as a visual way to present their learning.
We also want to congratulate all the students who ran for a Wood Dale City Council position. There was great interest in running for office and the students had fun campaigning and voting for representatives. We also want to thank the Wood Dale Mayor and Aldermen that helped make the 4th Grade City Council Meeting a great success! The students had a wonderful time that evening and we appreciate the support that you gave them.
In Math, we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps. Please also make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max or Khan Academy. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
Fourth Graders Explore the Characteristics of a Hero--updated 4/12/2016
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heroes during the war.
In Reading, we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb. Then we will read “Robin Hood” and discuss if he displays qualities of a hero. Students will decide if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story and use text evidence to support their opinion.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
For Science, students have been working hard on creating and designing their science experiment for the upcoming Science Fair. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 18; information regarding specific times will be going home at the beginning of May. We are excited to see what the students learn from completing the scientific process, and this is always a fun time for the fourth graders!
In Math we are exploring geometry. This unit includes lines, angles, identifying shapes according to their characteristics, and symmetry. The students always enjoy learning about geometry and it provides great opportunities for them to complete many hands-on activities. We would like to remind the students to continue working on Khan Academy at home along with practicing their multiplication and division facts daily.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, and we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Reading, we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb. Then we will read “Robin Hood” and discuss if he displays qualities of a hero. Students will decide if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story and use text evidence to support their opinion.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for Alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
For Science, students have been working hard on creating and designing their science experiment for the upcoming Science Fair. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 18; information regarding specific times will be going home at the beginning of May. We are excited to see what the students learn from completing the scientific process, and this is always a fun time for the fourth graders!
In Math we are exploring geometry. This unit includes lines, angles, identifying shapes according to their characteristics, and symmetry. The students always enjoy learning about geometry and it provides great opportunities for them to complete many hands-on activities. We would like to remind the students to continue working on Khan Academy at home along with practicing their multiplication and division facts daily.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, and we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Fourth Graders Explore Light and Sense of Vision--Updated 03/15/2016
Students are completing PARCC tests this month and we have been working hard preparing them for this state assessment. We are so proud that the students remained focused and tried their best throughout the weeks!
Students are wrapping up their study of light and how we see. They developed a model to describe how light reflecting from objects enters the eye which allows objects to be seen. Students also participated in an in-school field trip focusing on the eye and seeing. They learned about convex and concave lens and how they affect how we see along with how light refracts through objects.
With spring approaching it is a perfect time to study energy! Students will be learning about different forms of energy and how it is transferred.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students will review the Three Branches of Government and they will also learn about the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how these concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer; and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are wrapping up our study of decimals and are starting to work on reading line plots. Students will practice analyzing the line plot and using the information to answer questions regarding the line plot. Next, we will be moving on to exploring geometry, including lines, and angles. Students will be looking at the different types of angles and how to use a protractor to measure and draw their own angles.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Students are wrapping up their study of light and how we see. They developed a model to describe how light reflecting from objects enters the eye which allows objects to be seen. Students also participated in an in-school field trip focusing on the eye and seeing. They learned about convex and concave lens and how they affect how we see along with how light refracts through objects.
With spring approaching it is a perfect time to study energy! Students will be learning about different forms of energy and how it is transferred.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students will review the Three Branches of Government and they will also learn about the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how these concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer; and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are wrapping up our study of decimals and are starting to work on reading line plots. Students will practice analyzing the line plot and using the information to answer questions regarding the line plot. Next, we will be moving on to exploring geometry, including lines, and angles. Students will be looking at the different types of angles and how to use a protractor to measure and draw their own angles.
We hope that everyone is having a great year; we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Fourth Graders Explore Many Meanings of Being a "Hero"--Updated 02/08/2016
In Math, we have been continuing our exploration of fractions and the students have been working very hard. They have mastered how to create equivalent fractions, compare fractions and compose and decompose fractions. They are also working on being able to explain how they arrived at their answer. Having to explain their thinking is a higher level skill which they will be working on for the rest of the year.
In Science, we are finishing the structure and function unit. The students looked at the different structures of a plant and what their function is in the process of plant reproduction. They will then explore light and how light reflecting from objects enter the eye allowing it to see in different lighting. The students will be completing many hands on activities to explore this concept!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the majors battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies; and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles.
The words “hero/heroine” have different means depending on the situation. We discussed people, in history, who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war. In Reading we will be looking at a different type of hero. Students will be analyzing different characteristics of a hero/heroine through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
In Science, we are finishing the structure and function unit. The students looked at the different structures of a plant and what their function is in the process of plant reproduction. They will then explore light and how light reflecting from objects enter the eye allowing it to see in different lighting. The students will be completing many hands on activities to explore this concept!
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the American Revolution. Students are exploring the majors battles and the struggles the colonists went through while fighting for their freedom. The students will also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both armies; and how those affected the outcomes of the different battles.
The words “hero/heroine” have different means depending on the situation. We discussed people, in history, who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war. In Reading we will be looking at a different type of hero. Students will be analyzing different characteristics of a hero/heroine through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Fact Mastery Key to Fourth Grade Fraction Fun--updated 1/12/2016
We have had an exciting start to the new year. There are many things we are looking forward to in 2016!
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about plants and their parts in Science. They will have to defend the position that plants have internal and external structures that help them to survive.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion. Students will also be practicing persuasive writing in many different content areas.
Through many hands on experiences students will learn about plants and their parts in Science. They will have to defend the position that plants have internal and external structures that help them to survive.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
4th Graders Investigate Era of American Revolution--Updated 12/14/2015
In Social Studies, we are continuing our study of the causes of the American Revolution. The 4th graders took a trip back in time to Naper Settlement. There they learned what life was like for children in 1780. The students had a great time doing all the different activities and learning about the struggles the settlers had. This helped the students to understand the struggles the colonists had as we investigated how the Revolutionary Era impacted daily life. The students are investigating the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England.
Students will also be developing a newspaper article to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and multiplying fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
Students will also be developing a newspaper article to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on composing and multiplying fractions. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
During Writing, students finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. We focused on adding sensory details so that readers feel like they were a part of the story.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
Fourth Grade Students Design Colonies with Google Draw--Updated 11/10/2015
Fall is here! Students are learning the struggles of starting their own colony, as we have begun studying Colonial America. They are learning to use Google Draw to design a colony, keeping in mind that they need to protect themselves, grow or trade food, and stay healthy from diseases. After their initial design they will meet with small groups to provide constructive feedback on how they can improve their design. They will then have the opportunity to go back and make any changes to help ensure their survival in the New Land!
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading we are wrapping up The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job at making connections to our Social Studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out! (Author: Jacqueline Davies)
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 23rd and 24th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If, for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders and we look forward to seeing you then!
Students have been working hard in math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Reading we are wrapping up The Lemonade War. The students really enjoyed reading this book and did a great job at making connections to our Social Studies lessons about economy and business competition. There are additional books within this series that students should check out! (Author: Jacqueline Davies)
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences November 23rd and 24th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If, for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders and we look forward to seeing you then!
When 4th Grade Gives you Lemons, Read Lemonade War! --updated 10/13/15
In Shared Reading, we are reading Lemonade War and the 4th graders are LOVING this book, especially because Jacqueline Davies uses such descriptive writing. Students are completing a variety of projects to summarize the story along with making connections to our social studies unit.
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Writing, students started the year off by writing a fantasy story that involved a potion or super powers. It was wonderful to see the students being creative while exploring their writing style. The students also were able to start going through the writing process and understanding what authors do. Next they are going to be working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students will focus on adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. We started off by experimenting with different bird “beaks” and the types of food birds could eat based on their beak type. Then the students labeled a diagram of an animal making sure to label the key internal and external features that help the animal survive. Moving forward, students will then construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations in math. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
In Social Studies the 4th graders are finishing up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
In Writing, students started the year off by writing a fantasy story that involved a potion or super powers. It was wonderful to see the students being creative while exploring their writing style. The students also were able to start going through the writing process and understanding what authors do. Next they are going to be working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students will focus on adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. We started off by experimenting with different bird “beaks” and the types of food birds could eat based on their beak type. Then the students labeled a diagram of an animal making sure to label the key internal and external features that help the animal survive. Moving forward, students will then construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations in math. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Animal Research Among Several Fourth Grade Projects--Updated 9/14/15
The 4th graders have had a busy start to the school year! We have completed our MAP testing, and the students did a wonderful job. Please look for those test results to come home on September 18th.
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois. We will also be researching Illinois’ economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, the fourth graders have working on building stamina during Read-to Self. This foundation will help them to be a better reader and writer. The students have been learning strategies to use when they are reading independently as well as with a partner, such as “back up and reread” and “check for understanding.” They also learned the importance of choosing a “good fit” book.
In addition, we are focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We will also be working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we reviewed different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the processes that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be researching an animal to explore how their animal receives different information through their senses and then how their brain processes that information and then responds to different situations. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in Band have received their instruments and are learning how to manage the responsibility of practicing their instrument at home daily along with completing their homework. Many students are excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to in fourth grade!
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois. We will also be researching Illinois’ economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, the fourth graders have working on building stamina during Read-to Self. This foundation will help them to be a better reader and writer. The students have been learning strategies to use when they are reading independently as well as with a partner, such as “back up and reread” and “check for understanding.” They also learned the importance of choosing a “good fit” book.
In addition, we are focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We will also be working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we reviewed different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the processes that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be researching an animal to explore how their animal receives different information through their senses and then how their brain processes that information and then responds to different situations. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in Band have received their instruments and are learning how to manage the responsibility of practicing their instrument at home daily along with completing their homework. Many students are excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to in fourth grade!
Fourth Graders Prepare to Present Experiments at Science Fair--updated 5/13/15
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on Wednesday, May 20th. They worked on gathering materials, writing a hypothesis, and listing their procedure step-by-step. Students are now ready to analyze their data and make their presentation boards. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event!
In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an infographic as a visual way to present their learning.
In Reading, we have been enjoying the novel Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. The students can relate to Peter, the main character, and they have found Fudge, Peter’s younger brother, very entertaining as he’s been getting into a lot of mischief. The students have been working on answering comprehension questions by providing text evidence, along with comparing and contrasting different characters in the story. Many students have enjoyed this book so much that they have started to read other books that have Fudge as the main character!
Students finished up their measurement and data unit. We focused on volume, mass/weight, length, time, money, perimeter, and area. We are exploring geometry, lines, and angles. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max, Khan Academy, or Kakooma. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
Don’t forget about the 4th grade family writing night on Wednesday, May 13th at 6:30. It will be a great night to learn the importance of practicing writing and how to make it enjoyable with the whole family!
In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate. After completing their research they will be creating an infographic as a visual way to present their learning.
In Reading, we have been enjoying the novel Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. The students can relate to Peter, the main character, and they have found Fudge, Peter’s younger brother, very entertaining as he’s been getting into a lot of mischief. The students have been working on answering comprehension questions by providing text evidence, along with comparing and contrasting different characters in the story. Many students have enjoyed this book so much that they have started to read other books that have Fudge as the main character!
Students finished up their measurement and data unit. We focused on volume, mass/weight, length, time, money, perimeter, and area. We are exploring geometry, lines, and angles. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max, Khan Academy, or Kakooma. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas of struggle.
Don’t forget about the 4th grade family writing night on Wednesday, May 13th at 6:30. It will be a great night to learn the importance of practicing writing and how to make it enjoyable with the whole family!
Science Unit to Spark Interest of Fourth Graders--Updated 04/13/2015
In Reading, we have explored Pourquoi tales. These are stories that tell how something in nature came to be. Then we read Robin Hood and discussed qualities of a hero. Students decided if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story and they used text evidence to support their opinion.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the Police Department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
Science will be electrifying this month! Students will be experiencing many hands on activities to spark their interest in this unit. We will be learning about different types of circuits, electricity, and magnetism. Students will also be analyzing how these concepts are around them and how they are used in their daily lives.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues, students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the Police Department, and hear about the business office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
Science will be electrifying this month! Students will be experiencing many hands on activities to spark their interest in this unit. We will be learning about different types of circuits, electricity, and magnetism. Students will also be analyzing how these concepts are around them and how they are used in their daily lives.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues, students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps.
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
PARCC, Pourquoi, & Measurement--Oh My! --Updated 03/09/2015
Students are completing PARCC this month and we have been working hard preparing for this state assessment. We are so proud that the students remained focused and tried their best throughout the weeks.
In Reading, we will be exploring Pourquoi tales. These are stories that tell how something in nature came to be. After that we will be reading Robin Hood and discussing qualities of a hero. Students will then be deciding if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story and they will have to provide text evidence to support their opinion.
Students are wrapping up their study of light and how we see during Science class. They developed a model to describe how light reflecting from objects enters the eye which allows objects to be seen. With spring approaching it is a perfect time to study energy. Students will be learning about different forms of energy and how it is transferred.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the Police Department, and hear about the Business Office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math, we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system as well as the metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps.
We hope that everyone is having a great year and we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Reading, we will be exploring Pourquoi tales. These are stories that tell how something in nature came to be. After that we will be reading Robin Hood and discussing qualities of a hero. Students will then be deciding if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story and they will have to provide text evidence to support their opinion.
Students are wrapping up their study of light and how we see during Science class. They developed a model to describe how light reflecting from objects enters the eye which allows objects to be seen. With spring approaching it is a perfect time to study energy. Students will be learning about different forms of energy and how it is transferred.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip next month to Wood Dale City Hall so we can see how concepts are put into place in our community. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the Police Department, and hear about the Business Office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math, we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system as well as the metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps.
We hope that everyone is having a great year and we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Field Trip Highlights 4th Grade Study of Colonial America--Updated 2/13/15
In Math, we have been studying fractions and the students have been working very hard. They have mastered how to add, subtract, and multiply a fraction by a whole number, and they are working on being able to explain how they arrived at their answer. Having to explain their thinking is a higher level skill which they will be working on for the rest of the year. Next, the students will be working on converting between fractions and decimals and comparing decimals to the thousandths place.
In Science, we are finishing the structure and function unit. The students looked at the different structures of a plant and what their function is in the process of plant reproduction. They will then explore light and how light reflecting from objects enters the eye, allowing the eye to see in different lighting. The students will be completing many hands-on activities to explore this concept!
In Social Studies, we are wrapping up our study of the American Revolution. To end the unit the 4th graders took a trip back in time to Naper Settlement! (see photos above) There they learned what life was like for children in 1780. The students had a great time doing all the different activities and learning about the struggles the settlers had. This helped the students to understand the struggles the colonists had as we investigated how the Revolutionary Era impacted daily life.
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war. In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
In Science, we are finishing the structure and function unit. The students looked at the different structures of a plant and what their function is in the process of plant reproduction. They will then explore light and how light reflecting from objects enters the eye, allowing the eye to see in different lighting. The students will be completing many hands-on activities to explore this concept!
In Social Studies, we are wrapping up our study of the American Revolution. To end the unit the 4th graders took a trip back in time to Naper Settlement! (see photos above) There they learned what life was like for children in 1780. The students had a great time doing all the different activities and learning about the struggles the settlers had. This helped the students to understand the struggles the colonists had as we investigated how the Revolutionary Era impacted daily life.
The words “hero/heroine” have different meanings depending on the situation. We discussed in Social Studies, people who made a difference to the American Revolution and how they could be considered heros during the war. In Reading we are looking at a different type of hero. Students are analyzing what a different type of hero/heroine could be through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Revolutionary War Explored by Fourth Graders--Updated 1/13/2015
We have had an exciting start to the new year. There are many things we are looking forward to in 2015! On Thursday, February 12th we will be taking a field trip to Naper Settlement. Students will experience what life was like in colonial times by participating in five hands-on activities simulating life of a child during the 1800’s.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion.
In the upcoming weeks students will be analyzing what a hero/heroine truly is through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math, we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy web site to reinforce the skills they learn in class. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills. We have also talked about the importance of knowing their multiplication and division facts during our fraction unit. The knowledge of these facts is essential throughout 4th grade.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then attempt to persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion.
In the upcoming weeks students will be analyzing what a hero/heroine truly is through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Many students are also excited to start group band rehearsal this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30 p.m. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
4th Graders Take on Point of View of Colonists--Updated December 8, 2014
Winter is here and things have been busy in 4th grade! In Social Studies, the students are investigating the causes of the American Revolution and will be creating presentations about the various acts and events. They will be making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. They will also be developing a newspaper article to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we will be talking about point of view to help them with this skill. Students will read an account of the Boston Massacre from one of two different perspectives (the colonists or the British soldiers) and then debate who they feel was telling the truth about the incident.
During Writing, students recently finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. Students are now working on creating descriptive fiction stories. We discussed the importance of having a clear beginning, middle, and end; along with describing a problem and solution. They are really getting into being creative and adding sensory details!
In Math, students are still exploring fractions. They are working on creating equivalent fractions and also changing improper fractions into mixed numbers and mixed numbers into improper fractions. They are using a visual representation to help explain their answer.
The students have been doing explorations of animals and ecosystems in Science. We have discussed how energy travels through food chains and food webs and this will then lead us into discussions about adaptations and what animals have internally and externally to help them survive in their environment.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
During Writing, students recently finished up their personal narrative. They had a lot of fun writing a story about an event that happened to them. Students are now working on creating descriptive fiction stories. We discussed the importance of having a clear beginning, middle, and end; along with describing a problem and solution. They are really getting into being creative and adding sensory details!
In Math, students are still exploring fractions. They are working on creating equivalent fractions and also changing improper fractions into mixed numbers and mixed numbers into improper fractions. They are using a visual representation to help explain their answer.
The students have been doing explorations of animals and ecosystems in Science. We have discussed how energy travels through food chains and food webs and this will then lead us into discussions about adaptations and what animals have internally and externally to help them survive in their environment.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! Stay warm!!
4th Grade Students Design Colonies with Help from Google--Updated Nov. 10, 2014
Fall is here!
Fourth grade students are learning the struggles of starting their own colony, as we have begun studying Colonial America. They are learning to use Google Draw to design a colony, keeping in mind that they need to protect themselves, grow or trade food, and stay healthy from diseases. After their initial design they will meet with small groups to provide constructive feedback on how they can improve their design. They will then have the opportunity to go back and make any changes to help ensure their survival in the New Land.
Students have been working hard in Math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Science we have been studying ecosystems. They are identifying the living and nonliving things in an ecosystem and how they work together. After that they will be looking at how food chains and food webs are affected by an ecosystem and what happens if something is taken out of the ecosystem.
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 24th and 25th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders.
We look forward to seeing you then!
Fourth grade students are learning the struggles of starting their own colony, as we have begun studying Colonial America. They are learning to use Google Draw to design a colony, keeping in mind that they need to protect themselves, grow or trade food, and stay healthy from diseases. After their initial design they will meet with small groups to provide constructive feedback on how they can improve their design. They will then have the opportunity to go back and make any changes to help ensure their survival in the New Land.
Students have been working hard in Math solving double-digit multiplication problems. They are realizing the importance of knowing their basic facts to help them with these more complex problems. Next, we will be tackling long division. Students will be taught how to solve these problems in multiple ways, showing their knowledge of place value to solve the problems.
In Science we have been studying ecosystems. They are identifying the living and nonliving things in an ecosystem and how they work together. After that they will be looking at how food chains and food webs are affected by an ecosystem and what happens if something is taken out of the ecosystem.
Don’t forget that we have Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 24th and 25th. Please make sure you have signed up with your child’s teacher. If for any reason you are unable to make your conference time, please call the office to reschedule. We are aiming for 100% turnout from all fourth graders.
We look forward to seeing you then!
Creativity Skills Enhanced by 4th Grade Reading & Writing--Updated October 14
In Shared Reading, we have finished reading James and the Giant Peach and the 4th graders LOVED this book, especially because Roald Dahl uses such descriptive writing. Students are completing a variety of projects to summarize the story. We will be moving on to start a new novel, There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom focusing on summarizing, inferencing and character development.
In Writing, students started the year off by writing a fantasy story that involved a potion. It was wonderful to see the students being creative while exploring their writing style. The students also were able to start going through the writing process and understanding what authors do. Next they are going to be working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students will focus on adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. The students have been doing research on different animals and comparing which sense is used the most with that animal. Moving forward, students will then construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
In Social Studies the 4th graders finished up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
In Writing, students started the year off by writing a fantasy story that involved a potion. It was wonderful to see the students being creative while exploring their writing style. The students also were able to start going through the writing process and understanding what authors do. Next they are going to be working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students will focus on adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are continuing our study of animals. The focus is on animals and how their senses help them survive in their environment. The students have been doing research on different animals and comparing which sense is used the most with that animal. Moving forward, students will then construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
In Social Studies the 4th graders finished up a unit studying Illinois and our economy. The students created a lemonade business as we explored competition between businesses and what makes a business successful. This project was such a success! Next, we are starting our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Exploration Key for Start to 4th Grade--Updated 09/08/2014
The 4th graders have had a busy start to the school year! We have completed our MAP testing, and the students did a wonderful job. Please look for those test results to come home later this week.
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois. We will also be researching Illinois’ economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, we have been focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We also are working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we reviewed different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the processes that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be researching an animal to explore how their animal receives different information through their sense and then how their brain processes that information and then responds to different situations. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in band are looking forward to receiving their instruments in the upcoming weeks. Many students are excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to!
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40. We would like to remind all students to continue to practice their multiplication and division facts daily.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois. We will also be researching Illinois’ economy, tourism, history, and famous people.
In Reading, we have been focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We also are working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we reviewed different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We introduced students to the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) during these past few weeks during Science. Students are learning the processes that scientists and engineers go through to solve different problems. In the upcoming weeks students will be researching an animal to explore how their animal receives different information through their sense and then how their brain processes that information and then responds to different situations. This will be an exciting time for the students as they share their research.
Students who are participating in band are looking forward to receiving their instruments in the upcoming weeks. Many students are excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to!
Celebrations of Learning Cap Final Weeks of 4th Grade--Updated 05/12/2014
Students celebrated the end of their science experiments with the 2nd Annual Westview 4th Grade Science Fair! Students enjoyed showcasing their final projects to their fellow students, families, and the Wood Dale community. The students had intriguing questions with designed experiments which were showcased in the Westview gym.
The students also participated in the 2nd Annual Arbor Day Celebration with the City of Wood Dale on April 25th. A ceremonial tree planting took place with the help of the Westview Green Team, Mayor Pulice, Alderman Woods, Dr. Corbett, and students and staff of Westview School. Students also received a tree sapling to plant at home thanks to the City of Wood Dale, as part of the Fourth Grade Foresters Program.
Students are now finishing up their Spring MAP testing. Everyone has been working hard to demonstrate what they have learned throughout 4th Grade. The 4th Grade teachers have been very impressed how seriously students have been taking their MAP testing--and their results show this!
In Reading, we are continuing our novel studies including the stories The Kid in the Red Jacket and There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom. Both stories are engaging and offer the students opportunities to infer, predict and make connections. In Writing, we are proud of the students’ hard work on finishing their Young Author stories and they will be presenting them to others in the Wood Dale School District #7 community.
In Math, we will be exploring geometry and symmetry, which the children really enjoy. The 4th Grade teachers would like to remind families that students can continue to practice their math skills by using Khan Academy throughout the summer in preparation for 5th Grade. Parents can also create an account on Khan Academy as well to help monitor their student’s success.
The students also participated in the 2nd Annual Arbor Day Celebration with the City of Wood Dale on April 25th. A ceremonial tree planting took place with the help of the Westview Green Team, Mayor Pulice, Alderman Woods, Dr. Corbett, and students and staff of Westview School. Students also received a tree sapling to plant at home thanks to the City of Wood Dale, as part of the Fourth Grade Foresters Program.
Students are now finishing up their Spring MAP testing. Everyone has been working hard to demonstrate what they have learned throughout 4th Grade. The 4th Grade teachers have been very impressed how seriously students have been taking their MAP testing--and their results show this!
In Reading, we are continuing our novel studies including the stories The Kid in the Red Jacket and There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom. Both stories are engaging and offer the students opportunities to infer, predict and make connections. In Writing, we are proud of the students’ hard work on finishing their Young Author stories and they will be presenting them to others in the Wood Dale School District #7 community.
In Math, we will be exploring geometry and symmetry, which the children really enjoy. The 4th Grade teachers would like to remind families that students can continue to practice their math skills by using Khan Academy throughout the summer in preparation for 5th Grade. Parents can also create an account on Khan Academy as well to help monitor their student’s success.
4th Grade Students Visited by Wildfire "Hot Shot" --updated 04/14/2014
Students are moving forward as scientists as they prepare for the scheduled Science Fair on May 7th! They are working on gathering materials, writing hypotheses, and listing their procedures step-by-step. Please make sure your child is continuing to work on their project at home so they are prepared for the big event!
In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate.
We are also focusing on identifying the main idea and supporting details during reading through exploring informational text about wildfires. Students had the pleasure of experiencing a guest speaker (Mrs. Meiner’s brother), who is a “hotshot” stationed in Idaho. His job is to perform controlled burns to prevent wildfires, along with going into live wildfires to help prevent further damage and assist in helping the fire to “die-out.” He was able to provide students with a firsthand account of what it entails to fight a wildfire and how wildfires burn naturally, along with showing different types of equipment this type of firefighter uses daily.
Students have also been busy measuring during math class. They have been focusing on volume, mass/weight, length, time, money, perimeter, and area. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max, Khan Academy, or TenMarks. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas with which they may struggle.
In small groups, students have delved into researching a region of the United States and will be presenting information about their region’s geography, culture, economy, and climate.
We are also focusing on identifying the main idea and supporting details during reading through exploring informational text about wildfires. Students had the pleasure of experiencing a guest speaker (Mrs. Meiner’s brother), who is a “hotshot” stationed in Idaho. His job is to perform controlled burns to prevent wildfires, along with going into live wildfires to help prevent further damage and assist in helping the fire to “die-out.” He was able to provide students with a firsthand account of what it entails to fight a wildfire and how wildfires burn naturally, along with showing different types of equipment this type of firefighter uses daily.
Students have also been busy measuring during math class. They have been focusing on volume, mass/weight, length, time, money, perimeter, and area. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their multiplication facts in preparation for 5th Grade. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to practice their math skills through Moby Max, Khan Academy, or TenMarks. These are great resources with videos available to help in areas with which they may struggle.
City Council Visit Highlight of 4th Grade Government Study--Updated 03/07/14
Students have successfully completed ISAT testing! We are so proud that the students remained focused and tried their best throughout the week.
In Reading we will be exploring Pourquoi tales. These are stories that tell how something in nature came to be. After that we will be reading Robin Hood and exploring qualities of a hero. Students will then be deciding if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story.
With spring approaching, it is a perfect time to study the water cycle, clouds, and weather instruments. Students will be researching different weather instruments and explaining how technology has improved these instruments.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the Business Office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues, students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps!
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
In Reading we will be exploring Pourquoi tales. These are stories that tell how something in nature came to be. After that we will be reading Robin Hood and exploring qualities of a hero. Students will then be deciding if Robin Hood or the King was the hero in the story.
With spring approaching, it is a perfect time to study the water cycle, clouds, and weather instruments. Students will be researching different weather instruments and explaining how technology has improved these instruments.
Government has been our theme in Social Studies. The students reviewed the 3 Branches of Government and they also looked at the importance of local government. We will be taking a field trip this month to Wood Dale City Hall. Students will have a chance to look at the City Council room, tour the police department, and hear about the Business Office. Students will also have a chance to “run” for alderman, Mayor, City Clerk, or Treasurer, and then attend a City Council meeting.
In Math we are continuing to explore measurement. A great home activity is to practice measuring objects around the house. Students are expected to be able to measure to ⅛ of an inch. As our exploration continues, students will be looking at volume, mass, and time. They are learning to convert within the U.S. Customary system and metric system. Ask your student to explain these steps!
We hope that everyone is having a great year, we are looking forward to warmer weather!
Field Trip and Chromebooks Combine Old and New for 4th Graders--Updated 2/10/14
In Math, we have been studying fractions and the students have been working very hard. They have mastered how to multiply a fraction by a whole number and are working on being able to explain how they arrived at their answer. Having to explain their thinking is a higher level skill which they will be working on for the rest of the year. In our next unit, students will be working on measurement and converting between different units in both the U.S. Customary and Metric systems
In Science, we are finishing the electricity and magnetism unit. The students were able to create different types of circuits using wires, a battery and a light bulb. They really enjoyed these hands-on experiences. They then used the circuits they created to test if objects are insulators or conductors. Our next unit will have us studying weather and different instruments used to measure parts of weather.
In Social Studies, we wrapped up our study of the American Revolution. To end the unit, the 4th graders took a trip back in time to Naper Settlement. There they learned what life was like for children in 1780. The students had a great time doing all the different activities and learning about the struggles the settlers had. Next we will be learning about the U.S. Constitution and government. The students will be analyzing and simplifying the Preamble to the Constitution in order to understand its importance. We will also be exploring the role of our local government.
The students are enjoying all the different activities that they are now incorporating into our daily lessons while using their Chromebooks. We spent a lot of time discussing our positive "digital footprint" along with the responsibility that comes with using the Chromebook. Students need to remember to charge their Chromebooks every night so they are prepared for the school day!
In Science, we are finishing the electricity and magnetism unit. The students were able to create different types of circuits using wires, a battery and a light bulb. They really enjoyed these hands-on experiences. They then used the circuits they created to test if objects are insulators or conductors. Our next unit will have us studying weather and different instruments used to measure parts of weather.
In Social Studies, we wrapped up our study of the American Revolution. To end the unit, the 4th graders took a trip back in time to Naper Settlement. There they learned what life was like for children in 1780. The students had a great time doing all the different activities and learning about the struggles the settlers had. Next we will be learning about the U.S. Constitution and government. The students will be analyzing and simplifying the Preamble to the Constitution in order to understand its importance. We will also be exploring the role of our local government.
The students are enjoying all the different activities that they are now incorporating into our daily lessons while using their Chromebooks. We spent a lot of time discussing our positive "digital footprint" along with the responsibility that comes with using the Chromebook. Students need to remember to charge their Chromebooks every night so they are prepared for the school day!
Fourth Grade Off to Exciting Start in New Year--Updated January 13, 2014
We have had an exciting start to the new year! There are many things we are looking forward to in 2014! On Tuesday, February 4th we will be taking a field trip to Naper Settlement. Students will experience what life was like in colonial times by participating in six hands on activities simulating life of a child during the 1800’s.
In Math we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website working on their individual goals. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion.
Science is electrifying this month! Students are experiencing many hands on activities to spark their interest in this unit. We will be learning about different types of circuits, electricity, and magnetism. Students will also be analyzing how these concepts are around them and how they are used in their daily lives.
Students are analyzing what a hero/heroine truly is through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Many students are excited to start group band practice this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
In Math we are continuing to explore fractions. Students are working on comparing and ordering fractions, as well as adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. We encourage students to spend 15-20 minutes a day on the Khan Academy website working on their individual goals. This practice will help them be more successful with their math skills.
The Revolutionary War is heating up! We will be studying the different battles the colonists fought during the War against the British. They will look at the pros and cons that each side faced while fighting this war. Students will then persuade a friend to join the loyalists or patriots in their fight of the revolution. They will need to use evidence from the informational texts to help defend their opinion.
Science is electrifying this month! Students are experiencing many hands on activities to spark their interest in this unit. We will be learning about different types of circuits, electricity, and magnetism. Students will also be analyzing how these concepts are around them and how they are used in their daily lives.
Students are analyzing what a hero/heroine truly is through reading Sadako And The Thousand Paper Cranes. This is a true story about a girl’s struggle with leukemia as a result of the atomic bomb.
Many students are excited to start group band practice this month. We would like to remind those students to please remember their instruments on Tuesdays, as they will be leaving school at 2:30. Please discuss with your child how they will be getting home from band on these days.
Perspectives of American Revolution Explored by 4th Graders--Updated 12/09/2013
Fourth graders are learning about the different body systems in science. Through becoming an expert on a system, they created a presentation using Google to teach the rest of the class about the body system they are studying. The students have really enjoyed being able to collaborate and teach each other using this project.
In Social Studies, the students are investigating the causes of the American Revolution and creating presentations about the various acts and events. They did a great job of making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. Students are developing news articles to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we have been learning about point of view. Students read an account of the Boston Massacre from two different perspectives and then debated who was telling the truth.
In Writing, students are working on creating descriptive fiction stories. They are really getting into being creative and adding sensory details.
In Math, students are still exploring fractions. They are working on creating equivalent fractions and also changing improper fractions into mixed numbers and mixed numbers into improper fractions. They are using a visual representation to help explain their answer.
In Social Studies, the students are investigating the causes of the American Revolution and creating presentations about the various acts and events. They did a great job of making connections and gaining an understanding of how the colonists felt when they were taxed by the King of England. Students are developing news articles to capture three important events that led to the American Revolution from the point of view of a colonist. During Reading, we have been learning about point of view. Students read an account of the Boston Massacre from two different perspectives and then debated who was telling the truth.
In Writing, students are working on creating descriptive fiction stories. They are really getting into being creative and adding sensory details.
In Math, students are still exploring fractions. They are working on creating equivalent fractions and also changing improper fractions into mixed numbers and mixed numbers into improper fractions. They are using a visual representation to help explain their answer.
Students Study Human Body Systems in "Medical School" Teams--updated 11/08/2013
Fourth grade has started the Body Systems unit in science. They are excited about “being accepted into medical school” to study a body system! The students will be researching a body system and creating a presentation for the rest of the class. In Social Studies the students designed colonies focusing on safety and survival. They then had to defend their design. They also learned about the different jobs in colonies and the geography which caused them to be successful in those jobs. Next, they will be studying the American Revolution and how the events impact our lives today.
Students have enjoyed reading the novel, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing while focusing on summarizing the text and comparing and contrasting characters. Judy Blume has several other books in the series that would be excellent to read at home as a family. Next in Math, students will be exploring fractions. They will have to know what the terms numerator and denominator mean.
Recently, students enjoyed an inspiring visit by G-Man and Erika from AAR Corp. in Wood Dale. They talked to the students about STEM education and the importance of doing your best in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The students also learned about the amazing jobs that are available right here in Wood Dale.
Students have enjoyed reading the novel, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing while focusing on summarizing the text and comparing and contrasting characters. Judy Blume has several other books in the series that would be excellent to read at home as a family. Next in Math, students will be exploring fractions. They will have to know what the terms numerator and denominator mean.
Recently, students enjoyed an inspiring visit by G-Man and Erika from AAR Corp. in Wood Dale. They talked to the students about STEM education and the importance of doing your best in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The students also learned about the amazing jobs that are available right here in Wood Dale.
Fourth Graders Explore Details and Descriptive Writing--updated 10/11/2013
In Shared Reading, we have finished reading James and the Giant Peach and the 4th graders LOVED this book, especially because Roald Dahl uses such descriptive writing. Students are completing a variety of projects to summarize the story. We will be moving on to start a new novel, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing focusing on summarizing, making inferences, and character development.
In Writing, students are working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students are enjoying adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are finishing our study of plants. We will be conducting an experiment about the life cycle of a plant. Next, we will be studying different ecosystems and identifying things that can impact the environment.
In Social Studies, we have started our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
In Writing, students are working on a personal narrative story depicting one memory of their “remembered” life. Students are enjoying adding sensory details to enhance their own descriptive writing.
In Science, we are finishing our study of plants. We will be conducting an experiment about the life cycle of a plant. Next, we will be studying different ecosystems and identifying things that can impact the environment.
In Social Studies, we have started our study of Colonial America. Students will strategically plan their own colony, which will be evaluated by the class to determine if the colonists in their settlement will survive. Students will need to include ideas for protection, transportation, food, and water.
We continue our work with multiplication and division using arrays, manipulatives, and graphic representations. Make sure you keep practicing those facts at home every night with your 4th grader!
Clubs and Activities Highlight Start to 4th Grade Year--updated 09/09/13
The 4th graders have had a busy start to the school year! We have completed our MAP testing, and the students did a wonderful job. Please look for those test results to come home on September 13th.
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois.
In Reading have been focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We also are working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we review different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We are continuing our Science unit on living things by studying how scientists classify all living things into kingdoms. Students will then apply their knowledge to classify animals based on their traits. We will then move on to the plant kingdom, looking closely at how plants grow and make their own food.
Students who are participating in band are looking forward to receiving their instruments in the upcoming weeks. Many students are also excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to!
In Math, we began the year with our unit on Numbers and Operations, focusing on place value. The students have been practicing reading and writing large numbers up to the millions place. Also, they have been working with place value by recognizing the value of a number by where it is located. For example, in the numeral 145, the digit 4 is in the tens place and its place value is 40.
Illinois is our first unit for Social Studies. We are creating Illinois books by researching different topics. We looked at the geography of Illinois, and we compared the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Illinois.
In Reading have been focusing on summarizing both literature and informational text. Students read an adventure story, Akiak, and reviewed the different parts of a summary. They were able to retell the story including: setting, characters, problem, solution, and important events. We also are working on informational text by reading a book called Penguins. While reading, we review different informational text features and summarized each section of the book.
We are continuing our Science unit on living things by studying how scientists classify all living things into kingdoms. Students will then apply their knowledge to classify animals based on their traits. We will then move on to the plant kingdom, looking closely at how plants grow and make their own food.
Students who are participating in band are looking forward to receiving their instruments in the upcoming weeks. Many students are also excited about the opportunity to participate in chorus this year. We have many things to look forward to!