Welcome!
Fourth grade is an essential learning year for students, as it bridges lower and upper elementary. Students tackle more problem solving and independent learning and are expected to take ownership of their own learning. Teachers and parents will work together to ensure that students are on track to success!
4th Grade Teachers
Reading/Language Arts
Our reading program incorporates many different components. Students will be participating in guided reading groups, whole group instruction, and independent reading. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in Literature Circles (group discussions about a common book).
The writing program takes students through the writing process, encouraging them to continually improve their writing. Students will work in groups and with the teacher to brainstorm, create drafts, revise, edit, and publish their writing.
Math
Our math series is focused on problem solving as well as calculating answers. To enhance problem-solving skills, students will engage in hands-on experiences, cooperative group work, and journal writing.
In addition, mastery of basic facts (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) is essential to upper elementary math. Students should practice their basic facts every day.
Science
Science will involve many hands-on experiences to help the students grasp some abstract concepts. Students will learn about the scientific process and will have the opportunity to design and carry out their own experiments. In the second semester, students will participate in individual or group science projects and will be able to display their findings in the science fair.
Social Studies
In social studies, students will study geography and history, especially as they relate to Maryland. Students will engage in a variety of activities to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
Homework
Students will be assigned homework every night. Please check your child’s agenda nightly to make sure all assignments are completed.
- Students will be expected to read 30 minutes every night.
If students do not complete daily work (reading or math assignments, etc.), they will be expected to finish these assignments in addition to assigned homework.
Grading
Student grades in each subject are calculated through a combination of homework, class work, and assessment grades. Below are the guidelines for each letter grade.
A
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90-100
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This is reserved for excellence, a step above everyone else. The student performs well above average. Works hard and work is always complete.
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B
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80-89
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Consistently strong performance. Work is completed.
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C
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70-79
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Average. Learns new concepts through many repetitions. Student completes work.
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D
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60-69
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The student is working below grade level. Student performance is one year (or less than one year) below grade level.
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E
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Below 69
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The student is working more than one year below grade level. Student work is usually incomplete or not turned in at all.
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Behavior Management and Rules
In order to provide our students with the excellent educational climate they deserve, the students and teachers together have developed the following rules that will be in effect at all times.
Classroom Rules
- Be respectful toward yourself and others.
- Be prepared for class.
- Be on time and stay focused.
If a student chooses to not follow classroom procedures, they will be given a verbal warning. If a student continues to disregard procedures, the teacher will make a note on the class behavior chart. Student behavior reports will be sent home in the Wednesday Folder.
Parent-Teacher Communication
- Agenda
- Please check student agenda nightly to make sure your student has completed all assignments.
- Wednesday Folder
- The Wednesday Folder will include a weekly behavior report, graded assignments, and any flyers to be sent home.
- Please review all documents and sign the behavior report.
- Phone/E-mail
- Teachers can be reached via phone or e-mail. The school phone number is 301-445-8423. The teachers’ e-mails are listed at the top of this page.
- Conferences
- Parents may request a conference at any time by e-mailing the teacher, sending a note with their student, or calling the school. We will try to coordinate a time that is convenient for everyone involved.