Language Arts
Wayland Union Schools utilizes the Reader's and Writer's Workshop model for Language Arts Instruction. Our district utilizes the Lucy Calkins Units of Study for Reading and Writing as the basis of our Language Arts program but supplement based on the needs of students, which vary from year to year. For the 2024-2025 school year, teachers of grades K-5 are piloting additional ELA programs including Superkids, HMH Into Reading, and Bookworms.
Essential Standards for 4th Grade Language Arts:
- Interpret information presented visually, orally, or quantitatively (charts, graphs, timelines, etc) and explain how the information contributes to an understanding of the text in which it appears.
- Determine the meaning of general academic words or phrases in a text relevant to a 4th-grade topic or subject area.
- Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says.
- Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
- Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on 4th-grade topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
- Produce clear and coherent writing that is appropriate to the task, purpose, and audience.
- Summarize key supporting details and ideas in a text.
Mathematics
Essential Standards for 4th Grade Math:
- Multiply and divide a 4-digit number by a 1-digit number, multiply two 2-digit numbers
- Identify all of the components of the place value system
- Compare fractions and determine equivalent fractions
- Add and subtract simple fractions
- Determine factors and multiples of numbers
- Understand and use targeted math vocabulary words
Parents looking to help their child with math at home might find the following resources useful.
Science
In fourth grade, students build on previous knowledge by investigating energy, natural resources, and Earth’s processes. Mystery Science presents questions like "What causes earthquakes and volcanoes?" and "How is energy transferred?" to guide students through lessons on earth science, energy conservation, and ecosystems. They’ll engage in activities that deepen their understanding of renewable resources, the rock cycle, and the impact of natural events, fostering critical thinking about the environment and human impact on Earth.
Social Studies
In fourth grade, students focus on the history and geography of their state, as well as the broader regions of the United States. They’ll learn about Native American history, early explorers, colonial America, and statehood, gaining a deeper understanding of how their state and country were shaped. The Studies Weekly curriculum also covers government and civic responsibility, teaching students about the structure of the government and important documents like the Constitution. Students will begin exploring economic principles and the role of different industries, both past and present, in shaping society.
