The first section of the fourth-grade math standards addresses numbers and operations. This section specifies that students must expand upon their understanding of whole numbers. This understanding includes the rounding of numbers when necessary. Additionally, students must expand their understanding of the addition and subtraction of decimals and fractions. This section has seven standards specifying the skills that must be mastered.
The second section of the fourth grade GPS addresses measurement using standard and metric units. The student must use both units to measure weight and compare standard units to metric units. Additionally, the student must measure angles using such basic devices as a protractor. The student must understand the concept of adding the three angles in a triangle to a total of 180 degrees.
The third section of the standards addresses geometry. Fourth graders must use examination and construction to understand the characteristics of geometric figures. The student must understand edges and faces of solid shapes such as the rectangular prism and cube. The student must use ordered pairs to specify locations in the coordinate plane.
The fourth section of the standards addresses the relationship between quantities and their use in problem solving. The fourth grade mastery of algebra requires the student to use patterns to solve problems. Symbols are used to represent missing numbers. The student must progress to creating and evaluating mathematical expressions containing symbols and numbers.
Students should be able to gather and display data. The student must compare different types of graphs. The student must understand pictographs, bar graphs and Venn diagrams. This understanding is accomplished through the comparison of a given data set displayed on different graphs. The student must have a basic understanding of the mode, median and range of a data set.
The fourth grade student must become proficient in five general process standards with multiple skills specified in each. The student must solve problems through the use of appropriate technology, must reason and evaluate mathematical arguments and must communicate mathematically with peers, teachers and others. The student must connect mathematical concepts with other disciplines and represent mathematics in multiple ways.
The Georgia Performance Standards serve to make the content of mathematics manageable for students and teachers. Multiple teaching methods are specified to increase understanding and mastery. The content is presented in such a manner that the student can progress through the sequence by using reasoning rather than memorizing separate facts. The standards emphasize reasoning, problem solving, connections, representation and communication.