Fourth-grade children focus on proper usage of the English language, as well as spelling. Sentence structure is emphasized by teaching parts of speech, capitalization and punctuation. Listening and speaking skills are developed to check for understanding of instruction. Children learn to research and write for a mixture of readers in different writing styles. A variety of literature styles are used to support students in building comprehension and analyzing skills.
Fourth-grade math standards in Tennessee highlight applying mathematical reasoning and problem solving using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Understanding the value of whole numbers, fractions and decimals is taught as basic algebraic skills are introduced. Students meet measurement standards by applying skills to calculate length, area, volume and weight.
Students ask questions, explore, make predictions and collect data from scientific activities. Tennessee fourth-grade science standards cover a wide range of topics including cellular life, energy, matter, heredity, Earth's place in the universe, geological features of our planet, weather, gravity and motion. The use of appropriate technology and how it can be used to solve problems is emphasized in the science standards, as well.
Fourth-graders in Tennessee study the history of America from ancient civilizations to the mid-1800s. State history is also covered. Children learn about the diversity of cultures and civilizations in America and Europe. Basic economic concepts and purposes of government are covered. Students study geography of the Earth, geography of Tennessee and locate physical landmarks around the globe.
The fine arts standards encompass theater, dance, visual arts and music. Students work on demonstrating rhythm, choreographing movement, understanding that dance can be a form of communication in a variety of cultures and writing basic critiques of dances.
In theatrical education, fourth-graders will practice simple improvisation and writing basic scripts. The children use their written scripts while creating appropriate scenery and learn how to direct their peers in a theater production. Children also learn how to draw meaning from stage performances.
Fourth-graders explore different types of media and techniques in the visual arts. Children study and apply basic symbolism in their art and learn about imagery in art from other cultures. They also work on critiquing their own works of art, as well as providing constructive criticism for their peers.
Music standards include singing a variety of musical styles, performing on simple instruments and improvising using both of these mediums. Students learn musical notation and apply it in basic compositions. The children also compare and contrast music from a assortment of cultures and historical periods.
Students in fourth grade learn the basic operations of computers to increase productivity and encourage creativity. Keyboarding standards aim to have students typing 15 words per minute by the end of fourth grade. Instructors focus on the responsible use of technology while teaching children to cooperate and correspond appropriately via computers. Students are trained to conduct proper research on topics, as well.
The purpose of health and physical education standards is to give children the skills to make informed decisions for their overall health. Students learn good hygiene skills, how systems of the body work, what body changes are taking place at their age, the importance of physical activity and providing balanced nutrition for their bodies. Children also receive instruction in preventing and caring for disease and injury. Chemical abuse is discussed, as well as tools for promoting personal safety from different types of abuse.
Fourth-graders continue to build their gross motor skills through a multitude of physical activities. Listening and comprehension skills are used to learn correct rules and behaviors for organized games. Physical fitness is emphasized to promote healthy lifestyles.
The Tennessee career guidance standards focus on teaching students that they can be successful with academic tasks, social skills and future careers. Fourth-grade students work on listening and study skills. Children also begin to explore future career options.
The main purpose of teaching foreign language to fourth-graders is to encourage students to communicate with each other. Children learn simple greetings, statements and questions in a specific language to speak with their peers. While learning a different language, children are given the opportunity to explore other cultures, also.