Fourth graders are often introduced to more homework and special projects than they're used to from their first three years in elementary school. Organization is a key element in keeping it all together. Give your child at least one folder for each subject (two if the subject involves lots of homework, like math), and have your child label each folder appropriately. Fourth graders need to learn the importance of keeping all their paperwork organized so they don't overlook anything. Parents should look through their fourth grader's folders often, to help him stay organized and recognize areas where he might need extra help.
Many fourth graders have difficulty remembering all of their homework. An important study skill fourth graders should have is writing down all of their assignments in a notebook designated only for this purpose. Students should include the date of the assignment, the date its due, the subject, page numbers, problem numbers and special instructions.
Its important for fourth grade students to know how to identify the main idea from their reading material. Fourth grade students should ask themselves as they read, "What is the author trying to tell me?" "What are the most important facts?" "What is this story about?" "How could I explain this to someone else in one sentence?" Parents and teachers should instruct fourth graders to read the review questions at the end of their reading selections first, and then read the selection with those questions in mind.
Fourth graders are often assigned special projects with deadlines. These projects are outside of their normal homework routine. Students need to learn how to start their projects early enough to finish on time, without procrastinating. They need to learn the importance of setting a timeline, sticking to their schedule, and taking care of small details while keeping their eye on the big picture.
Completing homework correctly becomes crucial to earning high marks in the fourth grade. At this point in their academic career, students should know to come home and sit quietly without distractions like television or loud music, and complete their assignments before dinner. Since the increase in responsibility can be overwhelming, fourth graders should also know how to take breaks and use deep breaths for relaxation.
Asking for help is one of the most important study skills for fourth graders. They should feel comfortable admitting to a parent or teacher when they're overwhelmed, rather than struggling alone.