The number system is the foundation for mathematics. Students expand on their previous knowledge of place value. They read and write numbers through 1,000,000. They read, write and round decimals to hundredths place. Fourth graders explore the relationship between fractions and decimals, and convert mixed numbers to improper fractions.
Students expand their knowledge of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division in fourth grade. They demonstrate mastery of the multiplication tables and related division facts. In addition to computing whole number problems, they also work with fractions and decimals. Students add and subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators, and they add and subtract decimal numbers.
Students develop an understanding of variables and use them in formulas and equations. They understand that there is an order of operations requiring multiplication and division to be done before addition and subtraction. Students estimate and identify where whole numbers, decimals and fractions are positioned on a number line.
Students develop their sense of space and expand on their ability to work with three dimensions. Fourth graders identify, describe and draw angles and quadrilaterals. They know the properties of a rhombus and a trapezoid. They identify congruency and symmetry. They construct three-dimensional objects, such as cubes.
Fourth grade students measure to the nearest millimeter and eighth-inch. They gain confidence in using measurement tools. Students find the area and perimeter of simple shapes, such as squares and rectangles. They understand elapsed time and can add and subtract time intervals.
Students read and interpret various types of graphs and tables. They collect and organize data and create graphs to communicate their findings. Fourth graders work with experimental probability. They can estimate simple outcomes and conduct experiments to verify their estimates.
Students apply various problem-solving strategies, such as making tables, drawing diagrams and acting out a situation. They become more adept at determining whether or not a solution is reasonable, and they can defend their solutions. They understand that there is usually more than one way to solve a given problem.