Language Arts comprises reading, writing, listening, speaking, and language study. This is a large focus of our day and is often incorporated into Science and Social Studies.
~Wit and Wisdom
Aquarian uses the Great the Wit & Wisdom curriculum as the foundation of our Language Arts instruction. This rigorous, thoughtfully scaffolded program challenges students to read, think, and write deeply while building the skills they need for success in middle school and beyond.
Through close study of complex texts, often connected to our science and social studies units, students develop background knowledge, analyze themes and points of view, and strengthen their vocabulary. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are integrated throughout the curriculum, with the goal of fostering both strong academic skills and a lasting love of learning.
Click below for information on each Wit & Wisdom module.
Module 1, Module 2, Module 3, Module 4
~Independent Reading/Home Reading
In addition to our Wit & Wisdom curriculum, students will have daily independent reading time, a favorite part of the day! We will create a “choose your own adventure” reading challenge to encourage exploration and choice. Home reading is equally important, and students are expected to read about 25 minutes each day. Some children will find this easy, while others may need support as they build this habit. Your involvement, reading with and to your child, helps foster a love of reading and supports their growth as lifelong readers and thinkers.
~Spelling
Spelling will be incorporated into our Language Arts program. There will not be weekly spelling tests or work. We will work to improve spelling in writing through word study, proffreading and using spell check well.
Science
Fourth-grade science themes are Energy and Interdependence with Life on Earth. In the first semester, students learn about different forms of energy, including mechanical and electrical energy, through hands-on experiments with motion, circuits, and energy transfer. In the spring, students study watersheds and ecosystems, learning how living and nonliving components interact and how energy from the sun flows through food webs. They also examine how environmental changes and human activities impact ecosystems and explore ways science can help protect and restore natural habitats.
Social Studies
This year, students will explore world geography, ancient civilizations, Indigenous cultures of North America, and the era of global exploration. They will build map skills, examine how geography shapes cultures, and learn about cultural encounters and their impacts from multiple perspectives.
Health and Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Aquarian uses the Great Body Shop health curriculum. We will also use various SEL materials to promote good social interactions and a growth mindset. Human Growth and Development will also be part of our studies.
Field Trips
We will take several field trips this year. We love family help on these educational and fun trips!
Anchorage Museum, Campbell Creek Science Center to name a few
Spring - Seward Sealife Center - May
We will also do a few cultural field trips with Alaska Junior Theater.
End of the Year celebration/5th grade promotion on the last day of school.