Grade Four Language Arts instruction builds on the literacy skills that were introduced at the primary levels.

Standards include:

• Reading - Focus on literature, informational text, and fluent reading

Students will be introduced to a variety of strategies to enhance critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. Reading will be focused on a classroom library that will showcase a balance of genres including a higher emphasis on informational texts. A focus will be on comparing and contrasting first hand and second hand accounts of the same event. In addition grade four students will focus on comparing and contrasting the treatment of similar themes and topics in stories, myths and traditional literature from different cultures. Students will continue to develop comprehension strategies in all academic areas. A focus will be on strengthening their thinking with providing evidence from texts. Building and applying key vocabulary in all areas of academics will be a critical focus.

• Writing - Focus on producing narrative, informative, argumentative, and research writings

• Speaking and Listening - Focus on multi-media components along with formal and informal presentations

Students produce organized writing appropriate to the task and purpose is a goal. Students will present their knowledge through formal and informal speaking, as well as writing and digital formats.

Language/Word Study - Focus on phonics, word recognition, conventions, vocabulary, and grammar

Number corner

Mini-lesson

Independent practice, small groups, 1-1 conferencing

Sharing/Reflection