Mathematics

Bridges Math for 4th grade focuses on deepening conceptual understanding through activities, visual models, and problem-solving, covering topics like place value and rounding, multi-digit multiplication and division, fraction and decimal equivalence, and geometric properties. The curriculum emphasizes building fluency and understanding complex concepts by linking them to real-world applications and fostering a positive math identity in students. 

Key Areas of Focus in Bridges Grade 4 

Place Value and Whole Number Operations:

• Students work with place value up to one million, practice rounding, and develop fluency in multi-digit multiplication and division using strategies based on place value.

Fractions and Decimals:

• The curriculum focuses on understanding fraction equivalence, adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators, multiplying fractions by whole numbers, and writing fractions as decimals (e.g., with denominators of 10 or 100).

Geometry and Measurement:

• Students analyze and classify geometric figures based on properties like parallel and perpendicular sides and angle measures, while also measuring and sketching angles.

Factors and Multiples:

Students learn to find factors and multiples of numbers, understand prime and composite numbers, and use these concepts in various problems.

Goal for Students

The overarching goal of Bridges Math is to equip students with a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, develop strong procedural fluency, and cultivate their ability to solve challenging problems in a rigorous and engaging way. 

Literacy

Fourth-grade CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) is a comprehensive program that builds on the Science of Reading, integrating foundational skills with content-rich units on topics like the Middle Ages, Native Americans, and geology. The program focuses on developing students' reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through a blend of literature, history, geography, and science content. Each unit includes read-alouds, reading and writing activities, vocabulary, grammar, and assessments.

Key Aspects of 4th Grade CKLA

• Integrated Approach:
  Unlike earlier grades, 4th grade CKLA integrates both foundational skills and content knowledge into a cohesive whole. 

• Content-Rich Units:
  Students engage with 8 to 9 units throughout the year, covering diverse topics like: The Middle Ages, Geology, Treasure Island, Native Americans, Ancient Greece, The War of 1812 

• Skill Development:
  Instruction focuses on developing:

  • Reading for details, dialogue, and action 

  • Inferring character and theme 

  • Vocabulary and background knowledge 

  • Morphology and spelling 

  • Narrative and opinion writing 

• Daily Structure:
  A typical day includes read-alouds, whole-group and small-group reading, close reading, and writing activities. 

Program Philosophy & Materials

• Science of Reading:
  The program is built on research demonstrating that reading proficiency requires both word recognition (decoding) and language comprehension. 

• Knowledge Building:
  A key component is building background knowledge and vocabulary through engaging, rich texts, which students often find motivating. 

• Materials:
  The program includes Teacher Guides, Student Readers, and Student Activity Books. 

• Assessments:
  Unit assessments are included to gauge student comprehension and mastery of skills.