Fourth Grade
During the month of January, fourth grade math consisted of learning that both decimals and fractions are used to represent numbers that are between whole numbers. Much of our math unit at the beginning of January focused on understanding fractions, adding and subtracting fractions, comparing and ordering fractions, finding equivalent names for fractions, and finding decimals equivalent to given fractions. We also explored probability by using decks of cards and spinners to predict the likelihood of certain outcomes.
Fourth graders have been diligently working to improve their writing skills. As authors, we have been using powerful verbs, descriptive adjectives, similes, metaphors, hyperbole, dialogue, and other literary elements in our writing. Our goal has been to write so well that the reader can"picture" the events in our stories, thus heightening the reader's enjoyment and comprehension. In order to do our best, we continue to focus on the whole writing process which includes prewriting, drafting, revising/editing, and publishing. We had the opportunity to show off our writing skills during the NeSA-Writing Assessment which was administered on January 24-25th.
Heat energy was the focus of our science unit during much of the month of January. Although it may seem as if the timing of this topic was a bit off seasonally, the majority of our learning focused on designing insulators that would slow down the movement of heat. We talked about how conserving heat energy is a real-life concern of Nebraskans during the winter months.
We finished our unit on Native Americans on the Plains in social studies. The kids showcased what they learned by picking a Nebraska tribe, doing research, and making a file folder report. The favorite part for all fourth graders was getting to create a diorama for their assigned tribe. The projects turned out great! Towards the end of the month, we started our government unit. Our state government, with focus on the Unicameral, was a key topic. Students also learned about our governor and some of his roles, our state legislator, and some facts about our state capitol.
