Reading
We are about to begin learning and applying the comprehension strategy of determining importance during reading workshop. The students will be reading a variety of passages and texts and determining the difference between interesting and important information. As always, I will begin by modeling, and then the kids will eventually apply the strategy on their own. When applying their strategies independently, they will be doing so using fiction and nonfiction texts that are appropriate for their reading level.
Writing
With the start of the New Year, we will begin a new genre in writing. The kids will learn how to craft an informational piece. The purpose of the informational piece is to teach others about their selected topic which will focus on American history. The reading comprehension strategy of determining importance will be applied as the kids research their topic and read carefully to determine which information is most essential.
During the mini-lesson portion of writing workshop, I will model the note taking process for the kids using texts from Reading Workshop. Mini lessons will focus on note taking (paraphrasing and quoting information), citing research, and using text features to elevate the complexity of writing. This unit will be about two months long. During this time the kids will write several informational pieces and learn how to write with a teaching tone. They will become experts on their topic along the way.
Math
In January we will continue our math unit on measurement and shapes. In this unit the kids will learn about the US Standard System of Measurement as well as the Metric System. They will learn how to convert from one unit of measurement to the other, calculate perimeter and area, classify polygons, measure angles, and how to accurately use measurement tools. Learning will be differentiated through small group instruction as well as extension activities that will challenge all students.
Social Studies
We will soon come to the end of our Social Studies unit on Colorado History. We have been learning about the Gold Rushers, European Explorers, Fur Traders, Settlers, and Native Americans. Our study of these groups has involved the analysis of the positive and negative impact each group made on the other group and how each group influenced our current culture. Ultimately, the kids will select which group of people they feel had the most influence on CO. They will then construct a persuasive essay using the skills they learned in our essay writing unit to persuade their classmates why they believe their selected group was the most influential.
As we conclude our unit on Colorado History, we will begin “ Young Ameritowne”. This is our unit on financial literacy. The students will learn how to manage a budget, invest, weigh opportunity costs, and how to successfully interview and maximize their abilities, to name just a few. There are many opportunities for parental involvement in this unit. The fourth grade team will be sending information about these volunteer positions in the next few weeks.
