Elementary
Grade 4
The fourth grade curriculum centers on the concept of culture.
What are the aspects of culture? How do we learn our culture? Why is it important to study other cultures? Students study Ancient Greece and African Cultures, such as the Yoruba of southwest Nigeria. They learn about elements of culture, what culture is, how cultures change, and the importance of understanding and appreciating other cultures.
Language Arts
In fourth grade, students develop their communication skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, so that they can receive information and express themselves as clearly as possible. Material in the reading program is often related to the theme, and students read high-interest chapter books for direct reading instruction. In fourth grade, students’ writing experience includes writing poetry, expository paragraphs, formal letters, research reports, general fiction, and personal experiences.
Mathematics
Fourth graders expand their understanding of the field of mathematics to include both computational and non-computational skills/concepts. The focus is on enabling students to think and develop a firmer foundation of place value, number sense, and strategies to help solve a variety of problems. We explore multiplication, division, geometry, real-life problems, measurement, data interpretation, logical reasoning.
Click here to view the entire Grade 4 Curriculum, which includes a comprehensive overview of Science, Technology, World Language, the Arts, and Athletics, as well as information on Language Arts and Mathematics.
Example of theme projects during the year:
Our “field trip” to four regions in Africa was incredible. After a great deal of research and group work, the students created a 40-minute presentation for the school that included green screen filming, combined with on-stage acting. Four groups simulated trips to Mali, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Tunisia, visiting a variety of places and bringing the continent's diversity to life for the entire CRS school community.
In addition, our study of the Olympics is a huge undertaking that culminates in a morning-long simulation of the ancient Olympic Games. Students study the ancient Olympics, modern games, and Paralympics. They divide into ancient Greek city-states, learn about their particular culture, and work together to create an artistic gift to the Olympics, as well as design a pentathlon event based upon a specific skill that relates to their city-state.
In addition, our study of the Olympics is a huge undertaking that culminates in a morning-long simulation of the ancient Olympic Games. Students study the ancient Olympics, modern games, and Paralympics. They divide into ancient Greek city-states, learn about their particular culture, and work together to create an artistic gift to the Olympics, as well as design a pentathlon event based upon a specific skill that relates to their city-state.
Sports & Activities
Grade 4 has instructional field hockey in the fall, robotics in the winter, and instructional lacrosse in the spring.
Chorus
The CRS Chorus (Grades 4-8) repertoire is an eclectic blend of jazz, pop, folk and classical styles. The chorus performs at Winter Festival, on May Day/Grand Persons' Day, as well as at sharing assemblies during the school year. The emphasis is on enjoyment of singing and ensemble experience while developing control of pitch, dynamics, diction and harmonization. Chorus meets early Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
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Affiliations
Charles River School is a PreKindergarten through Grade 8 independent school that honors the pursuit of academic excellence and the joy of childhood. We nurture each child by igniting curiosity, encouraging creativity, and cultivating intellectual engagement. Our graduates know themselves, understand others, and shape the future of our diverse world with confidence and compassion.