Language Arts
The girls continue to develop appreciation of literature, expository and creative writing skills, use of correct grammar and awareness of spelling patterns. Oral and written research skills are integral parts of the program. The girls read novels, short stories and poems from different genres, fantasy, historical fiction and myths. They enjoy independent "book talks" and reader response journal writing, which highlight the various genres of study. Additionally, the production of projects, nonfiction critiques, creative dramatics, fairy tale skits and biography portrayals encourage active reading strategies. Factual and inferential comprehension skills, ascertaining cause and effect, finding main and supporting ideas, and building vocabulary are all integral to their learning.
The writing program aims to guide students to communicate in a creative, clear and cohesive manner. Writing is taught as a process that includes brainstorming, drafting a rough copy, conferring with peers and teachers, revising and proofreading for a final copy. Students are encouraged to experiment with language, using fresh images and figures of speech, while being mindful of correct grammar and spelling. A research paper about a famous Pennsylvanian incorporates all of these skills. Fourth graders also publish their own books and host a book publishing party for their parents at the end of the school year. The books are added to the Lower School library.
Mathematics
Students pursue more advanced work in mathematics with all basic operations, plane and 3-D geometry, fractions and decimals, numeration and estimation, measurement, functions and sequencing, ratios and rates, data analysis and graphing, problem solving, and probability. Topics of study also include percent, exponents, the coordinate plans and the use of variables in open sentences. While computational proficiency and automaticity with basic number facts remain as goals, students are guided to further develop their mathematical reasoning and communication skills. Mathematical tools, manipulative materials and games continue to play an integral role in learning. Fourth Grade also registers for the Math Olympiads, a voluntary program that encourages interested students to join grade level teams that participate in math contest throughout the school year again other teams nation-wide.
Social Studies
The main focus of Fourth Grade social studies is Pennsylvania history. The year begins with a study of the Lenape, a Native American tribe indigenous to this area, and concludes with the topic of Philadelphia architecture. Map skills are applied to Pennsylvania geography, helping students relate history with geography. Reading comprehension is emphasized through a variety of non-fiction materials and analytical reading exercises. Students’ non-fiction writing, organization, and time management skills are further developed by long-term research assignments. Hands-on projects, dramatic skits, and field trips enhance the students’ understanding of Pennsylvania history. A highlight of the spring is when parents are invited to the “Wax Museum,” when students dress up as a famous Pennsylvanian about whom they have written a research paper. Each girl “becomes” the person she has studied, speaking eloquently from a historical perspective to her audience.
Science
Grade IV students use their prior experience with the scientific method of inquiry to turn their questions and predictions into hypotheses. They are strongly encouraged to create detailed observation reports and to record data accurately, as they developmentally shift from intuitive to logical thinking. Grade IV focuses on three organisms that live in “edge” environments, and how each one has physical adaptations that help it survive and thrive. The concepts of density and mass are addressed. Students also investigate air, water, and sound pollution.
Art
Fourth Graders continue to develop a broader understanding of the cultural and historic influences that affect the world of all artists.They are introduced to artists whose work requires a more sophisticated understanding of the world around them; each student then creates her own work inspired by a direct response to the artists being studied.The students expand their knowledge of the elements of art while working with materials and techniques that are more challenging.
Music
In Fourth Grade the girls refine and expand the vocal and instrumental skills mastered in previous years.They sing music representative of many styles and periods and learn to sing from choral scores.Through extensive two-part work, they develop stronger reading skills and vocal independence.Their work with mallet instruments and an introduction to choir chime ringing enhance both rhythmic and melodic skills.They expand their understanding of musical concepts such as form, harmony, dynamics, and timbre through analysis of vocal, instrumental, and listening examples.The girls participate in several vocal performances each year.
Foreign Languages
In Fourth Grade, students are assigned to study the Spanish language for the year. Building on the Third Grade experience, students develop their aural and oral skills as they learn and use basic vocabulary and expressions in the target language, follow commands, as well as repeat and pronounce words with good intonation. The material is introduced in the target language with the help of visual props and gestures through total physical response activities, songs and games. The students are able to recognize written words and use them in small written projects, dialogues or skits at the end of every unit. These classes continue to focus on the Spanish culture and aim to foster appreciation for study of the different languages and various cultures including a visit to the Barnes Foundation to conclude a study of Spanish artists.
Physical Education
Girls continue to work on skills commensurate with units covered in earlier grades. The girls are introduced to the rules and positions of team games. The girls are moved from lead up games to sports. Rules and strategies are incorporated in the instruction.It is the hope of the PE program to use competition to increase the girls’ desire for skill proficiency and cooperation in team play.Teamwork, fair play and healthy competition are continually encouraged.Scrimmages and games are played in each unit to enable the girls to feel competent to compete in each sport. Physical fitness testing is administered two times a year. This is used to help the girls evaluate their fitness levels and improve/maintain all areas.Swimming is taught each trimester.More emphasis in swimming is put on speed and competitive techniques including starts and turns.Throughout the year the girls compete in Blue and Gray games, and in the spring, compete in a swimming meet and Field Day.