CONTENT AREA OVERVIEW
MATH
Students continue to strengthen their computation skills as they dig deeper into more advanced strategies working with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and geometry. Measurement skills are also advanced. In keeping with the Common Core Standards, the ability to read, interpret, and solve word problems is a focal point in the math curriculum. Students will also be expected to apply writing skills to explain their thought processes.
LANGUAGE ARTS
Grammar: The following areas are developed - types of sentences, capitalization and punctuation, nouns, pronouns,verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositional phrases, use of quotation marks
Writing: Students write regularly in reader response journals in response to self-selected novels. Formal writings include opinion essay, letter, narrative, and research. Focus is given to the six + one traits of writing and the understanding and use of the writing process from brainstorming to final drafts.
Reading: 
Buddy reading with our preschool buddies!
Our goal is to make reading an integral part of each student's life! As students develop the skills necessary for successful and enjoyable reading they will also grow in their love for it. The Common Core Standards will be the guiding force for instruction as students demonstrate growth throughout the year in their reading selections, discussion participation, and writing responses.
SOCIAL STUDIES 
Cranbrook!
4th Graders study the regions of the United States. The economy, climate, products and services, and landforms of each state are studied to use as a point of comparison to our state of MI which is also researched from statehood to current time. Government, citizenship, and economics also make up parts of this curriculum.
RELIGION 
Our Venture weekly covers the Gospel reading for the weekend as well as lessons on prayer, the structure of the Mass, the teachings of the Church, history of our faith, and how we can model our lives on the lives of Jesus, Mary, and all the saints. Though this is a separate subject area, our faith is an integral part of each classroom and daily becomes a piece of other content-area lessons.
SCIENCE 
Phases of the Moon!
Life science:plants, animals (adaptations, classification), food chains/webs, systems of the body
Earth science: Sun, Earth, Moon system, fossils
Physical science: properties of matter, states of matter, electricity and magnets, energy and temperature (heat energy), electrical circuits