In fourth grade math class, we progress on from simple addition and subtraction, to more complicated addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. We also learn about fractions, decimal numbers and work with story problems to deepen their learning of math concepts. Understanding place value of each number is essential, which is why I placed this place value chart on this page. Having the students know this and continue to practice and understand what the value of each number is depending on where it is placed, helps them comprehend the variety of learning concepts in fourth grade Math.
We begin our day with a review of different mathematical concepts on daily sheets called ADD4 or with questions on the board to repeat a similar lesson from the day before. We then have a full math session at a different part of the day, which moves through the state standards in a sensible and progressive format. At the end of each week, we also do a speed round of multiplication we call Mad Minute to achieve not only speed, but also give them a sense of comfort with the basic facts that helps them with all of the other work we do.
All of the 4th grade classroom teachers meet each week to plan our math lessons together. By having this commitment to each other, we can be working on the same concepts and also discuss what works best to make our time with the students the most effective it can be. This is very helpful to all of us.
We have been incorporating the Common Core that is sweeping the nation in mathematics. It is an exciting challenge that has the teachers presenting material differently and the students learning in a deeper way that can show true comprehension rather than just memorization. There are more story problems to solve and requests to have students show different processes of how they get to a solution. We have all been given the opportunity to have Professional Development on the Common Core and continue to find fantastic information online that we have been able to incorporate into our curriculum. It is an exciting time to be a Math teacher!