English Language Arts

Fourth grade students strengthen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills through engaging literature and informational texts. Using the Reach for Reading program, students explore themes connected to science, culture, and real-world topics while developing strong communication skills. 

• Read a variety of texts including myths, folktales, fantasy, informational texts, and realistic fiction

• Build vocabulary through Greek and Latin roots, figurative language, and word study

• Practice grammar skills including nouns, verbs, pronouns, adjectives, and sentence structure

• Develop writing skills through narrative, opinion, and informative writing projects

• Participate in reading discussions, comprehension activities, and small-group learning

• Strengthen spelling, vocabulary, and penmanship throughout the year

Mathematics

Fourth grade math builds a strong foundation in number sense, operations, and problem solving. Students develop confidence working with larger numbers, fractions, and real-world math applications. 

• Understand place value and work with numbers up to the millions

• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide multi-digit numbers

• Explore factors, multiples, and number patterns

• Develop a strong understanding of fractions and decimals

• Learn measurement concepts including area, perimeter, time, and volume

• Study geometry concepts such as angles, lines, symmetry, and shapes

• Interpret graphs and data through hands-on problem solving

Religion

Fourth grade religion focuses on helping students grow in their faith and understanding of God’s love. Students learn about Scripture, the teachings of Jesus, the Ten Commandments, and how to live as disciples through service and kindness. 

• Study the Bible and God’s plan of salvation

• Learn about the Holy Trinity and the life of Jesus

• Explore the Church community and the Sacraments

• Study the Ten Commandments and Beatitudes as guides for Christian living

• Connect faith to the liturgical seasons such as Advent, Christmas, and Lent

• Practice prayer, reflection, and service to others

 

Science

Students explore scientific concepts through hands-on investigations and collaborative problem solving using the Amplify Science program. Lessons encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and real-world scientific inquiry. 

• Investigate energy and energy conversions

• Explore vision and the science of light

• Study Earth’s features and natural processes

• Learn about waves, sound, and information transfer

• Conduct experiments and engage in scientific discussions

Social Studies

Fourth grade social studies focuses on California history and geography, helping students understand how our state developed and the cultures that shaped it. Students explore important historical events and places that connect to California’s past. 

• Study the history of California and early explorers

• Learn about the California missions and Junípero Serra

• Explore Native American cultures and early settlements

• Understand how geography influenced California’s development

• Connect historical events to modern California

The Fourth Grade Experience

Fourth grade is a year where students grow in independence, responsibility, and confidence. Students begin taking greater ownership of their learning as they complete larger projects, conduct research, and write structured essays.

Throughout the year, students participate in engaging, hands-on projects such as designing a tool for their community using the design thinking process in science and building a California Mission as part of their social studies curriculum. 

Students also take on leadership roles within the school community. As members of the Green Team, fourth graders help teach younger students about recycling, composting, and caring for our environment.

Faith and community are an important part of the year. Fourth grade students help lead and collaborate in prayer services, including Multicultural Day and All Souls Day, and participate in the beloved St. James tradition of the Nativity scene during the Christmas concert.

Field trips are closely connected to the curriculum and may include visits to the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Mission Dolores, the San Francisco Zoo, and SFMOMA, giving students opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom.