4 Grade Mathematics

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Teacher:
Miss Collins

Contact:
ask.miss.collins@gmail.com

Our Website:
gcmath.weebly.com/4th

Course Goal:
The main intent of mathematics instruction is for students to value and use mathematical thinking to investigate and understand the world.

Course Description:
By the end of grade four, students develop quick recall of the basic multiplication facts and related division facts. They develop fluency with efficient procedures for multiplying multi-digit whole numbers, understand why the procedures work, and use them to solve problems. Students recognize decimal notation as an extension of the base-ten system. They relate their understanding of fractions to decimals. They generate equivalent fractions, simplify fractions, and identify equivalent fractions and decimals; compare and order whole numbers, simple fractions, and decimals to hundredths; and estimate decimal or fractional amounts in problem solving. Students use transformations, including those that produce line and rotational symmetry. Students understand area as a measurable attribute of two-dimensional regions. They select appropriate units, strategies, and tools for solving problems that involve measuring area. They connect area measure to the area model for multiplication as a way to justify the formula for the area of a rectangle.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Develop a positive learning attitude toward mathematics. Become effective problem solvers by selecting appropriate methods, employing a variety of strategies, and exploring alternative approaches to solve problems. Reason logically, using inductive and deductive strategies and justify conclusions. Communicate mathematical ideas and arguments coherently to peers, teachers, and others using the precise language and notation of mathematics. Connect mathematical ideas within mathematics, to other disciplines, and to everyday experiences. Represent mathematical ideas in a variety of ways.

Course of Study:
I. Place Value and Operations with Whole Numbers
Place Value, Addition, and Subtraction to One Million Multiply by 1-Digit Numbers Multiply by 2-Digit Numbers Divide by 1-Digit Numbers

4th Grade Math

Factors, Multiples, and Patterns

Syllabus

II. Fractions and Decimals

Fraction Equivalence and Comparison Add and Subtract Fractions Multiply Fractions by Whole Numbers Relate Fractions and Decimals

III. Geometry, Measurement and Data

Two-Dimensional Figures Angles Relative Sizes of Measurement Units Algebra: Perimeter and Area

Grade Categories & Weights:

Participation Homework Quizzes Tests Projects Journals Portfolio 10% 15% 15% 35% 10% 5% 10%

Materials:
Saxon Textbook Notebook Binder 2 folders* Portfolio Binder/Cover**

*One folder will be used to carry assignments back and forth from school; another will be used for quizzes and tests, which will remain in Miss Collins room for reference and can be accessed at any time **Any sort of binder or cover can be used for the portfolio as long as papers are secured and easily flipped through, i.e., folders without binding may NOT be used

Grade Categories
A Closer Look

I. Participation (10%):
The participation grade is composed of three elements: Enter/Exit Pockets, In-Class Group Work and InClass Individual Work. See explanations of each below Enter/Exit Pockets: Each student has been assigned a pocket in the classroom that holds a card with new assignments for each day. To receive all participation points in this area, students must complete the Enter task written on the assignment card upon entering the classroom. If a student does not complete this task before the official start of class, he/she will lose 1 participation point. Similarly, the students must complete the Exit task before leaving the classroom to receive an additional participation point. If a student is unsure how to

4th Grade Math

Syllabus

complete the task, he/she must ask for assistance or write I dont know on the assignment card. If an assignment card is left blank, the student will lose his/her participation points for that area. (2points total) In-Class Group Work/In-Class Individual Work: To receive all participation points in these areas, students must demonstrate effort in class, remain on-task, avoid disrupting other students, and attempt to communicate their ideas effectively to their peers and to Miss Collins. (1point total)

II. Homework (15%):

Students should expect homework assignments almost every day. Homework is an opportunity for the students to try the material on their own and is also an opportunity for the teacher to assess what they know and are able to do. To receive full credit for homework assignments, students must (1) attempt every problem, (2) show all work, (3) follow the directions listed on the assignment, and (4) make corrections to the assignment in pen when we review it during class. Students will NOT be docked points for incorrect answers; therefore copying answers from others will only hurt the student. (4 points each)

III. Quizzes (15%):

Quizzes will be administered periodically throughout the school year. After the quizzes are graded, students will be asked to correct their errors as a take-home assignment. Students may regain up to half of the missed points by successfully completing their corrections. For example, if a student received a 70% on the quiz and a 100% on the corrections, he/she regained 15% of the missed points, so the final quiz grade would be 85%.

IV. Tests (35%):

The course is divided into 3 Core Concept Areas. Each Core Concept Area is sub-divided into multiple Topics of Study (see Course of Study on Syllabus). Each topic will be tested individually.

V. Projects (10%):
Projects will often be started in-class and completed outside of class. Some will be completed individually and some will be group-based. Specific directions for each project will be provided when assigned.

VI. Journals (5%):

Journal entries will be assigned once a week. Students will be asked to verbally describe mathematical processes and thinking using relevant mathematical vocabulary. Some computations may be included. Specific directions for each journal assignment will be provided. Assignments do NOT need to be written in a separate notebook.

VII. Portfolio (10%):

A portfolio is a collection of student work that demonstrates student growth, reflection and development of mathematical problem solving skills. Students will create and choose a variety of entries to place in their portfolio throughout the year. Each Topic of Study (Listed in the Course of Study in Syllabus) will be represented in the portfolio so that it may be used as a reference in the coming years. Students will be given more specific instructions on how to complete their portfolio before the completion of the first Topic of Study.