It’s been another wonderful week here in fourth grade!
Transitioning Into Fractions
This week in math, our fourth graders have been making an exciting transition, building on their knowledge of factors and multiples to ascend into the world of fractions! They’re using what they already know to tackle new concepts with curiosity and determination. Students began by learning about the two key parts of a fraction: the denominator and the numerator. The denominator tells us how many equal parts the whole is divided into, while the numerator shows how many of those parts there are. The class has been focusing especially on understanding common denominators, which help students compare and work with fractions more easily.
The class has also been learning to place fractions on a number line, helping them see where fractions fit in the bigger picture of numbers they already know. Using their knowledge of factors and multiples, students are now blending that knowledge with finding equivalent fractions. For example, they’re discovering that 1/2 is the same as 2/4 or 3/6, and they’re learning to explain why!
Human Body Investigation With A Guest Expert
Our fourth-grade students have been thoroughly enjoying their exploration of joints, muscles, and bones as part of our human body unit! This week was especially exciting as we welcomed a special guest into the classroom. Dr. Michael Wildstein, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon and class parent, visited to share his expertise on the spine.
The class was captivated as Dr. Wildstein spoke about his profession and the vital role the spine plays in keeping our bodies healthy and strong. Students were fascinated to learn about the spinal cord, nerves, and how the spine helps control so many functions in the body. He also tied in key concepts we’ve been studying, such as stimuli, joints, and bone strength.
To wrap things up, Dr. Wildstein even led the class in a fun (and challenging!) plank activity to promote spinal health. It was an unforgettable learning experience that brought our science unit to life!
We love having guest experts and getting to expose our students to real world experiences with connections to what they learn in the classroom, thank you Dr. Wildstein!
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Fun With Specials
Students have been loving getting into routine with their special classes this year. Fourth graders have especially enjoyed choir with our new teacher, Mr. Andy! Through doing new warm ups, learning new songs, and even working together to create three part harmonies, fourth graders are engaged and excited for what’s to come.
Students have also been enjoying quiet yoga in the mornings, afternoons learning new phrases in Spanish with Miss Stephanie, and learning songs on their ukuleles with Mr. Noodle!
