At Spring Hill, Algebra is introduced in the 4th grade. The Key to Algebra series by Key Curriculum Press provides a set of ten workbooks that build on each other and provide concentrated practice and repetition for different concept areas.  Basic symbolism and terminology, operations and properties, methods of solving equations, and polynomials are emphasized.  Workbook study is combined with group activities which explore practical applications of algebra.

Fourth graders continue to work in math groups at their own levels. All math groups cover the basic concept areas that are recommended by the California State frameworks for different grade levels. The fourth grade math group uses Sadlier Oxford Progress in Math. The program emphasizes student interaction and discussion and is designed for group and individual learning.

SCIENCE

Students learn to use an inquiry approach to science. The scientific process of observing, raising questions, interpreting information, hypothesizing, and communicating is emphasized throughout the course content.  Students learn to use models, keep records, and devise investigations.  Students are taught to articulate concepts and reasoning behind explanations and to challenge non-scientific ideas. Topics covered are inventions, earth science, water properties, systems of the body, and health issues. All students participate in the school science fair.

All students receive an additional science period in our Life Lab each week. Life Lab is a garden classroom and living laboratory that teaches environmental sciences and stewardship. More information can be found on the Life Lab curriculum description.

READING, WRITING, & LANGUAGE ARTS

Students explore English literature and content areas such as history, science, and geography through reading. Different genres are analyzed as students learn about settings, plots, and characterizations. Classroom discussions and essay questions are used to evaluate various aspects of quality literature and poetry. Students are encouraged to read daily at home. Books are made available in subjects connected to the curriculum.

Students learn proper grammar and punctuation through their writing. Formal lessons vocabulary and spelling are given weekly. Sentence structure and parts of speech are emphasized. Spelling lessons include digraphs, diphthongs, irregular plurals, compound words, prefixes, and suffixes.  Instruction is given in making an outline, organizational skills, note taking, writing a summary, and constructing a bibliography. Students publish a class newspaper, enter poetry and short story contests, and write a research paper and a play.
 

PUBLIC SPEAKING
Students practice public speaking skills through oral presentations on different topics. Speaking skills are also reinforced in group discussions, problem solving, and responding to questions.  Students learn to speak clearly, focus on their topic, organize their thoughts and develop confidence.

A chronological history of ancient civilizations (Sumeria, Egypt, Indus Valley, China, Greece, Rome, Inca, and Mayan) is presented. This includes writing, developing visual art and research skills, analyzing and synthesizing information, creating time lines, and honing understanding and political thinking skills.  Students learn how to link the past to the present.  Each civilization is explored through its religion, art, inventions, social stratification, politics, subsistence, and cultures.  The end of each unit is celebrated with costumes, games, plays and food prepared by the students.

Geography focuses on map reading, locating places, comparing maps, and map making.  Physical features, political boundaries, climatic regions, environments, and human characteristics (kinds of housing, transportation, ways of earning a living, languages, and religions) are emphasized.

FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Spanish:  Students develop an appreciation for Hispanic culture through games and reading.  Basic conversational skills are practiced and tested through hands-on activity, role playing, and field trips.

Latin:  As students are discovering ancient civilizations they are also exposed to Latin for the first time.  The study of this old language helps students expand their vocabulary and understanding of grammar.