1. Welcome to Curriculum Night Folsom Elementary 4 th Grade

3. Course Map  Roadmap of content covered, estimated timeline for each course and how course is vertically aligned.

4. Reading/Writing Instructional Approach… The elements of a Balanced Literacy approach are as follows: Read Aloud Shared Reading Guided Reading Independent Reading Word Work/Vocabulary Shared Writing Interactive Writing Writing Workshop Independent Writing

5. Spelling/Word Work  The purpose of Word Study/Word Work instruction is to develop and promote fluent writing. Research shows that students need to develop strong visual images of whole words and demonstrate correct Englishspelling in everyday writing. (Fitzgerald Method and Marie Clay’s Method). The traditional method of memorization of spelling words does not support the development of spelling skills. Word Study allows students to observe words to discover their patterns and conventions in order to read, write, and spell.

6. Social Studies 45 minutes of instruction The elements of a rigorous and relevant social studies classroom in PISD include: DBQ Project – A coordinated plan for advanced level and technical writing in the social studies classroom. (4 th grade and up) Charts/Maps/Graphs – A primary source for interpreting, analyzing and application of data. Inquiry Based Learning – Learning how to solve, defend or develop knowledge or solutions. Content Area Reading and writing – Read materials that are related to social studies and apply historical writing techniques. Primary Sources – Original materials that have not been altered or distorted in any way. Examples are not limited to the following: music, time period speeches, articles, maps, photographs or artifacts.

7. Math Prosper ISD math teachers use a variety of teaching methods including: modeling, inquiry, direct instruction, guided practice, interactive models, differentiated tasks, electronic demonstrations, and cooperative learning.

8. UPS Check and Reflect Problem Solving Model  Prosper ISD will be implementing a standard problem solving model for students in grades K-12.  Math problem solving should be based on an understanding of any problem, initiate a plan, execute it, and evaluate the reasonableness of the solution.

10. Science 45 minutes of instruction Inquiry-based learning, use of technology, and investigative activities promote high engagement and curiosity of our students. Therefore, the Prosper ISD Science classes seek to:  Promote and support all aspects of effective science teaching, including new technologies and instructional strategies;  Encourage the natural curiosity of learners at all levels;  Increase scientific literacy and the application of science to everyday life;  Promote science as a vehicle for lifelong learning for all students;  Assume a leadership role in advocating for science education and creating an understanding of the value of science.

11. Technology usage in the classroom…  Chrome Books  Student devices  Promethean  School Wires  Laptops

12. Extensions and Challenges  Differentiation  Small group instruction  Pre-assessment  Formative assessment  Data to drive instructional decisions

13. Intervention/Tutoring  Small group instruction  Data to drive instruction – MAP, Fountas and Pinell Benchmark Assessment, TPRI, curriculum based assessments, etc.

14. Homework…  Will be written in planners on Monday  Homework will be given on Monday & due on Thursday  Read 20 minutes each night

15. Learning and Working Together Daily  Schedules & Rotations  4 th Grade 2-Person Team  7:45-8:15- Rotation 1  8:15-9:15- Specials  9:15-11:15- Rotation 1  11:15-11:55- Rotation 2  12:00-1:00- Recess/Lunch  1:00-2:45- Rotation 2  2:45-Dismissal Exceptional Classroom  Expectations  Planners  Management  REACH

16. Communication  Friday Emails  School Wires Website  Skyward Messages  ConnectEd  Email/Phone Calls  Parent University (Prosper ISD Web Site)

17. Conferences  Phone calls from homeroom teachers  Conferences on an as-needed basis

18. Our Contact Information  Michelle Jackson(Math/Science)  mkjackson@prosper-isd.net  Katie McLain (ELAR/Social Studies)  kvmclain@prosper-isd.net kvmclain@prosper-isd.net