Under the umbrella theme of "Me and the World," students in fourth grade explore the concepts of Civilization, Discovery and Change in increasingly sophisticated ways by focusing on developing lines of inquiry and creating understandings within an expanding set of knowledge resources. Fourth graders are expected to be independent learners and problem-solvers, who take responsibility for their own learning.
Theme: Me and My World
Grade/Theme Level Goals:
Recognizes and evaluates significant ideas, concepts, and themes and generate relevant questions to further understanding
Develops an understanding of and respect for diversity in language, linguistic patterns, and dialects across cultures, ethnic groups, and geographic regions
Explores how the arts shape the diverse cultures of the past and present society
Understands how individuals, groups and institutions interact and connect through technology
Concept: Civilization
Concept Questions:
How are civilizations created and maintained?
How does the natural environment affect the growth and development of civilization?
What is the future of modern civilization?
Unit of Study: Ancient Empires (Goals)
Identifies the factors that contribute to a civilization's greatness and decline.
Understands the various ways in which civilizations express their values
Unit of Study: Ancient Empires (Questions)
How can an ancient civilization be both fragile and powerful?
What do civilizations value? (traditions, beliefs and customs)
How and why do the civilizations of the Ch?in, Egyptians, and Mayans differ?
Topic of Study: Egypt and the Nile (Learning Objects)
Ancient Systems of Writing and Math (Enrichment Activities)
Building the Pyramids (Collaborative Project)
