Fourth Grade

In the beginning of each school year, fourth graders work collaboratively on a design thinking project to imagine the ideal classroom, from the set-up of the classroom library to the guidelines of respect they will follow throughout the year. Each homeroom agrees on a set of rules that align with the Lower School Foundations, which sets the groundwork for a respectful, cooperative learning environment for the year ahead.

Favorite characters come to life in the Lower School library, where our boys develop a love of reading. While reading and responding to stories, the boys practice a number of important skills, including how to:

• Locate and select a variety of materials for reading pleasure
• Use the library’s resources to satisfy classroom assignments and personal inquiries
• Research topics with understanding of strong sources
• Use information technology responsibly

The fourth graders develop independence in reading on a deeper level by learning how to infer, evaluate information, compare and contrast, and more. Fourth graders read a wide variety of books throughout the year in whole and small group settings. Many of the books and topics discussed are tied to the Social Studies units of study each trimester. Fourth graders also work diligently on constructing meaningful responses to their reading in both writing and discussion with peers. 

In writing, students benefit from the highly differentiated Writer's Workshop curriculum. Students are encouraged to move at their own pace as they practice writing for a specific audience - bringing a story to life in narrative writing, adopting a formal teaching tone in Informational writing, and posing a convincing argument in persuasive/opinion writing. Students also practice grammar skills and language conventions, including word parts and etymology.  

Haverford uses the Kódaly approach to teach boys to read increasingly more intricate melodic and rhythmic notation through a rich variety of authentic folk music from America and around the world. Boys continue their study of reading music and performing in the Treble Choir. In fourth grade, boys may elect to receive a year of study on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. Ensemble opportunities include Treble Choir, Fantastic Fords, String Ensemble, and Chime Choir.

Science offers active, experiential, and collaborative learning engagement. Boys employ a hands-on, minds-on approach to learning the scientific method. Areas of study include:

• Technology and Design: Engineering and Robotics
• Life Science: Animal Behavior and Anatomical Structures
• Earth Science: Rocks and Minerals, Earth’s Movement and Astronomy
• Physical Science: Phases of Matter, Acids/Bases, Forensic Chemistry, Electricity and Magnetism

Within units of study that include Pennsylvania state history, the U.S. in the 1800s/westward expansion, and ancient Greece, students deepen their background knowledge. Students build skills in conducting research, evaluating sources for credibility, and understanding that there are many perspectives of history. Hands-on projects allow students to actively engage with and apply their understanding of historical concepts, as well as develop abilities to ask questions and investigate answers.

Our Athletic Department and sports programs not only promote athleticism, but also camaraderie, sportsmanship, fair play, and good competition. The major areas of focus in the fourth grade program include:

• cardiovascular endurance
• muscular strength, endurance & flexibility
• foot-eye and hand-eye coordination
• swimming and pool safety
• cooperative games implementing physical skills

All activities in our curriculum are designed to foster the skills necessary for our boys to be successful in their athletic interests, develop character through sportsmanship and cooperation, and promote participation and enthusiasm.

Performing arts is an integral part of the Lower School experience, beginning in kindergarten with the rehearsal and performance of a show illustrating American symbols. As students progress through Lower School, they engage in signature programs like the second grade African drumming and dance. Each boy receives instruction in music, dance, and performance art as part of The Haverford School curriculum, preparing him for the burgeoning Middle and Upper School theater programs.

Fourth grade boys have advanced capability to manipulate materials, enabling them to create a variety of inspiring work. Their artistic endeavors incorporate both three-dimensional and two-dimensional creations. Boys are challenged to cultivate their verbal skills and artistic awareness as they speak about their own work and discuss the work of others. They refine their mastery of pencil, graphite, painting, ink, and ceramic mediums.