April Newsletter

1. April Newsletter F O U R T H G R A D E In math, we are reviewing all math skills taught so far this year in preparation for the NYS Math exam. We are also focusing on solving multi-step problems by reading closely and using strategies taught in class to solve these problems. Lastly, we are doing test sophistication in order to navigate the test better. In Reading, we are working on putting together the skills that we have been working on all year. Students will be learning how to read several texts of various genres and answer text dependent questions. They will be developing their ability to make claims about what theyhaveread and support these claims with specific evidence from the text. This work will help to prepare students for the work they will have to do on the fourth grade ELA exam. In Writing, our next unit will be writing narrative compositions and trying to cement the basic elements of a narrative. The students will then expand on their writing by using previously learned and newly taught writing strategies. In April, our focus includes a heavy grammar component. In Social Studies, we will continue learning about the development of New Amsterdam and the Dutch West India Company. They will learn what it was like to live during colonial times. They will also learn about the contributions that enslaved Africans played in the growth of New Amsterdam. We will also look at evidence of early Dutch roots in New York City today. Important Dates: NYS ELA Exams – April 16, 17 & 18 NYS Math Exam – April 24, 25 & 26