Dear Fourth Grade Families,
We have started our second math unit today, Tuesday, October
15th. To begin the unit, we will explore the base-four number system. This exploration allows for new and deeper
understanding of our base-ten number system.
However, the larger focus of the unit will be practicing models and
strategies of multiplication with larger numbers. Students will explore the meaning of
multiplication and its properties. They
will develop and practice efficient models and mental strategies for
multiplying.
Students have completed a pre-assessment on the skills that
will be presented in this unit. Our team
has used this data to create five classes, organized so that each student can
work successfully at their rate and level.
All five classes will be covering the fourth grade standards for this
unit. Our roles and pacing as teachers is based on the results of the
pre-assessments, as well as student pacing and post-assessment during the last
unit.
Mrs. Caton’s class will work at an accelerated pace. Students in this class demonstrated mastery
in some Bridges content for this unit, and a strong understanding of the
remaining content. When complete mastery
of skills and concepts is shown through class assignments and homework, M3
(Mentoring Mathematical Minds) curriculum will be used to extend their
thinking.
Ms. Brown’s and Mrs. Hirata’s classes will work at a
standard 4th grade pace, accelerating and compacting instruction
when necessary. Students in these classes
have demonstrated some previous understanding of Bridges content for this
unit. When mastery of skills and
concepts is shown through class assignments and homework, extensions will be
provided.
Mrs. Hunting-Knight’s and Mrs. Largo’s classes will be working
at a standard 4th grade pace.
Students will explore the Bridges content through use of manipulatives,
sketches, and algorithms. Both classes
will have additional adult support provided by Alameda paraprofessional staff. This additional support is for students within
the class who have shown a need for classroom pacing that allows more time to
review and practice of newly acquired skills.
Extensions and modifications will be provided as needed, based on
classroom performance.
The purpose of organizing math classes in this manner is to
best meet each student’s needs in regards to the concepts and skills in each
unit. Please feel free to contact your child’s classroom teacher with any
specific questions or concerns you may have. Below you will find all fourth
grade teachers’ email addresses for your convenience throughout the unit.
Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Team
Kimberly Hunting-Knight Abby
Largo Marisa Hirata
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