By the end of third grade, children build foundational skills in various subjects. So, what should a 4th grader know? A 4th grader should know how to use language effectively across subjects, applying writing and reading skills in math, social studies, and science. In math, they should have a strong understanding of multiplication and how to use it in problem-solving. They also develop critical thinking skills, expand their vocabulary, and improve their ability to express ideas clearly in writing and discussions, preparing them for more advanced learning. Below, we'll explore 48 essential skills that every fourth grader should master.
What Do Kids Learn in 4th Grade?
What do kids learn in 4th grade? Fourth graders learn essential academic skills in reading, writing, math, social studies, and science. They explore different fiction genres, analyze texts, and develop structured writing. Math focuses on multiplication, fractions, and problem-solving, while social studies covers geography, early American history, and cultures. Science introduces concepts like the solar system, matter states, and animal classification. Additionally, they enhance their social and critical thinking skills, preparing them for advanced learning.
What Do 4th Graders Learn? Essential Skills & Subjects
What do 4th graders learn? Fourth graders at a 4th grade level expand their reading skills by understanding different genres, determining the main idea, and comparing information across multiple texts. In writing, they learn to structure essays, use linking words, and apply grammar rules like punctuation and parts of speech. Math skills focus on mastering multiplication, solving multi-step word problems, and understanding fractions and large numbers. Social studies introduces geography, early American history, and cultural developments, while science covers topics like the solar system, states of matter, and classifying animals. Beyond academics, 4th graders develop social skills such as working independently, following directions, and engaging in group activities to enhance collaboration and critical thinking.
What a Fourth Grader Should Know: Key Academic and Social Skills
Here is an example checklist of what a child needs to know at a 4th grade level before starting fourth grade (the checklist can vary based on your state’s academic standards).
4th Grade Reading
- Understand different genres of fiction
- Determine the main idea and details in a story
- Use other forms of print (newspapers, magazines, websites)
- Compare and contrast information in multiple texts and learn how to use organizational methods (Venn diagrams, maps, webs)
- Recall and retell events from a story in order
- Tell how the author uses details to support their story or text
- Discuss a story or topic with their classmates (ask and respond to questions)
- Read grade-level assigned books
4th Grade Writing
- Use linking words (because, since, therefore, for example)
- Know how to write a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
- Know how to revise, edit, and proofread their work
- Know how to write expository, descriptive, persuasive, and narrative essays
- Use prefixes, suffixes, homophones, and root words
- Write in cursive (depending on your district)
- Use reference books (dictionary, thesaurus)
- Know proper punctuation
- Understand the parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives)
4th Grade Math
- Work with larger whole numbers
- Solve two-three step word problems
- Know times tables up to twelve and how to multiply numbers by ten
- Know how to solve and explain addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems
- Read and write up to six-digit numbers
- Understand and identify fractions
- Know how to compare two fractions (ex: 1/2 is bigger than 1/4)
- Understand and know the value of money
- Solve problems using money
- Understand weight and volume
- Begin to master multiplication
- Read charts and graphs (bar graphs, pie graphs)
4th Grade Social Studies
- Basic understanding of a map
- Know major rivers and why they are important
- Know the importance of Ancient Rome
- Research and explore the thirteen colonies
- Master Native American culture
- Know how methods of travel changed throughout time
4th Grade Science
- Know about the stars
- Know about natural system relationships (sun, Earth, moon)
- Recognize and know that the same materials can exist in different areas (solid, gas, liquid)
- Observe behaviors of sound and light
- Make smart predictions about an experiment
- Master classifying animals (vertebrates vs. invertebrates, warm-blooded vs. cold-blooded)
Social Skills and Abilities
- Work independently
- Interact with peers and explore concepts
- Work cooperatively in a group
- Follow directions and participate in group activities
- Share and communicate appropriately with other students
- Respect their peers
- Sit for a longer period of time than in third grade (90 minutes)
What Should a 4th Grader Know by the End of the Year?
What should a 4th grader know by the end of the year? By the end of fourth grade, students working at a 4th grade level should confidently have a strong grasp of reading comprehension, including analyzing multiple texts, understanding main ideas, and discussing stories with peers. Writing skills should include structuring essays, proofreading, and using proper grammar and punctuation. In math, they should confidently solve multi-step problems, work with fractions, and understand place value. Social studies knowledge expands to geography, early American history, and cultural developments, while science covers concepts like the solar system, states of matter, and classification of animals. Additionally, fourth graders should demonstrate independent learning, cooperative teamwork, and effective communication skills, preparing them for the challenges of fifth grade.
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Read the Rest of the Series!
Have multiple children in multiple grades? Read the rest of the series!
- 21 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Kindergarten
- 45 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering First Grade
- 45 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Second Grade
- 43 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Third Grade
- 48 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Fourth Grade
- 49 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Fifth Grade
Sources:
- "Grade-by-Grade Learning: Third Grade." PBS. Public Broadcasting Service, 20 Sept. 2012. Web. 30 Aug. 2017.
- GreatSchools Staff | February 24, 2016 Print Article. "Third Grade: What Your
- Child Should Know." Parenting. Great!Schools, 24 Feb. 2016. Web. 30 Aug. 2017.
- Morin, Amanda. "Academic Skills Your Child Needs for Fourth Grade." Understood.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Aug. 2017.
- Taylor, Melissa. "What Your Third Grader Should Know." Sylvan Learning Blog. 21, Nov. 2014. Web. 30 Aug. 2017.
- Tornio, Stacy. "25 Things Every 3rd Grader Needs to Know." WeAreTeachers. 19, Oct. 2016. Web. 30 Aug. 2017.
