Social Studies
Curriculum Outline
4th Grade
The fourth grade social studies curriculum is an integrated global education program which mirrors the
summer travel opportunities Holton provides for rising Seniors. The seven elements of culture are
understood through the study of African ethnic groups, China, and India. The ecosystem of the Central
American rainforest is studied as is the impact global warming has on this environment.
Core skills covered this year
Skill work is on-going and cumulative throughout the year. Many of the skills taught in fourth grade
social studies support skills which are taught in literature reading and writing classes.
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Map and globe skills
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Identifying main idea and details in texts
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Asking questions
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Organizing content material into well-
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Developing related social studies
developed written paragraphs
vocabulary
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Writing summaries
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Locating information
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Comparing and contrasting cultures
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Beginning note taking
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Making oral reports
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Reading for content
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Write and perform plays
Units of study
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Unit 1: Map and Globes
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Continents and Oceans
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Hemispheres
o
Four main directions
o
Four in-between directions
o
Earth’s movements – rotation and revolution
Unit 2: African Ethnic Groups
o
Seven elements of culture – language, social organizations, economic systems, customs and
traditions, religion, government, arts and literature
o
Ethnic groups – Oromos, Zulu, and Woolf
[Type text]
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Unit 3: The Rainforest of Central America
o
Elements of a rainforest
o
Deforestation
o
Animals of the rainforest
Unit 4: China
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Seven elements of Chinese culture
o
Chinese New Year
o
Democracy / Communism
Unit 5: India
o
Seven elements of Indian culture
o
Religions practiced in India
o
Caste system
o
Mohandas Gandhi
o
Folk tales – writing and performing in plays
Methods of assessment
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Ongoing formative assessment
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Grade level tests and quizzes
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Classroom participation
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Written and oral reports
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Projects
Homework expectations
The girls do not have regular social studies homework. There will be an occasional homework
assignments.
Ways to support your daughter
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Ask her about her social studies program and share your knowledge of the topic.
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Encourage her to ask questions about the topic.
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Discuss current events.
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Get out maps and locate places in the news.
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Use vocabulary she is learning in your conversations with her.
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Enjoy meals at Chinese and Indian restaurants.