Quane, Mrs. Susan (Math 3-4)

Math Curriculum

The concepts developed in 3^rd and 4^th grade are surprisingly similar. The degree of mastery expected in each grade is different. Concepts are introduced, practiced, and eventually mastered. This process takes years. So, what was introduced in 2nd grade will be practiced again in 3^rd grade and developed further in 4^th grade. Place value, money, adding, subtracting, algebra, multiplication, division, time, data, graphs, geometry, measurement, fractions, decimals, and probability are the content areas.

Due to the volume of our textbooks, I am moving as quickly as possible through the first chapter. There will be short periods of time when I will not follow our text. After Chapter 1 the 4th grade will focus on multiplication and division. Third grade will focus on multiplication and division in December. I prefer to develop multiplication and division as fact families as I did with addition and subtraction. Our text presents them differently.

Twice a week I try to begin class with a three minute review of basic skills. Students check their work and take it home for immediate reinforcement. Only work with a percent grade is included in the student’s trimester average.

Homework

Homework is given every night. When it is not written work students should study basic facts of addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. I expect all homework exercises to be answered to the best of the student’s ability. Students should look on their paper or in their text for help. They can ask a parent, sibling, or call a friend for help if they can’t remember what we did in class. Textbooks may be taken home anytime. One homework assignment will be corrected by me each week. All other homework assignments will be corrected together in class. I explain how to do the exercise and write the answers correctly on the board. This offers additional visual and auditory practice. Students take papers home nightly for immediate reinforcement. Ask to see your child’s work each day. If a child does not complete a homework assignment, an “Academic Warning” will be sent home to be signed and returned by a parent or guardian. On the fourth warning, an academic detention will be issues to the student.

Tests and Quizzes

All tests and quizzes must be signed by a parent and returned the next day.  Students will be warned about tests but not always before a quiz.  I will pass back quizzes before tests to be used at home as study guides.

Communication

We need to work together to make this a successful year for your child.  Please call me whenever you have a question or concern. It is always better to resolve issues while they are small. When in doubt, contact me.