Bible

Using the "Building Life's Castles" Bible curriculum, fourth graders systematically study what God's Word says about subjects pertaining to the life and work of Christ, the Holy Spirit, Christian living and the life of Paul. Bible memory verses are also learned and recited throughout the fourth grade year.

History

The fourth grade history curriculum covers United States history from the discovery of North America to present day from a Christian perspective. Our Nation's history is divided into time periods, each with an overview of historical facts while highlighting the development of America's Christian heritage. Our year-long study includes field trips to Ft. Vancouver and the End of the Trail Interpretive Center, as well as special Oregon and State projects and guest presenters.

Mathematics

The fourth grade Saxon Mathematics program is organized in a way that allows for daily classroom presentation and discussion of new concepts along with review of concepts previously studied. Side A of each lesson is completed in class together and Side B, with the same type questions, is completed as homework. Homework is corrected together in class the next day before the following lesson is presented. Written Assessments are given every five lessons.

Concepts covered in the fourth grade include Graphs, Roman Numerals, Multiplication, Division, Geometry, Fractions, Measurement, Probability, Rounding, Estimating, Averaging, Money, Time, Temperature, Checkbook Balance, Positive and Negative Numbers and Square Roots.

Science

Three main units are taught in Science at the fourth grade level: Matter, Oceanography and Flight. Students learn the scientific method and scientific principles while conducting experiments from the curriculum and reading and discussing the text. All Science at ECS is taught from a Christian perspective that embraces a literal six-day view of creation.

Language Arts/Literature

Spelling at the fourth grade level begins with review of phonograms and rules. Words studied are taken from the Word List of the Spalding program, beginning with section S. Five new words are presented with markings each day, after being tested on the previous 25 words. Some words are carried over to the following week. Monthly Morrison-McCall Spelling Tests are given to determine overall improvement.

The English program includes creative writing, punctuation, capitalization, verb tense, possessive form, and vocabulary are also covered.

Health

Health is also taught in fourth grade from a Christian perspective. Students study bones, muscles, the respiratory system, teeth, and skin as well as how to be good stewards of our bodies as God's creation.

Reading

Fourth grade is a year of transitions. Students go from "learning to read" in earlier years to "reading to learn." Vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency are emphasized. Much independent reading in content areas such as History, Health, and Science is expected. "Song of the Brook", "Flags Unfurled", and the Book of John are the Reading texts. Parent involvement at home greatly enhances understanding.