Language Arts: Learning to read and write is the basis for all learning. At Fourth grade the aim is to develop the child’s ability to express him/herself in fluent, confident and accurate English within an integrated program of speaking and listening, reading and writing. Fourth graders are expected to show an awareness of the potential of oral language. They will use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentences to clearly express and explain their thought, needs, feelings, opinions, and ideas. Reading skills will pursue the ability to discuss and reflect on what has been read, talk about characters, and analyze details of plot and characterization. Written expression will continue reinforcing correct cursive letter formation, adequate spacing, proportion, legibility, and neatness. Specific grammar skills will include: capitalization, present/past/future tense verbs, punctuation marks, pronouns, comparative/superlative adjectives, subjects and predicates. Spelling skills will focus on accurately spelling high frequency words and spelling patterns of increasing complexity.