The math topics your fourth grader is learning might differ slightly from what you learned in school. Math curriculum has transcended from the traditional one to include more courses that can help hone one’s math skills.

The purpose of math in the fourth grade is to help students connect classroom concepts and real-world problem-solving. Here are some math skills 4th grade students will learn.

Real-world problem-solving skills

Math for 4th graders helps students develop an understanding of mathematics. It also allows them to engage in activities requiring complex thought instead of memorizing rules. Children can work in groups to find solutions to challenging math problems.

Having students work in groups is a highly effective technique for getting them involved in doing math. Students see the need to share solutions and explain their thinking and know their ideas will be valued.

Algebra

Algebra explores mathematical relations using letters, symbols, and numbers. Students understand these concepts using objects and visual aids while also learning about area and perimeter. Fourth-graders will also start to solve equations using PEMDAS. They will learn the basic algebra skills necessary in later years and high school.

Geometry

In geometry, students understand space by studying points, lines, shapes, and figures. They will learn about lines and angles.

Geometry is a part of everyday life for many professionals, like engineers, architects, artists, etc., and is used to express their creativity. It’s proof that Math is more than numbers and symbols and can include shapes and art.

Learning about two- and three-dimensional shapes

Fourth graders will be introduced to new vocabulary, using words like sides and edges to describe the characteristics of two- and three-dimensional figures.

They’ll use the names of different quadrilaterals, hexagons, and octagons to identify shapes. Students will use elastic to create many forms to have a feel of hands-on learning.

Grasping coordinate graphs

Fourth-grade students will use graphs and coordinate systems to identify, locate, and plot their x-axis and a vertical y-axis.

They’ll plot x and y values on the graph, a skill necessary in developing algebraic logic. With these math skills child will use the concept as they develop map-reading skills.

Measurement

Measurements help students develop an understanding of precision and accuracy. Kids will use metric and standard units to measure length, weight, capacity, and temperature using standard tools like rulers, thermometers, measuring cups, and scales.

Students will be asked to participate in hands-on learning where they can measure the length of their notebooks and even check their weights. The fourth grade math skills will help them learn to convert units of measure like meters, centimeters, minutes, seconds, feet, inches, grams, and kilograms.

Data collection

Charts and graphs are standard in many fourth-grade classrooms, where students learn to interpret and display data on bar, pies, and line graphs.

Students will practice representing data using pie charts, bar charts, histograms, tallies, etc. They will also learn about how data are collected and used in the working world.

Conclusion

Math is a subject with different approaches that lead to the same answers. How you must have studied in elementary school could be different from your child’s.

Present-day fourth-grade math skills include algebra, geometry, learning about two and three-dimensional shapes, grasping coordinate graphs, measurement, and data collection. Knowing them will help create a more conducive environment for your student/ child.