Homeschool by grade
Homeschool 4th Grade
Fourth grade adds longer reading, multi-paragraph writing and bigger math: long division and equivalent fractions. It is a good year to start a weekly assignment list your child manages.
Ages 9 to 10About 3 to 4 hours a day
What to teach in 4th grade
What children typically learn by the end of the year. Use it as a guide, not a rule: homeschoolers can go faster or slower in each subject.
Math
- Multiply multi-digit numbers
- Long division with one-digit divisors
- Equivalent fractions and comparing fractions
- Add and subtract fractions with like denominators
- Measure and draw angles
Reading
- Read full-length novels
- Summarize and identify theme
- Compare two texts on one topic
Writing
- Write multi-paragraph pieces
- Write a short research report
- Use commas and quotation marks correctly
Science
- Energy and waves
- Rocks, erosion and landforms
- Body systems
Social studies
- State history
- US regions
- Early exploration
By the end of the year
- Divides with remainders
- Works with equivalent fractions
- Writes a three-paragraph piece
- Reads and summarizes a novel
A sample day
| 8:30 | Math lesson and practice |
| 9:20 | Grammar, spelling and writing |
| 10:10 | Break |
| 10:30 | Literature: reading and discussion |
| 11:15 | Science or history (alternate days) |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 1:00 | Independent reading, projects, music, sports |
Tips for this year
- Give a weekly checklist and let your child plan the order.
- Start short research projects using library books.
- Keep samples of writing from the start and end of the year.
Rules for notice, attendance and testing depend on where you live: see your state’s homeschool law.
Choosing curriculum
Free tools for this grade
Questions parents ask
How can my 4th grader work more independently?
Use a weekly assignment list, teach new material together, and let them do practice alone, then check it the same day.
What should a 4th grade portfolio include?
A few writing samples, math tests, a reading list and photos of projects or field trips are typical.