4th Grade State Test: Info on Standardized Tests for Fourth Grade

4th Grade Tests: What Your Child Should Know

Basic Information

At the end of each academic year, students usually have to take tests to demonstrate their proficiency in the major content areas. Each state usually has its own standardized test. The tests are based on content standards that students should've learned over the course of the year. For 4th grade, the tests usually focus on the students' reading and math skills. Below, some basic information has been provided about the common topics students should know and will be tested on in 4th grade.

Reading Skills

Students will have to be able to effectively read and comprehend various reading passages, including literature, articles and other informational texts. Based on these passages, students will answer multiple-choice questions that cover inferences, predictions and comprehension. Students will also have to determine the meaning of words and phrases found in the selections they read.

Writing

Not all states include a writing portion on their standardized tests; however, your child will be tested on writing in class throughout the year. Students may have to demonstrate their ability to write in different formats. The main writing styles are opinion pieces, expository essays and narratives. For each type of writing, they'll need an introduction and conclusion. They'll also be required to show command of 4th grade vocabulary and grammar skills, such as spelling correctly and using proper punctuation. Furthermore, depending on the writing prompt, they'll need to support their ideas and reasons by using proper facts and details.

Math Operations

In math, students will need to multiply and divide effectively. Students will also solve multi-step word problems and identify patterns. Furthermore, students will be required to find factor pairs for whole numbers up to 100.

Fractions

With fractions, students will be tested on their ability to compare two fractions with different numerators and denominators. They'll have to add and subtract mixed numbers with the same denominators and solve word problems by adding and subtracting fractions. Additionally, students will compare fractions and decimals and convert one into the other.