English and Grammar Work for Fourth Grade Students

Helping Fourth Graders with English and Grammar

Why English and Grammar Matter

English curriculum standards may differ between states, but there are usually close commonalities. By the fourth grade, most students have strong reading fluency and comprehension skills but are continuing to develop more advanced skills. By practicing English and grammar in the fourth grade, your child will improve her reading fluency and comprehension, verbal and written communication skills, and vocabulary.

Activities and Lessons

There are differing philosophies when it comes to grammar work and instruction. The more traditional method of teaching grammar involves worksheets, tests and other activities that treat grammar as its own unique subject. It's becoming more common to include grammar instruction in other, broader English-related activities, such as reading and writing.

There are a variety of useful English and grammar activities that you can have your child do at home. For example, pick a paragraph from a book your child likes or has been assigned to read. Rewrite the paragraph with a number of grammatical errors. Have your child correct these errors, and then compare the results to the original paragraph.

Browse the Internet for standards-based English and grammar activities and games that are appropriate for fourth graders. You can also find English and grammar worksheets online, which can be great tools for practicing specific skills.

Supplemental Reading

One of the most common ways your child can improve the quality of his English and grammar schoolwork is by reading on a regular basis. There are many fourth grade book lists available. Allow him to choose books of interest. Set aside a special reading time every day and read with him. Over time, don't be surprised if you start to see improvement in your child's work.

Getting Extra Help

If your fourth grader's struggling with English and grammar work, then she may need extra assistance outside of school. Consult your child's teacher for advice and suggestions. There may be useful resources for your child at local libraries and community centers. You might consider hiring an English tutor to help your child with her work. There are also websites that offer virtual homework help.