Fourth Grade Math Concepts: Multiplication, Division, Fractions, Geometry & Word Problems

Fourth grade is an essential transition period into upper elementary mathematics, where students learn several new concepts in various mathematical subjects from the previous grade. The main focus in fourth-grade math is to further develop the students' understanding of various mathematical principles, including multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, and word problems.

Multiplication

In fourth-grade multiplication, students are taught to multiply two-digit numbers by a one-digit number. They learn the concept of multiplication through the repeated addition strategy, where they multiply a given number by a series of ones, then add the products together. Students are also introduced to the concept of arrays and the use of the equals sign in multiplication. They are expected to solve word problems involving multiplication and find the product of two or three numbers.

Division

Fourth grade math also introduces students to the concept of dividing a number by a one-digit number. They learn to use the concept of dividing to find a quotient, which is used to determine how many times one number can go into another without leaving any remainders. Students also learn to divide whole numbers by whole numbers and understand that division is equivalent to multiplication with fractions. They are expected to solve word problems involving division and find the quotient or the multiple number of times a divisor divides into a dividend.

Fractions

Fourth-grade math introduces students to the concept of comparing fractions by their size, ordering them from least to greatest, and finding common denominators for equal fractions. They learn about fraction equivalents and conversion between mixed numbers and improper fractions. Students are expected to represent fractions on a number line and understand the relationship between multiplication and division with fractions.

Geometry

In fourth grade geometry, students focus on understanding two-dimensional shapes and their properties, including angles, lines, perimeter, and area. They learn to recognize right triangles and their congruent sides. They also study various forms of symmetry in different objects such as squares and rectangles. Students are expected to classify shapes based on their properties and solve real-world problems involving geometric measurements.

Word Problems

The fourth grade math curriculum includes solving word problems using all four operations, which involves understanding the problem, identifying what operation is needed, writing the equation, and solving it. Students are expected to understand and interpret different types of word problems, including scenarios involving length, money, time, temperature, measurement, area, and capacity.