In fourth grade, students have fun while they are learning through singing, acting, projects and field trips. They also focus on organizing their school work and managing their time. They reach out to the community through caroling at nursing homes during the holidays. In Bible class, students memorize a verse for every letter in the alphabet, and the meanings and practical applications of scripture are part of the learning process every day.

Community connections and projects help learning to come alive. One of the major science units of the year focuses on the environment and the importance of recycling. The class makes its own landfill and visits the Recycling Authority and a local landfill. Another research project allows students to choose an animal kingdom to study and present. A mobile of geometric shapes is a creative way to learn beginning geometry. A visit to the COSI museum in Toledo helps students experience the wonders of science in a hands-on environment. Seeing organisms under a microscope gives a sense of wonder at God's creation. Making a model of the lung and diaphragm shows that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." Fourth graders at FRCS spend many days in the lab where words on a page become a reality. Students learn to make paper, electrical circuits and experience seven different activities at the Weather Expo.

In history, studying the development of America and how we became a great nation takes up much of the year. An exhibit on famous explorers starts things off, and the popular Living History fair allows students to "become" a famous American for guests. States, their capitals, and location on the map are learned as well.

Specials are also engaging. Students continue with Spanish, art, physical education, and library. In music, the recorder is introduced in preparation for the band program in the fifth grade. Keyboarding also begins, so that technology-savvy youngsters learn to use computer effectively and avoid bad keyboarding habits. Fourth grade is full of discovery, fun, and new opportunities.