Grade 4: Mathematics

Here is the Mathematics curriculum for Grade 4 in British Columbia, presented with the content first.

Grade 4 Mathematics Content (BC Curriculum)

The learning standards for Grade 4 Math are organized into the following content areas.

1. Number: Computational Fluency

• Multiplication and Division Facts: Recall and apply multiplication and division facts to 49 (7 x 7) and related division facts.

• Addition and Subtraction: Develop and use strategies for mental math for addition and subtraction with answers to 10,000.

• Multiplication: Model, record, and explain multiplication of a 2-digit number by a 1-digit number (e.g., 36 x 5).

• Division: Model, record, and explain division with a 1-digit divisor and a 2-digit dividend (e.g., 68 ÷ 4), with and without remainders.

• Fractions:

  • Represent and describe decimals (tenths and hundredths) concretely, pictorially, and symbolically.

  • Relate decimals to fractions and fractions to decimals (tenths and hundredths).

  • Compare and order decimals (tenths and hundredths) and fractions.

2. Number: Financial Literacy

• Financial Calculations: Count and make change for amounts up to $100.

• Financial Goal Estimation: Estimate and calculate the total cost and change for simple transactions.

• Financial Goal: Create simple financial plans, such as a plan to save for a purchase.

3. Patterns and Relations

• Patterns: Describe, extend, and create increasing and decreasing patterns using words, tables, and charts.

• Variables and Equations:

  • Solve one-step equations with an unknown number using all four operations (e.g., 4 + *a* = 11, 30 ÷ *b* = 6).

  • Represent an unknown number using a symbol or letter.

4. Geometry and Measurement

• Time: Read and write time to the minute using analog and digital clocks.

• Length, Mass, and Capacity: Estimate, measure, and record length (mm), mass (g, kg), and capacity (mL, L) using standard units.

• Perimeter: Measure and calculate the perimeter of regular and irregular polygons.

• Area: Measure and calculate the area of rectangles using a formula (Area = length × width) and using square units.

• Transformations: Create and interpret single transformations of 2D shapes (translations, rotations, and reflections).

5. Statistics and Probability

• Data Analysis: Construct and interpret pictographs and bar graphs with many-to-one correspondence (e.g., where one symbol represents 5 people).

• Probability: Conduct probability experiments and describe the likelihood of possible outcomes using words such as:

  • Impossible, Possible, Certain

  • Less Likely, Equally Likely, More Likely

Curricular Competencies (The “Doing” of Mathematics)

These are the processes students use to engage with the mathematical content.

• Reasoning and Analyzing:

  • Use reasoning to explore and make connections.

  • Estimate reasonably.

  • Develop mental math strategies and abilities to make sense of quantities.

• Understanding and Solving:

  • Visualize to explore mathematical concepts.

  • Develop, construct, and apply mathematical understanding through play, inquiry, and problem solving.

  • Engage in problem-solving experiences that are connected to place, story, and cultural practices.

• Communicating and Representing:

  • Explain and justify mathematical ideas and decisions.

  • Communicate mathematical thinking in multiple ways.

  • Use mathematical vocabulary and language to contribute to mathematical discussions.

• Connecting and Reflecting:

  • Reflect on mathematical thinking.

  • Connect mathematical concepts to each other and to real-life situations.

  • Incorporate First Peoples worldviews and perspectives to make connections to math.

Big Ideas (The Core Concepts)

These are the key understandings students should retain from Grade 4 Math.

• Number: Fractions and decimals are types of numbers that can represent quantities.

• Computational Fluency: Patterns and relations can be represented with variables and equations.

• Geometry: Regular increases and decreases in patterns can be identified and used to make predictions.

• Data: The likelihood of future events can be compared based on experimental results.

Key Changes & Focus for Grade 4

• A major focus on achieving fluency with multiplication and division facts up to 7×7.

• Introduction of more complex calculations with 2-digit numbers.

• A foundational understanding of decimals (tenths and hundredths) and their relationship to fractions.

• The introduction of the concept of variables and solving for an unknown.

• Moving from simple measurement to calculating perimeter and area.

• Working with graphs that have a many-to-one correspondence.