Fourth Grade Checklist
These Texas-based Checklist, Lesson Plan, and Scope and Sequence work together to support effective instruction aligned with the state’s educational standards.
The Checklist outlines the specific knowledge and skills students are expected to master in each subject—such as reading comprehension strategies, multi-digit multiplication, Texas history, and scientific investigation methods—ensuring nothing essential is overlooked.
Lesson plans are then developed using this checklist to provide targeted, engaging instruction that meets the standards. The Scope and Sequence offers a year-long instructional map, organizing content in a logical, developmentally appropriate order—building foundational skills early and progressing toward more complex concepts.
Together, these tools help educators maintain alignment, track student progress, and deliver consistent, high-quality instruction throughout the school year.
Texas Fourth Grade Guidelines Checklist
English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR)
Foundational Reading Skills
- Identifies and uses all letter sounds (phonics)
- Blends and segments one-syllable words
- Reads high-frequency words automatically
- Reads aloud grade-level text with fluency and accuracy
- Uses decoding strategies (context clues, phonics, pictures)
Reading Comprehension
- Retells stories including beginning, middle, and end
- Identifies characters, setting, and plot
- Makes and confirms predictions
- Determines the main idea and supporting details
- Identifies text features (titles, headings, labels)
Writing
- Writes legibly with proper spacing and punctuation
- Uses capitalization and punctuation (periods, question marks)
- Spells words using sound-letter correspondence
- Writes brief stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end
- Revises and edits simple drafts with guidance
Listening & Speaking
- Listens actively and responds appropriately
- Asks and answers relevant questions
- Participates in group discussions respectfully
Educational Checklist
Lesson Plans
Template
Scope and Sequence
Curriculum Options
Mathematics
Number and Operations
- Counts forward and backward within 120
- Uses place value to represent numbers up to 120
- Compares numbers using >, <, or =
- Adds and subtracts within 20 with accuracy
- Solves word problems involving addition/subtraction
- Understands and applies properties of operations (commutative, associative)
Algebraic Reasoning
- Understands patterns and uses them to predict
- Applies basic facts to solve problems
Geometry and Measurement
- Identifies and describes 2D and 3D shapes
- Measures length using nonstandard and standard units
- Tells time to the hour and half-hour
- Understands calendar concepts (days, weeks, months)
- Uses money concepts to identify and count coins
Data Analysis
- Collects and organizes data into graphs or charts
- Interprets data to answer questions
Science
Scientific Investigation
- Asks scientific questions and makes predictions
- Conducts simple experiments and records observations
- Uses tools like magnifiers, thermometers, and balances
Matter and Energy
- Identifies properties of objects (size, shape, texture)
- Sorts materials by observable properties
Force, Motion & Energy
- Describes how objects move (push, pull, roll, slide)
- Understands basic energy sources (light, heat, sound)
Earth and Space
- Describes weather patterns and seasonal changes
- Identifies and explains day and/or night cycle
Organisms and Environments
- Identifies basic needs of plants and animals
- Compares living and non-living things
Social Studies History
- Understands and retells stories of historical figures
- Explains the significance of national holidays (e.g., July 4th)
Geography
- Uses maps, globes, and location words (near, far, north, etc.)
- Identifies landforms and bodies of water
Economics
- Understands the concepts of needs, wants, goods, and services
- Identifies ways people earn, save, and spend money
Citizenship & Government
- Follows classroom and community rules
- Identifies leaders in the community, state, and nation
- Recites and understands the Pledge of Allegiance
Fine Arts
Visual Arts
- Uses a variety of tools and materials to create art
- Describes personal artwork and the art of others
Music
- Explores rhythm, beat, and melody
- Sings songs and performs simple patterns
Theater & Movement
- Participates in role-play and storytelling
- Expresses ideas through movement
Physical Education and Health
Motor Development
- Demonstrates balance and coordination
- Participates in group games and physical activities
- Health & Wellness
- Understands healthy food choices
- Practices hygiene and safety rules
- Demonstrates awareness of feelings and appropriate expression
Technology
Applications
- Opens and uses simple software/apps
- Uses a keyboard and mouse or touchscreen
- Understands the role of technology in everyday life
- Practices safe use of digital tools
