Fourth grade is an exciting year, students rotate through different classes and teachers each day! Here's a peek at some of the work students take part in:
Language Arts:
Students participate in novel book clubs to facilitate deep analysis of a variety of genres. They work through the writing process using an author's eye to analyze mentor texts and develop as writers of narrative and informational pieces. We also work on fine tuning revision and editing skills.
Math:
Students dive into multiplying and dividing larger numbers, adding, comparing, and creating equivalent fractions, and a variety of geometry topics. They will also use MinecraftEdu to explore math concepts and coding.
Science:
Students study and participate in hands-on investigations of organisms and ecosystems, the earth, moon, and sun, force and motion, weather, and much more. They are also encouraged to create their own investigation for the annual science fair.
Taylor Hemphill, M.Ed., Team Lead
4th Grade Teacher
taylor.hemphill@austinisd.org | 512-414-2013
As an undergraduate Mrs. Hemphill earned a degree in education at the University of Texas, Austin. She then started at Barton Hills as a Teacher Assistant while earning her masters degree in language and literacy instruction. She has taught 3rd grade, 5th grade ELAR, and she is currently loving 4th grade ELAR. Her daughter keeps her on her toes, and she is looking forward to passing on her love of all things food and Harry Potter.
Nathan Kennedy
4th Grade Teacher
nathan.kennedy@austinisd.org | 512-414-2013
Mr. Kennedy has been a teacher for over 13 years. He left the corporate sector to study ecology & preservation of coral reefs at UT Austin, then decided to become a science & math teacher. An environmental advocate, he strives daily to teach the next generation of the importance of understanding & caring for the world around them. He also loves making connections between the natural world & the math we learn. He & Jill, his partner of 20+years, have 2 kids. Their son Skyler is 20 & their daughter Clementine is 14. Mr. Kennedy loves the ocean, SCUBA diving almost every year in Cozumel, Mexico. He swims with wild dolphins & loves to pet sharks.
Lexi Shea
4th Grade Teacher
alexis.shea@austinisd.org | 512-414-2013