Fourth grade is a transitional year strengthening student independence and responsibility to ensure academic success. Students are taught tools for Bible study through investigation of God, His Word, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and salvation. Incremental growth in reading and writing skills continue as students are exposed to quality literature and comprehensive writing instruction. In math, students are challenged in problem solving and more complex computation. The study of science allows students to apply and expand their knowledge in scientific processes, including observation, research, drawing conclusions, and critical thinking. A key unit of study in social studies is California history including the development of the mission system in California. During an educational field trip to Sacramento and San Francisco, students pan for gold in Coloma, visit the state Capitol, and gain an understanding of California history first-hand.