Third Grade

Language Arts

Literature forms the basis of the reading comprehension program, using various genres throughout the curriculum.  The genres of study are Historical & Realistic Fiction, Nonfiction, Fantasy, Mystery, Author Studies, and Biographies.  The students choose novels at appropriate reading levels to read individually or collaboratively for each genre of study.  Also, the Reading and Writing Workshop program continues from second grade. Spelling skills are developed using the Words Their Way and Wordly Wise 3000 programs. The Handwriting Without Tears curriculum continues with additional practice of cursive.  Keyboarding skills are introduced through a variety of resources, with Typing Club used as the primary platform for instruction. Writers Workshop is used to hone writing and research skills, emphasizing the writing process from prewriting to publishing.

Math

In third grade math, students continue working in the Everyday Mathematics and other programs where a variety of manipulatives and games are used to reinforce understanding of concepts presented. Addition and subtraction skills are reviewed and extended as students are encouraged to find efficient ways to solve increasingly complex problems. Increased focus is placed on multiplication, and division is introduced. Math facts are practiced and committed to memory, via Reflex Math, an engaging and research based digital format. Additional attention is given to measurement, fractions, numeration, and problem solving skills. 

Science

In third grade, students study Water and Climate, Structures of Life and Motion and Water. They will continue with the FOSS program to provide multiple exposures to science concepts. The design includes: active investigation, including outdoor experiences, recording data in science notebooks, reading in FOSS Science Resources, and the use of assessment to monitor progress and motivate student reflection on learning. In practice, these components are seamlessly integrated into a continuum designed to maximize every student’s opportunity to learn. An instructional sequence may move from one pedagogy to another and back again to ensure adequate coverage of a concept.  

Social Studies

Third grade social studies focuses on different regions of the United States, highlighting the people, history, products and land of each area. Students read first-hand accounts of the life and times of the people being studied, learn map skills and discover how the country fits in with the rest of the world. At the end of the year, students take part in a grade level Project Based Learning Immigration Simulation focusing on the importance of Ellis Island. 

World Languages

In third grade Spanish, students continue to build their skills to read, write, and speak simple sentences while responding orally to phrases and questions in the target language. At this level, students are beginning to describe themselves and things with appropriate detail. Through answering warm-up questions, listening to stories, playing games, singing songs, responding to listening activities, following commands, completing written work, performing skits, and working on projects, students will interact with the instructor as well as each other by using the target language to communicate.