Welcome to Third Grade
Religion
In third grade our students continue their journey as disciples of Jesus. They focus on spreading the Good News, and they learn to respond in faith in different ways. They learn to include and accept everyone. Students understand that God loves all people and that everyone deserves peace and justice.
Reading/LA
Reading and writing are integrated across the curriculum. Early in the school year we encourage our students to read daily. A requirement in third grade is to keep a reading log to track their progress in fluency and comprehension. We hold book fairs and recommend to our parents to expand their home libraries.We suggest a balance of fiction, non-fiction and informational books. Great readers make great writers! We use the writing process to write math stories, describe outcomes in stem projects, write thank you letters to our Veterans, and personal prayers.
Mathematics
In third grade mastering multiplication and division facts is the key in reaching success in all mathematical areas. Our third graders are expected to be proficient or exceed proficiency in all skills and concepts.
Science
Our new science program allows our students the opportunity to explore, design, investigate, and apply what they’ve learned. Every unit poses “Big Questions”. For example: How do plants grow and change? How do forces cause changes on Earth’s surface? What forces cause motion?
Social Studies
Throughout the year we learn about how communities are different, we read about communities in the past, and meet people from communities in other states and countries. We practice our map and globe skills, we learn to resolve conflicts, and how to work to protect the environment One of the many highlights is learning about the structure of our government and learning to become responsible citizens.
STEM
STEM is not just science. Students in third grade use the engineering design process to find solutions to real world problems. We are learning to identify challenges in the world. They are asked to research and develop possible solutions. Finally, design and construct models to test. A few of the STEM projects we have worked on this year are: