Reading Language Arts
Developing literacy skills continues to be a priority in third grade with an emphasis on reading grade level texts with prosody, accuracy, and appropriate rate. The student will read a variety of literary and informational texts. With a focus on folk tales and myths across cultures, the student will read a variety of genres. Through purposeful text selection, the student will continue to build their background world and word knowledge. The student will expand their vocabulary while reading by using word analysis skills. The student will continue to use comprehension strategies to monitor their understanding while reading. The student will continue to expand their comprehension of literary and informational texts through collaborative discussions and writing about texts. The student will use the writing process to plan, draft, revise, and edit writing for a variety of purposes and in a variety of forms. The student will write legibly in cursive. The student will continue to identify and use appropriate resources to complete a research product and will understand plagiarism to report information using their own words. The student will use effective communication skills to participate in collaborative activities and will give oral presentations.
Math
The third grade standards aim to develop a deeper understanding of multiplication and division, as well as fractions and measurements. Students learn to multiply and divide within 100 and become proficient in understanding fractions as numbers, especially unit fractions. They explore concepts related to perimeter and area, and begin to understand the basics of time and data interpretation. These standards are designed to build a robust foundation for more advanced mathematical concepts and to promote logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Science
The focus of science in third grade is interactions in our world. Students continue their study of forces and matter by learning about simple machines and by examining the interactions of materials in water. They also look at how plants and animals, including humans, are constantly interacting with both the living and nonliving aspects of the environment. This includes how adaptations satisfy the life needs of plants and animals and the importance of water, soil, and the sun in the survival of plants and animals. Throughout the elementary years, students will develop scientific skills, supported by mathematics and computational thinking, as they learn science content. In third grade, students will develop more sophisticated skills in posing questions and predicting outcomes, planning and conducting simple investigations, collecting and analyzing data, constructing explanations, and communicating information about the natural world. Students begin to use the engineering design process to apply their scientific knowledge to solve problems.
Social Studies
The standards for third grade students include an introduction to the heritage and contributions of the peoples of ancient China, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the West African empire of Mali. Students should continue developing map skills and demonstrate an understanding of basic economic and civics concepts. Students will examine the social, cultural, and political characteristics of major ancient world cultures. Students will recognize that many aspects of ancient cultures served as the foundation for modern governments, technologies, customs, traditions, and perspectives.
Music
The Grade Three General Music standards build on earlier experiences by emphasizing music literacy, which includes singing, playing instruments, listening, moving, and creating/composing music. The focus is on developing skills for individual and ensemble performance, and deepening understanding of rhythm, musical form, and melodic notation. Students explore music history and its cultural value.
Art
In third grade, students advance their creative process skills by planning, revising, and reflecting on their artwork. They analyze the art around them, using precise vocabulary to discuss compositions and the intentions behind different works. Students explore world cultures through art, understanding how artists respond to social issues and represent their heritage. They experiment with innovative processes, such as creating collaborative projects, and expand their skills by working with different media and complex techniques. Focused practice on form, texture, and composition strengthens their ability to create art with meaning.
Physical Education
In the elementary years, students develop maturity and adaptability in the use of fundamental motor skills and patterns that are then further refined and combined during the middle school years. Elementary students establish basic musculoskeletal vocabulary and use simple concepts as they develop their movements. They become aware of health-related fitness components (aerobic capacity, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition), engage in a variety of physical activities, and develop a basic fitness plan. It is expected that elementary students recognize and use rules and procedures, focus on safety, respect similarities and dissimilarities, and cooperate with others. They will also understand the basic nutrition and fitness concepts of energy balance.
Health
The intent of Health Education for elementary school students is to assist students to become health literate, self directed learners with the ability to identify accurate health products and services, and learn how to create and maintain a safe and healthy environment for themselves and their family members.
This is accomplished by demonstrating:
- the knowledge and skills to make healthy decisions that reduce health risks and enhance the health of oneself and others;
- the ability to access, evaluate, and use health information, products, and services that influence health and wellness in a positive manner; and
- the use of appropriate health practices and behaviors to promote a safe and healthy community when alone, with family, at school, and in other group settings.
Family Life Education
The curriculum outlines key developmental goals for third-grade students, focusing on emotional well-being, social interactions, and basic understanding of human growth. Students are encouraged to develop a positive self-image, learn healthy coping strategies for family changes, and understand body awareness and reproduction at an age-appropriate level. The curriculum also covers the importance of positive social behaviors for making and maintaining friendships, as well as safety practices at home and in interactions with others. Additionally, students are taught to recognize media influences, particularly how commercials can impact emotions and self-esteem.
Library
This program of studies outlines key domains and competencies that guide learners in their intellectual, social, and ethical development. The standards are organized into six primary areas: Inquire, Include, Collaborate, Curate, Explore, and Engage.
- Inquire (Domains and Competencies)
Think, Create, Share, Grow: Learners are encouraged to build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing solutions. They engage with new knowledge by investigating questions, creating meaningful products, sharing those products, and responding to feedback. The process involves curiosity, evidence-based inquiry, and continuous growth.
- Include (Diversity and Inclusiveness)
Learners demonstrate awareness and respect for diverse perspectives within the learning community. They consider different viewpoints, engage in informed conversations, and act with empathy towards cultural diversity and global issues. Inclusiveness is central to their learning process, which includes evaluating and incorporating diverse perspectives.
- Collaborate (Working with Others)
Learners work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and achieve common goals. They actively seek collaborative opportunities, use various communication tools, and establish connections to expand their understanding. Collaborative learning is viewed as essential for problem-solving and knowledge creation.
- Curate (Organizing and Sharing Information)
Learners make meaning by collecting, organizing, and sharing personally relevant resources. They recognize when information is needed, assess sources, and make informed choices about which resources to use. This process involves critical thinking and decision-making to build useful and meaningful knowledge.
- Explore (Growth Mindset and Innovation)
Learners are encouraged to develop curiosity and a growth mindset through exploration and reflection. They engage in hands-on activities, solve problems, and innovate, applying new insights and continuing to develop skills through self-reflection and problem-solving cycles.
- Engage (Ethical and Responsible Knowledge Creation)
Learners engage ethically and responsibly in the creation and sharing of knowledge. They adhere to legal and ethical guidelines, reflect on their assumptions, and critically assess the validity and accuracy of information. They share their work with a global audience, ensuring respect for intellectual property and promoting ethical behavior in the learning community.
Each domain emphasizes the importance of curiosity, ethical behavior, collaboration, inclusivity, critical thinking, and continuous reflection as learners engage with knowledge. The program promotes lifelong learning and responsible engagement with information in a global context.