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A Parent’s Guide to the Third Grade Curriculum This synopsis can be used by parents to better understand the breadth and depth of the curriculum a student will encounter during third grade. Although curriculum is unique to each district, the objectives are created in alignment with the core content standards for the state of New Jersey. The concepts presented enable the students to develop the skills necessary for today and prepare them to succeed in the future. This brief overview may help you to guide your expectations for your child.
Mathematics Mathematics is taught using the standards-based curriculum of Everyday Mathematics. The instruction is designed to capitalize on students’ interests and maximize student learning. Students are given a daily opportunity to manipulate various teaching tools to formulate and understand mathematical concepts. Students arrive at the realization that there are multiple ways to solve a problem. Class discussion and cooperative learning are integral components of the program. Skills are evaluated daily through oral and written performances. Written assessments are also administered at the completion of each unit. Major Concepts
Reading and Language Arts Students experience reading, writing, listening, and speaking in this Balanced Literacy. Students will read a variety of materials at varying levels of difficulty. Major Objectives Reading
Handwriting
Speaking
Writing
Listening
Basic Skills as Supplement to Math and Reading Instruction Each year, the BSI Program is tailored to meet the needs and number of students serviced. In the Pull-Out Setting, students leave their classroom to receive small group instruction. Careful scheduling and planning between the BSI and regular education teachers ensure that the students do not miss direct, whole-group instruction. The Team-Teaching Model allows the students to remain in the regular education classrooms. Both the classroom and basic skills teachers assume responsibility for all students and plan accordingly based on the needs of the students.
Science The three major areas of science: life, earth and physical are all addressed in third grade. Life: Plants
Earth: Solar System
Physical: Matter and Electricity
Social Studies The focus is on Communities and Cultures Around the World. Resources include trade books, videos, Time for Kids magazine, and related projects.
Computers Students learn the correct names and functions of computer hardware, basic Windows operation, keyboarding, and word processing. The Internet is used for research and the use of web sites. CD ROMs such as Field Trip to the Rain Forest and Kid Pix are used to extend the curriculum. Students also become practiced in Power Point and drawing with the computer. Art Students will study Surrealism through the works of Spanish artist, Joan Miro. One of the greatest Dutch artists, Vincent van Gogh will inspire a creation in the likeness of his sunflowers series. Students will also learn about portraits by studying another great Dutch artist, Rembrandt. Each student will create their own self-portrait incorporating the artistic styles of both the 17th and 21st centuries. Music Students will continue to strengthen the skills learned in second grade adding form to the elements. Students will be given the opportunity to strengthen their musical skills through playing the song flute. Students will also begin to practice proper singing techniques to prepare them for the opportunity to sing in the fifth grade chorus. Library Curriculum Students use book parts including title page, table of contents, guide words, and index. They learn to locate books using the automated catalog (OPAC) and the Dewey Decimal System. They differentiate between fiction and types of nonfiction books such as encyclopedia, biography, autobiography, and collective biography. They are exposed to various literary genres and know literary terms such as character and plot.
Physical Education Students will move with control and be able to change the effort or range of a skill to improve performance. They will modify and adapt skills in relation to body parts, other people, objects, and boundaries. They will apply a skill to another activity. They will discuss the importance of body mechanics in performing movement skills. They will discuss and demonstrate good sportsmanship and safety rules. They will discuss all aspects of fitness and the importance of regular activity. They will participate in fitness activities and monitor heart rate and breathing before, during and after activities.
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