Curriculum
Our third grade curriculum consists of English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health, Music, Art, and Physical Education. Chapter tests and quizzes are given periodically. Tests below 72% will be sent home in the homework folder to be signed and returned.
English Language Arts
Our curriculum integrates spelling, phonics, reading, writing, speaking, and grammar skills into meaningful and sequential learning experiences. Each reading unit is based on a genre (i.e. realistic fiction, biography, fairy tales, etc). The tests will focus on comprehension and skills learned. Story quizzes/tests and unit tests will also be given. Spelling tests are given every Friday and grammar tests are given at the end of each unit. We will be doing a lot of writing in our class. We use the six-step approach to writing: Brainstorming, Pre-write, First Draft, Sharing, Editing, and Publishing.
Math
This year in Math, your child will be required to memorize all four operations- addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts. Your child will have to practice regularly to learn these facts successfully. We will be playing flash card games, have races, memory games, etc to make the learning fun. Please practice these activities at home with your child. I would be happy to let you borrow flash cards or you may consider picking up some sets at the dollar store. It’s a good investment and will get a lot of use!Mastering these basic facts is extremely important.
Science and Health
Our Science series is divided into modules. We do many activities, experiments, and group work. We use a hands-on science program that provides students with the necessary skills and learning experiences needed to build a strong scientific background. We also have a Science textbook to supplement these hands-on activities. This year, third grade will be participating in Plant Growth and Development, Rocks and Minerals, and Animal Habitats. We also have a Health curriculum with textbooks. We share these books with the other third grades.
Social Studies
Our Social Studies program uses a hands-on approach to learning about maps, communities, and the United States. A special unit on the city of Pittsburgh will also be taught. Students will also participate in monthly theme days centered on a specific historical event, holiday, or birthday.