3rd Grade


  • Reading

    The reading portion of Third Grade covers all TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) under the following areas:

    • Reading: Students read and understand a wide variety of literature and information text.
    • Writing: Students compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization and sufficient detail.
    • Oral and Written Conventions: Students learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language in speaking and writing.
    • Research: Students are expected to know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information.

    As the first year for students to be introduced to the STAAR Test (The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) we develop and build good test taking and comprehension strategies, along with problem-solving skills.  We continue to build on the love for reading that was set in the previous grade levels, and as a result, increasing each child's fluency and reading stamina. Throughout the year we use a formula of a Reading and Writing Workshop to guide individual readers and writers to reach their full potential and growth.

    Science

    Third graders conduct field and laboratory investigations while using all components of the scientific process. They plan, implement, collect data, along with analyzing and interpreting their information. Third graders construct simple graphs, tables and charts and communicate valid conclusions. Critical thinking and problem solving skills are used in making decisions.
     
    Third grade scientists also represent the natural world by using models and identify their limitations, as well as use a variety of tools during investigations in order to achieve reliable results. The students identify and describe various parts that make up simple systems. Measuring and recording changes in the position and direction of the motion of an object, which a force such as a push or pull has been applied and identifying forces that change the Earth’s surface are third grade objectives as well. 
     
    Discovering physical properties of matter in its’ various states, creating habitats, identifying organisms’ needs, describing modifications, adaptations and inherited
    traits of plants and animals are explored in third grade science, also. In addition, students identify and describe the importance of earth materials including rocks, soil, water and gases of the atmosphere. Third graders name the planets in our solar system and their position in relation to the Sun.

    Math

    Mathematics in third grade involves a well-balanced curriculum of continuous building and review of skills learned in previous grade levels, as well as new skills taught this year.  Students are expected to obtain a foundation of basic understanding in number, operation, and quantitative reasoning.  This includes using place value to communicate whole numbers in verbal and written form, including money.  Students use fraction names and symbols to describe fractional parts of whole numbers or sets of objects.  Addition, subtraction, multiplication (through 12s), and division play a crucial role in students' understanding and development of math skills in third grade.  Students also learn to estimate to determine reasonable results.

    Students use their understanding of patterns, relationships, and algebraic thinking to solve problems.  This involves identifying and extending number, geometric, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and pictorial patterns.  Students will use lists, tables, and charts to express patterns and relationships.  Another third grade objective is geometry and spatial reasoning.  Students will identify, classify, and describe two- and three-dimensional geometric figures by their attributes, as well as recognize congruence and symmetry.  Number lines are also used a great deal in third grade, with addition, subtraction, multiplication and fractions.  Students will be able to locate and name point on a number line using whole numbers and fractions.

    Measurement is the fourth main mathematical objective.  Students will directly compare the attributes of length, area, weight/mass, and capacity, and use comparative language to solve problems and answer questions.  Time and temperature (Fahrenheit) will be read and written by students. Students will collect, organize, and display data on pictographs and bar graphs. They will use information from these graphs to answer questions and make informal predictions based on their experiences.

    Problem solving is a HUGE component of the third grade math curriculum. It is a skill that is taught and practiced all year. Students use many tools such as real objects, manipulatives, and technology to solve problems     

    Social Studies

    Throughout the school year, students build a foundation in history: geography, economics, government, citizenship, culture, science, technology, society, and social studies skills. Our social studies content allows students to understand the significance of patriotism, function in a free enterprise society, and appreciate the basic democratic values of our state and nation.
     
    At Fields Store Elementary, 3rd graders take a tour of the United States. With the help of virtual tours and technology, students travel to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, the chocolate factory in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Minnesota’s Mall of America and many other interesting places throughout the U.S.  Each stop presents a new opportunity to learn about the region’s geography, historical figures, customs and resources. 

    Technology
     
    We have great technology resources that each student has access to. We incorporate technology and ALL core subject areas. All TEKS and objectives are taught and reviewed all year long through several programs such as Texas Go Math, Origo, Think Through Math, Study Island, Countdown to Reading and Math, Stemscopes, Discovery Learning, Study Jam, Flocabulary, Brainpop, iStation and various other programs. The students thoroughly enjoy participating in all of these fun activities!