Reading

In third grade, students use a variety of reading strategies to read fluently with meaning and purpose.  They apply comprehension and vocabulary strategies to a wide variety of literature and genres including informational text.  Students demonstrate comprehension by participating in discussions, writing responses, and using evidence from text to support their thinking.  Students read for pleasure and choose books based on personal preference, topic, or author.  All students should spend 15-30 minutes reading at home daily.

Accelerated Reader (AR)

All third graders are expected to read books independently and work towards a  reading point goal.  The goal is individualized and based on each student’s independent reading ability.  Most books are AR books.  You can check any book-level on the website arbookfind.com.

Writing

In third grade, students write longer texts, both expository and narratives.  Students organize around a central idea and elaborate using complete sentences.  Information gathering as part of the planning process is common, and students become more selective about vocabulary.  They listen to others’ writing, offer feedback, and begin to consider suggestions from others about their own writing.

Handwriting

All third graders are expected to write neatly.  Cursive handwriting will be taught although students may choose to either print or write in cursive for most of their assignments.

Spelling

Spelling is integrated into all written assignments.  Students are expected to spell common use words correctly and to use available references when appropriate.