Third graders become more independent as learners. They are held more accountable for their work and study habits and academics.

In reading, third graders use the strategies taught K-3 but their thinking about the text is more in depth and application of the strategies is more evident. They discuss books in small groups and ask questions about what they are reading.

In writing, students are asked to write more complex assignments. They will write reports, creative fiction, and personal narratives. They will be asked to take more responsibility for revising and editing their own writing before turning it in to a final copy.

Math becomes more challenging in the third grade. The students work with larger numbers (up to six digits). They will solve and explain addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems, including rigorous multistep word problems.

Science investigations become more detailed in third grade. Students are asked to look at data critically during experiments and make educated guesses about their observations.

Third graders learn about citizenship and the importance of the county’s core values (Integrity, Equity, Teamwork, and Ingenuity). Geography, map skills, and economics are covered in more detail. We also study ancient civilizations and how they have impacted our world today is explored with problem based learning.