Religion:

The 3rd grade Religion curriculum will focus on developing a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith based on the scriptures and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The topics we explore include:

• sacraments of Christian initiation

• prayers and meditation

• introduction to the Saints

• feasts and seasons of the church calendar

• the Holy Trinity

• community service projects

Language Arts:

The major components of Reading and Language Arts are:

• target vocabulary instruction, including word study and phonics

• rich balance of fiction and nonfiction texts

• oral language activities, including speaking and listening

• written skills as explored through the writing process

• reading and oral comprehension skills

• leveled reading in small group instruction

Math:

3rd graders will continue to focus on the development of strong basic skills such as numeration, computation and measurement in order to understand and solve everyday problems.

3rd grade Math topics include:

• customary and metric linear measurement to the quarter inch

• time (elapsed and telling time to the minute)

• money (making change

• addition and subtraction of whole numbers

• multiplication and division up through the number 12 (memorized)

• numeration

• place value up to hundred thousands

• geometry (solids and shapes)

• perimeter, area, and volume

• using tables and graphs

• developing algebraic concepts

• problem solving

Science:

Students will learn about several different areas in science including Life Science, Earth Science, Space and Technology, and Physical Science. Specific themes and areas of study include:

• the scientific process

• plants and animals (life cycles and habitats)

• weather

• rocks and soil

• the water cycle

• forms of energy

• states of matter

• simple machines

Social Studies:

In 3rd grade we explore the concept of communities and how they grow and change, including the people who have shaped communities. Such topics and themes include:

• life in communities, including Springfield, Massachusetts

• conflict resolution

• map skills

• citizenship

• communities at work

• using resources

• governments (state and local)

Extended Programs:

• Physical Education

• Health

• Computer Skills

• Music

• Art

• Spanish