3rd Grade Curriculum Overview
Learning God’s Word
This year, 3rd graders focus on knowing God and growing in faith through His Word and Spirit. We encourage children to see themselves as loved and forgiven members of God’s family and the Church. Our Bible lessons include:
- Creation to the Life of Jesus: Key stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and more.
- Jesus’s Life: His birth, ministry, teachings, death, resurrection, and ascension.
- Memory Work: Bible verses, Ten Commandments, books of the Bible, songs, and recitations for special worship services.
Language Arts
Spelling and Vocabulary
Students learn spelling and vocabulary through patterns, high-frequency words, and weekly spelling tests. We cover:
- Synonyms, antonyms, and word origins
- Using words in context
- Proofreading and expanding vocabulary
English & Grammar
Students practice grammar, mechanics, and writing skills through literature and projects:
- Writing clear sentences, paragraphs, and book reports
- Monthly projects include a “Bottle Person” biography and a “Cat or Dog” research report
Reading
Third graders become more confident readers through high-interest literature and skills like:
- Comprehension (problem/solution, cause/effect, author’s purpose)
- Vocabulary and phonics (hard and soft sounds, contractions, blends)
- Study skills and using a dictionary
Math
3rd-grade math builds on what students already know. We focus on these main areas:
- Numbers and Place Value: Numbers up to 10,000
- Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division facts, and patterns
- Geometry & Measurement: Perimeter, area, volume, and 2D/3D shapes
- Fractions and Decimals: Introduction to addition, subtraction, and basic concepts
- Money, Time, and Problem-Solving
Social Studies
We explore the land, early Americans, and the foundations of our country. Some key topics include:
- Geography: Landforms and regions of the U.S.
- Native American Tribes: Kwakiutl, Cheyenne, and Navajo
- History: Early settlements like Plymouth, westward expansion, and immigration
- Civic Awareness: Government, citizenship, holidays, and symbols
Skills include map reading, critical thinking, and working on projects like “Covered Wagons” and “History Pocket Reports.”
Science
We study plants, animals, the earth, and the human body using hands-on experiments to bring science to life.
- Life Science: Growth needs of plants and animals
- Physical Science: Matter, energy, sound, and forces
- Earth Science: Earth, moon, planets, and weather
- Human Body: Major systems and staying healthy
Physical Education
Focus areas are self-confidence, sportsmanship, agility, balance, and basic sports like basketball and baseball.
Technology
3rd graders improve typing, learn text formatting and WordArt, and practice internet safety. Students create a poetry collection using Microsoft Word skills.
Music
Through singing, rhythm, and the Orff-Schulwerk approach, students learn to play the recorder and develop basic music theory skills. Our goal is to encourage creativity and expression in a fun, supportive way.
Art
TK – 8th Students attend art class with Ms. Hailey once a week:
Throughout the year, students will work with a wide range of materials, tools, and mediums. They will explore the elements of art and principles of design to create art pieces inspired by significant art movements throughout history. This approach aims to ignite curiosity and foster a lifelong love of art.
Field Trips
Some of our fun field trips include:
- California Science Center / Big Lab
- Autry Museum of Western Heritage
- Live plays or performances
This 3rd-grade program focuses on academic growth and Christian values, encouraging each student to build strong skills in a supportive, faith-based environment.
