Welcome to Third Grade

In third grade, we use a number of organizational tools to help each child develop study skills to become an independent learner. Each child brings a yellow take home folder that is returned each day between home and school. This is the first year the third graders use assignment planners to remember homework and notes. The assignment planners are reviewed and signed by a parent each night.At St. Timothy’s, we use the Houghton-Mifflin series for Reading, Spelling, English, Math, and Social Studies. Using this series has helped us to effectively meet and exceed the Minnesota state standards for third grade. In October, students take the Stanford 10 and OLSAT standardized tests. These results are sent home to  parents and used by teachers to plan instruction for the current school year.

Last year, new textbooks and resources were added to the third grade reading curriculum. Students read a variety of genres and are assessed regularly to ensure they are reading at or above grade level. If additional assistance is needed, a reading resource teacher is available for extra support. Grades 3-5 utilize Literature Circles to offer students an opportunity to read with other children in the school who are reading at their level.

 During English, third grade students work on a number of writing projects including a personal narrative, story, friendly letters, cards, research report, instructions, and comics. A number of these projects are used to learn typing skills on laptops during computer class. Then some of these projects are presented to second grade and others are displayed in the halls for all to enjoy.

In Math, third grade is a year to master addition and subtraction math facts as well as learn multiplication and division. A solid foundation in math is essential for success in everyday life. The teachers work together to reinforce math skills across grade levels to ensure student success.

At St. Timothy’s, we use the new Scott Foresman science series in third grade. It offers a rich opportunity for meaningful hands-on guided and independent lab experiences. In addition to our science textbook resources, the third graders enjoy an opportunity to incubate and hatch chicken eggs. Under the watchful eye of a local farmer, we take great care in monitoring the life cycle of a chicken from egg to baby chick. When the baby chicks are old enough, students have the opportunity to take the chickens home if they are able to care for them. Otherwise, the chickens go back to the farm with their friends.

Social Studies offers an abundance of real-life current events to supplement the Houghton-Mifflin textbook series.  In May, the third graders take a field tip to Pioneer Park in Annandale where they are able to experience life as pioneers did many years ago. This trip and activities at school are a highlight of the third grade year!

Religion is a cornerstone of each and every day at St. Timothy’s School. We use the “Christ Our Life” textbook series to supplement our rich religion curriculum.  In third grade, students receive their own bible at the beginning of the year and it is blessed by Father Meyer. This bible is used throughout their time at St. Timothy’s. In third grade there is a particular emphasis on the children fully participating in all religious activities. This includes prayer services, mass, adoration, stations of the cross, reconciliation, prayer, gospel reflections, and service projects. Children are guided to “do unto others and you would have others do unto you [Matthew 7:12]”.