Language Arts
Third graders will read and respond to a variety of literature genres. Students will learn and use spelling patterns correctly. Students will utilize grammar skills to write in a variety of genres including expository, personal narrative, poetry, and creative writing.
Math
Third graders will study number sense, computation skills, geometry, problem-solving, and patterns and functions. Students will investigate these math concepts through activities, games, and other explorations.
Science
Third graders will study matter and its changes, the water cycle, cells and body systems, and simple machines. Students will use the scientific method to conduct experiments to study these concepts.
Social Studies
Third graders explore the culture, geography, and history of Native Americans and early settlers of America including the colonies of Plymouth and St. Augustine. Students will complete research projects on various Native American tribes.
Spanish
Exploratory Spanish for Third grade is designed to expose students to the language and culture of the Spanish language. Students learn the basic Spanish rules for Spanish grammar. Students are also exposed to the culture of Spain and Latin American countries through class holiday celebration and participating in classroom exercises including dialogues, role play, group activities and games.
Music
The student is given a foundation for basic music literacy and appreciation. Students experience music sequentially through singing, moving, playing, listening and creating. Music concepts explored in third grade include rhythm, melody, harmony, tone color, form and expression. Exposure to a range of music opens us up to how we perceive and perform music.
Art
A yearlong continued study of the elements of arts allows students to gain further knowledge of line, shape, color, value, form, shape and line. There is a heavy concentration on color in third grade and how to use color to further enhance their works of art. Students will use their imagination, creativity, studies of artist, various artistic styles and classroom studies (cross curriculum) as their inspiration.
Computer
Students use up-to-date technology in all aspects of the academic program at all grade levels. Computers are used to reinforce and enrich skills in math, geography, science and language arts. Problem solving and logical thought skills are reinforced through the use of appropriate software. Word processing, graphic and desktop publishing programs are used to design and publish documents.
Library
At Norfolk Collegiate School all students visit the library weekly for selection of books for course work and independent reading. They learn library organization, proper care of books, and age-appropriate library skills. In third grade the skills include using the OPAC, finding books on the shelf with the call number, and finding out which reference tools to use to locate information. Every student will learn encyclopedia skills that help them locate information efficiently, and then read for the important facts and summarize in their own words.
Physical Education
The students will demonstrate an understanding of movement that fosters cooperation and sportsmanship. The students will be encouraged to give their best effort at all times.