Third grade is a pivotal year academically and socially. Students transition from primary to upper grades, developing greater responsibility for their work and homework. The curriculum is designed to deepen students' critical thinking skills, preparing them for success in fourth and fifth grades. Student learning is guided by the standards and benchmarks adopted by OUSD.

 

Third grade students engage in small-group reading instruction, allowing for individualized support. Students read a variety of genres of texts, and have instruction in 95 Percent Phonics to support continued growth in decoding, helping students develop the foundational skills needed to read and write with fluency. Writing instruction is integrated with the reading program, with Writing Workshop serving as the foundation for writing instruction. Students hone their ability to write narratives, opinion pieces, and explanatory texts. They study spelling, grammar, punctuation, usage, research skills, oral language, and poetry. Students write across the curriculum, completing research reports and book reports in various genres, including biographical reports presented orally.

 

Math Expressions curriculum is used to teach third graders addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The curriculum also covers multiplication facts, time, money, place value, measurement, algebra, plane geometry, graphs, probability, fractions, area, perimeter, volume, and problem-solving strategies. Through a hands-on approach, students develop a strong mathematical foundation and critical thinking skills.

 

Students use the FOSS program to explore topics like the structures of life (plants and animals), rocks, and electricity. Lessons are extended with teacher-provided materials, art, literature, field trips, and films, encouraging curiosity and scientific exploration.

 

The social studies curriculum, powered by InquirED, helps students explore geography and an introduction to U.S. history. Topics include government, communities, Native American contributions, westward expansion, immigration, American inventions, protection of natural resources, and the history of Orinda. Field trips and art activities enrich the social studies experience, making history come alive.

 

The Second Step Character Education Program plays a key role in third grade instruction, teaching students to manage their emotions, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships with others. The program fosters empathy, respect, and social responsibility, empowering students to be leaders in their school community.

 

Third graders spend time exploring their creativity in the Art program. They work on projects that correlate with classroom learning and foster artistic expression, developing an appreciation for the arts and a range of artistic techniques.

 

Students enjoy weekly Music instruction, where they develop musical skills and an appreciation for various types of music. The music program encourages self-expression through song, rhythm, and movement.

 

In Physical Education, third graders receive 100 minutes of instruction weekly, which includes 40 minutes with the classroom teacher and an additional 60 minutes with a credentialed P.E. teacher. Physical activity is a vital part of their development, helping to improve coordination, strength, and overall fitness.

 

Third grade students formally visit the library once a week. They learn about authors and new books, listen to stories read aloud, and check out books to encourage a love of reading.

 

All students participate in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and Garden activities where they explore exciting design challenges, engage in innovative practices and practice hands-on activities.