Third Grade Curriculum
English - Language Arts

 

The grade three language arts curriculum provides systematic, explicit skills instruction in reading and writing. Students are encouraged to apply knowledge of phonics and letter patterns to read and to spell unknown words. Reading fluency and comprehension skills are promoted through practice in a wide variety of literature and language-rich activities. Students learn the writing process, writing strategies, and writing applications. Some examples of specific concepts and skills which students are to master are provided in the topic areas listed below:


READING:

Phonics, Word Recognition, Vocabulary

  • use phonics and knowledge of word families to decode unknown and multi-syllable words
  • use knowledge of antonyms, synonyms, homophones and homographs to determine word meaning
  • use knowledge of prefixes (e.g., un-, re-, pre-, bi-, mis-, dis-) and suffixes (e.g., -er, -est, -ful) to determine the meaning of words
  • use a dictionary to learn the meaning and features of unknown words

Comprehension

  • identify the main idea and supporting details in text
  • recall facts, details and story events in sequence
  • answer questions that require making an inference
  • describe the plot, theme, main idea, and characters in a selection
  • distinguish between different types of reading/writing: fiction and non-fiction

Fluency

  • read a grade level selection aloud with accuracy and expression
  • read numerous books to build fluency and comprehension

WRITING:

Application

  • write complete paragraphs which include a topic sentence, simple supporting facts, and details
  • write narratives which include descriptive details
  • write personal and formal letters

Language Conventions

  • recoginize and use complete sentences in written work
  • use correct capitalization and punctuation
  • know and apply grammar skills in written work

Spelling

  • spell assigned spelling words correctly
  • apply spelling skills in written work
  • arrange words in alphabetical order

Penmanship

  • print legibly and correctly in manuscript
  • write legibly and correctly in cursive
  • adhere to neatness in margins and use correct spacing

LISTENING AND SPEAKING:

  • listen, retell, paraphrase, and explain what has been said by a speaker
  • deliver brief recitations and oral presentations
  • demonstrate a command of standard English