Instruction in reading, math and extensive writing are enhanced by special units of study.  As a part of Stevens’ cultural emphasis program, third graders focus on Africa.  In the fall, we will study Kenya’s Masaai Mara Game Reserve, followed by Ancient Egypt in the spring.  Our science topics include Sound, Rocks and Minerals, Plant Growth, and Penguins, plus mini-units on Matter, and the Brain.   

        Our Math focus includes multiplication, division, 3-4 digit addition and subtraction with regrouping ("borrowing and carrying"), geometric solids, measurement, and fractions.  All of these are connected to problem solving in everyday math.

        We do a great deal of writing, creating books about our special studies and about our reading.  Six Writing Traits are emphasized:  Ideas, Organization, Voice, Word Choice, Sentence Fluency, and Conventions (grammar, punctuation, spelling).  The Writing Process includes Planning, Drafting, Revising, Editing, and Publishing.  

        Reading includes a wide range of diverse nonfiction and biographies, short stories, novels, Junior Great Books Discussions, literature circles, and much more.  We regularly practice skills used by powerful readers.

 Classroom Management   

     I have high expectations of student behavior.  Third graders have impressed me with their excellent efforts to build a focused and enjoyable learning environment.  We have a star chart to record efficient implementation of procedures and routines.  These practices save time and are converted into “Star Time” for a special Friday activity.  When we have accumulated 200 stars we earn a Reading Marathon.  If students have difficulty with appropriate behavior, we will talk.  He or she may need to practice or  make a plan for correct behavior.  Class meetings will be the forum for discussing and modeling social skills, sharing compliments, making class plans, and resolving problems or conflict. If a student has a recurring problem, parents will be contacted.  

Student Supplies:

       Students receive folders for each subject (including homework), a box equipped with crayons, scissors, glue stick, pencils, and eraser, etc.   

Homework

      Homework is given each day, Monday through Friday.  Please check your student’s homework.  Feel free to help him or her in any way you wish..

      A minimum of 20 minutes of home reading is expected seven days a week.

      Upon arrival, students discuss and correct their homework.  If all worksheets are complete, and if an adult has signed the reading calendar, the student's homework folder will be stamped.  These stamps are used to "purchase" an item at the class "store" in January and in June.   If the homework is not complete, the student will complete it during lunch recess.  If the reading calendar is not signed, the student will do the 20 minutes of reading at lunch.  (A parent may send a note, if there are extenuating circumstances, requesting that the student be allowed to complete the work at home.)  If the whole class completes the day's homework sheets and reading, the students enjoy 5 minutes of extra lunch recess!