Third grade language arts emphasizes grammar and writing skills. Students are expected to write in complete sentences, both simple and compound, using appropriate punctuation and capitalization. The ideas of topic and supporting sentences are highlighted as students compose paragraphs. Identifying parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs) and the subject and predicates of sentence structure are also accented throughout the year. Additionally, different types of writing including expository, narrative and persuasive forms are introduced.

The spelling/vocabulary program is in part phonetically based but irregular spelling patterns are also introduced.  Children are taught to identify various common endings, prefixes, and suffixes so that they can use them in the context of their written work. Patterns are introduced and tested with an emphasis placed not only on letter sound sequence but on expanding sight vocabulary and high frequency words as well. The dictionary and thesaurus are used as resources. Spelling is emphasized across the curriculum and the Wordly Wise program is an integral part of vocabulary instruction.

Social Studies

The United States and Florida are topics used for research using primary and secondary sources, both print and electronic. Projects are done both by individuals and groups. Maps and globes are important components of study. Oral presentations also play an important role in the developing skills of the students.

Science

In science studies students conduct scientific experiments and activities, formulating hypotheses, following procedures, and drawing conclusions. There is an emphasis on measurement in both scientific and standard systems. Research using both print and electronic resources leads to findings in both written and oral formats. Topics of study include nutrition, oceans, energy, endangered animals and the solar system.

Mathematics

Third grade math skills revolve around Number Sense, Concepts and Operations, Measurement, Geometry and Spatial Sense,  Algebraic Thinking, and Data Analysis and Probability.

Number Sense, Concepts and Operations includes work with whole numbers through hundred thousands with emphasis on place value, number comparisons and is expected to successfully add and subtract up to three digit whole numbers. Manipulatives, drawings, symbols, and algorithms are parts of introductions to both multiplication and division. Real world problem solving by determining and carrying out appropriate strategies are also part of the work in this area. Working with two digit decimals (money) and estimating reasonable outcomes are also included.

Measurement encourages children to use a wide variety of concrete objects to investigate length, weight, capacity, area, perimeter and volume and introduces standard and metric units of measure and helps students select the appropriate unit of measure for time, temperature, length, weight and capacity. Real world problem solving includes work with schedules, calendars and elapsed time as well as calculating and estimating areas, volumes, and perimeters.

Geometry and Spatial Sense focuses on geometric vocabulary for both two and three dimensional figures and their classifications. Symmetry, congruence, and reflections in concrete and pictorial forms. Ordered pairs and graphing are also concepts emphasized in third grade. Real world problems involving these concepts, such as determining what is needed to frame a photograph are also included.

Patterns are an important part of Algebraic Thinking. Patterns might be extended, described, or analyzed. Concrete materials are used to solve number problems with missing addends and the concept of an equation as two equal quantities is explored. Graphs and physical models provide problem solving opportunities.

Graphing and associated vocabulary are significant in the development of Data Analysis and Probability skills. Dealing with data provides opportunities for interpretation and comparisons as well as construction of tables, pictographs or bar graphs, Showing data in chart form also allows children to use concrete materials to determine possible outcomes and probability of real world problems.