Elementary Integrated Language Arts - Grade 3
Third grade students deepen their understanding of text through written and oral language experiences. Students are encouraged to relate what they read to their own lives, noting similarities and differences, solving problems, and evaluating characters’ actions. Students refine their use of self-monitoring strategies. Teachers model many different forms of writing (poetry, letter writing, short stories, and journals) and the students are given opportunities to express themselves using these forms. Students will continue to utilize the writing process, becoming more aware of the audience for whom they are writing. Students have many opportunities for sharing their personal writing with their peers. Cursive handwriting is introduced in the third grade.
INDICATORS FROM THE VOLUNTARY STATE CURRICULUM:
The third grade student will:
· Decode words in grade-level texts
· Read orally from familiar text at an appropriate rate
· Read grade-level text accurately
· Read grade-level text with expression
· Develop and apply vocabulary through exposure to a variety of texts
· Develop a conceptual understanding of new words
· Understand, acquire, and use new vocabulary
· Develop comprehension skills through exposure to a variety of print and non-print texts, including traditional print and electronic texts
· Use strategies to prepare for reading (before reading)
· Use strategies to make meaning from text (during reading)
· Use strategies to demonstrate understanding of the text (after reading)
HELPFUL PARENT TIPS:
· Read with your child daily.
· If your child is reading and comes to an unknown word, say “blank” and continue to read. Return to that part after a few lines and ask, “What would make sense there?”
· Discuss stories, events, and television shows with your child. Include ideas beyond the literal meaning.
· Discuss settings, characters, characters’ feelings, and story events with your child.
· Take time to watch your child’s favorite television show with him/her. Use commercial time to predict what may happen next. After viewing the program, give your child an opportunity to retell events and ask questions.
· Ask your child to assist you in writing grocery lists and thank you notes.
· Encourage your child to write notes to family members and to find non-verbal and written ways to communicate.
· Visit the public library often. Look for books of new genres such as fantasy or nonfiction.
· Make a family scrapbook. Encourage your child to make captions for the pictures.
