Welcome to Third Grade

WRITING Writing- Most of their work is in Journal- Our journals are the journal. We will publish one writing piece each nine weeks so do not expect lots of graded pieces to go home each week. Journal- Our journals are “our playground for our pencils” in which we use to explore creative concepts. Cursive- We will focus on two letters a week. Practice booklet will come home each week.

WORD WORK Weekly Skill Assessment Each week we will explore an instructional spelling skill that follows a pattern. The student will have opportunities to make new words and apply these words in their writing. Assessment We do not test the skill through traditional spelling tests that encourage memorization; instead through authentic writing and application..

Reading Reading in Class Reading at Home Skills Build stamina Expand vocabulary Increase fluency/speed Improve comprehension Develop love of reading Reading at Home Every night Complete reading response journal once a week Skills Using metacognition to think about their reading

Manipulatives/Hands-on learning MATH Manipulatives/Hands-on learning AISD 90 minute math model Drill and Practice Problem Solving- critical thinking Content Instruction –modeling and guided practice Learning Groups- assessments, work stations , reinforcement of skills Math Journals- concepts, examples, strategies on solving problems What does it look like in our daily lives?

Science Science Fair (optional, highly encouraged) Observation Journals Safety in the Lab Scientific Tools Matter Ecosystems Life cycles Recycling Sun, Earth, and Moon Changes to the Earth Force and Friction

Social Studies Local Communities Maps Local Government Citizenship Economics Inventors Regions Cultural Celebrations Recycle Sale in December

State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness STAAR State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness Benchmarks Nov. 11-15 Reading, Math, Science Simulation Feb. 11 Math Feb. 12 Reading STAAR Math******April 22 STAAR Reading******April 23

CASTLE TIME 30 Minute block from 10:35-11:05 Time for Intervention and/or Enrichment Access to multiple teachers Students can move from group to group as needed.

HOMEWORK Given most nights each week Homework should take 30 minutes excluding reading time Homework will be written daily in their agenda. Read nightly, at least 20-30 minutes, and stay accountable through response logs. Word Work skills will be practiced through practice and application activities each week. Cursive- two letters each week Projects/assignments will be given throughout the year.

Classroom Management Positive Incentives vary by class Study Hall (Use time wisely) “Think Track” (ZAP PAD) Zap report sent home on Fridays

-Help Wanted- Minimizing tardies and absences Submit Volunteer Background Check Sign agenda each night

Parent Conferences Conferences are in October. This year conferences are optional; however, if you prefer you may schedule a conference in person, or through email. Your child’s teacher will send you a link to sign up via signupgenius.com.

Notes of Interest Time For Kids – $5 Scholastic Book Order monthly – Great Deals! Online ordering allows one free book for classroom per student order Communication: e-mail, notes, agenda, folder, newsletter, teacher websites- Feel free to e-mail anytime, as you are a key component to your child’s education. Field Trips: Day of Service, Perot Museum , and the Allen Symphony

Thanks for Coming!