Third Grade
What should my child be able to do in Math by the end of Grade 3?
• Solve multiplication and division word problems
• Understand the properties of multiplication (commutative, associative, distributive)
• Fluently multiply and divide within 100
• Know all products of two one-digit numbers
• Solve word problems with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Understand that multiplication and division are related
• Use place value to round numbers and know the value of each digit in a four-digit number
• Use place value understanding to solve multi-digit arithmetic
• Understand fractions as numbers
• Recognize simple equivalent fractions
• Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator
• Tell and write time to the nearest minute
• Estimate and measure time, volume, and weight
• Understand area and perimeter
• Understand that shapes in different categories can also be in a larger category
Read the Standards.
What should my child be able to do in Language Arts by the end of Grade 3?
Reading
• Describe how characters’ actions contribute to the events
• Compare and contrast stories
• Independently read and understand grade-level literature
• Describe a series of events, ideas, or concepts
• Discuss a point of view and compare it to that of the author
Reading: Foundational Skills
• Use grade-level phonics and word analysis skills (read words with multiple syllables, e.g., mosquito, puppeteer)
• Know the meanings of most common prefixes and suffixes
• Read accurately and with understanding
Writing
• Write opinion pieces that include a chart or graph and list reasons that support the opinion
• Write informative pieces that name the topic, supply facts, and use linking words and phrases
• Write narrative pieces that introduce a narrator and characters, and write about what the characters say, think, and feel
• Produce writing that is developed, focused, organized, and edited
Speaking and Listening
• Follow rules for discussions by building on what others are saying
• Recall ideas and details from something read aloud
• Plan and deliver an informative presentation
• Speak clearly and in complete sentences
Language
• Use correct grammar
• Write legibly in cursive or joined italics; use margins and spacing
• Choose words and phrases for effect
• Use a variety of sentence types
• Capitalize appropriate words
• Correctly add suffixes to base words (sitting, smiled, cries)
• Recognize the differences between spoken and written standard English
Read the Standards.
How do teachers track my child's progress?
Links open in new window
1. Measures of Academic Progress/MAP (math and ELA assessment)
Family Guide
2. Smarter Balanced Assessments
Understand the SBA Score Report and sample questions (WA State Office of the Superintendent for Public Instruction)
Practice SBA Tests (WA State Office of the Superintendent for Public Instruction)
What happens if there's a problem?
Links open in new window
1. Seattle Public Schools uses the Multi Tier System of Supports (MTSS) framework to support all students academically. This system allows teachers to tailor instruction to each student, including additional assistance where needed:
What is MTSS? A Jargon Free Explanation for Parents
2. Students with disabilities that affect their learning may be eligible under Federal law for additional supports in the form of an Individualized Education Program (IEP):
A Step-By-Step Guide to the IEP Process (Scholastic)
Special Education (Seattle Public Schools)
Getting to Results: A Guide to Special Education in Seattle Public Schools (Seattle Special Education PTSA)
How can I support my child's learning at home?
Links open in new window
Readiness Check - Math and Reading (Learning Heroes)
What does success look like in Third Grade reading and math? (videos - Great Schools)
Family Guide to Support Learning - Grade 3 (Seek Common Ground)
Parents' Guide to Student Success - Grade 3 (National PTA)
Family Guide to Grade 3 Learning (Seattle Public Schools)
How children learn division (video - Graham Fletcher, elementary math specialist)
How children learn multiplication (video - Graham Fletcher, elementary math specialist)
Supporting Your Child in 3rd Grade Math (Council of the Great City Schools)