Lots happens between kindergarten and third grade: students learn to read and write, develop basic math skills and become independent learners. So, what do these look like?? Here are a few details to look at when deciding if a child is ‘at grade level’. Of course, we all learn at different pacesm, but these are basic skills that should be in place by the end of third grade.
Language Arts and Literacy
- reading for the main idea and supporting details
- using Bloom’s taxonomy of Thinking first levels with accuracy: recalling information, comprehending by summarizing and restating details, using vocabulary appropriately
- using comparisons and contrasts
- beginning to use reference materials and do research
- read aloud and silently with fluency and understanding
- increased vocabulary development and use of best guess spelling
- write organized stories, reports, etc. (Use proper punctuation and conventions as well as begin to edit own work)
Math
- know basic addition, subtraction and begin to understand multiplication and division
- understand word problems
- use various forms of measurement: length, weight, volume, perimeter/area, money, time
- becoming familiar with geometric shapes
- able to work for unknowns in problems
Independent Learning
- Participate in class and group discussions
- Share own thinking
- Work independently with improving confidence