3rd Grade Science
Big Ideas
This list shows a broad overview of topics that will be addressed in each cluster.
Cluster 1:
Big Idea: Matter and Energy/Force and Motion
1. States of matter/changes in states of matter
2.. Physical properties of matter
3. Forces-push, pull, magnetism, and gravity
4. Forms of energy-light, sound, thermal, mechanical
Cluster 2:
Big Idea: Earth and Space
1. Solar system
2. Day to day changes in weather
3. Rapid changes: earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides
4. Soil formation
5. Natural resources
Cluster 3:
Big Idea: Organisms and Environments
1. Food chain
2. Structures and functions
3. Life cycles
4. Fossils
Cluster 4:
Big Idea: Science knowledge in action
1. Scientific and engineering practices