Learning is a journey of discovery, problem-solving, cooperation, challenges, and successes.Our classroom is structured to support this journey and ensure it is memorable and successful for all of us involved. This means learning is interactive, engaging, and meaningful.
All classes at SRTMS are driven by the Common Core Standards. To ensure student success with these standards, 3rd grade utilizes The Daily Five. This program is structured to help students develop the daily habits of reading, writing, and working with peers that will lead to a lifetime of independent literacy. Our classroom provides a safe and secure environment where students are encouraged to do their best and not be afraid to take some risks. All students have the opportunity to be successful in their learning. Third grade is the year where students are working toward independence as learners.
Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for your child to exceed and thrive in. The Common Core Standards embrace critical thinking, integrated learning, and showing not just what students know, but HOW they know. While adhering to these standards, we will embark on subject derived knowledge through self-discovery,cooperative learning,problem solving, small group settings, and supportive classroom cooperation. The Common Core Standards ensure that all students are college and career ready by the time they graduate from high school. More information will be available at Back to School Night, and you can also go to www.California Department of Education.gov.
Differentiated instruction (DI) will be implemented in all areas of the curriculum. Differentiated instruction is when the content, process, and product are adapted in response to students' readiness, interest, and
learning profile. Students are placed at the center of teaching and learning and student needs drive instructional planning. DI is a way to enhance learning for all students by engaging them in activities that respond to particular learning needs, strengths, and preferences. It is an effective tool in addressing the needs of the gifted or high-achieving students, those with special needs, as well as second language learners. DI draws on student interests, leading to greater student engagement, higher levels of motivation, higher productivity and increased achievement, as well as a positive sense of self accomplishment. We will also be incorporating Depth and Complexity icons throughout the curriculum to make connections and use higher levels of thinking.
Third grade scholars will also participate in Project Based Learning Units. These units encourage student inquiry and self-discovery while connecting concepts/standards to a universal theme or big idea. This year our third grade "big idea" will be interdependence. Your scholar will work in collaborative learning groups, with a specific and very important task. Together, the groups will create many projects that reflect student discovery and knowledge. There will also be some independent projects for students based off their own curiosity and interests! Throughout the year, students will continue to connect new ideas/concepts/standards to the universal theme of interdependence or change and acknowledge the connections and how they are found throughout the world and beyond!
There are many new wonderful experiences in store for 3rd graders this year. Come prepared with an appetite for learning and let it take you to places you never imagined. Our goal is to develop independent thinkers who can collaboratively share their ideas in a group setting to spark further curiosity and new knowledge. We hope this will be one of your most memorable and exciting years yet.