1. Welcome to Third Grade Mrs. Magarie

2. What to Expect in Third Grade  Third grade is a year of significant growth and development. Students become more independent workers with study and organizational skills growing in importance. Respect for self and others, empathy, and a sense of community is integrated into all phases of the curriculum.

3. Homework Policy  Homework will always include Math, Spelling, and one other subject.  Please check your child’s student planner to see that your child has done the assignment completely and accurately.  Homework is given Monday through Thursday and should take about 30 minutes.  Homework is checked everyday either by me or as a class.

4. Language Art  Demonstrate pre-reading, during, & after reading comprehension strategies.  Acquire new vocabulary.  Beginning to use new tools such as dictionary, glossary.  Participate in reading aloud in class.  Appreciate different genres & authors.

5. Writing  Students will practice several forms of writing this year: We will begin the year with descriptive and narrative forms of writing.  Emphasis will be placed on using the writing process, use of graphic organizers, spelling, vocabulary, and grammar skills.

6. Mathematics  The mission of the mathematics curriculum is to instill in each student numerous concepts & reasoning skills that allow them to appreciate mathematics as an integral part of our everyday life. To accomplish this, each child will be provided with a wide variety of opportunities that require creative problem solving and the use of assorted mathematical tools.

7. Math concepts explored:  Number Sense & Numeration  Computation Skills (includes multiplication and division)  Measurement (includes fractions & money)  Geometry  Patterns, Functions, & Algebra  Data Analysis & Probability

8. Social Studies Unit Focus:  Developing an understanding of the communities, geography, economics, different cultures around the world.  We will begin the year learning about map skills and end the year reviewing what we’ve learned.  Students will also take part in a Thanksgiving Play held the Wednesday before Thanksgiving Day.

9. Science and Health  Third grade science addresses subjects in life science, physical science, earth/space science, and scientific process.  Health addresses understanding of the human body (muscles & skeleton), diseases, & hygiene.

10. Third Grade Science Topics  Plant growth & Photosynthesis  Ecosystem & Adaptation of Animals  Weather  Exploring Energy & Forces  Investigating Matter  Cycles on Earth and in Space  Insects & Butterflies  Ocean life and the Coral Reefs

11. Computer & Technology  On certain occasions, students will be given various internet assignments in science or social studies. Although most of the work will be done in class, be advised that at times, some of the work may need to be done at home. Therefore, internet access is needed. Please inform me as soon as possible if this is a problem. Note that all libraries allow students to use their computers. I suggest you contact them should you need access to a computer.

12. Field Trips The following field trips are planned for this year:  The Long Island Children’s Museum (Mitchel Field): Students will partake in various activities involving maps.  Garvies Point Preserve: Students will appreciate the Native Indian culture.  Long Island Science Museum: Further understand Forces in Motion and Magnets.

13. Parent Portal  This is our second year using the Parent Portal. Here, parents will have access to assessments and comments about their children.  All parents must set up a username & password for each child and sign a ‘Disclaimer’ form before gaining access to this site.  Types of assessments to be graded: Tests, quizzes, performance tasks/projects, class work (randomly chosen), & homework (randomly chosen)

14. My Pledge to Students  I will trust you until you give me reason to do otherwise.  I will respect you and work with you to solve problems.  I will promptly correct and offer feedback on your work.  I will work with you to meet learning goals.  I will offer extra help and alternative assessments should you require them.

15. I look forward to a wonderful and exciting year teaching your child. Sincerely, Mrs. Magarie