Third Grade News

In this module, students will listen to, read, and view a variety of texts and media that present them with information about animal survival. We will identify author’s purpose, central idea, and text structure in order to better understand unfamiliar texts.

As students build their vocabulary and synthesize topic knowledge, they will learn more about the way animals utilize behaviors and characteristics, or traits, to help them survive.

Mr. Schorr: Students will celebrate Black History Month through learning African-American game songs. We will also learn about the blues, and will play the blues on xylophones and boomwhackers. As it is also the month of 'Flutuary,' we will learn about flutes of different cultures throughout the world. We will explore high, middle, and low pitches on the xylophones. We will also explore how notes can move by leaps, steps, or can just repeat. We will be introduced to the eighth-note rhythm.

Ms. Bakalac: The 3rd grade scientists are working on the unit Inheritance and Variation. They have learned about inherited and acquired traits. Students are learning how differences in animal traits can help them to survive. For example, a duck has webbed feet to help it swim, bears have thick fur to protect them in the cold. To support your child at home, talk about what traits animals have that help them.

Ms: Markovinovic: The 3rd grade Scientists will continue to work on their unit of study called Traits and Inheritance. Students have learned about inherited and aquired traits and traits that plants and animals have. Scientists will learn about the scientist Gregor Mendel and his work in the area of genetics. They will also explore the theory of natural selection and traits that help animals and plants survive.

Ms. Gursoy & Mr. Meehan: This month, we will begin our soccer unit. We will work on skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and some defense. We will practice these skills in a variety of group games.

Ms. Brill: We will be honoring Black History Month by learning about African Americans' contributions to the arts. We will learn about Alma Thomas and create landscapes in her style.

Mr. Hanratty: In February, third grade students will be learning about the abstract artist Charles McGee, who is known for public murals and sculptures that use patterning and contrast and which helps to beautify the city of Detroit.

Ms. Birshtein: We will begin our unit on Coding using a program called: Code.org.

February 6th - Spirit Day, Sports Day

February 11th - Student of the month celebration for January

February 16th - 20th - Midwinter Recess (no school)

Februrary 25th - Upper School Tiger Family Morning 8:15-8:45am

February 27th - Black History Month Celebration 4pm-6pm

🚨Please Note: Look at your child’s homework template for class-specific important dates such as field trips.

Thank you!

As always, please reach out to your child's teacher(s) on ClassDojo if you have any questions.

- The 3rd Grade Teachers