| Departmentalized teaching begins in the third grade at St. James. Closely coordinated teaching provides an educational foundation for the upper elementary program. Subject areas are divided into two half-day programs of science, math, spelling and English, reading, social studies and handwriting. |
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Jennifer Millar
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The integrated Reading program uses a literature-based basal reading book with award winning literary selections from both fiction and nonfiction, in addition to a library of trade books and novels. Poetry, story-theater, creative dramatics and Reader's Theatre offer experiences to the student to develop a better understanding of the world around them. Participation in the Accelerated Reading program exposes the children to outstanding children's literature and encourages a life-long love of reading.
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Writing is an important component to the third grade curriculum.
Vocabulary, creative writing and grammar are predominant skills that are
reinforced daily to meet the grade level standards. Writing skills are a
major part of the third grade curriculum.
Spelling is presented daily in instruction and independent practice.
Weekly enrichment, which correlates with curriculum in other areas,
allows creative writing skills to be utilized.
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Cursive handwriting is introduced in this grade and all upper and lower
case letters are taught with a focus on letter formation and handwriting
practice.
A diversity of activities is presented in the third grade math program.
Paper and pencil problem solving, mental math, calculations, small
cooperative groups, and many hands-on activities are included in a
program designed to meet the needs of all students. Teachers and
students work together to identify problems and to determine strategies
and solutions.
Relating science to everyday activities and making science more
meaningful to life is the major theme of science in third grade. The
Science program is presented in four major areas – life science,
physical science, earth science, and health science. In addition to
written material and vocabulary, critical thinking, problem solving, and
information concerning technological advances are components of daily
science presentations. Experimentation and predictions involving
hands-on activities, supplement lessons and tying in relevant materials
from other areas of study. Field trips, visits to the Louisiana Arts
and Science Center, guest speakers, and media presentations add to the
multi-disciplinary approach to the St. James' third grade.
The Social Studies program encourages students to learn about their
world. Students develop mapping skills and learn in collaborative work
groups throughout the year. Different geographic regions are studied
with the help of Flat Stanley who travels the globe and sends postcards
to the class.
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