The third grader begins to feel independence and begins actively to question their surroundings and feelings. Nine year olds need to achieve new forms of inner security and techniques for coming to terms with their emotions. Third graders are thus helped to form new relationships with nature through gardening, with a sense of history through the study of ancient civilizations, with others through building experiences, and with themselves through more focused studies in drama, music and grammar.

Language Arts – Study of grammar awakens children’s awareness of verbs—words that are doing, naming or describing. Studies of ancient civilizations begin, raising concepts such as battles between good and bad, us and them. Studies in two foreign languages are continued.

Mathematics – Study of math remains physically connected through practical measurements of length, volume, time, weight, money and music. Children measure and weigh many things, and advance their understanding of the usefulness of mathematical tools and concepts.

Art – In music, round singing and flute recorder are emphasized. Drama is introduced, which, along with music allows for lively relationships with the teacher and each other.

Science – Gardening and outdoor activities provide realistic windows for observation and understanding the natural world, seasonal cycles, earth processes, and ecosystem dynamics.