 Third grade is truly a rite of passage into the upper-elementary program. Students are given more opportunities to develop their independence and to make certain choices in areas of study. Third graders are expected to take responsibility for their actions. They have the opportunity to experience all of the third grade teachers and other specialists in various subject areas throughout the week. This allows for exposure to different perspectives and various teaching styles. Students are placed in reading and math classes (based on test scores and teacher recommendations) that adequately meet their individual learning needs. Third grade requires more rigorous study than the earlier grades, yet remains enjoyable and rewarding.
Bible
The Biblical Choices for a New Generation curriculum is designed specifically for private Christian schools. Students study Old Testament stories in the fall and New Testament stories in the spring. Weekly memory verses help students “hide God’s Word” in their hearts. Bible crafts are done weekly, encouraging students to be artistic and creative with the gifts God has provided them, while reinforcing the concepts of the lesson. NCS does not teach a particular doctrine, but simply focuses on stories read directly from the Bible. Weekly Chapel services provide an opportunity for all elementary students, faculty, staff and parents to enjoy a time of praise and worship.
Reading
Third graders move from guided reading instruction to a more advanced approach using class chapter books. Various genres of literature are studied, including a balanced combination of fiction and non-fiction selections. Literature units are designed to meet the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) and allow for curriculum integration of other subjects. Students are evaluated monthly using the STAR assessment program. Reading progress is tracked for teachers and parents to see. Students are encouraged to take Accelerated Reader tests on a regular basis. Weekly visits to the school’s library keep students well supplied with good books. Third grade students are placed in reading classes that are designed to meet their individual learning needs.
Fluency
The Wright Group’s Fluency First curriculum is based upon The Fluency Development Lesson, which was highly researched by Drs. Timothy Rasinski and Nancy Padak of Kent State University. Daily lessons use simple and brief reading selections that students practice multiple times before performing for their peers. Teachers assess students based upon reading rate, accuracy, expression, volume, clarity, eye contact and gestures. A total of six formal assessments are conducted each year. Vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and word recognition skills are the focus of this entertaining and motivating program.
Phonics
Explicit phonics and phonemic awareness is taught in grades 1-3 using the Neuhaus Language Enrichment method. The Neuhaus program, developed here in Houston, uses research-based methods of literacy instruction. This program caters to all learning styles, whether auditory, visual or kinesthetic. Research shows that emerging readers who receive phonemic awareness training score significantly higher in reading and spelling in the early elementary years.
English
The Houghton Mifflin English curriculum is used to teach basic grammar. Good sentences versus run-on sentences are explored in depth. Parts of speech are reinforced as well as using punctuation correctly. Editing skills are honed during weekly exercises. Mastery of the basic grammar skills is expected by the end of 3rd grade. The Houghton Mifflin educational website provides teachers, parents and students additional resources to extend each lesson.
Writing
The Houghton Mifflin English curriculum is used to reinforce writing skills. Students are specifically taught the various genres of writing. Students are expected to be able to write a personal narrative, a story, detailed instructions and a research report. Different professional models from the curriculum show students examples of good written composition in these areas. Storybook Weaver software allows students to create stories with colorful illustrations. Frequent journal writing encourages students to be comfortable with writing informal thoughts, feelings and responses on a regular basis.
Spelling
The Houghton Mifflin Spelling and Vocabulary series utilizes daily activities to reinforce concepts such as short and long vowels, consonant patterns and other spelling patterns. Tests are given weekly. The Neuhaus Scientific Spelling method is used to enhance the teaching of phonics and the reliable spelling patterns of our language, as well as exceptions to the rules.
Math
The Houghton Mifflin Math Expressions curriculum provides an excellent balance between computation skills and analysis. Students are expected not only to derive answers, but to justify them as well. Math Expressions focuses on Math Talk, Quick Practice, Student Leaders, Building Concepts and Helping Community. Third grade students learn to add, subtract, multiply and divide. They are introduced to higher-level thinking using real-world story problems that require multiple steps. Hands-on manipulatives help students understand concepts more fully.
Science
The Scott Foresman curriculum focuses on life, physical and earth science. The year begins studying a unit on the human body. Students experience science with a science teacher who loves to share from a Christian perspective. Labs and hands-on activities help make science a favorite among our third grade students.
Social Studies
The MacMillan/McGraw-Hill social studies curriculum focuses on various types of communities in the United States both today and throughout history. Students are required to complete a community scrapbook project that encompasses the exploration of the Spring/Klein area and its history. Basic geography skills are reinforced during the year.
Music
The Musicplay curriculum is used to teach students very specific skills using flashcards, games, hands-on activities, listening and singing. Music is always one of the students’ favorite classes in elementary school. Third graders perform in the Christmas musical program.
Orchestra (elective)
This program is conducted by the NCS high school orchestra teacher using the Suzuki method. Students may choose between the violin, viola, cello or bass. Students learn to play by ear and progress to actually reading music by the end of the year. Students are given the opportunity to perform at the annual Christmas concert and at the Community Open House. Additional off-campus community service performances are offered. An instrument rental fee applies. Purchase of music books is required as well. Students who participate in orchestra class do not attend regular music classes.
Art
Art is integrated into the regular classroom curriculum. Bible crafts and seasonal art projects allow students to be creative on a weekly basis. Students enjoy making Christmas crafts during the holiday season. Special projects include Rodeo Art drawings for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and a family heritage art project for Multicultural Week.
Physical Education
The elementary Physical Education program was developed by SPARK (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids) and is taught by two highly-qualified coaches who have many years of teaching and coaching experience. P.E. classes are designed to develop skills that enhance learning in the classroom. All students participate in 30 minutes of P.E. daily. Classes are taught in the school’s gymnasium and are highly structured in nature. Our belief is that daily physical activity is essential for good health and well-being. Third grade students continue to hone large-motor and fine-motor skills through various games and activities.
Health
Through the use of the Healthy and Wise curriculum from Caprock Press students in grades 1-5 study the same topics throughout the year. Lessons change each year to the next. Major topics include: Sports, Exercise, Nutrition, Food, Health Research/Updates, Body Basics, Safety/Health Awareness, Relationships and Social/Mental Health. Groups of our fifth grade students utilize the curriculum to design specific lessons and create discussion questions, quizzes, projects, etc. for teachers to present in their classrooms.
Computer/Technology
Reinforcement of keyboarding skills continues with the use of Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing. These skills are assessed on a regular basis. Students become more adept at using the Microsoft Office suite. Storybook Weaver software allows students to write original creative stories with brightly colored illustrations. Classroom computers, a fully equipped computer lab, Smart Boards, projectors in each room and accessible Tablet PC’s enhance the learning experience.
Junior Achievement
NCS participates in the Junior Achievement Program. Trained community volunteers present five lessons during the fall semester. The curriculum is designed to provide practical information about businesses and the many occupations found in those businesses in a typical city such as ours. Lessons are designed around TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills). This program utilizes technology enhancements.
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