Science

We will cover the following units in Third Grade:

Rocks and Minerals Students will examine, compare, and test different rocks and minerals based on the following properties: color, feel, smell, steak color, luster, light, magnetism, hardness, and shape. We will learn and read about at least 12 different types of minerals. It is sure to be a fun unit. Be sure to check out the Fun Websites to Visit page on this wiki for some related websites.

Properties of Matter In this unit, we will be busy examining different types of chemicals and noting how they are the same or different. We will also be experimenting with magnets as well as sinking and floating. Students will learn the difference between evaporation, condensation, freezing, and thawing. There are a few interesting websites to visit related to this science unit on the Fun Websites to Visit page on this Wiki.

Animal and Plant Adaptations Each student will choose an environment to research. They will then describe the environment including its characteristics, climate, and plants and animals that are found there. Students will then select one plant and one animal to do further research about. They will discover how their chosen habitat meets the basic needs of the animal and plant. Each habitat, along with the information about the chosen plant and animal found there, will be presented to the rest of the class in a PowerPoint presentation. Feel free to visit the local library with your child or surf the internet to find relevant information that will help your child with his/her research or learn more about Animal and Plant Adaptations. Also, check out the Fun Websites to Visit page on this wikipage and look under Science for related sites that will benefit your child's learning on Animal and Plant Adaptations.

Conservation Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and the new R: Replant! That's what we will be learning about in Science. Students are understanding the importance of the (3 Rs) 4 Rs in order to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our earth for future generations. We will learn about conserving water and buying items with less packaging. We willcreate imaginative ways to reuse items that are no longer needed or recycling them when unable to reuse. We will be discussing the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources as well. We will also discuss composting. I'm sure the students will be talking about conservation at home and appreciate any support you have to help us follow up on our learning while at home. Remember, everyone can do something and it really doesn't have to be a big thing to start with. Kids model what we do, let's all pitch in to try and take better care of our earth.