Mrs. Morin's 3rd Grade

Math

Problem solving is a major focus in math this year.  Students are allowed to solve problems in a variety of ways.  This is encouraged to increase understanding of math concepts.  Students share ideas during class and explain their thinking process.  Knowledge of math facts is also very important.  We hope that most third graders know their basic addition and subtraction facts.  Multiplication will be introduced early in the year, and students will have the opportunity throughout the year to memorize their multiplication facts to 12. Our goal is to have student be fluent in these facts between 3rd and 5thgrades. Study at home is vital in this area, as each child learns at his or her own pace.  Third graders in Texas will be taking the Math STAAR test .

Positive Norms in Mathematics

In Round Rock ISD, high quality math instruction begins with establishing a positive classroom culture and environment from the first day of the school year to the last. The following seven norms are critical to student success and greatly influence students' attitudes toward learning and doing mathematics. Click here for a one page summary of the norms. Click each norm for additional information and suggestions for how to implement them. (Source)

1. Everyone can learn math to the highest levels.

2. Mistakes are valuable.

3. Questions are really important.

4. Math is about creativity and making sense.

5. Math is about connections and communicating.

6. Depth is much more important than speed.

7. Math class is about learning, not performing.

Goals of Mathematics in RRISD

The Round Rock ISD Mathematics Department has established five goals for each and every learner, PreK-12:

• Students learn to value mathematics.

• Students become confident in their ability to do mathematics.

• Students become mathematical problem solvers.

• Students learn to communicate mathematically.

• Students learn to reason mathematically.

Science/Social Studies

These subjects will be rotated every few weeks throughout the year.  Students will be doing many hands-on activities and working in small groups to complete experiments and other projects.  Specific units taught in these subjects can be found in the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills).  These are listed on the district’s website, as well as, TEA’s website.

Ways to Help Your Child at Home

1.  Read to and with your child every day.

2. Encourage writing for real-life purposes (letters to friends, family, or favorite authors; invitations; or thank you notes).

Thank you for your support and cooperation!  We are looking forward to working with your child and helping them each reach their greatest potential.

 

Sincerely,

 

Third Grade Teachers