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Attributes of Third Graders
The average eight-year-old is explosive, excitable, dramatic, and inquisitive. She:
- Possesses a "know-it-all" attitude.
- Is able to assume some responsibility for her actions.
- Actively seeks praise.
- May undertake more than she can handle successfully.
- Is self-critical.
- Recognizes the needs of others.
Third Grade Basic Skills
Unlike second grade, where so much time is spent reinforcing the skills taught in first grade, many new and more sophisticated skills are introduced in third grade. At this level, most students will now have nightly homework assignments. In third grade, most students will:
- Recognize simple subjects and predicates.
- Write sentences with subject/verb agreement.
- Work out the pronunciation and meaning of unfamiliar words.
- Use comprehension skills in reading.
- Identify the plot, setting, and main characters of a story.
- Use a dictionary.
- Write paragraphs with a topic/main idea sentence and supporting details.
- Add and subtract any numbers from 100 - 1,000.
- Multiply numbers to 9 x 9 and be able to determine each related division fact.
- Measure using standard and metric units.
How Parents Can Help Their Third Graders
At eight years old, third graders are learning how to set goals and understand the consequences of their actions. Parents can help by encouraging their child as she:
Activities and Games
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Eight year olds don't like to play alone. They enjoy the company of other children or adults.
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Both boys and girls enjoy cooking and baking.
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The eight year old has an interest in foreign places and children who lived at different times in history.
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The items they enjoy collecting become more organized.
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They enjoy inventing new games, or making new rules for old ones. Most eight year olds enjoy board games.
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This age group loves dramatic play, especially when the characters are people who are familar to them.
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