3rd Grade

Curriculum
ELA
Open Court is used as a means to achieve student literacy success. This resource is used for phonics, spelling, vocabulary, reading, writing, and inquiry/research instruction. In addition, Simple Solutions is used for grammar to and Zaner-Bloser for handwriting/cursive. Several novel studies are also completed throughout the year.

Math
Texas GoMath is used for mathematics instruction. In an effort to meet the needs of each and every student, the third-grade math curriculum is differentiated. Enrichment is offered with each module based on pre-test scores.

Social Studies
My World Social Studies from Pearson is used for Social Studies instruction. Students learn about building our communities through topics include map skills, our environment, U.S. government, a growing nation, celebrating our communities and more.

Science
Our Science curriculum is through Pearson. We use that to guide our classroom instruction, while incorporating hands-on activities and STEM. Students will get the opportunity to explore the world around us through a variety of activities and experiences.

Religion
Alive in Christ is the curriculum used.  Students learn about God’s creation, the Trinity, The Good News, Morality, the Sacraments, and more. 

Instruction 
Third grade is full of collaboration, discovery, kindness, and faith. Instruction is provided through whole class, small group, partner, and individual lessons. We create a classroom atmosphere where students can meet their full potential.

Unique to 3rd Grade at STCS

• Students experience three exclusive field trips
• Variety of flexible seating materials
• “Gumball math” computation tests for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Completion of classroom town to learn economics
• Differentiated language arts and mathematics centers
• Mathematics enrichment available for every module
• Participation in school-wide service projects and class specific service projects

• Mrs. Amy Gatke (3rd Grade): Having had 10 years working in education, I bring my experience in early childhood, my team-player focus, and my ability to connect with my young students. My husband, two daughters, and I have lived in Austin for four years. We enjoy hiking in the hill country, enjoying Austin’s delicious food, and swimming in the local springs. Go Tigers!
• Ms. Katie Desikan (3rd Grade): After 10 years in education, I am enthusiastically joining STCS! I am a native Oregonian, and former Californian.  I moved to Austin nearly 14 years ago. I am a mother of two beautiful children: Brandt is entering 7th grade and Scarlett will be a 3rd grader. I enjoy music, writing, traveling, teaching yoga, and trying out new things. I