Primary Curriculum

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Grade 3

  • Art

    Students will explore foundational concepts of music (rhythm, pitch, melody, tempo, composition) and foundational concepts of visual art (line, shape, color, texture, space) through a variety of entry points, with storytelling elements at the center of each unit. Listening skills and observational skills are developed through exposure and discussion of musical and artistic genres, with emphasis on verbal and written reflection (“What do you hear? What do you feel? What do you see? What do you wonder?”). Students also participate in Celebrations of Learning through collaborative STEAM projects during the year. 

  • Global Studies

    Our theme for the year is Journeys. Students begin their journey learning about themselves through their autobiography. They then learn about Connecticut - its geological features, Long Island Sound, Native Americans, early settlers, and CT as a part of the Northwest. We will then continue throughout the U.S as we explore the different regions. Students will also broaden their global understanding by engaging in the exploration to China as well as the “New World.” Students move on to learning about other explorers specifically those in Space. Third graders create timelines and strengthen their global mapping skills. 

  • Library

    The core curriculum for the library adds depth to all other curricular areas for each grade level. We seek to foster a love of reading in our students by exploring literature and engaging in book discussions. We believe that research and information literacy skills are vital to success across every subject area. Guided by standards outlined by the American Library Association, we teach students how to find and access information effectively and efficiently, how to critically evaluate information and its sources, how to incorporate research into their own work, and how to properly cite information gathered through this process in their own work. Students in Third through Fifth grade begin to explore technology in the library. The curriculum is designed to develop habits of mind and general competencies with computer software and hardware, so that students will be able to easily adapt to, use, and create with new technologies as they are introduced.

  • Mathematics

    Our program, Primary Mathematics, is based on the Singapore Math program. One major concept in this year is for children to secure their overall number sense. They use the Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract (CPA) approach to learn, understand and express their knowledge of our number system and place value. Research proves this to be the fundamental concept to future success in mathematics. Other concepts covered will be; money, time, fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement, probability and data analysis. Memorizing basic facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division is critical to a child’s efficiency in computation. Children should practice these with speed and accuracy on a daily basis at home as part of their homework routine. The use of flashcards, timed worksheets and a variety of websites and apps can be helpful. 

  • Music

    Students will explore foundational concepts of music (rhythm, pitch, melody, tempo, composition) and foundational concepts of visual art (line, shape, color, texture, space) through a variety of entry points, with storytelling elements at the center of each unit. Listening skills and observational skills are developed through exposure and discussion of musical and artistic genres, with emphasis on verbal and written reflection (“What do you hear? What do you feel? What do you see? What do you wonder?”). Students also participate in Celebrations of Learning through collaborative STEAM projects during the year. 

  • Physical Education

    The PE department, first and foremost, is responsible for helping our young people acquire the skills and self-confidence they need to participate in a wide variety of physical activities. The curriculum seeks to develop strength, stamina, and coordination. Our hope is that what is gained through our fun and developmentally appropriate activities will go with them well beyond their school days. Students learn the motor skills necessary to participate in a wide variety of physical activities, helping them to understand the link between physical activity and good health. Among other resources, we draw from the SPARK program, Jump Rope for Heart, Great Activities, as well as Project Adventure curriculum.

  • Reading

    Reading each day is structured around the Reading Workshop model. Children pick out books at their independent reading level (Just Right Books). Skills practiced and strengthened are phonics, oral reading fluency, silent reading stamina, comprehension, and vocabulary. Children will receive instruction in various forms as needed for their independent growth and development. Students are read to read, and discuss books daily. They are expected to practice reading every night. 

  • Science

    The Gallery of the Galaxy Space Study STEAM unit explores space through different lenses such as science, art, music, and math. Students study the physical and chemical properties of the moon, observing and recording the phases of the moon in a moon journal, learning about lunar eclipses and tides, and comparing forces on the moon and on earth.

    In technology, students use Google Moon to study the lunar surface. They look at the history and accomplishments of the Apollo Missions, learn about the technology of lunar landers and rovers, conduct internet research for surface models, and create a Google Slides presentation to share solar system research.

    Students draw blueprints of lunar landers and lunar rovers, build and test lunar vehicles on a simulated lunar surface, program Lego rovers using basic coding software, engineer reverse molds and learn plaster casting techniques.

    Math class provides them with opportunities to discuss scale, angles, arcs, diameters and orbits. They analyze large numbers and units of measure; use comparisons, ratios, quadrants and grids; create spheres and learn related geometric terms, and grid the lunar surface.

  • Spanish

    In Primary School, Spanish is an extension and an expansion of the fundamental concepts started in early childhood education. Children will expand upon their basic knowledge of the Spanish language, learning Spanish in an interactive way, through song, dance, art and games, incorporating Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling (TPRS) and Responsive Classroom. Students will engage in listening, speaking, reading and writing activities. As with other grades, particular emphasis will be on the repetition of vocabulary and commands.

  • Writing

    Children write daily. This occurs through Writing Workshop, reading responses, journal entries, letters, selected topics and prompts. Children write narratives, persuasive and informative paragraphs, essays, stories, and reports. Instruction occurs through whole group daily mini-lessons as well as one on one conferences. 

  • Elmore Leadership Program

    The importance of a child’s academic success is directly impacted by how they feel about themselves and others. Building confidence, respect, responsibility, compassion and honesty are just a few of the core values instilled in each third grader. Morning Meeting time and Class Meeting is scheduled daily for routines and activities to build these skills. The Reading Buddy program fosters student-to-student connections across grade levels. Outdoor experiences and field trips bring to life and extend learning that happens within the classroom. Third Graders are given many opportunities to shine as leaders and this is an important aspect of their Country School experience. Here at The Country School, we refer to our students’ leadership opportunities as The Elmore Leadership Program.

  • Social Development

    The Responsive Classroom program is part of our social-emotional curriculum. To be successful academically and socially, children need to learn a set of social and emotional skills that include cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy and self-control. Class meetings support the 3rd Grade sense of family and community.  Children learn to share their issues and support one another in finding resolutions and ways to make good choices. The weekly meeting helps support the TCS Core Values. The Choose Love Enrichment Program is a social and emotional learning program that teaches educators and their students how to choose love in any circumstance and helps us become connected, resilient, and empowered individuals. These skills, tools and attitudes have been proven through decades of scientific research to be the best way to ensure a healthy, meaningful and purpose-filled life.

Department Faculty

341 Opening Hill Road, Madison, CT 06443
P. 203-421-3113  |  F. 203-421-4390  |  Health Office F. 860-469-2550
Founded in 1955, The Country School is a coeducational, independent school serving students in PreSchool-Grade 8. The Country School is committed to active, hands-on learning and a vigorous curriculum that engages the whole child.