Welcome to 3rd Grade!

Dear Students and Parents,

Welcome to an exciting year of growth and discovery in 3rd grade at John Nelson Darby Academy! This year marks an important transition as students build on their foundational skills and develop greater independence as learners.

In 3rd grade, students will experience rich academic content across all subject areas:

  • Bible: Students will develop a deeper understanding of Scripture through studies of the Bible’s structure, Old Testament stories, and the life of Jesus.
  • Science: Hands-on exploration of God’s creation through life science, Earth science, astronomy, and physics.
  • Mathematics: Mastery of multiplication, division, fractions, and problem-solving strategies.
  • English: Strengthening reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and vocabulary.
  • History: Study of early America, Native civilizations, exploration, and colonial life.

Third grade is a year of significant growth in responsibility, critical thinking, and independent work habits. Students will be encouraged to take ownership of their learning while receiving the support and guidance they need to succeed.

We look forward to partnering with you throughout this important year in your child’s educational journey!

Warmly,
The 3rd Grade Team
John Nelson Darby Academy

3rd Grade Bible Overview

Our 3rd grade Bible curriculum is designed to build a strong biblical foundation through four comprehensive units.

Core Content Areas

Introduction to the Bible

Explores the Bible’s purpose, history, and structure to prepare students for deeper study.

Creation and Early World

Focus on Genesis—creation, the patriarchs, Joseph, and the Exodus.

The Judges and Kings of Israel

Study of Israel’s leaders from the conquest of Canaan through Saul, David, and Solomon.

Life and Teachings of Jesus

Students learn about Jesus’ birth, life, teachings, miracles, parables, death, resurrection, and the early church.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the Bible’s structure
  • Recognize key Old Testament stories and figures
  • Comprehend Jesus’ life and teachings
  • Apply biblical lessons to life
  • Build biblical literacy and interpretation skills

3rd Grade Science

Course Introduction

A survey of God’s creation using life science, Earth science, astronomy, and physics. Students gain skills in observation and biblical reflection.

Unit-by-Unit Overview

  • Unit 1: Scientific Thinking and Methods
  • Unit 2: Plants, Animals, and God’s Design
  • Unit 3: Weather, Climate, and the Atmosphere
  • Unit 4: Earth Science and God’s Provision
  • Unit 5: Astronomy and Our Place in Space
  • Unit 6: Forces, Motion, and Simple Machines

Notes for Parents

  • Hands-on learning combined with biblical worldview
  • Scripture is integrated throughout
  • Develops reasoning and communication skills

3rd Grade Math Overview

Core Content Areas

  • Number Patterns and Place Value
  • Arithmetic Fundamentals
  • Measurement and Time
  • Fractions
  • Geometry
  • Data Representation
  • Problem Solving

Learning Objectives

  • Fluency in arithmetic operations
  • Understanding and comparing fractions
  • Time, measurement, and data analysis skills
  • Application of math to real-world problems

3rd Grade English

Course Introduction

Focus on phonics, grammar, reading, writing, and research through classic literature and biblical worldview.

Units of Study

  • Unit 1: Phonics and Fluency
  • Unit 2: Narrative Writing
  • Unit 3: Literature and Analysis
  • Unit 4: Informational Texts
  • Unit 5: Opinion Writing
  • Unit 6: Grammar and Sentences
  • Unit 7: Vocabulary and Context Clues
  • Unit 8: Poetry and Figurative Language
  • Unit 9: Research Skills
  • Unit 10: Review and Assessment

Notes for Parents

  • Prepares students for upper-elementary English
  • Encourages ethical reasoning and responsibility
  • Connects literacy to faith and real-world applications

3rd Grade History

Course Introduction

Students explore early American history from pre-Columbian cultures through the road to revolution, with a focus on biblical discernment and historical literacy.

Unit Overview

  • Unit 1: Foundations of History and Early America
  • Unit 2: Native American Civilizations and Early Contact
  • Unit 3: Colonial America and the Road to Revolution

Notes for Parents

  • Emphasizes cause/effect, biography, and geography
  • Encourages reflection on liberty, faith, and civic life
  • Age-appropriate analysis of both triumphs and tragedies in history