Third grade is a magical year filled with exciting experiences and explorations that ignite a love for learning. Students dive into captivating subjects like science, where they might conduct experiments or explore the wonders of the natural world. In reading, they embark on adventures through stories that broaden their imaginations and foster empathy. Math becomes an exciting puzzle, with students solving problems that relate to their everyday lives. Field trips to museums or nature centers provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing children to connect classroom lessons to the world around them. The friendships formed and the discoveries made in third grade lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning, making it a truly wonderful year in a child’s educational journey.
Our third graders are participating in various programs such as NDI, City Lores, Kindness Day, and My Own Book Fund as well as taking various trips throughout the year.
We went to the Museum of Natural History in collaboration with our Wit and Wisdom unit learning about the Ocean. They explored fascinating exhibits about ocean ecosystems and discovered various sea animals, from playful dolphins to majestic whales. We went a 2nd time to the Museum for the chance for our students to learn about space exploration and the contributions of great minds like Galileo.
We were also able to participate in the Material for the Arts trip in which we learned about the intersection of art and sustainability. Students created art using a wide variety of reusable materials. In addition, we went on a taste tasting trip which provided students with the opportunity to taste new food items from the NYC DOE kitchen before they are introduced to the city’s lunchrooms. This experience encourages students to try diverse food options
Third graders are also fortunate to participate in an amazing dance program – National Dance Institute. NDI (National Dance Institute) is a non-profit arts education organization that brings children together through dance and music programs. The students dance once a week with 2 dancing teachers and a pianist.
NDI believes that every child should have access to learning in and through the arts. The students dance, sing, create artwork and have fun! Our students love participating in the various warmups, games, dance moves, activities and working on a team to create wondrous performances.
Third Graders at P.S.1 are thankful to participate in My Own Book, a program that was created to inspire a love of reading for children by having children choose books they really want. My Own Book program builds on students’ excitement for reading by introducing them to book shopping, encouraging them to build their own personal libraries at home by giving each student $60 to spend.
Our students had the opportunity to shop for their books at Barnes & Noble Bookstore. They created a list of various genres, series, and authors they were interested in and chose from their lists. They were passionate about adding on to their own libraries at home with wonderful and engaging books. Thanks, Burt Freeman and My Own Book.
A third-grade dual language class offers students the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in both the Chinese language and culture. Beyond language acquisition, students delve into various aspects of Chinese culture, fostering a rich understanding of traditions and customs. They embark on an exciting journey, exploring the history and significance of celebrations like the Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Lantern Festival. Through hands-on activities and immersive experiences, students not only learn Mandarin but also actively participate in traditional Chinese practices, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.
P.S. 1 Manhattan Alfred E. Smith Elementary School 