For children, advancing to the next grade in school always brings a little nervousness and excitement- and maybe a little confusion. The jump from second grade to third grade, however is about a lot more than just social jitters and getting used to a new classroom. Although, it has been said that odd years and transitional years (elementary to middle school, middle school to high school) are difficult, most educators believe 3rd grade is the biggest leap a child will make during his or her early school years.
Academics
1. In K-2, students are still pretty much "hand held". In third grade, they'll be expected to function more independently.
2. Through second grade, the kids learn to read. Now they'll read to learn, so it's critical that they posses grade-level skills in this area. Discussion of reading material will also increase. Students are expected to comprehend and analyze what they are reading.
3. In K-2, concepts taught were generally concrete. Now, students will begin to explore abstract ideas, especially in the areas of math with students being challenged to use critical thinking skills.
4. FSA Testing. For the first time, students will be tested on their ELA and Mathematics skills in formal, standardized tests in which their results are used as a promotional tool.
Social
Many parents who lament "Oh, they grow up so fast!" may be talking about their third-grader. At this age, children begin breaking from their parents and start forming closer bonds with friends at school. Confidence and independence increase, and part of the mind begins turning to music, clothing, online, recreation, and pop culture in general.
These social changes can be difficult at times and affect performance in school. Parents need to walk that fine line between full-time monitoring and giving their children the freedom to grow into people they someday will become- remembering always that academics should never be lost in the shuffle.
