I can’t believe first quarter is already coming to an end! The third graders have done an exceptional job transitioning into third grade. It has been a very exciting quarter. In math, we have spent a lot of time learning how to add and subtract large numbers. They are also well on their way to becoming expert word-problem solvers! In science, we have taken a close look at God’s beautiful creation. We have spent time looking at the different parts of a plant and their functions, focusing on how God made them so perfectly, not only to help the plant survive but us as well! The third graders have also been researching different types of vertebrates.

We have also officially kicked off Accelerated Reader. Our class has been focusing a lot on the purposes of reading. We are learning that reading can be fun and that most reading we do is to help us and that words are everywhere. We read everyday, most of the time without even realizing it. We read directions, street signs, labels, the back of the cereal box, etc. It has been very exciting!

You may have seen blue and green boxes throughout the school. The third graders have been at it again, the recycling committee is now in full swing for the 2008-2009 school year! In social studies, we have spent time focusing on ways to protect God’s beautiful creation. Recycling is one of the wonderful things we can do as a school to help. We have made the recycling boxes and have begun collecting paper and bottles from the other classes.

We also took a field trip to Blackberry Farm to learn about the interesting life of Johnny Appleseed, taste apple treats, and discover how apples grow. The tractor-driven hayride that we went on brought us to the Apple Orchard. We also learned how an apple press works and even got to try it!