3rd-5th Grade

Third Grade Curriculum Overview

In third grade, students build a strong foundation in both academics and faith as they grow into more independent learners.

Mathematics
The math curriculum emphasizes developing stronger number sense and fluency with math language. Students will explore multiplication, division concepts, area, perimeter, and fractions. They will also practice applying these skills to solve real-world math problems, helping them see how mathematics connects to their daily lives.

Writing & Language Arts
Writing instruction focuses on crafting more complex sentences and organizing thoughts into well-developed paragraphs. Students will explore a variety of writing styles, including narrative, opinion, and informative pieces. Weekly spelling and grammar lessons strengthen their understanding of word definitions, spelling patterns, and parts of speech. These skills are consistently reinforced through authentic writing tasks.

Reading
Third graders use the Read Side by Side program, which includes whole-class read-aloud experiences as well as small book clubs. Grouping students by reading level allows them to build comprehension strategies and dive deeper into story elements such as character development, plot, theme, and genre. Through this program, students not only strengthen reading fluency but also learn to discuss and think critically about literature.

Science
In science, students explore core scientific principles and how they apply to the real world. Hands-on experiments and projects foster curiosity and problem-solving skills. A highlight of the year is the annual Rock Fair, where students investigate and showcase their knowledge of earth science.

Social Studies
Social studies in third grade centers on the concept of communities. Students learn how laws help communities function, the roles of consumers and producers, and the importance of goods and services in daily life. These lessons help students better understand their role in society and how they contribute to the world around them.

Specials
Students enjoy a rich variety of specials each week, including Art, STEM, Technology, Library, Spanish, Physical Education, and Music. Each subject offers opportunities for creativity, exploration, and skill-building beyond the core classroom setting.

Faith Formation
As part of Montini Catholic School’s mission, religion is woven into the school week through lessons in faith and values. Third graders attend Mass weekly and actively participate in learning about Catholic traditions, scripture, and living out their faith in everyday life.

Fourth and Fifth Grade Curriculum Overview

Fourth and fifth grade are exciting years where students grow as independent thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders. These grades provide opportunities to strengthen foundational skills, explore new ideas, and prepare for middle school in a supportive, faith-filled environment.

Reading
Students enjoy a variety of literature, from short stories to full-length novels. Vocabulary work, study guides, and classroom discussions guide students toward deeper comprehension and improved fluency. Quizzes and projects help reinforce learning while encouraging students to think critically about characters, plot, setting, and theme. A focus on active reading helps students develop a lifelong love of stories and ideas.

Writing & Language Arts
The writing program nurtures student creativity and helps them develop clear, confident communication skills. Students learn to apply grammar, spelling, and vocabulary in meaningful ways while writing across genres such as personal narratives, persuasive essays, descriptive pieces, letters, poetry, and research reports. Graphic organizers support the writing process, and oral presentations provide opportunities to share ideas with confidence. Through these experiences, students learn to communicate thoughtfully and effectively in both writing and speech.

Mathematics
Math instruction builds a strong foundation in number sense and problem-solving. Students explore place value, multi-digit operations, fractions, decimals, and ratios while learning to apply strategies to real-world problems. Geometry, money, time, and data analysis (including graphs and statistics) are integrated into the curriculum. Activities and discussions encourage students to think critically, make connections, and develop perseverance when solving challenging problems.

Social Studies

• Fourth Grade: Students study the responsibilities of government at the local, state, and federal levels and learn about civic virtues that strengthen communities. They use maps to understand U.S. geography and investigate how cultures and environments change over time. Students also explore economics by learning how goods and services are produced and how choices about spending, saving, and taxes impact communities.

• Fifth Grade: Students expand their understanding of history and government by studying early American systems of government and comparing them with others around the world. They explore how people have used natural resources over time and how cultural and environmental changes have shaped societies. Students also investigate economics, learning how incentives influence decisions and examining the causes and effects of key events in early American history.

Classroom Philosophy
In fourth and fifth grade, students are encouraged to take an active role in their learning by listening, asking questions, and sharing ideas. Mistakes are viewed as important learning opportunities that show effort and curiosity. Students are supported in developing responsibility by completing assignments on time and giving their best effort. The classroom is a place where participation, growth, and perseverance are celebrated, helping students build confidence and prepare for the challenges and successes of middle school and beyond.