Any third grade teachers?

[SDFgirl]

I just found out that I'll be teaching third grade next year...currently I'm a special area teacher. I love teaching but miss having my own classroom and students. So, I'm THRILLED to become a classroom teacher!!

Just wondering if any third grade teachers/parents out there can weigh in on this age group. What are the positives? The challenges? Anything special I should know? TIA!!

 

[goofy's friends]

I have a third grader and I used to teach 4th grade. In my opinion, 3rd and 4th grade are the best ages to teach. congrats on the job--I'm sure you will love it! Fourth is easiest, because it is really just a growth year and you can add on to what they already know. Third is considered highly academic. You will have to teach them things for the first time (in most areas) like cursive, multiplication, writing skills, and they are reading much more in depth. But that makes it so much more interesting too, because they can do so much more and they LOVE their teacher, too---so expect lots of hugs, from the girls, anyway!!!!!!

 

[SDFgirl]

I have a third grader and I used to teach 4th grade. In my opinion, 3rd and 4th grade are the best ages to teach. congrats on the job--I'm sure you will love it! Fourth is easiest, because it is really just a growth year and you can add on to what they already know. Third is considered highly academic. You will have to teach them things for the first time (in most areas) like cursive, multiplication, writing skills, and they are reading much more in depth. But that makes it so much more interesting too, because they can do so much more and they LOVE their teacher, too---so expect lots of hugs, from the girls, anyway!!!!!!

Thank you! That's great information!

 

[paigevz]

Third is a great age. One of the "magic" ages. I teach second, and at this time of year, when they are nearing 3rd, is the best! My own son had tremendous growth in third.

They are still young enough for "kiddie" things, but old enough to think for themselves and take care of their everyday needs.

Congratulations!

 

[Tiger Fan]

I am the parent of a third grader and I think this year at school has been fantastic. She has learned so much and made some really great projects and learned to actually research and explain what she found out. I've been greatly impressed. My cousin and best friend teaches 3rd grade in another state and she does say that there is a lot to cover during this year and it can make or break the way they take in knowledge for the rest of thier school years. Emily was struggling with her spelling and her third grade teacher jumped on having her tested and she has an auditory/perception disorder and you wouldn't believe the difference it made once we knew "how" to teach her. She's so much fun at this age too. Still young enough to enjoy Mommy hugs and kisses, but old enough to carry on very intelligent conversation. Congrats on your job and here's hoping all goes very well for you this next year.
Lisa
Tiger Fan