Curriculum Support Materials
Third Grade Science
Rocks a nd Minerals (STC )
In Rocks and Minerals, students explore the differences and similarities
between rocks and minerals by investigating samples of these earth materials,
performing a series of tests similar to geologists' field tests, and reading
about rocks and minerals and how they are used. The first lessons focus on
rocks. The students then turn their attention to a set of 12 minerals and test
them to identify properties such as streak color, luster, transparency,
hardness, shape, and magnetism. After completing these observations,
students compile them into their own Minerals Field Guide. In a culminating
activity, they are challenged to apply their knowledge and skills to identify
new minerals. They then report on how rocks and minerals are used.
Plant Gro wth & Development (STC)
In Plant Growth and Development,, students have the opportunity to observe
each stage in the life cycle of a simple plant. Working with Wisconsin Fast
Plants™ (Brassica rapa), which germinate, mature, and go to seed within a 40day period, students plant seeds and watch the seedlings emerge. Later, they
thin and transplant seedlings. As they watch their plants grow, students
learn that plants need nutrients from the soil, as well as water and light, to
thrive. As the unit expands to focus on the interdependence of living things,
students cross-pollinate the flowers with dried honeybees. Finally, they
harvest mature seeds and determine seed yields. These experiences deepen
students' understanding of the characteristics of living organisms and their
relationship with and dependence on their environment.
Physics of Sound (FOSS)
The Physics of Sound Module consists of four sequential investigations, each
designed to expose a specific set of concepts. Students learn to discriminate
between sounds generated by dropped objects, how sounds can be made
louder or softer and higher or lower, how sounds travel through a variety of
materials, and how sounds get from a source to a receiver. The investigations
provide opportunities for students to explore the natural and humanmade
worlds by observing and manipulating materials in focused settings using
simple tools.
Online Resources:
 National Science Resources Center
(http://www.nsrconline.org/curriculum_resources/units.html )
Looking at STC for the first time? Check out this site some sample
teacher and student materials. Also, the unit overviews provide
lesson-by-lesson descriptions of each STC kit.
 FOSS WEB (http://www.fossweb.com/modules36/PhysicsofSound/index.html ) FOSS kits have support and
supplemental materials for students, teachers and parents on this
web site such as simulations, research information, and student
extensions.
 Washington State LASER
(http://www.wastatelaser.org/_support/toolkits/index.asp ) This
site has a thorough tool kit for teachers giving a lesson-by-lesson
teaching tips for the all three units. Scroll down to 3rd grade in
the table.
 Seattle School District K-5 Inquiry Science ( http://lscnet.terc.edu/do.cfm/report/7139/show/use_set-ref_mat ) The
Seattle School District has constructed conceptual stories, focus
questions along with the state standards for each of their K-5
science kits. The scroll down the page to find all three units.
 Kennewick SD Educator’s Toolkit
(http://www.ksd.org/curriculum/3/3rd.htm#sci ) The Kennewick
School District has an every growing database of curriculum support
materials. Included in these are materials for the Plant Growth
and Development unit, such as PowerPoint presentations for each
lesson, glossary, and science notebook information.
 Science Notebooking ( http://www.sciencenotebooks.org ) Teaching
inquiry-based science is strongly supported by science notebooking
and this web site is a good starting resource.