Grade 3

Focus– The Church

"I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit. . ." John 15:5

How Do Third Graders Learn?

For third graders, peers and the communities to which they belong (sports teams, dance, scouts, etc.) become a significant way to feel like they belong to something bigger. They often develop a sense of being "best freinds" with someone that may or may not continue through their lifetime.  These freindships are built on common interests and outside influences. They are also beginning to see the world as something much bigger than the picture that encapsulates their local identilty.

This then is a great time to introduce the worldwide Church and the structures that organize the Church. It is also an opportune time to look at “Missionary Mindfulness” that will help them develop a sense of how the Church works worldwide and  how we help each other even though we are miles apart.

What Do Third Graders Lean?

The third-grade curriculum focuses on community and relationship building. We start with the foundations of the Holy Trinity and Holy Family. We look at how the Church is organized and who the leaders are. Every chapter of the book makes a connection to the relationship of the Body of Christ, and how the students fit in that relationship.

Students will embark on quiet time and meditation to help them visualize their part in the stories of scripture and in the workings of the Church. We do this in an effort to  help them understand how Jesus is the Vine that nurtures our faith. We will  look at the Hierarchy of the Church, and the Sacraments in detail. Students will learn about the Mass and take part in two special Masses.

We will also focus on the Rosary.

Grade Level Information

The Apostles Creed             Page 312

The Rosary           Page 330

Found throughout the "We Believe" and "We Pray" sections of the Alive In Christ Student Edition.

Students should already be familiar with the "Important Prayers" listed on pages 324- 325 in the Student Workbook.

Teaching Mass

Join us on Sunday, February 23, 2025  at 3:00 to learn about why we do what we do during the Mass.  Everyone is invited, if you want to participate, please contact the RE office.

Family Mass

Sunday, March 16 at 10:00 AM

Students will read the Scriptures at the Mass and take part as Gift Bearers, Ushers, and Greeters. Please contact the RE office to let us know if your child would like to have a role, and to let us know how many seats to reserve for your family.

May God continue to bless your family through this time. We look forward to seeing more students in class and at Mass!