Fun Facts About Third Grade Science (Science and Your Third Grader continued)
Understanding the changing seasons, and how some areas of the world do not have four seasons has to do to with the study of the earth's weather. This often leads to a discussion on different countries (usually tied up with geography class) and the earth's varying terrain. Since both the weather and terrain can be connected to the earth's positioning in the solar system, a discussion on space can start from here.
Studies of the earth's terrain and the solar system are a part of earth science in the third grade. After a more in depth study of the solar system and the planets, belts, and comets that come through it, many classes look beyond the solar system and into the galaxy. This slowly introduces students to the vastness of the universe and the uniqueness of planet earth. The earth science topics end with a discussion on how to conserve the earth and what factors threaten its current state. The subject of greenhouse gases and its effects are also discussed, and this leads up to the topics found in physical science.
Since greenhouse gases that affect the earth have a lot to do with heat energy, discussing types of energy, particularly heat energy is integral to studying the greenhouse effect. How energy is used is also discussed, Basic electric energy is a part of your third grader's physical science curriculum, and the sources for clean and renewable energy in order to generate power connects to how humans can lessen greenhouse gas emissions and help conserve the earth.
Apart from energy, matter will be further built on, this time discussing mixtures and compounds in detail. The study of matter will also deal with the study of forces that can affect matter. This is your child's first introduction to motion and movement and what can affect it. The basic principles of Newton's laws are discussed, but not identified yet. Finally, third grade physical science ends with sound energy, movement, and how it works.
Comparing the second and third grade scope of science topics alone, you will definitely notice just how much farther your child is pushed in the third grade. Remember that science is just one subject, and what was listed above does not cover all the topics your child may take up in third grade science because curriculum changes depending on the school! Plus, your child has other subjects to think about! As previously mentioned, many schools already begin preparing their students for middle school starting the third grade and this is why there is a great boost in work load. Remember to ease your child into this pace of learning by paying more attention to their school needs.
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