United States 3rd Grade Math Curriculum

This outlines the common topics covered in 3rd grade math across the United States. The curriculum emphasizes building a strong foundation in core mathematical concepts and developing problem-solving skills.

Core Topics

• Numbers and Operations in Base Ten: Students deepen their understanding of place value (ones, tens, hundreds, thousands), learn to round numbers to the nearest ten or hundred, and perform addition and subtraction within 1,000. They also begin working with estimation strategies.
• Operations and Algebraic Thinking: This area focuses on understanding the relationship between multiplication and division, mastering multiplication and division facts within 100, and solving two-step word problems involving all four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
• Number and Operations - Fractions: Students develop an understanding of fractions as parts of a whole, focusing on unit fractions (fractions with a numerator of 1). They learn to represent fractions visually and compare fractions with like denominators.
• Measurement and Data: This topic covers measuring and estimating lengths in standard units (inches, feet, centimeters, meters), telling time to the nearest minute, solving problems involving liquid volumes and masses of objects, and representing and interpreting data using graphs and charts.
• Geometry: Students explore two-dimensional shapes and their properties, including identifying and classifying shapes based on their sides and angles. They also learn about area and perimeter, and begin working with rectangular arrays.

Additional Topics

Some curricula may also include:

• Decimals and Counting Money: Introduction to decimals and their relationship to fractions, along with practical applications like counting money.
• Multiplication and Division Strategies: Exploring various strategies for multiplication and division, such as using arrays, area models, and repeated addition/subtraction.

This comprehensive curriculum aims to equip 3rd graders with the essential math skills they need to succeed in future grades. Through hands-on activities, problem-solving exercises, and real-world applications, students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and build confidence in their abilities.