Curriculum for learning is guided by the Common Core State Standards. For more information please visit http://www.corestandards.org .
Learning Strategies Independent and cooperative groups are ways your children have the opportunity to learn. Independent learning is just as the name implies. Students work alone or in groups to apply their skills in various ways. Reading, writing and investigating all improve when students have an opportunity for this type of practice.
Cooperative learning can be working in pairs, groups, or teams on a task. It can be reading together to find details or answer questions, exploring items in investigative centers, or having a conversation about a new idea. Cooperative learning is essential to develop critical thinking skills because it requires developing skills to analyze, share and explain personal thoughts. This also builds confidence. Cooperative learning opportunities take place daily and require students to maintain self-control while focusing on the task . Self control and focusing on the task are learner qualities that third grader are expected to maintain.