Learning Optimism from a Nonfiction Text

Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.

Determine the main idea of a text; recount the key details and explain how they support the main idea.

Describe the relationship between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect.

By the end of the year, read and comprehend informational texts, including history/social studies, science, and technical texts, at the high end of the grades 2-3 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.

Decode multisyllable words.

Read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.

Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

Read grade-level text with purpose and understanding.

Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).

Ask questions to check understanding of information presented, stay on topic, and link their comments to the remarks of others.

Explain their own ideas and understanding in light of the discussion.

Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.

Speak in complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation in order to provide requested detail or clarification.

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

Use abstract nouns (e.g., childhood).

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

Understand what it means to be trustworthy and how you earn someone’s trust

Understand and explain the expression “I have the courage to stand up for what is wrong or unfair

Provide an example of a friend or role model who “stood up” for what he or she thought was wrong or unfair

Recognize how your negative thoughts (e.g., “no one liExplain how he or she demonstrates self-discipline (the ability to forgo instant and immediate gratification for a larger goal or commitment) kes me”) may distort or minimize the positive things about you (or around you)

Provide an example of a role model who demonstrates grit (perseverance and passion for a long-term goal)

Explain why it is important for everyone to serve and contribute to their family, school, community, nation, globally

Describe how a role model exemplifies fairness

Describe how a role model volunteers and contributes to the common good

Recognize examples of stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice

Explain what empathy means (e.g., the ability to sympathetically understand and personally identify with the emotional states, needs and feelings of others)

Write and share with your classmates an ethical principle you wish everyone in the world would follow all the time (e.g., all people are created equal, be honest, be kind)