Grade 3 – Science and Technology

Course Overview

The Grade 3 Science and Technology course deepens students’ understanding of natural systems and physical forces while strengthening investigative thinking. Building upon prior scientific exploration, learners engage in structured inquiry that encourages observation, experimentation, and thoughtful analysis.

Students examine plant growth, soil composition, forces and motion, and structural design. Through hands on activities and guided research, they explore how scientific principles influence both natural environments and human built systems.

As expectations increase, students are encouraged to ask purposeful questions, test ideas systematically, and communicate findings with clarity and confidence.

Important Information

• No prerequisites are required for elementary courses
• Ontario elementary programs do not issue transcript credits
• Facilitated and independent learning pathways are available to support diverse learning needs

What Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students expand scientific knowledge while refining inquiry and problem solving skills.

Students will:

• Identify the major parts of plants and explain their functions
• Describe plant life cycles and environmental responses
• Investigate soil composition and its role in sustaining life
• Explain the difference between contact and non contact forces
• Analyze how forces influence motion
• Design and evaluate strong and stable structures
• Apply early engineering and design processes
• Observe patterns, collect evidence, and draw conclusions
• Assess the environmental impact of human activities
• Communicate scientific findings using clear reasoning

These competencies support the transition from simple exploration toward structured scientific thinking.

Course Structure

Learning is organized into focused units that promote deeper conceptual understanding while maintaining hands on engagement.

STEM Skills and Connections

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills are integrated throughout the program. Students participate in investigations, design solutions to challenges, and communicate findings while making connections between scientific knowledge and real world applications. Learners also explore contributions from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities and recognize the importance of diverse knowledge systems.

Growth and Changes in Plants

Students investigate plant structures and examine how each part contributes to growth and survival. They explore plant life cycles, observe seed germination, and analyze how plants respond to environmental conditions. Learners consider the interdependence between plants, animals, and humans while evaluating the impact of human actions on plant ecosystems.

Forces and Motion

Students explore how forces cause changes in movement. They distinguish between contact and non contact forces and investigate how forces operate in daily life. Learners design and build a device that demonstrates controlled motion while examining how safety mechanisms and environmental conditions influence outcomes.

Strong and Stable Structures

Students investigate what makes structures strong and stable by examining both natural and human made examples. They explore how materials support loads and experiment with design improvements. Learners build and evaluate their own structures while considering environmental and societal impacts.

Soils in the Environment

Students analyze soil composition and explore how erosion affects land. They examine how soil provides nutrients to living organisms and investigate strategies for maintaining soil health, including composting. Learners assess how human activities influence soil quality and propose responsible environmental practices.

Learning Resources

As a fully online course, Grade 3 Science and Technology does not rely on a traditional textbook. Students use a combination of digital tools and hands on materials to support investigation and experimentation.

Recommended resources include:

• A device capable of capturing written work
• Audio recording tools
• Access to a printer
• A binder, folder, or notebook for offline activities
• Household materials for experiments and construction tasks
• Craft sticks, paper, tape, glue, and basic building tools

These materials support meaningful scientific exploration and design challenges.

Teaching and Learning Approach

Our approach combines direct instruction with inquiry based exploration so that students develop both conceptual understanding and investigative confidence.

Key features of the learning experience include:

• Hands on experimentation and structured inquiry
• Engineering design challenges that promote creative thinking
• Integration of technology with physical exploration
• Opportunities to collect evidence and communicate conclusions
• Guided teacher support that strengthens analytical reasoning

Educators facilitate learning by encouraging careful observation, thoughtful questioning, and reflective discussion.

Preparing Students for Deeper Scientific Inquiry

Grade 3 Science and Technology represents a transition from foundational exploration toward more systematic investigation. Students develop stronger reasoning skills, improved analytical thinking, and greater environmental awareness.

At Trinity Ontario Elementary School, science instruction reflects the vision of Trinity Ontario Global Academy by combining academic rigor with global responsibility and character development. Students complete this course prepared to engage confidently with increasingly complex scientific concepts in the years ahead.