Scope and Sequence Phonics, Spelling, and Reading The phonics lessons include root words, sounds of igh, ed, er, ar, or, le, el, al, ng, tion, kn, suffixes, and syllables. 3rd grade spelling covers how to study words, review activities, and spelling tips for various phonemes, supported by weekly word lists. The reading section helps students understand base or root words, comprehend biographies, and analyze cause and effect, characters, and much more, including optional Literature Links on selected stories. Grammar and Composition Grammar topics include antonyms, adjectives, adverbs, apostrophes, articles, capitalization, commas, compound subjects, and more. Composition activities involve copying literature, descriptive writing, editing, and other forms of creative writing for 3rd graders. Research and Study Skills Students also develop research and study skills like alphabetical order, using charts and graphs, and mastering reference tools like dictionaries, encyclopedias, and more. Higher-Order Thinking and Creative Expression ​The curriculum also emphasizes higher-order thinking skills through activities such as comparing and contrasting, drawing conclusions, and following directions. Creative expression is encouraged through games, drama, illustrating, and other activities that help bring the lessons to life. Penmanship ​Finally, students work on penmanship, focusing on beginning cursive writing for both lowercase and uppercase letters, along with connecting cursive letters.