Earth's Systems
In Grade 3, students investigate the different types of landforms and bodies of water on Earth. They explore how Earth's systems interact, examine the distribution of water on Earth, and learn about natural hazards and how humans can reduce their impacts. Through these explorations, students develop an understanding of Earth's major systems and the processes that shape our planet.
Grade Three Expectations for Earth's Systems
Essential Learning Outcome 1: Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season
- Identify and describe various landforms (mountains, hills, valleys, etc.)
- Identify and describe various bodies of water (oceans, lakes, rivers, etc.)
- Create models to represent different landforms and bodies of water
- Use maps to locate major landforms and bodies of water
- Compare and contrast different types of landforms and bodies of water
- Investigate how landforms and bodies of water change over time
- Explore the relationships between landforms and bodies of water in a region
Specific Curriculum Outcomes
By the end of Grade Three, the learner will be expected to:
Inclusive Assessment Strategies
Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:
- Observations: Teacher observations during landform modeling, water cycle investigations, and natural hazard research
- Conversations: Student explanations of Earth's systems, water distribution, and natural hazard solutions
- Products: Student work samples, including landform models, water cycle diagrams, and natural hazard solution designs
Sample Assessment Tools:
- Observation checklists for modeling and investigation skills
- Rubrics for evaluating landform models and design solutions
- Performance tasks involving Earth's systems and water cycle concepts
- Exit tickets to assess daily learning objectives
- Science journals for recording observations, data, and reflections
Inclusive Learning Strategies
Additional Resources and Materials
For Teachers
- Materials for creating landform and water body models
- Maps and globes showing Earth's features
- Water cycle demonstration materials
- Natural hazard information and case studies
- Videos and images of Earth's systems and features
- OECS Grade 3 Science Curriculum Guide
For Students
- Science journals for recording observations and reflections
- Materials for creating models and diagrams
- Earth's systems vocabulary cards
- Visual aids and reference materials
- Simple maps and mapping tools
Teacher Content Knowledge
Earth's Systems in Grade 3 builds upon students' earlier experiences with observing and describing Earth's features. Students develop a deeper understanding of the different types of landforms and bodies of water that make up Earth's surface. They learn about the distribution of water on Earth, with most water being in the oceans, and explore the water cycle as a way that water moves between Earth's systems. Students also investigate natural hazards related to Earth's systems and design solutions to reduce their impacts. Through modeling, investigation, and design activities, students develop an understanding of Earth's major systems (geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere) and how these systems interact with each other and with human activities.