3
    Third GradePowered by ThirdGrade.com

    States · NC

    North Carolina Grade 3 standards crosswalk

    How each national third grade standard lines up with North Carolina's own standards.

    How to read this

    Each row takes one national third grade standard and shows the North Carolina standard that covers it. Same: the state standard says the same thing. Close: the same skill with small wording differences. Partly: the state covers only part of it in Grade 3. Not in Grade 3: the state has no Grade 3 standard for it (the note says where it sits, when the state says). Third Grade teaches every national standard listed here; the notes tell you what, if anything, to adjust for North Carolina.

    Checked 2026-10-08 against official North Carolina documents. This is an unofficial guide; your state's own documents are the authority.

    Math

    North Carolina Standard Course of Study: 2017 K-12 Mathematics

    How North Carolina writes its codes: NC, grade, domain, number, for example NC.3.OA.7; numbers follow the national list with gaps where the state dropped or merged a standard, and sub-parts are unlettered bullets.

    National standards under the state's own codes · adopted 2017

    2 same · 28 close · 6 partly · 1 not in Grade 3

    National standardNorth Carolina code(s)MatchNote
    3.OA.A.1

    Interpret products of whole numbers, e.g., interpret 5 × 7 as the total number of objects in 5 groups of 7 objects each. For example, describe a context in which a total number of objects can be expressed as 5 × 7.

    NC.3.OA.1CloseCurrent 2017 standards (in force 2026-27). Factors up to 10; also asks children to explain strategies such as arrays, repeated addition and the commutative and associative properties.
    3.OA.A.2

    Interpret whole-number quotients of whole numbers, e.g., interpret 56 ÷ 8 as the number of objects in each share when 56 objects are partitioned equally into 8 shares, or as a number of shares when 56 objects are partitioned into equal shares of 8 objects each. For example, describe a context in which a number of shares or a number of groups can be expressed as 56 ÷ 8.

    NC.3.OA.2CloseLimited to one-digit divisors and quotients; also asks children to illustrate and explain strategies such as arrays and repeated subtraction.
    3.OA.A.3

    Use multiplication and division within 100 to solve word problems in situations involving equal groups, arrays, and measurement quantities, e.g., by using drawings and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem.

    NC.3.OA.3CloseOne-step problems with factors, divisors and quotients up to 10; arrays, pictures and equations; measurement quantities are not named.
    3.OA.A.4

    Determine the unknown whole number in a multiplication or division equation relating three whole numbers. For example, determine the unknown number that makes the equation true in each of the equations 8 × ? = 48, 5 = □ ÷ 3, 6 × 6 = ?.

    NC.3.OA.7CloseNo separate standard; finding the unknown number in a multiplication or division equation is a part of the fluency standard NC.3.OA.7.
    3.OA.B.5

    Apply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide.

    NC.3.OA.1CloseNo separate standard; the commutative and associative properties and decomposing a factor are strategies named inside NC.3.OA.1.
    3.OA.B.6

    Understand division as an unknown-factor problem. For example, find 32 ÷ 8 by finding the number that makes 32 when multiplied by 8.

    NC.3.OA.6Same
    3.OA.C.7

    Fluently multiply and divide within 100, using strategies such as the relationship between multiplication and division (e.g., knowing that 8 × 5 = 40, one knows 40 ÷ 5 = 8) or properties of operations. By the end of Grade 3, know from memory all products of two one-digit numbers.

    NC.3.OA.7CloseSame fluency and from-memory expectation, stated as factors, quotients and divisors up to 10; also holds the unknown-number skill.
    3.OA.D.8

    Solve two-step word problems using the four operations. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding.

    NC.3.OA.8, NC.3.NBT.2PartlyGrade 3 two-step problems use addition, subtraction and multiplication, not division; all four operations come in Grade 4 (NC.4.OA.3). Checking answers by estimation sits in NC.3.NBT.2 for addition and subtraction.
    3.OA.D.9

    Identify arithmetic patterns (including patterns in the addition table or multiplication table), and explain them using properties of operations. For example, observe that 4 times a number is always even, and explain why 4 times a number can be decomposed into two equal addends.

    NC.3.OA.9PartlyState covers multiplication patterns on a hundreds board or multiplication table only; addition-table patterns and explaining with properties are not named.
    3.NBT.A.1

    Use place value understanding to round whole numbers to the nearest 10 or 100.

    —Not in Grade 3No NC.3.NBT.1: rounding is not a standard in Grade 3, and the word does not appear anywhere in the state K-12 math standards; estimation strategies are named in NC.3.NBT.2.
    3.NBT.A.2

    Fluently add and subtract within 1000 using strategies and algorithms based on place value, properties of operations, and/or the relationship between addition and subtraction.

    NC.3.NBT.2CloseAdd and subtract up to 1,000 with estimation, expanded form and the addition-subtraction relationship; the word 'fluently' is not used.
    3.NBT.A.3

    Multiply one-digit whole numbers by multiples of 10 in the range 10—90 (e.g., 9 × 80, 5 × 60) using strategies based on place value and properties of operations.

    NC.3.NBT.3CloseSame products (one digit times a multiple of 10 from 10 to 90), found with concrete and pictorial models.
    3.NF.A.1

    Understand a fraction 1/b as the quantity formed by 1 part when a whole is partitioned into b equal parts; understand a fraction a/b as the quantity formed by a parts of size 1/b.

    NC.3.NF.1, NC.3.NF.2CloseSplit in two: unit fractions (NC.3.NF.1) and other fractions built from them (NC.3.NF.2); denominators 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 written into the standard.
    3.NF.A.2

    Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram.

    NC.3.NF.2CloseNumber line work is the length-model part of NC.3.NF.2; no separate number line standard.
    3.NF.A.2.a

    Represent a fraction 1/b on a number line diagram by defining the interval from 0 to 1 as the whole and partitioning it into b equal parts. Recognize that each part has size 1/b and that the endpoint of the part based at 0 locates the number 1/b on the number line.

    NC.3.NF.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: unit fractions shown with length models.
    3.NF.A.2.b

    Represent a fraction a/b on a number line diagram by marking off a lengths 1/b from 0. Recognize that the resulting interval has size a/b and that its endpoint locates the number a/b on the number line.

    NC.3.NF.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the numerator counts unit-fraction lengths from 0 on a number line.
    3.NF.A.3

    Explain equivalence of fractions in special cases, and compare fractions by reasoning about their size.

    NC.3.NF.3, NC.3.NF.4CloseEquivalence (NC.3.NF.3) and comparison (NC.3.NF.4) are separate standards, both tied to area and length models.
    3.NF.A.3.a

    Understand two fractions as equivalent (equal) if they are the same size, or the same point on a number line.

    NC.3.NF.3CloseCovered within the parent standard; equivalence is shown with area and length models rather than defined by size or number line point.
    3.NF.A.3.b

    Recognize and generate simple equivalent fractions, e.g., 1/2 = 2/4, 4/6 = 2/3). Explain why the fractions are equivalent, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

    NC.3.NF.3CloseEquivalent fractions limited to related sets: halves, fourths and eighths; thirds and sixths.
    3.NF.A.3.c

    Express whole numbers as fractions, and recognize fractions that are equivalent to whole numbers.

    NC.3.NF.3CloseCovered within the parent standard: one bullet of NC.3.NF.3 covers whole numbers written as fractions and fractions equal to one whole.
    3.NF.A.3.d

    Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

    NC.3.NF.4CloseSame comparison skill; state adds area and length models and limits denominators to halves, fourths, eighths, thirds and sixths.
    3.MD.A.1

    Tell and write time to the nearest minute and measure time intervals in minutes. Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of time intervals in minutes, e.g., by representing the problem on a number line diagram.

    NC.3.MD.1CloseTime to the nearest minute; elapsed-time word problems stay within the same hour (crossing the hour is Grade 4, NC.4.MD.8).
    3.MD.A.2

    Measure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units of grams (g), kilograms (kg), and liters (l). Add, subtract, multiply, or divide to solve one-step word problems involving masses or volumes that are given in the same units, e.g., by using drawings (such as a beaker with a measurement scale) to represent the problem.

    NC.3.MD.2PartlyGrade 3 uses customary units (cups, pints, quarts, gallons, ounces, pounds) instead of grams, kilograms and liters; metric measurement is Grade 4 (NC.4.MD.1).
    3.MD.B.3

    Draw a scaled picture graph and a scaled bar graph to represent a data set with several categories. Solve one- and two-step "how many more" and "how many less" problems using information presented in scaled bar graphs. For example, draw a bar graph in which each square in the bar graph might represent 5 pets.

    NC.3.MD.3CloseScaled picture and bar graphs with one- and two-step problems; state adds collecting data in up to four categories and frequency tables.
    3.MD.B.4

    Generate measurement data by measuring lengths using rulers marked with halves and fourths of an inch. Show the data by making a line plot, where the horizontal scale is marked off in appropriate units— whole numbers, halves, or quarters.

    NC.3.MD.2PartlyMeasuring length to the half and quarter inch is in NC.3.MD.2; line plots are Grade 4 (NC.4.MD.4).
    3.MD.C.5

    Recognize area as an attribute of plane figures and understand concepts of area measurement.

    NC.3.MD.5CloseArea is taught by tiling a rectangle without gaps or overlaps and counting unit squares; area as an attribute is not stated separately.
    3.MD.C.5.a

    A square with side length 1 unit, called "a unit square," is said to have "one square unit" of area, and can be used to measure area.

    NC.3.MD.5CloseCovered within the parent standard (counting unit squares).
    3.MD.C.5.b

    A plane figure which can be covered without gaps or overlaps by n unit squares is said to have an area of n square units.

    NC.3.MD.5CloseCovered within the parent standard (tiling without gaps or overlaps).
    3.MD.C.6

    Measure areas by counting unit squares (square cm, square m, square in, square ft, and improvised units).

    NC.3.MD.5CloseCounting unit squares is in NC.3.MD.5; the named units (square cm, m, in, ft) are not listed.
    3.MD.C.7

    Relate area to the operations of multiplication and addition.

    NC.3.MD.7Same
    3.MD.C.7.a

    Find the area of a rectangle with whole-number side lengths by tiling it, and show that the area is the same as would be found by multiplying the side lengths.

    NC.3.MD.7CloseCovered within the parent standard: a bullet of NC.3.MD.7 has children explain why multiplying side lengths gives the same area as counting tiles.
    3.MD.C.7.b

    Multiply side lengths to find areas of rectangles with whole-number side lengths in the context of solving real world and mathematical problems, and represent whole-number products as rectangular areas in mathematical reasoning.

    NC.3.MD.7CloseCovered within the parent standard: a bullet of NC.3.MD.7 has children multiply side lengths to find rectangle areas in problems.
    3.MD.C.7.c

    Use tiling to show in a concrete case that the area of a rectangle with whole-number side lengths a and b + c is the sum of a × b and a × c. Use area models to represent the distributive property in mathematical reasoning.

    NC.3.MD.7CloseState asks children to split a rectangle into two smaller rectangles and add the areas, using tiles or arrays; the a x (b + c) form is not written.
    3.MD.C.7.d

    Recognize area as additive. Find areas of rectilinear figures by decomposing them into non-overlapping rectangles and adding the areas of the non-overlapping parts, applying this technique to solve real world problems.

    NC.3.MD.7PartlyState covers splitting one rectangle into two and adding the areas; areas of L-shaped (rectilinear) figures are Grade 4 (NC.4.MD.3).
    3.MD.D.8

    Solve real world and mathematical problems involving perimeters of polygons, including finding the perimeter given the side lengths, finding an unknown side length, and exhibiting rectangles with the same perimeter and different areas or with the same area and different perimeters.

    NC.3.MD.8PartlyPerimeter from side lengths and finding an unknown side are covered; comparing rectangles with the same perimeter and different areas is Grade 4 (NC.4.MD.3).
    3.G.A.1

    Understand that shapes in different categories (e.g., rhombuses, rectangles, and others) may share attributes (e.g., having four sides), and that the shared attributes can define a larger category (e.g., quadrilaterals). Recognize rhombuses, rectangles, and squares as examples of quadrilaterals, and draw examples of quadrilaterals that do not belong to any of these subcategories.

    NC.3.G.1CloseNames rhombuses, rectangles, squares, parallelograms and trapezoids with examples and non-examples; adds composing and decomposing triangles and quadrilaterals.
    3.G.A.2

    Partition shapes into parts with equal areas. Express the area of each part as a unit fraction of the whole. For example, partition a shape into 4 parts with equal area, and describe the area of each part as 1/4 of the area of the shape.

    NC.3.NF.1CloseNo geometry standard for this; partitioning a whole into equal parts and naming unit fractions with area models is in NC.3.NF.1.

    English Language Arts

    North Carolina Standard Course of Study: 2017 K-12 English Language Arts

    How North Carolina writes its codes: Strand, grade, number, as in the national standards, for example RF.3.4; lettered parts are printed as a., b. under the standard and written here as RF.3.4.a. Foundational skills and writing are renumbered (RF.3.2 handwriting, RF.3.4 phonics, RF.3.5 fluency; W.3.4 to W.3.6).

    National standards under the state's own codes · adopted 2017

    55 same · 28 close · 4 partly · 3 not in Grade 3

    National standardNorth Carolina code(s)MatchNote
    RL.3.1

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

    RL.3.1SameSame wording. These 2017 standards are in place for 2026-27; the state has approved 2026 standards that start in 2027-28.
    RL.3.2

    Recount stories, including fables, folktales, and myths from diverse cultures; determine the central message, lesson, or moral and explain how it is conveyed through key details in the text.

    RL.3.2Same
    RL.3.3

    Describe characters in a story (e.g., their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events.

    RL.3.3Same
    RL.3.4

    Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, distinguishing literal from nonliteral language.

    RL.3.4CloseState asks children to identify words that affect meaning; telling literal from nonliteral language is in L.3.5.a instead.
    RL.3.5

    Refer to parts of stories, dramas, and poems when writing or speaking about a text, using terms such as chapter, scene, and stanza; describe how each successive part builds on earlier sections.

    RL.3.5Same
    RL.3.6

    Distinguish their own point of view from that of the narrator or those of the characters.

    RL.3.6Same
    RL.3.7

    Explain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting).

    RL.3.7Same
    RL.3.9

    Compare and contrast the themes, settings, and plots of stories written by the same author about the same or similar characters (e.g., in books from a series).

    RL.3.9Same
    RL.3.10

    By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry, at the high end of the grades 2—3 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

    RL.3.10CloseSame reading level; state adds reading for sustained periods and connecting prior knowledge, and does not list stories, dramas and poetry.
    RI.3.1

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

    RI.3.1Same
    RI.3.2

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

    RI.3.2Same
    RI.3.3

    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.

    RI.3.3Same
    RI.3.4

    Determine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases in a text relevant to a grade 3 topic or subject area.

    RI.3.4Same
    RI.3.5

    Use text features and search tools (e.g., key words, sidebars, hyperlinks) to locate information relevant to a given topic efficiently.

    RI.3.5Same
    RI.3.6

    Distinguish their own point of view from that of the author of a text.

    RI.3.6Same
    RI.3.7

    Use information gained from illustrations (e.g., maps, photographs) and the words in a text to demonstrate understanding of the text (e.g., where, when, why, and how key events occur).

    RI.3.7Same
    RI.3.8

    Describe the logical connection between particular sentences and paragraphs in a text (e.g., comparison, cause/effect, first/second/third in a sequence).

    RI.3.8CloseReworded: describe how the author connects ideas between sentences and paragraphs to support specific points.
    RI.3.9

    Compare and contrast the most important points and key details presented in two texts on the same topic.

    RI.3.9Same
    RI.3.10

    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.

    RI.3.10CloseSame reading level; state adds reading for sustained periods and connecting prior knowledge.
    RF.3.3

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

    RF.3.4Same
    RF.3.3.a

    Identify and know the meaning of the most common prefixes and derivational suffixes.

    RF.3.4.aSame
    RF.3.3.b

    Decode words with common Latin suffixes.

    RF.3.4.bSame
    RF.3.3.c

    Decode multisyllable words.

    RF.3.4.cSame
    RF.3.3.d

    Read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.

    RF.3.4.dSame
    RF.3.4

    Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

    RF.3.5Same
    RF.3.4.a

    Read grade-level text with purpose and understanding.

    RF.3.5.aSame
    RF.3.4.b

    Read grade-level prose and poetry orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings

    RF.3.5.bSame
    RF.3.4.c

    Use context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary.

    RF.3.5.cSame
    W.3.1

    Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons.

    W.3.1Same
    W.3.1.a

    Introduce the topic or text they are writing about, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure that lists reasons.

    W.3.1.bSame
    W.3.1.b

    Provide reasons that support the opinion.

    W.3.1.cSame
    W.3.1.c

    Use linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons.

    W.3.1.dSame
    W.3.1.d

    Provide a concluding statement or section.

    W.3.1.eSame
    W.3.2

    Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.

    W.3.2Same
    W.3.2.a

    Introduce a topic and group related information together; include illustrations when useful to aiding comprehension.

    W.3.2.bSame
    W.3.2.b

    Develop the topic with facts, definitions, and details.

    W.3.2.cSame
    W.3.2.c

    Use linking words and phrases (e.g., also, another, and, more, but) to connect ideas within categories of information.

    W.3.2.dSame
    W.3.2.d

    Provide a concluding statement or section.

    W.3.2.eSame
    W.3.3

    Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.

    W.3.3Same
    W.3.3.a

    Establish a situation and introduce a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.

    W.3.3.bSame
    W.3.3.b

    Use dialogue and descriptions of actions, thoughts, and feelings to develop experiences and events or show the response of characters to situations.

    W.3.3.cSame
    W.3.3.c

    Use temporal words and phrases to signal event order.

    W.3.3.dSame
    W.3.3.d

    Provide a sense of closure.

    W.3.3.eSame
    W.3.4

    With guidance and support from adults, produce writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task and purpose.

    W.3.1.f, W.3.2.f, W.3.3.fPartlyNo separate standard; writing with attention to task and purpose appears only in the revising and editing part (f) of each writing type.
    W.3.5

    With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing.

    W.3.1.a, W.3.1.f, W.3.2.a, W.3.2.f, W.3.3.a, W.3.3.fCloseSplit into a planning part (a) and a revising and editing part (f) under each of the three writing types.
    W.3.6

    With guidance and support from adults, use technology to produce and publish writing (using keyboarding skills) as well as to interact and collaborate with others.

    W.3.4CloseRenumbered; says digital tools and resources and word processing skills in place of technology and keyboarding skills.
    W.3.7

    Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

    W.3.5Same
    W.3.8

    Recall information from experiences or gather information from print and digital sources; take brief notes on sources and sort evidence into provided categories.

    W.3.6Same
    W.3.10

    Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

    —Not in Grade 3The state's Grade 3 writing standards end at W.3.6; there is no standard for writing routinely over extended and shorter time frames.
    SL.3.1

    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.

    SL.3.1Same
    SL.3.1.a

    Come to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation and other information known about the topic to explore ideas under discussion.

    SL.3.1.aSame
    SL.3.1.b

    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).

    SL.3.1.bSame
    SL.3.1.c

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

    SL.3.1.cSame
    SL.3.1.d

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

    SL.3.1.dSame
    SL.3.2

    Determine the main ideas and supporting details of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.

    SL.3.2Same
    SL.3.3

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

    SL.3.3Same
    SL.3.4

    Report on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking clearly at an understandable pace.

    SL.3.4CloseSame, with speaking in complete sentences added to this standard.
    SL.3.5

    Create engaging audio recordings of stories or poems that demonstrate fluid reading at an understandable pace; add visual displays when appropriate to emphasize or enhance certain facts or details.

    SL.3.5Same
    SL.3.6

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

    SL.3.4CloseNo SL.3.6; speaking in complete sentences is folded into SL.3.4, without the clause about providing requested detail or clarification.
    L.3.1

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

    L.3.1CloseOne standard with no lettered parts: children show proficiency in the grades 2-3 band of the state grammar continuum, which lists the specific skills.
    L.3.1.a

    Explain the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in general and their functions in particular sentences.

    L.3.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 grammar continuum lists explaining the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs.
    L.3.1.b

    Form and use regular and irregular plural nouns.

    L.3.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 grammar continuum lists forming and using frequently occurring regular and irregular plural nouns.
    L.3.1.c

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

    —Not in Grade 3Not in the grades 2-3 band that L.3.1 requires; abstract nouns are listed in the grades 4-5 band of the state grammar continuum (L.4.1, L.5.1).
    L.3.1.d

    Form and use regular and irregular verbs.

    L.3.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 grammar continuum lists forming and using regular and irregular verbs.
    L.3.1.e

    Form and use the simple (e.g., I walked; I walk; I will walk) verb tenses.

    L.3.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 grammar continuum lists forming and using simple verb tenses (and adds the perfect tenses).
    L.3.1.f

    Ensure subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement.

    L.3.1PartlySubject-verb agreement is in the grades 2-3 band; pronoun-antecedent agreement is in the grades 4-5 band of the state grammar continuum.
    L.3.1.g

    Form and use comparative and superlative adjectives and adverbs, and choose between them depending on what is to be modified.

    L.3.1PartlyGrades 2-3 band covers comparative adverbs and choosing between adjective and adverb; comparative and superlative adjectives and superlative adverbs are in the grades 4-5 band.
    L.3.1.h

    Use coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.

    L.3.1CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 grammar continuum lists using coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.
    L.3.1.i

    Produce simple, compound, and complex sentences.

    L.3.1PartlyGrades 2-3 band covers simple and compound sentences; complex sentences are in the grades 4-5 band of the state grammar continuum.
    L.3.2

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

    L.3.2CloseOne standard with no lettered parts: children show proficiency in the grades 2-3 band of the state conventions continuum, which lists the specific skills.
    L.3.2.a

    Capitalize appropriate words in titles.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists capitalizing appropriate words in titles.
    L.3.2.b

    Use commas in addresses.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists commas in addresses; grades 4-5 say "continue to use" them.
    L.3.2.c

    Use commas and quotation marks in dialogue.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists commas in dialogue and quotation marks in dialogue; grades 4-5 say "continue to use" them.
    L.3.2.d

    Form and use possessives.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists forming and using possessives.
    L.3.2.e

    Use conventional spelling for high-frequency and other studied words and for adding suffixes to base words (e.g., sitting, smiled, cries, happiness).

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists conventional spelling for high frequency and other studied words and for adding suffixes.
    L.3.2.f

    Use spelling patterns and generalizations (e.g., word families, position-based spellings, syllable patterns, ending rules, meaningful word parts) in writing words.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists spelling patterns and generalizations (word families, position-based spellings, syllable patterns, ending rules, meaningful word parts).
    L.3.2.g

    Consult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings.

    L.3.2CloseCovered within the parent standard: the grades 2-3 conventions continuum lists consulting reference materials to check and correct spellings; beginning dictionaries are not named.
    L.3.3

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

    L.3.3Same
    L.3.3.a

    Choose words and phrases for effect.

    L.3.3.aSame
    L.3.3.b

    Recognize and observe differences between the conventions of spoken and written standard English.

    L.3.3.bSame
    L.3.4

    Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning word and phrases based on grade 3 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.

    L.3.4CloseOne sentence with no lettered parts, naming the strategies: context clues, word parts, word relationships and reference materials.
    L.3.4.a

    Use sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.

    L.3.4CloseCovered within the parent standard (context clues).
    L.3.4.b

    Determine the meaning of the new word formed when a known affix is added to a known word (e.g., agreeable/disagreeable, comfortable/uncomfortable, care/careless, heat/preheat).

    L.3.4CloseCovered within the parent standard (word parts).
    L.3.4.c

    Use a known root word as a clue to the meaning of an unknown word with the same root (e.g., company, companion).

    L.3.4CloseCovered within the parent standard (word parts and word relationships).
    L.3.4.d

    Use glossaries or beginning dictionaries, both print and digital, to determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases.

    L.3.4CloseCovered within the parent standard (reference materials).
    L.3.5

    Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.

    L.3.5CloseSame stem, shortened: 'word relationships' is not named and there are two lettered parts instead of three.
    L.3.5.a

    Distinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context (e.g., take steps).

    L.3.5.aSame
    L.3.5.b

    Identify real-life connections between words and their use (e.g., describe people who are friendly or helpful).

    —Not in Grade 3The state's L.3.5 has only two parts; real-life connections between words and their use is not a Grade 3 standard.
    L.3.5.c

    Distinguish shades of meaning among related words that describe states of mind or degrees of certainty (e.g., knew, believed, suspected, heard, wondered).

    L.3.5.bSame
    L.3.6

    Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate conversational, general academic, and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal spatial and temporal relationships (e.g., After dinner that night we went looking for them).

    L.3.6Same

    In North Carolina's Grade 3 standards, not in the national list

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    RF.3.2Create readable documents with legible handwriting, in both manuscript (print) and cursive.not taught

    Science

    North Carolina Standard Course of Study: 2023 K-12 Science Standards

    How North Carolina writes its codes: Strand (PS physical, LS life, ESS earth and space), grade, standard number, objective number, for example LS.3.2.2; objectives sit under eight Grade 3 standards such as LS.3.2.

    State-written standards · adopted 2023

    0 same · 0 close · 5 partly · 13 not in Grade 3

    National standardNorth Carolina code(s)MatchNote
    3-PS2-1

    Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.

    PS.3.2.1PartlyState has children investigate how forces change an object's speed or direction; balanced and unbalanced forces are not named.
    3-PS2-2

    Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.

    PS.3.2.2PartlyState compares relative speeds of objects over the same distance; using a motion pattern to predict future motion is not named.
    3-PS2-3

    Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3 in North Carolina; magnetic interactions and electrically charged objects are Grade 4 (PS.4.1.1, PS.4.1.2).
    3-PS2-4

    Define a simple design problem that can be solved by applying scientific ideas about magnets.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3 in North Carolina; magnets are Grade 4 (PS.4.1.1), and there is no design-problem standard.
    3-LS1-1

    Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death.

    LS.3.2.2PartlyGrade 3 covers the life cycle of seed plants only; animal life cycles are Grade 2 (LS.2.1.1).
    3-LS2-1

    Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.

    —Not in Grade 3No Grade 3 standard on animals living in groups; none was found in the K-5 standards read.
    3-LS3-1

    Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation of these traits exists in a group of similar organisms.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; offspring resembling parents is Grade 2 (LS.2.2.1) and inherited and acquired traits are Grade 5 (LS.5.3.2).
    3-LS3-2

    Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment.

    LS.3.3.1PartlyState covers how environmental conditions affect how well plants survive and grow; animals and traits are not named.
    3-LS4-1

    Analyze and interpret data from fossils to provide evidence of the organisms and the environments in which they lived long ago.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; fossils are Grade 4 (LS.4.2.1).
    3-LS4-2

    Use evidence to construct an explanation for how the variations in characteristics among individuals of the same species may provide advantages in surviving, finding mates, and reproducing.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; differences among animals giving a survival advantage is Grade 4 (LS.4.1.3).
    3-LS4-3

    Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.

    LS.3.3.1PartlyPlants only: how environmental conditions determine how well plants survive and grow; animals and habitats are not included.
    3-LS4-4

    Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals that live there may change.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; comparing solutions to environmental problems affecting plants and animals is Grade 4 (ESS.4.3.3).
    3-ESS2-1

    Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; summarizing weather conditions is Grade 2 (ESS.2.1.2) and weather data and seasonal patterns are Grade 5 (ESS.5.1.1).
    3-ESS2-2

    Obtain and combine information to describe climates in different regions of the world.

    —Not in Grade 3No Grade 3 standard on climates of world regions; weather is Grade 2 and Grade 5, and climate appears in Grade 5 (ESS.5.1.3, the ocean and North Carolina).
    3-ESS3-1

    Make a claim about the merit of a design solution that reduces the impacts of a weather-related hazard.

    —Not in Grade 3Not Grade 3; severe weather such as hurricanes and tornadoes is Grade 5 (ESS.5.1.2), and there is no design-solution standard.
    3-5-ETS1-1

    Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

    —Not in Grade 3North Carolina has no separate engineering design standards; science and engineering practices are embedded in each objective.
    3-5-ETS1-2

    Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

    —Not in Grade 3North Carolina has no separate engineering design standards; science and engineering practices are embedded in each objective.
    3-5-ETS1-3

    Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

    —Not in Grade 3North Carolina has no separate engineering design standards; science and engineering practices are embedded in each objective.

    In North Carolina's Grade 3 standards, not in the national list

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    PS.3.1.1Use evidence to show that air is a substance that surrounds us, takes up space and has mass.not taught
    PS.3.1.2Investigate and classify solids, liquids and gases by their basic properties.not taught
    PS.3.1.3Use evidence to explain how the properties of matter change when it is heated or cooled.not taught
    PS.3.2.3Use models to explain how Earth's gravity affects the motion of any object on or near Earth.not taught
    PS.3.3.1Ask questions to explain how friction creates heat.not taught
    PS.3.3.2Investigate how energy moves from a warmer object to a cooler one, by contact or at a distance.not taught
    LS.3.1.1Use models to work out what the skeletal and muscular systems do.not taught
    LS.3.1.2Find and share information on why skin is needed for protection and for the body to stay healthy.not taught
    LS.3.2.1Investigate the structures of plants, what each does, and why they are essential for the plant's life.not taught
    LS.3.3.2Explain how the properties and components of soil determine how well it supports the growth and survival of plants.not taught
    ESS.3.1.1Use models to show Earth is part of the solar system, with the sun (a star), planets and many moons; Earth is the third planet.not taught
    ESS.3.1.2Investigate how the changing length and direction of a shadow show the sun's apparent movement during the day.not taught
    ESS.3.1.3Find and share information showing that star patterns stay the same as they appear to move across the sky.not taught
    ESS.3.2.1Use models to compare Earth's saltwater and freshwater features: oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, ponds, streams and glaciers.Week 4
    ESS.3.2.2Use models to compare Earth's land features: volcanoes, mountains, valleys, canyons, caverns and islands.Week 4

    Social Studies

    North Carolina Standard Course of Study: K-12 Social Studies

    How North Carolina writes its codes: Grade, strand (B behavioral sciences, C&G civics and government, E economics, G geography, H history), standard number, objective number, for example 3.C&G.1.2; inquiry indicators for grades 3-5 are coded I.1.1 to I.1.11.

    adopted 2021

    Grade 3 focus in North Carolina: Our Community and State: local communities and North Carolina: how groups' values and cultures, state and local government, the local economy, geography and historical people and events shape communities.

    UnitThird Grade topicNorth Carolina standardsFitNote
    Unit 1 · Weeks 1–6Communities, maps, landforms and Native peoples3.G.1.1, 3.G.1.2, 3.B.1.1, 3.H.1.1Partial fitLocation, physical features and Indigenous groups match, with a local and North Carolina focus; types of communities and map and globe skills are not Grade 3 objectives.
    Unit 2 · Weeks 7–12Explorers and settlers, how communities began, U.S. geography, regions and Native nations3.H.1.1, 3.H.1.2, 3.G.1.2Partial fitState expects local history and North Carolina's regions (Mountains, Piedmont, Coastal Plain) and tribes; explorers and the five U.S. regions are not Grade 3 objectives.
    Unit 3 · Weeks 13–18Movement and trade, culture, immigration and the state project3.G.1.3, 3.B.1.1, 3.B.1.2, 3.H.1.2Strong fitMovement of goods, people and ideas, and the cultures and traditions of groups in local communities and the state, are all expected; immigration is not named.
    Unit 4 · Weeks 19–24Local government, three branches, rights and responsibilities, voting, economics basics3.C&G.1.1, 3.C&G.1.2, 3.C&G.1.3Partial fitState and local government, leaders' roles and the three branches match; add state and tribal government. Voting and citizens' rights are not Grade 3 objectives.
    Unit 5 · Weeks 25–30Producers and consumers, scarcity and markets, interdependence, resource maps, earning and budgets3.E.1.1, 3.E.1.2, 3.E.1.3Partial fitNatural resources and production, supply and demand, and entrepreneurship in the local economy match; scarcity, banks and budgets are not Grade 3 objectives.
    Unit 6 · Weeks 31–36Saving, spending and giving, civic action and the community project—No Grade 3 matchNo Grade 3 objective covers saving, spending and giving or a civic action project.

    In North Carolina's Grade 3 social studies standards, not covered by a unit

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    3.H.1.3Use primary and secondary sources to compare different interpretations of historical symbols and events in local communities.not taught