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    States · TN

    Tennessee Grade 3 standards crosswalk

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

    How to read this

    Each row takes one national third grade standard and shows the Tennessee 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 Tennessee.

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

    Math

    Tennessee Mathematics Standards

    How Tennessee writes its codes: Grade, domain, cluster letter and number, as in the national codes, for example 3.NBT.A.4; lettered parts are printed as a, b under the standard and written here as 3.MD.A.1b.

    Uses the national codes · adopted 2021

    29 same · 7 close · 1 partly · 0 not in Grade 3

    National standardTennessee 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.

    3.OA.A.1Same
    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.

    3.OA.A.2Same
    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.

    3.OA.A.3CloseTennessee says contextual problems with the unknown in any position; its examples go beyond basic facts (6 x 16, 96 ÷ 6).
    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 = ?.

    3.OA.A.4Same
    3.OA.B.5

    Apply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide.

    3.OA.B.5Same
    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.

    3.OA.B.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.

    3.OA.C.7Same
    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.

    3.OA.D.8Same
    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.

    3.OA.D.9CloseTennessee names only patterns in a multiplication chart; addition table patterns are not mentioned.
    3.NBT.A.1

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

    3.NBT.A.1CloseTennessee adds using a number line to explain how the number was rounded.
    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.

    3.NBT.A.2Same
    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.

    3.NBT.A.3Same
    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.

    3.NF.A.1Same
    3.NF.A.2

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

    3.NF.A.2Same
    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.

    3.NF.A.2aSame
    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.

    3.NF.A.2bSame
    3.NF.A.3

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

    3.NF.A.3Same
    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.

    3.NF.A.3aSame
    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.

    3.NF.A.3bSame
    3.NF.A.3.c

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

    3.NF.A.3cSame
    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.

    3.NF.A.3dSame
    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.

    3.MD.A.1, 3.MD.A.1aCloseTime is part a of the Tennessee standard and matches; Tennessee adds money problems as part b.
    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.

    3.MD.A.2PartlyTennessee covers measuring and estimating mass and liquid volume (adding milliliters) but leaves out the one-step word problems with masses and volumes.
    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.

    3.MD.B.3CloseTennessee says a pictograph and a scaled bar graph; a scale is required only for the bar graph.
    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.

    3.MD.B.4Same
    3.MD.C.5

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

    3.MD.C.5Same
    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.

    3.MD.C.5aSame
    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.

    3.MD.C.5bSame
    3.MD.C.6

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

    3.MD.C.6Same
    3.MD.C.7

    Relate area to the operations of multiplication and addition.

    3.MD.C.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.

    3.MD.C.7aSame
    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.

    3.MD.C.7bSame
    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.

    3.MD.C.7cSame
    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.

    3.MD.C.7dSame
    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.

    3.MD.D.8Same
    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.

    3.G.A.1CloseTennessee asks students to recognize quadrilaterals outside the named subcategories but not to draw examples.
    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.

    3.G.A.2CloseTennessee adds recognizing that equal shares of identical wholes need not have the same shape.

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

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    3.NBT.A.4Read and write whole numbers up to 100,000 in standard form, word form and expanded form.not taught
    3.MD.A.1bSolve one-step money problems with coins under one dollar using the cent sign, and whole-dollar amounts up to $1,000 using the dollar sign.not taught
    3.G.A.3Decide whether a figure is a polygon.Week 33

    English Language Arts

    Tennessee English Language Arts Standards

    How Tennessee writes its codes: Grade, strand, category within the strand and number, for example 3.RL.KID.1 (Reading Literature, Key Ideas and Details, 1); lettered and roman-numeral parts are printed under the standard and written here as 3.FL.WC.4d and 3.FL.VA.7a.i; Writing parts likewise, such as 3.W.TTP.1a.

    National standards under the state's own codes · adopted 2016

    64 same · 20 close · 4 partly · 2 not in Grade 3

    National standardTennessee 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.

    3.RL.KID.1Same
    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.

    3.RL.KID.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.

    3.RL.KID.3Same
    RL.3.4

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

    3.RL.CS.4Same
    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.

    3.RL.CS.5Same
    RL.3.6

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

    3.RL.CS.6CloseTennessee says reader perspective and adds identifying the point of view of a text.
    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).

    3.RL.IKI.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).

    3.RL.IKI.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.

    3.RL.RRTC.10CloseTennessee names stories and poems; dramas are not listed.
    RI.3.1

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

    3.RI.KID.1Same
    RI.3.2

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

    3.RI.KID.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.

    3.RI.KID.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.

    3.RI.CS.4CloseTennessee says words and phrases in a text; general academic and domain-specific words are not named.
    RI.3.5

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

    3.RI.CS.5CloseTennessee names text features only; search tools such as key words and hyperlinks are not mentioned.
    RI.3.6

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

    3.RI.CS.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).

    3.RI.IKI.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).

    3.RI.IKI.8PartlyTennessee asks only how reasons support an author's specific points; describing how sentences and paragraphs connect (comparison, cause and effect, sequence) is not stated.
    RI.3.9

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

    3.RI.IKI.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.

    3.RI.RRTC.10CloseTennessee says stories and informational texts and does not list history, science and technical texts.
    RF.3.3

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

    3.FL.PWR.3Same
    RF.3.3.a

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

    3.FL.PWR.3aSame
    RF.3.3.b

    Decode words with common Latin suffixes.

    3.FL.PWR.3bSame
    RF.3.3.c

    Decode multisyllable words.

    3.FL.PWR.3cSame
    RF.3.3.d

    Read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.

    3.FL.PWR.3dSame
    RF.3.4

    Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

    3.FL.F.5Same
    RF.3.4.a

    Read grade-level text with purpose and understanding.

    3.FL.F.5aSame
    RF.3.4.b

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

    3.FL.F.5bSame
    RF.3.4.c

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

    3.FL.F.5cSame
    W.3.1

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

    3.W.TTP.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.

    3.W.TTP.1a, 3.W.TTP.1b, 3.W.TTP.1cCloseTennessee splits this into three lettered parts: introduce the topic, develop an opinion with reasons, and organize the supporting reasons.
    W.3.1.b

    Provide reasons that support the opinion.

    3.W.TTP.1bSame
    W.3.1.c

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

    3.W.TTP.1eSame
    W.3.1.d

    Provide a concluding statement or section.

    3.W.TTP.1dSame
    W.3.2

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

    3.W.TTP.2Same
    W.3.2.a

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

    3.W.TTP.2a, 3.W.TTP.2bCloseTennessee splits this into two lettered parts: introduce a topic, and group related information with illustrations when needed.
    W.3.2.b

    Develop the topic with facts, definitions, and details.

    3.W.TTP.2cSame
    W.3.2.c

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

    3.W.TTP.2eSame
    W.3.2.d

    Provide a concluding statement or section.

    3.W.TTP.2dSame
    W.3.3

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

    3.W.TTP.3Same
    W.3.3.a

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

    3.W.TTP.3aSame
    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.

    3.W.TTP.3bSame
    W.3.3.c

    Use temporal words and phrases to signal event order.

    3.W.TTP.3cSame
    W.3.3.d

    Provide a sense of closure.

    3.W.TTP.3dSame
    W.3.4

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

    3.W.PDW.4CloseTennessee asks for clear and coherent writing and adds style and audience to task and purpose.
    W.3.5

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

    3.W.PDW.5Same
    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.

    3.W.PDW.6CloseTennessee adds enough technology skill to type a complete piece in a single sitting.
    W.3.7

    Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

    3.W.RBPK.7Same
    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.

    3.W.RBPK.8CloseTennessee adds gathering information to answer a question, and note-taking is with support.
    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.

    3.W.RW.10CloseTennessee adds promoting writing fluency and leaves out the examples of 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.

    3.SL.CC.1CloseTennessee has one standard on preparing for and taking part in discussions, with no lettered parts.
    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.

    3.SL.CC.1CloseCovered within the parent standard (prepare for collaborative discussions).
    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).

    3.SL.CC.1PartlyThe single discussion standard says to engage effectively with varied partners; following agreed-upon discussion rules is not stated.
    SL.3.1.c

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

    3.SL.CC.1PartlyThe single discussion standard covers building on others' ideas; asking questions to check understanding and staying on topic are not stated.
    SL.3.1.d

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

    3.SL.CC.1CloseCovered within the parent standard (expressing one's own ideas clearly).
    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.

    3.SL.CC.2Same
    SL.3.3

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

    3.SL.CC.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.

    3.SL.PKI.4Same
    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.

    3.SL.PKI.5CloseTennessee asks students to add audio or visual elements when appropriate; audio recordings of stories or poems are not required.
    SL.3.6

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

    3.SL.PKI.6Same
    L.3.1

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

    3.FL.SC.6CloseTennessee puts grammar, capitalization and punctuation in one Foundational Literacy standard called Sentence Composition.
    L.3.1.a

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

    3.FL.SC.6aSame
    L.3.1.b

    Form and use regular and irregular plural nouns.

    3.FL.SC.6bSame
    L.3.1.c

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

    3.FL.SC.6cSame
    L.3.1.d

    Form and use regular and irregular verbs.

    3.FL.SC.6dSame
    L.3.1.e

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

    3.FL.SC.6eSame
    L.3.1.f

    Ensure subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement.

    3.FL.SC.6fSame
    L.3.1.g

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

    3.FL.SC.6gSame
    L.3.1.h

    Use coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.

    3.FL.SC.6hSame
    L.3.1.i

    Produce simple, compound, and complex sentences.

    3.FL.SC.6iSame
    L.3.2

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

    3.FL.SC.6, 3.FL.WC.4CloseSplit in Tennessee: capitalization and punctuation are in Sentence Composition (6j-6m), spelling is in Word Composition (4a-4c).
    L.3.2.a

    Capitalize appropriate words in titles.

    3.FL.SC.6jSame
    L.3.2.b

    Use commas in addresses.

    3.FL.SC.6kSame
    L.3.2.c

    Use commas and quotation marks in dialogue.

    3.FL.SC.6lSame
    L.3.2.d

    Form and use possessives.

    3.FL.SC.6mSame
    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).

    3.FL.WC.4bCloseTennessee says high-frequency words, including irregular words; adding suffixes to base words is not named.
    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.

    3.FL.WC.4aCloseTennessee limits this to writing one-, two- and three-syllable words.
    L.3.2.g

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

    3.FL.WC.4cCloseTennessee names a dictionary and a thesaurus.
    L.3.3

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

    —Not in Grade 3No Grade 3 standard states this; Tennessee has no K-5 Language strand, and its Writing standards only say to apply the Foundational Literacy language standards.
    L.3.3.a

    Choose words and phrases for effect.

    3.W.TTP.2fPartlyTennessee covers only using precise language in informative writing; choosing words for effect is not stated for other writing.
    L.3.3.b

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

    —Not in Grade 3No Grade 3 standard in any strand of the state document covers spoken versus written conventions.
    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.

    3.FL.VA.7aSame
    L.3.4.a

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

    3.FL.VA.7a.iSame
    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).

    3.FL.VA.7a.iiSame
    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).

    3.FL.VA.7a.iiiSame
    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.

    3.FL.VA.7a.ivSame
    L.3.5

    Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.

    3.FL.VA.7bSame
    L.3.5.a

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

    3.FL.VA.7b.iSame
    L.3.5.b

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

    3.FL.VA.7b.iiSame
    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).

    3.FL.VA.7b.iiiSame
    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).

    3.FL.VA.7cSame

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

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    3.FL.WC.4dWrite legibly in manuscript (print) and write all lowercase and uppercase cursive letters.not taught
    3.FL.SC.6nWrite a cohesive paragraph with a main idea and a detailed structure.not taught
    3.W.TTP.1fIn opinion writing, apply the grammar, spelling and vocabulary skills from the Foundational Literacy standards.Weeks 19-21
    3.W.TTP.2gIn informative writing, apply the grammar, spelling and vocabulary skills from the Foundational Literacy standards.Weeks 28-30
    3.W.TTP.3eIn narrative writing, apply the grammar, spelling and vocabulary skills from the Foundational Literacy standards.Weeks 10-12
    3.W.RBPK.9Include evidence from stories or informational texts in writing, using Grade 3 reading skills.not taught

    Science

    Tennessee Academic Standards for Science

    How Tennessee writes its codes: Grade, core idea and number, with periods: 3.PS1.1 is Grade 3, Physical Science core idea 1 (Matter and Its Interactions), standard 1; the document prints the heading 3.PS1 and numbers the standards 1), 2), 3) under it.

    State-written standards · adopted 2022

    1 same · 7 close · 2 partly · 8 not in Grade 3

    National standardTennessee 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.

    —Not in Grade 3Tennessee places balanced and unbalanced forces in Grade 5 (5.PS2.1). These standards have been in classrooms since 2025-26.
    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.

    —Not in Grade 3Tennessee places observing motion to predict future motion in Grade 5 (5.PS2.2).
    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.

    3.PS2.1, 3.PS3.3CloseTennessee has students explain forces that act without contact (static electricity, magnetism and gravity) and evaluate how magnets move objects.
    3-PS2-4

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

    —Not in Grade 3No magnet design problem standard appears in Tennessee's Grade 3; none was found in kindergarten through Grade 5.
    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.

    3.LS1.1CloseTennessee has students compare life cycles, including humans, using graphical representations rather than building models.
    3-LS2-1

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

    3.LS2.1CloseTennessee has students compare how animal groups organize (specialized or same roles) to explain the benefits of group behavior.
    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 3Tennessee places inherited traits and their variation in Grade 5 (5.LS3.2).
    3-LS3-2

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

    —Not in Grade 3Tennessee places traits that come from interaction with the environment in Grade 5 (5.LS3.1).
    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 3Tennessee places fossils in Grade 4 (4.LS4.1).
    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 3Tennessee places variation among individuals and survival advantage in Grade 5 (5.LS4.1).
    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.

    3.LS4.1CloseTennessee asks for the cause and effect link between a naturally changing habitat and how well an organism survives.
    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.

    3.LS4.1, 3.LS4.2PartlyTennessee covers changing habitats and survival, and links biodiversity with human resources, but does not ask students to judge a solution.
    3-ESS2-1

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

    3.ESS2.3CloseTennessee uses tables, graphs and tools for precipitation, temperature, clouds and wind to predict local weather and climate; seasons are not named.
    3-ESS2-2

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

    3.ESS2.4Same
    3-ESS3-1

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

    3.ESS3.1CloseTennessee has students evaluate existing solutions for all natural hazards (fires, landslides, earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, severe weather), not only weather hazards.
    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.

    3.ETS1.1CloseTennessee asks students to design a solution to a real-world problem with given criteria and constraints, rather than define the problem.
    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.

    3.ETS1.2PartlyGrade 3 supports one design solution with evidence or research; comparing solutions against criteria and constraints is Grade 4 (4.ETS1.1).
    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 3Tennessee places controlled tests of a prototype and its failure points in Grade 5 (5.ETS1.1).

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

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    3.PS1.1Model solids, liquids and gases to show that each state of matter is made of particles too small to see.not taught
    3.PS1.2Explain what heating and cooling do to a substance, telling changes that can be reversed (freezing, melting) from those that cannot (baking, burning).not taught
    3.PS1.3Argue from evidence that materials have fixed and changing properties, some of which help identify a material.not taught
    3.PS3.1Observe sound, light, heat and motion to gather evidence that energy is present.not taught
    3.PS3.2Model how electric currents carry energy from place to place in open, closed, simple, series and parallel circuits.not taught
    3.LS1.2Analyze the inside and outside body structures that help water and land organisms survive, grow, behave and reproduce.not taught
    3.ESS1.1Use data to sort solar system bodies (inner and outer planets, moons, asteroids, comets, meteoroids) by their physical properties and motion.not taught
    3.ESS2.1Model how the geosphere (land), biosphere (living things), hydrosphere (water) and atmosphere (air) interact.not taught
    3.ESS2.2Model the water cycle: how water moves through Earth's spheres, driven by energy from the sun.not taught

    Social Studies

    Tennessee Social Studies Standards

    How Tennessee writes its codes: Grade, a period and a two-digit standard number, for example 3.09 (Identify and locate the fifty states of the U.S.).

    adopted 2017

    Grade 3 focus in Tennessee: Part 1 is geography and economics (map skills, world, U.S. and Tennessee geography, Tennessee economics); Part 2 is early American and Tennessee history from indigenous peoples through the Thirteen Colonies and the Tennessee frontier.

    UnitThird Grade topicTennessee standardsFitNote
    Unit 1 · Weeks 1–6Communities, maps, landforms and Native peoples3.01, 3.02, 3.03, 3.04, 3.05, 3.14, 3.19, 3.20Strong fitMap and globe skills, landforms, natural resources and American Indian peoples are all Grade 3 standards; types of communities are not.
    Unit 2 · Weeks 7–12Explorers and settlers, how communities began, U.S. geography, regions and Native nations3.09, 3.10, 3.11, 3.19, 3.20, 3.21, 3.22, 3.23, 3.24, 3.25, 3.26, 3.27, 3.30, 3.31Strong fitExplorers, early settlements, the Thirteen Colonies, the fifty states, U.S. cities and landforms and Native peoples match; Tennessee adds its own frontier history.
    Unit 3 · Weeks 13–18Movement and trade, culture, immigration and the state project3.12, 3.15, 3.17, 3.29Partial fitTrade, imports and exports and Tennessee's cities and rivers fit; culture and immigration are not Grade 3 standards.
    Unit 4 · Weeks 19–24Local government, three branches, rights and responsibilities, voting, economics basics3.18, 3.28Partial fitOnly colonial assemblies and town meetings and basic needs and wants; local government, the three branches, rights and voting are not Grade 3 standards.
    Unit 5 · Weeks 25–30Producers and consumers, scarcity and markets, interdependence, resource maps, earning and budgets3.05, 3.14, 3.15, 3.16, 3.17Strong fitScarcity, supply and demand, exchange of goods and services, imports and exports and resource maps are Grade 3 standards; earning, banks and budgets are not.
    Unit 6 · Weeks 31–36Saving, spending and giving, civic action and the community project—No Grade 3 matchTennessee's Grade 3 standards do not cover saving, spending, giving or civic action.

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

    CodeWhat it asksIn Third Grade
    3.06Find and name the seven continents and five oceans on maps and globes.not taught
    3.07Find ten major countries: India, Brazil, Italy, China, Japan, Egypt, Russia, France, Spain and Great Britain.not taught
    3.08Name major world physical features, such as the Amazon and Nile, the Alps, Andes and Himalayas, the Gobi and Sahara, and the Mediterranean Sea.not taught
    3.13Explain how people meet geographic challenges with bridges, canals, dams, tunnels, irrigation systems, landfills and freshwater supply.not taught