CIS Elementary | Grade 3 Classroom Visit: Leap into Super Thinkers!

Taking the UOI project "Where We Are in Place and Time" as an example, students explore the history of different countries, starting with the lifestyle of Indigenous peoples. They go through the process of model-making, data collection, and presenting their findings.

In the volcano project, they studied the shape of volcanoes, created clay models, and then simulated an eruption outdoors using baking soda and vinegar, mastering the entire scientific inquiry process.

Ms. Marli shares: "We start by exploring what students already know, holding open discussions to lay the foundation for inquiry and give them ownership of their learning. Through questioning, exploring, and reflecting, students learn to organize information, make connections, and apply their understanding through projects."

In the ELA curriculum, Ms. Marli enhances students' core language skills through a thoughtfully designed integrated approach of reading, writing, and speaking.

三年级学生自信用英文表达

Interdisciplinary language practice brings vitality to learning. As Ms. Marli shares: "Language learning doesn't just take place in the English classroom. In discussions during UOI and math lessons, students continually practice explaining and expressing their thought processes."

Through guided reading groups, writing workshops, and daily conversation practices, students learn to listen, respond, and engage in critical questioning, ultimately developing the communication skills of global citizens. This is the key embodiment of CIS's integration of the Alberta curriculum and IB PYP—language is no longer an isolated subject, but the core that runs through inquiry and innovation.

As individual differences among Grade 3 students become more apparent, CIS implements flexible grouping and scaffolding strategies to ensure that every child learns in the most suitable way.

As Ms. Marli shares: "When students feel supported and understood, they become more confident and engaged in their learning. Throughout the year, their confidence and ability to express themselves grow significantly."

A typical example of this warm support is journal writing. When students resist writing, Ms. Marli patiently engages in conversations, asks guiding questions, closely observes emotional shifts, and encourages them to "try again." This personalized approach helps students regain confidence, shifting from passive completion to active expression.

Learning Partner (LP) Rosie reinforces the overall support for every student. She plays a key role in providing personalized assistance, working alongside Ms. Marli to ensure the goal of no student is left behind is achieved.

The best example of Grade 3 progress: In the "Where We Are in Place and Time" Project, students actively ask questions, listen to each other, and share insights. From individual breakthroughs to collective brilliance, this perfectly showcases the confidence and inquiry-driven spirit fostered by the support of everyone at CIS!

Grade 3 is the golden turning point where students begin their journey toward independent thinking and active inquiry. 

CIS’s educational goals always focus on Academic Excellence & Caring Community, providing comprehensive support for every student. 

In CIS’s elementary program, by integrating the Alberta curriculum and the IB PYP dual-framework, we ignite the spark of global perspective and deep thinking, helping students make significant leaps in academics, thinking, and expression.

Join CIS and embark on your child's golden starting point in international education!