What is it like teaching 3rd or 4th grade?

Question

I was wondering what it is like to teach 3rd or 4th grade. What grade do you prefer the most, what do you teach in these grades, what are the kids like, and can the kids work independently? If a
Teacher could answer that would be great.

Answer 1

Although I usually teach 4th grade, this is my second go at a 3rd/4th split. There's a pretty significant difference in the abilities of 3rd graders vs. 4th graders, especially when comparing to 4th to. 5th graders (also a split I've taught several times before).

3rd graders are more innocent and tend not to be as socially conscious of peer pressures. They can be independent but need a lot structure and guidance before you let them go on their own. I notice I have to go over instructions more often and be more deliberate with my 3rd graders than my 4th graders. You really have to teach them HOW to be students not only with the academics but on proper behavior and organization - things you assume most fourth graders already know. They tend to take things more literally and can't grasp the abstract as easily as most fourth graders. You can joke around more with 4th graders as they "get the humor" that most third graders will miss. Third graders don't quite have the stamina to do heavy academics later in the day like many fourth graders can. Finally, most third graders are still at the point of transitioning from learning to read to reading to learn - something you must consider when planning lessons.

These are just some observations I've made over the years of teaching. They most certainly do not apply to every third or fourth grader as there are always exceptions.

My personal favorite grade is fourth grade as you get the independence, maturity, and love of learning but usually don't have the attitude that fifth graders can often have, especially near the end of the year.

Answer 2

I teach 6th grade Special Education. Lets just say that I've learned to have patience over the years.

For the most part, my students can work independently. But since my situation is "different" then I really have to monitor what they are doing.

I've taught everything from 1st to 8th grade. The highest I think I'll go is 6th grade. I really enjoyed 4th and 5th grade though. You really begin to see them develop academically these years. I really do love my job. Granted some years are horrific (like last year), but you get the good with the bad.

My one tip, is to document everything. When you make phone calls, when you send home letters, when you have something good to say...write it down somewhere. You'll have some parents who will be out to get you and when you have documentation, things will be on your side. Sorry to be such a downer, but I've learned the hard way.

Answer 3

I used to teach 2nd grade and then I taught third grade for several years. I especially enjoyed teaching the third graders. They were still like small children in the fall but after Christmas break, it seemed they'd matured overnight. They were so anxious to learn, to please, and to excel. Some of the students could work independently which gave me more time to help those who needed closer supervision. I found the language arts especially fun to teach because I love words but the health, social studies, and current events were great too. I was never good in math so I struggled along with the kids sometimes.

Answer 4

I am a third grader teacher, and I absolutely love this age group. Of course, with teaching you will always have challenges and always have difficult students, but overall this is a great age. They are old enough to do things independently... you don't have to tie shoes, wipe noses, etc. But they are still young enough to be sweet and innocent (usually - not always!) and love their teacher.

The only thing I do not like about teaching 3rd grade is the intense pressures of the TAKS test in the state of Texas. But if you are not in the state of Texas, that won't apply to you!

Answer 5

I teach 3rd grade and really love it! I think 3rd grades are at the best age for learning. They are old enough not to need their Mommies and young enough not to have an attitude! I love my third graders!
Also, 3/4 graders can work by themselves for a short period of time. I have also taught Kindergarten and with 3rd graders I have so much more free time to do plans or get stuff ready for lessons!

Well I hope that helped.

Answer 6

Have taught K-7. 3rd and 4th are my favorites hands down for all the stated reasons. Probably 3rd if I had to make a choice, but they were a teacher's dream come true to TEACH.

Answer 7

I taught a 4/5 split for a year. Kids are very respectful and more independant at that age. I much prefer highschool though. Children require so much planning. Compared to highschool, I wouldn't say they are very independant.
The best advice someone gave me was to include a checklist for the kids to refer to when they did a project. It really helped keep them on task.

Answer 8

As an English teacher writing in a public forum, I would say that you need to present yourself in a more professional manner as you write personally. (The word , "English" is always capitalized.) You will not "get" students to love and respect you. They will respond to you as you do to them. If you demonstrate love and respect, then they will sense that you care and make a connection with you. I have taught for 23 years and never have I felt that I "needed" to yell at a child, (they get plenty of that at home.) Why are you concerned about keeping them quiet? Are you a real teacher, or pulling our legs? Your questions do not indicate any teacher training to me. Sorry so blunt.

Answer 9

It's not as bad as kindergarten. It's better if you can get a teacher aid.

If you're planning to teach, just please remember to always let your students use the bathroom. You have no idea.

Answer 10

it is depend on how the students ar. most of them are good and really study, and some of them might still not so patien.
i am not a teacher.