Third grade is a big year for reading: Your child's fluency will be stronger, meaning they'll likely be able to read aloud with confidence and expression instead of reading a more choppy, monotonal rendition of the text. And in third grade, your child will begin to read a wider variety of genres, picking up both fiction and nonfiction books.
While third grade is a year for independent reading, take time to ask your child questions about the books they read. Third graders can readily recount the plot, describe characters, and generally discuss books with authority. That's because in this grade, reading the words is becoming second-nature for your child, which frees them up to gain knowledge from the books they read.
Point your child toward series — like the ever-popular books in the Dog Man series — to help them chart character growth. Meanwhile, historical fiction like the adventurous tales told in the I Survived books offer your child a compelling entry point into world events. Plus, the relatable characters in the I Survived books will spark your child's imagination, leading to thoughtful conversations that start with the question: What would I do in this scenario?
Your third grader is also mature enough to take on books that ask important, probing questions about big issues. Unstoppable Octobia May, a mystery set in the 1950s, explores racism and family bonds while offering a look into the not-too-distant past.
Shop these best-sellers for third graders now! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.
