States · MN
Minnesota Grade 3 standards crosswalk
How each national third grade standard lines up with Minnesota's own standards.
How to read this
Each row takes one national third grade standard and shows the Minnesota 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 Minnesota.
Checked 2026-10-08 against official Minnesota documents. This is an unofficial guide; your state's own documents are the authority.
Math
Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in Mathematics (2007)
How Minnesota writes its codes: Four numbers: grade, strand, standard, benchmark; for example 3.1.3.2 is Grade 3, Number & Operation, standard 3, benchmark 2.
State-written standards · adopted 2007
0 same · 15 close · 9 partly · 13 not in Grade 3
| National standard | Minnesota code(s) | Match | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | 3.1.2.3, 3.2.2.1 | 2007 standards, still in force for 2026-27; the 2022 standards (different codes) are required from 2027-28. State represents multiplication facts with equal groups and arrays. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.3, 3.1.2.4, 3.2.2.1 | State covers division as equal sharing and as forming equal groups, with both kinds of word problems. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.4, 3.2.2.2 | State does not set a 'within 100' limit; problems use basic facts and number sentences. | |
| 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 = ?. | 3.2.2.2 | State: find values for unknowns that make basic-fact number sentences true, and also write a number sentence for a problem situation. | |
| 3.OA.B.5 Apply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide. | 3.1.2.5 | State names the commutative, associative and distributive properties as strategies for multiplying two- or three-digit numbers by one digit. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.3 | State says 'recognize the relationship between multiplication and division'; unknown-factor wording is not used. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.3 | Partly | Grade 3 represents multiplication and division facts; fluency with the facts is a Grade 4 benchmark (4.1.1.1). |
| 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. | 3.1.2.2, 3.1.2.4 | Partly | Grade 3 has one-operation problems and checking reasonableness for addition and subtraction; multi-step problems are a Grade 4 benchmark (4.1.1.5); a letter for the unknown is not stated. |
| 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. | 3.2.1.1 | Partly | State covers number patterns as single-operation input-output rules; explaining patterns with properties is not stated. |
| 3.NBT.A.1 Use place value understanding to round whole numbers to the nearest 10 or 100. | 3.1.1.4 | State goes further: round to the nearest 10, 100, 1,000 and 10,000 and use rounding to estimate sums and differences. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.1, 3.1.2.2 | State sets no 1,000 limit: add and subtract multi-digit numbers, including standard algorithms. | |
| 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. | 3.1.2.5 | State goes further: multiply any two- or three-digit number by a one-digit number. | |
| 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. | 3.1.3.1 | State describes fractions as parts of a whole, parts of a set and points or distances on a number line; unit-fraction building wording is not used. | |
| 3.NF.A.2 Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram. | 3.1.3.1 | Partly | Grade 3 recognizes fractions as points or distances on a number line; locating fractions on a number line is a Grade 4 benchmark (4.1.2.2). |
| 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. | 3.1.3.1 | Partly | Grade 3 only recognizes fractions as points on a number line; partitioning the line is not spelled out (locating fractions: Grade 4, 4.1.2.2). |
| 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. | 3.1.3.1 | Partly | Grade 3 only recognizes fractions as points on a number line; marking off lengths is not spelled out (locating fractions: Grade 4, 4.1.2.2). |
| 3.NF.A.3 Explain equivalence of fractions in special cases, and compare fractions by reasoning about their size. | 3.1.3.3 | Partly | Grade 3 covers comparing fractions; equivalent fractions are a Grade 4 benchmark (4.1.2.1). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Equivalent fractions are not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places them in Grade 4 (4.1.2.1). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Equivalent fractions are not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places them in Grade 4 (4.1.2.1). |
| 3.NF.A.3.c Express whole numbers as fractions, and recognize fractions that are equivalent to whole numbers. | — | Not in Grade 3 | No Grade 3 benchmark on whole numbers as fractions. |
| 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. | 3.1.3.3, 3.1.3.2 | State compares unit fractions and fractions with like denominators using models; the symbols >, = and < are not named. | |
| 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. | 3.3.3.1 | State: tell time to the minute on digital and analog clocks and find elapsed time to the minute; number line diagrams are not named. | |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | No Grade 3 benchmark on mass or liquid volume in the 2007 standards. |
| 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. | 3.4.1.1 | State: collect, display and interpret data with frequency tables, bar graphs and picture graphs with a variety of scales; 'how many more' problems are not named. | |
| 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. | 3.3.2.1, 3.4.1.1 | State measures to half units only (fourths are not named) and uses number line plots. | |
| 3.MD.C.5 Recognize area as an attribute of plane figures and understand concepts of area measurement. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 3.MD.C.6 Measure areas by counting unit squares (square cm, square m, square in, square ft, and improvised units). | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 3.MD.C.7 Relate area to the operations of multiplication and addition. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). Grade 3 uses area models and the distributive property only as ways to multiply (3.1.2.3, 3.1.2.5). |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Area is not in the state's Grade 3 list; the state document places area in Grade 4 (4.3.2.3, 4.3.2.4). |
| 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. | 3.3.2.2, 3.3.2.3 | State: find perimeter by adding side lengths and measure distances around objects; unknown sides and same-perimeter, different-area rectangles are not stated. | |
| 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. | 3.3.1.1, 3.3.1.2 | Partly | Grade 3 describes shapes using parallel and perpendicular lines and sketches polygons; classifying quadrilaterals is a Grade 4 benchmark (4.3.1.2). |
| 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. | 3.1.3.1 | Partly | State has fractions as parts of a shape; partitioning a shape into equal areas is not stated. |
In Minnesota's Grade 3 standards, not in the national list
| Code | What it asks | In Third Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 3.1.1.1 | Read, write and show whole numbers up to 100,000 with numerals, words, pictures, number lines and base ten blocks. | not taught |
| 3.1.1.2 | Use place value to describe numbers from 1,000 to 100,000 as ten thousands, thousands, hundreds, tens and ones. | not taught |
| 3.1.1.3 | Find 10,000, 1,000 or 100 more or less than a given four- or five-digit number. | not taught |
| 3.1.1.5 | Compare and order whole numbers up to 100,000. | not taught |
| 3.3.3.2 | Know how units of time relate, such as minutes in an hour, days in a week and months in a year. | not taught |
| 3.3.3.3 | Make change up to one dollar in several different ways, including with as few coins as possible. | not taught |
| 3.3.3.4 | Read an analog thermometer to the nearest degree in Fahrenheit and Celsius. | not taught |
English Language Arts
2020 Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in English Language Arts
How Minnesota writes its codes: Four numbers: grade, strand (1 Reading, 2 Writing, 3 Listening, Speaking, Viewing and Exchanging Ideas), anchor standard, benchmark; for example 3.1.4.2. Lettered items (a-c under 3.1.1.2, a-f under 3.3.1.1) have no codes of their own.
State-written standards · adopted 2023
4 same · 50 close · 18 partly · 18 not in Grade 3
| National standard | Minnesota code(s) | Match | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| RL.3.1 Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers. | 3.1.4.1 | 2020 standards, in rule July 3, 2023. One benchmark covers literary and informational text and adds nonliteral language and summarizing. | |
| 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. | 3.1.4.2 | State: identify the central idea or argument in fables, folktales and myths and explain how details support it; recounting is not named. | |
| 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. | 3.1.4.3 | State: describe how characters, setting, conflict, resolution and events work together to develop the plot. | |
| RL.3.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, distinguishing literal from nonliteral language. | 3.1.4.1, 3.1.8.1 | State covers literal and nonliteral language and figurative language in texts. | |
| 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. | 3.1.5.1 | Partly | State uses literary text features such as verse, rhythm and point of view; the terms chapter, scene and stanza and how parts build are not stated. |
| RL.3.6 Distinguish their own point of view from that of the narrator or those of the characters. | 3.1.6.1 | State: compare the student's own perspective and identity with the author's or storyteller's, including Dakota and Anishinaabe authors. | |
| 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). | 3.1.5.3 | State: interpret ideas and information conveyed through illustrations, graphics and audiovisual elements, for any text. | |
| 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). | — | Not in Grade 3 | No Grade 3 benchmark on comparing stories by the same author. |
| 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. | 3.1.2.2, 3.1.2.1 | State: proficiently read and comprehend texts at Grade 3 complexity and read independently; one benchmark for all text types. | |
| RI.3.1 Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers. | 3.1.4.1 | One state benchmark covers literary and informational text and adds summarizing. | |
| RI.3.2 Determine the main idea of a text; recount the key details and explain how they support the main idea. | 3.1.4.1, 3.1.7.1 | Partly | State asks students to summarize a text and to identify an author's argument with supporting details; 'main idea' of an informational text is not named. |
| 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. | 3.1.4.4 | Same | |
| 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. | 3.1.8.2 | Same | |
| RI.3.5 Use text features and search tools (e.g., key words, sidebars, hyperlinks) to locate information relevant to a given topic efficiently. | 3.1.5.2 | State lists captions, subheadings, glossaries, indexes and interactive images; search tools and efficiency are not named. | |
| RI.3.6 Distinguish their own point of view from that of the author of a text. | 3.1.6.1 | State: compare the student's own perspective and identity with the author's, including Dakota and Anishinaabe authors. | |
| 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). | 3.1.5.3 | State: interpret ideas and information conveyed through illustrations, graphics and audiovisual elements. | |
| 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). | — | Not in Grade 3 | No Grade 3 benchmark on the logical connection between sentences and paragraphs. |
| RI.3.9 Compare and contrast the most important points and key details presented in two texts on the same topic. | 3.1.9.1 | Partly | State asks students to collect information from two or more sources on a topic; comparing and contrasting the texts is not stated. |
| 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. | 3.1.2.2, 3.1.2.1 | State: proficiently read and comprehend texts at Grade 3 complexity; one benchmark for all text types. | |
| RF.3.3 Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words. | 3.1.1.2 | Same | |
| RF.3.3.a Identify and know the meaning of the most common prefixes and derivational suffixes. | 3.1.1.2 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item a: know the meaning of and read words with common prefixes and suffixes). | |
| RF.3.3.b Decode words with common Latin suffixes. | 3.1.1.2 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item a: common suffixes); Latin suffixes are not named. | |
| RF.3.3.c Decode multisyllable words. | 3.1.1.2 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item b: decode multi-syllabic words). | |
| RF.3.3.d Read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words. | 3.1.1.2 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item c: irregularly spelled and high-frequency words, with accuracy and automaticity). | |
| RF.3.4 Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension. | 3.1.1.3 | Same | |
| RF.3.4.a Read grade-level text with purpose and understanding. | 3.1.1.3, 3.1.2.1 | No lettered parts; fluency benchmark plus independent reading with monitoring of understanding. | |
| RF.3.4.b Read grade-level prose and poetry orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings | 3.1.1.3 | No lettered parts; state names accuracy, rate and expression but not prose and poetry or successive readings. | |
| RF.3.4.c Use context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary. | 3.1.2.1 | State: monitor understanding and self-correct using strategies such as looking back at the text and reading ahead. | |
| W.3.1 Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons. | 3.2.4.1, 3.2.4.2 | State has two benchmarks: write to argue with organized evidence, and write to persuade blending opinion and facts. | |
| W.3.1.a Introduce the topic or text they are writing about, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure that lists reasons. | 3.2.4.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (organizing evidence for supporting points); introducing the topic is not itemized. | |
| W.3.1.b Provide reasons that support the opinion. | 3.2.4.1, 3.2.4.2 | No lettered parts; evidence and facts that support the opinion are in both benchmarks. | |
| W.3.1.c Use linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons. | 3.2.4.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (using linking words and phrases). | |
| W.3.1.d Provide a concluding statement or section. | — | Not in Grade 3 | A concluding statement is not stated in the Grade 3 writing benchmarks. |
| W.3.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly. | 3.2.5.1 | State: write to inform or explain, selecting and organizing relevant details to show understanding of the topic. | |
| W.3.2.a Introduce a topic and group related information together; include illustrations when useful to aiding comprehension. | 3.2.5.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (selecting and organizing details); illustrations are not named. | |
| W.3.2.b Develop the topic with facts, definitions, and details. | 3.2.5.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (relevant details); facts and definitions are not listed separately. | |
| W.3.2.c Use linking words and phrases (e.g., also, another, and, more, but) to connect ideas within categories of information. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Linking words are named only for argument writing (3.2.4.1). |
| W.3.2.d Provide a concluding statement or section. | — | Not in Grade 3 | A concluding statement is not stated in the Grade 3 writing benchmarks. |
| W.3.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences. | 3.2.6.1, 3.2.6.2 | State: write to tell a story, developing characters through thoughts and feelings as they interact with conflict; also poetry and creative text. | |
| W.3.3.a Establish a situation and introduce a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally. | 3.2.6.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (characters and conflict); narrator and event sequence are not itemized. | |
| 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. | 3.2.6.2, 3.2.6.1 | State: use dialogue and descriptive words, and describe thoughts and feelings to develop characters. | |
| W.3.3.c Use temporal words and phrases to signal event order. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Time-order words are not stated in the Grade 3 writing benchmarks. |
| W.3.3.d Provide a sense of closure. | — | Not in Grade 3 | A sense of closure is not stated in the Grade 3 writing benchmarks. |
| W.3.4 With guidance and support from adults, produce writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task and purpose. | 3.2.2.1 | Partly | State expects writing for a range of tasks, purposes and audiences; organization suited to the task is not a separate benchmark. |
| W.3.5 With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing. | 3.2.3.1 | State adds publishing and self-reflection: plan, draft, revise, edit and publish with support from peers and educators. | |
| 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. | 3.2.3.1, 3.3.3.2 | Partly | State covers publishing and creating and sharing work with self-selected digital tools; keyboarding is not stated. |
| W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic. | 3.2.7.2 | State: plan and conduct research following a detailed research plan and share findings in writing; adds understanding of digital footprint. | |
| 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. | 3.1.9.1, 3.2.8.1 | State: collect information from two or more sources and cite, quote and summarize them; note-taking and sorting evidence are not named. | |
| 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. | 3.2.2.1 | State: write routinely for a range of tasks, purposes and audiences; time frames are not spelled out. | |
| 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. | 3.3.1.1 | State adds storytelling and intentionally including the voices and perspectives of Dakota and Anishinaabe people. | |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Coming to discussions prepared is not among the lettered items of 3.3.1.1. |
| 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). | 3.3.1.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item a: help create and follow agreed-upon discussion norms). | |
| SL.3.1.c Ask questions to check understanding of information presented, stay on topic, and link their comments to the remarks of others. | 3.3.1.2, 3.3.1.1 | State: ask and answer questions to check understanding and for clarification (3.3.1.2); link to comments of others (3.3.1.1 item c). | |
| SL.3.1.d Explain their own ideas and understanding in light of the discussion. | 3.3.1.1 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item c: express one's own ideas, stories and experiences, linking to comments of others). | |
| 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. | 3.3.1.1 | Partly | State asks students to review key ideas shared by others (item b); main ideas of a read-aloud or media presentation are not stated. |
| SL.3.3 Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail. | 3.3.1.2 | State frames this as asking and answering questions in a discussion rather than about a speaker. | |
| 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. | 3.3.3.1, 3.3.2.1 | State: create written, oral and digital content with relevant facts and descriptive details; attend to volume, speed and phrasing when speaking. | |
| 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. | 3.3.3.1, 3.3.3.2 | Partly | State covers digital content and digital tools in a variety of presentation styles; audio recordings of stories or poems are not stated. |
| SL.3.6 Speak in complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation in order to provide requested detail or clarification. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Speaking in complete sentences is not stated; 3.3.2.1 covers features of spoken language such as volume and phrasing. |
| L.3.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking. | 3.2.1.1, 3.2.1.3 | State puts grammar in the Writing strand ('authentically in writing'); speaking is not named. There is no separate Language strand. | |
| L.3.1.a Explain the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in general and their functions in particular sentences. | 3.2.1.3 | Partly | State asks students to use the parts of speech in writing; explaining their function is not stated. |
| L.3.1.b Form and use regular and irregular plural nouns. | 3.2.1.3 | Covered within the parent benchmark (irregular plural nouns, plus collective nouns). | |
| L.3.1.c Use abstract nouns (e.g., childhood). | — | Not in Grade 3 | Abstract nouns are not named in Grade 3. |
| L.3.1.d Form and use regular and irregular verbs. | 3.2.1.3 | Partly | State lists verbs in general; regular and irregular verbs are not specified. |
| L.3.1.e Form and use the simple (e.g., I walked; I walk; I will walk) verb tenses. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Verb tenses are not named in Grade 3. |
| L.3.1.f Ensure subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement are not named in Grade 3. |
| L.3.1.g Form and use comparative and superlative adjectives and adverbs, and choose between them depending on what is to be modified. | 3.2.1.3 | Partly | State lists frequently used adjectives and adverbs; comparative and superlative forms are not stated. |
| L.3.1.h Use coordinating and subordinating conjunctions. | 3.2.1.3 | Partly | State lists conjunctions; coordinating and subordinating types are not specified. |
| L.3.1.i Produce simple, compound, and complex sentences. | 3.2.1.3 | Partly | State names simple and compound sentences; complex sentences are not listed in Grade 3. |
| L.3.2 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing. | 3.2.1.1, 3.2.1.2 | State: use correct punctuation, spelling, capitalization and grammar authentically in writing. | |
| L.3.2.a Capitalize appropriate words in titles. | 3.2.1.1 | Partly | State names capitalization in general; titles are not specified. |
| L.3.2.b Use commas in addresses. | 3.2.1.1 | Partly | State names commas in a series; commas in addresses are not specified. |
| L.3.2.c Use commas and quotation marks in dialogue. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Punctuating dialogue is not stated; 3.2.6.2 asks students to use dialogue. |
| L.3.2.d Form and use possessives. | 3.2.1.1 | State names apostrophes; possessives are not spelled out. | |
| 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). | 3.2.1.2 | State: apply spelling patterns and rules to spell multisyllabic and high-frequency words; suffix rules are not listed. | |
| 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. | 3.2.1.2 | State: apply spelling patterns and rules; the list of pattern types is not given. | |
| L.3.2.g Consult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Using reference materials to check spelling is not stated in Grade 3. |
| L.3.3 Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening. | 3.2.3.2 | State combines both lettered parts in one Writing benchmark. | |
| L.3.3.a Choose words and phrases for effect. | 3.2.3.2, 3.3.2.1 | Covered within 3.2.3.2 (use words and phrases for effect); 3.3.2.1 adds vocabulary for effect when speaking. | |
| L.3.3.b Recognize and observe differences between the conventions of spoken and written standard English. | 3.2.3.2 | Covered within 3.2.3.2 (differentiating between conventions of spoken and written English). | |
| 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. | 3.1.8.2 | Partly | State: determine the meaning of academic and domain-specific vocabulary in informational text; the range of strategies is not listed. |
| L.3.4.a Use sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Using sentence context as a clue is not stated in Grade 3. |
| 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). | 3.1.1.2 | Covered within the parent benchmark (item a: know the meaning of words with common prefixes and suffixes). | |
| 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). | — | Not in Grade 3 | Using a known root word as a clue is not stated in Grade 3. |
| 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. | 3.1.5.2 | Partly | State names glossaries as an informational text feature; dictionaries are not named. |
| L.3.5 Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings. | 3.1.8.1 | Partly | State: understand figurative language as used in texts; word relationships and shades of meaning are not stated. |
| L.3.5.a Distinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context (e.g., take steps). | 3.1.4.1, 3.1.8.1 | State: show understanding of literal and nonliteral language in a text, and of figurative language. | |
| 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 3 | Real-life connections between words and their use are not stated in Grade 3. |
| 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). | — | Not in Grade 3 | Shades of meaning among related words are not stated in Grade 3. |
| 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). | 3.1.8.2, 3.3.2.1 | Partly | State: determine academic and domain-specific vocabulary in text and use vocabulary for effect when speaking; spatial and time words are not named. |
In Minnesota's Grade 3 standards, not in the national list
| Code | What it asks | In Third Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 3.1.2.3 | Find, choose and read books on a topic of personal interest, and understand how award lists and curated book lists help with choosing. | not taught |
| 3.1.3.1 | Choose and read texts that represent the perspectives and identities of historical and contemporary Dakota and Anishinaabe people. | not taught |
| 3.1.6.2 | Identify when a text was published or posted and how that time period affects its meaning, content or style. | not taught |
| 3.1.6.3 | Identify whether a text is informational or literary and support the answer with evidence. | not taught |
| 3.1.9.2 | Show understanding of whether sources are relevant and credible. | not taught |
| 3.2.2.2 | Write to compare your own perspectives and identity with those of a character or a real person in a text. | not taught |
| 3.2.5.2 | Write a response to the thoughts and feelings of characters in a literary text. | not taught |
| 3.2.7.1 | Ask relevant questions to tell fact from opinion. | not taught |
| 3.3.1.3 | Receive and act on feedback, reflect on your own work and give helpful feedback on classmates' work, with adult support. | not taught |
Science
2019 Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in Science
How Minnesota writes its codes: Grade and content letter (P physical, L life, E Earth and space), then strand, substrand, standard and benchmark numbers; for example 3E.2.2.1.1.
State-written standards · adopted 2021
2 same · 1 close · 1 partly · 14 not in Grade 3
| National standard | Minnesota code(s) | Match | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 3 | 2019 standards, in force since 2024-25. Not in Grade 3; the state places balanced and unbalanced forces in Grade 2 (2P.2.2.1.1). |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; the nearest benchmark is Grade 2 (2P.2.2.1.1), predicting patterns in how balanced and unbalanced forces affect an object's motion. |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places electric and magnetic interactions in Grade 4 (4P.1.1.1.1). |
| 3-PS2-4 Define a simple design problem that can be solved by applying scientific ideas about magnets. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places the magnet design problem in Grade 4 (4P.1.1.2.1). |
| 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. | 3L.3.1.1.2 | Same | |
| 3-LS2-1 Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive. | 3L.4.1.1.1 | State benchmark is broader: construct an argument about strategies animals use to survive; forming groups is not named in the benchmark sentence. | |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places inherited traits and variation in Grade 4 (4L.4.2.1.2). |
| 3-LS3-2 Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment. | 3L.1.2.1.2 | Partly | Grade 3 has only an investigation of how sunlight and water affect plant growth; traits influenced by environments is Grade 4 (4L.4.1.1.1). |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; fossils in rock layers appear in Grade 4 as evidence of landscape change (4E.3.2.1.1), and the fossil record in Grade 7 (7L.2.1.1.2). |
| 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. | 3L.3.2.1.1 | Same | |
| 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. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places survival in a particular habitat in Grade 2 (2L.4.1.1.1). |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places solutions to problems from environmental change in Grade 5 (5L.4.1.2.1). |
| 3-ESS2-1 Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places seasonal weather data in Grade 2 (2E.2.1.1.1). |
| 3-ESS2-2 Obtain and combine information to describe climates in different regions of the world. | — | Not in Grade 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places climates in different regions of the world in Grade 2 (2E.4.2.1.2). |
| 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 3 | Not in Grade 3; the state places weather-hazard design solutions in Grade 2 (2E.2.1.1.2). |
| 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 3 | No separate engineering band codes; no Grade 3 engineering benchmark. A design-problem benchmark appears in Grade 4 (4P.1.1.2.1). |
| 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 3 | No separate engineering band codes; no Grade 3 engineering benchmark. Comparing multiple solutions appears in Grade 4 (4E.3.2.2.1). |
| 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 3 | No separate engineering band codes; no Grade 3 engineering benchmark. Fair tests of a model or prototype appear in Grade 4 (4E.1.2.1.2). |
In Minnesota's Grade 3 standards, not in the national list
| Code | What it asks | In Third Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 3P.1.1.1.1 | Ask questions, based on observations, about why objects in the dark can be seen only when light shines on them. | not taught |
| 3P.1.2.1.1 | Plan and carry out a controlled investigation of what happens when objects made of different materials are placed in a beam of light. | not taught |
| 3E.2.1.1.1 | Record observations of the sun, moon and stars and use them to describe patterns that can be predicted. | not taught |
| 3E.2.2.1.1 | Organize and present data electronically to find and describe patterns in the amount of daylight at different times of the year. | not taught |
| 3P.3.1.1.1 | Develop a model showing that we see objects when light reflects from them and enters the eye. | not taught |
| 3L.4.2.1.1 | Use information from different media to argue that plants and animals have inside and outside structures that help them survive, grow, behave and reproduce. | not taught |
| 3E.4.2.2.1 | Gather and share information on how Minnesota American Indian Tribes and communities and other cultures use patterns in the stars to make predictions and plans. | not taught |
Social Studies
2021 Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in Social Studies
How Minnesota writes its codes: Four numbers: grade, strand (1 Citizenship and Government, 2 Economics, 3 Geography, 4 History, 5 Ethnic Studies), anchor standard (1-25), benchmark; for example 3.2.8.1.
Grade 3 focus in Minnesota: The state titles the year "Third Grade: Ancient World": daily life, geography and sources of the ancient world, alongside civics, basic economics and Minnesota's 11 Tribal Nations.
In Minnesota's Grade 3 social studies standards, not covered by a unit