Grade 3 Mathematics

What your child will learn and do in Grade 3 Mathematics

In grade three, students continue to build their concept of numbers, developing an understanding of fractions as numbers. They learn the concepts behind multiplication and division and apply problem-solving skills and strategies for multiplying and dividing numbers up through 100 to solve word problems. Activities in these areas include:

  • Understanding and explaining what it means to multiply or divide numbers

  • Knowing the rules of multiplying (such as 4 x 3 = 3 x 4)

  • Multiplying all one-digit numbers from memory (knowing their times table)

  • Multiplying one-digit numbers by multiples of 10 (such as 6 x 20 or 8 x 30)

  • Solving one and two step word problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division

  • Understanding the concepts of area and perimeter

  • Relating the measurement of area to multiplication and division

  • Understanding fractions as numbers


  • Comparing the size of two fractions that have the same numerator or the same denominator

  • Partitioning shapes into equal areas and naming the area of each part as a fraction

  • Telling time and writing time to the nearest minute

  • Solving word problems involving elapsed time

  • Measuring weights and volumes and solving word problems involving these measurements

  • Measuring length to the nearest ½ and ¼ inch

  • Collecting data, building a graph, and answering questions about the data

  • Understanding that shapes can have several different names based on their attributes (for example, a square can also be called a rectangle or quadrilateral) 

Helping your child learn outside of school:    

  • Play math games with your child to build fluency. For example:

    • “I’m thinking of two numbers whose product is between 20 and 30. How many pairs can you think of that would satisfy this problem?” Answers will include 8 x 3 = 24, 7 x 4 = 28, etc. Have your child explain the solutions. How does he or she know that all the number pairs have been identified?

    • Using a deck of cards, deal two cards and ask your child to multiply the two numbers before you do. Whoever says the product first, keeps the cards.

  • Find different examples of multiplication around your house. For example, a muffin tin has 3 rows of 4 cups or 12 total cups.

  • Have your child tell the time on the clock and then figure out how much time until dinner or practice.

  • Use everyday objects to allow your child to explore the concept of fractions. For example, use measuring cups. How many times do you have to refill a ½ cup measure to make 1 ½ cups?

Helping Your Child with Homework by asking questions or making suggestions 


  • What part of the problem is giving you trouble?


  • Can we draw a picture of the problem? 



  • What did your teacher say about this assignment?

