Profiles

Third Grade at O'Neal

INSPIRING THE FUTURE
...begins with building confidence now.
 

The Year of Big Leaps

At The O’Neal School, 3rd grade is where students blossom—academically, socially, and personally. From hands-on science to creative writing and independent projects, your child will stretch their wings in a close-knit, encouraging setting that nurtures growth and celebrates discovery.

Third Grade is a year of transformation. Your child will develop a strong foundation across all core subjects through our engaging, hands-on learning approach, building confidence, independence, and a love of learning every step of the way.

Experience Academic Growth Across the Curriculum
  • In language arts, students sharpen their reading and writing skills, diving into novels, character analysis, and research-based learning. They'll craft narratives, informational essays, persuasive arguments, and fairy tales—developing voice, structure, and creativity.

  • In math, students deepen their understanding of operations, fractions, and geometry, using real-world math strategies to problem-solve and communicate ideas effectively.

  • Science comes alive through exploration and inquiry, with units on ecosystems, nutrition, and life cycles. In social studies, students learn about local history, community roles, government, and even entrepreneurship through immersive project-based learning and field experiences.
A Well-Rounded, Creative Experience
  • O’Neal’s Lower School art program fosters creativity and collaboration. Third graders work with pencil, paint, clay, and pastels, exploring the elements of art and principles of design while building visual literacy and confidence in self-expression.

  • In music, students enjoy a dynamic spiral curriculum rooted in Music Learning Theory and Orff Schulwerk. Third grade highlights include world music, composition, performance, and the exciting introduction of bucket drumming to boost rhythm skills and teamwork. Students may also join The O’Nealers, our choir for grades 2–4.

  • Physical education builds character and fitness through skill development, sportsmanship, and team games. Third graders also participate in swimming lessons, beginning a lifelong journey of confidence and wellness in the water.
  • Spanish language learning continues with interactive lessons that build vocabulary and fluency through books, songs, games, and movement. Third graders grow their listening and speaking skills in meaningful, age-appropriate ways while gaining an appreciation for global cultures.
As a top private school in North Carolina, The O’Neal School is where your child will thrive—today, and for the future.
 

Want to learn more about O'Neal?

Subscribe to our admissions newsletter below and receive monthly information throughout the school year.

    We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

    The O'Neal School

    3300 Airport Road
    Southern Pines, NC 28387
    Phone: 910.692.6920
    The O'Neal School admits students of any race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by law to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
    © The O'Neal School