biography article for third grade

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Biographies

This page contains the Super Teacher Worksheets collection of biographies. These nonfiction articles include reading comprehension activities for elementary-aged students.

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Harriet Tubman

• Occupation: Nurse, Civil Rights Activist
• Born: 1820 in Dorchester County, Maryland
• Died: March 10, 1913 in Auburn, New York
• Best known as: A leader in the Underground Railroad

• Her nickname as a child was "Minty".
• She was a very religious woman having learned about the Bible from her mother.
• Harriet bought a house in Auburn, New York for her parents after helping them to escape from the south.
• Harriet married John Tubman in 1844. He was a free black man. She married again in 1869 to Nelson Davis.
• She usually worked the Underground Railroad in the winter months when the nights were longer and people spent more time indoors.
• There is a story that slaveholders offered a reward of $40,000 for the capture of Harriet Tubman. This is likely just a legend and not true.
• Harriet was very religious. When she led fugitives across the border she would exclaim "Glory to God and Jesus, too. One more soul is safe!"
• Listen to a recorded reading of this page:

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Martin luther king jr., january 1, 2020, stephanie kraus.

Martin Luther King Jr. (January 15, 1929—April 4, 1968) is considered one of history’s greatest speakers and social activists. His leadership in peaceful protests helped end segregation during the American civil rights movement.

When Martin Luther King Jr. was born, his parents, Michael and Alberta, gave him a different name from the one we know today. They called him Michael. But Michael Sr. later changed his name and his son’s to Martin Luther, after the famous religious leader. The middle-class family was very religious. Both Martin’s father and grandfather were pastors in Atlanta, Georgia. The King children grew up in a loving home but experienced racism from an early age.

Separate Is Never Equal

King attended segregated public schools in Georgia. He skipped the ninth and eleventh grades and graduated from high school at 15. It was around that time that he joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), a civil rights organization. King’s father led the NAACP’s Atlanta chapter.

In 1948, King graduated from Morehouse College, in Atlanta. He went on to study religion at Crozer Theological Seminary, in Chester, Pennsylvania. In 1951, he graduated with honors and was class valedictorian. Soon after, he enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Boston University (B.U.), in Massachusetts. He met music student Coretta Scott in Boston. The couple married in 1953 and later had two sons and two daughters.

In 1954, while completing his degree, King moved to Montgomery, Alabama. He became pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. Soon after, on December 1, 1955, a woman named Rosa Parks was arrested after refusing to give her seat to white passengers on a Montgomery city bus. In response, the NAACP chose King to lead a citywide bus boycott. For 381 days, members of the black community walked or carpooled to work. Many of them were attacked.

The NAACP filed a lawsuit against the city of Montgomery. They argued that segregation on city buses was unconstitutional. On November 13, 1956, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that such segregation was indeed illegal. The court based its decision, in part, on Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas . In that case, the court concluded that “separate is never equal.”

One year later, King, along with 60 ministers and activists, founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

King waves to the crowd at the Lincoln Memorial during his “I Have a Dream” speech. King said 1963 was “not an end but a beginning.”

“I Have a Dream”

In the spring of 1963, King organized a protest in Birmingham, Alabama. The event drew nationwide attention. That’s because city police officers blasted participants with fire hoses and let attack dogs loose. King and others were jailed.

After their release, King and other civil rights leaders laid plans for a demonstration in the nation’s capital. The March on Washington attracted more than 200,000 people. On August 28, 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial, King gave his “I Have a Dream” speech. He spoke of a day when all men would be treated equally. King went on to win the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize. He was 35 years old and the youngest person to have received the honor.

Reaching the Promised Land

The fight for equal rights, however, was far from over. On March 7, 1965, demonstrators set off on a 54-mile march, organized by King, from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. The event became violent when police met marchers with nightsticks and tear gas on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, in Selma. Seventeen people ended up in the hospital. King was not present, but he watched the scene unfold on TV. Soon after, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The law stated that all citizens had a right to vote, no matter the color of their skin.

On April 3, 1968, King traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, in support of striking sanitation workers. In a speech there, he said, “I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.” The next day, he was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where he was staying. The assassination ended King’s life. He was 39 years old. It sparked riots in more than 100 cities. The accused shooter, James Earl Ray, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 99 years in prison.

“I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the United States, King’s birthday is observed as a national holiday on the third Monday in January. On that day, many Americans volunteer at shelters, schools, hospitals, and other community organizations to honor the civil rights leader’s legacy of service and commitment.

Paired Text

Lyndon B. Johnson

President Lyndon B. Johnson (August 27, 1908—January 22, 1973) advanced equality through major civil rights legislation and social service programs. He is also remembered for expanding U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War. Lyndon B. Johnson was vice president when…

More from TFK Library

Frederick Douglass

In the decades leading up to the Civil War, Frederick Douglass (February 1818—February 20, 1895) became the most powerful orator and writer of the abolitionist movement. Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in Talbot County, Maryland, and raised by his…

Fannie Lou Hamer

Fannie Lou Hamer (October 6, 1917—March 14, 1977) was a civil rights activist. She fought to expand voting rights for African Americans and raise awareness of the terrible impact of segregation. As an African American born in the South…

Ruby Bridges

In 1960, Ruby Bridges (September 8, 1954—present) walked through the doors of William Frantz Elementary School, in New Orleans, Louisiana. By doing so, she became the first African-American student to attend an all-white elementary school in the Southern United States.…

John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy (May 29, 1917—November 22, 1963) was the 35th president of the United States. While in office, he led the country though several international crises. He also worked to achieve major civil rights reforms and promoted public service.…

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• African American Heroes

Hero for All: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., never backed down in his stand against racism. Learn more about the life of this courageous hero who inspired millions of people to right a historical wrong.

A hero is born

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was born in Atlanta, Georgia , in 1929. At the time in that part of the country, segregation—or the separation of races in places like schools, buses, and restaurants—was the law. He experienced racial predjudice from the time he was very young, which inspired him to dedicate his life to achieving equality and justice for Americans of all colors. King believed that peaceful refusal to obey unjust law was the best way to bring about social change.

Marching Forward

King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, lead demonstrators on the fourth day of a historic five-day march in 1965. Starting in Selma, Alabama , where local African Americans had been campaigning for the right to vote, King led thousands of nonviolent demonstrators 54 miles to the state capitol of Montgomery.

Brave sacrifices

King was arrested several times during his lifetime. In 1960, he joined Black college students in a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter. Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy interceded to have King released from jail, an action that is credited with helping Kennedy win the presidency.

speaking out

King inspires a large crowd with one of his many speeches. Raised in a family of preachers, he's considered one of the greatest speakers in U.S. history.

INSPIRING OTHERS

King waves to supporters from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. during the March on Washington . There, he delivered the "I Have a Dream" speech, which boosted public support for civil rights.

making history

President Lyndon B. Johnson shakes King's hand at the signing of the landmark 1964 Civil Rights Act, which outlawed racial segregation in publicly owned facilities.

FAMILY LIFE

King his wife, Coretta Scott King, sit with three of their four children in their Atlanta, Georgia, home in 1963. His wife shared the same commitment to ending the racist system they had both grown up under.

A win for peace

King receives the Nobel Prize for Peace from Gunnar Jahn, president of the Nobel Prize Committee, in Oslo, Norway , on December 10, 1964.

Remembering a hero

A crowd of mourners follows the casket of King through the streets of Atlanta, Georgia, after his assassination in April 4, 1968. King was shot by James Earl Ray on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel. Americans honor the civil rights activist on the third Monday of January each year, Martin Luther King Day.

Learn more at National Geographic.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY: COURTESY THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS; BEN MARTIN, TIME LIFE PICTURES / GETTY IMAGES; HORACE CORT; JULIAN WASSER, TIME LIFE PICTURES / GETTY IMAGES; AFP, GETTY IMAGES; HULTON ARCHIVE / GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY ASSOCIATED PRESS; COURTESY KEYSTONE / GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY HULTON ARCHIVE / GETTY IMAGES

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African american pioneers of science, black history month, 1963 march on washington.

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A great way to teach about history and content-area topics, biographies highlight famous figures, inventors, scientists, civil rights leaders, sports legends, and heros. Many of these mini-books, plays, and passages feature question/response activities, biography worksheets, teaching guides, lesson ideas, and graphic organizers.

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Reading Comprehension - Biographies

Inspire readers with these free printable stories about the lives of important people in culture and history. print the one-page reading passages for offline use or test comprehension with the online reading quizzes. recommended level: 3rd or 4th grade and up.

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Famous People Learning Games Faces of Black History Scrambled Quotes Celebrity Scrambles

More Free Reading Comprehension Worksheets and Quiz Games Black History Women's History Sports Stories Animal Stories Funny Stories

Elementary Classrooms Celebrating Black Excellence: Famous Biographies for Elementary Students

Dorothy Hodges

These engaging and diverse biographies for elementary students, all featured on CommonLit’s digital literary platform, share the inspiring stories of Black Americans across history, sports, and more. Reading about these empowering leaders and innovators will surely spark reading engagement from elementary students, launch deep classroom discussions, and support reading comprehension practice. These biographies are great to use as Black History Month lesson plans and throughout the school year!

“ Claudette Colvin ” by Briannica Kids (3rd Grade)

This biography from Brittanica Kids shares the moving story of Claudette Colvin, an African American teenager who was arrested in 1955 for refusing to give up her seat to white person. Students may be surprised to learn Claudette’s actions came before those of Rosa Parks and will have ample opportunity to discuss why Parks is often remembered before Colvin.

After reading, ask students to discuss why Colvin may not have gotten the same credit as Rosa Parks within history with Discussion Question 1, “Why do some people’s stories get told, while others do not? What do you think it takes to become famous or remembered in history? Do you think there are other people we should learn about that we do not talk about a lot? What should we do to tell these people’s stories?”

“ Guion Bluford ” by Linda Barr (3rd Grade)

This biography by Linda Barr shares details of Guion Bluford’s life and inspiring career as the first Black astronaut.

After reading this text, invite students to think about their own futures with Discussion Question 3, “Guion Bluford was interested in flying from an early age. What is something that you are interested in? How could you turn that interest into something where you feel like your ‘hobby is going to work,’ as Bluford says in paragraph 21?”

“ Dancing Towards Dreams ” by Sara Matson (4th grade)

This informational article shares the journey of contemporary ballet dancer Misty Copeland, the first African American woman to hold the highest-ranking ballet position at the American Ballet Theater.

Once students finish this text, invite them to explore the Paired Text “ Fastest Woman in the World ” by Pat Parker. This additional informational text discusses Wilma Rudolph’s journey to becoming a gold medalist in the 1960 Olympics. Ask students to discuss how both women excelled as athletes, what sets them apart, and how both have created positive changes in sports.

Want more content featuring contemporary figures? Check out the interview “ A Way with Words .” In this text, former First Lady Michelle Obama interviews poet Amanda Gorman.

“ Benjamin Banneker and His Amazing Clock ” by Linda Trice (4th grade)

Linda Trice explores the life and accomplishments of Benjamin Banneker, a famous Black scientist whose accomplishments included creating a clock and almanac.

Pair this text with the Related Media video “ The Exceptional Life of Benjamin Banneker. ” As students watch the video, have them jot down the additional details they learn about Banneker’s activism fighting for equal rights. Ask students how this information deepens their understanding of his life and accomplishments.

“ Katherine Johnson ” by Brittanica Kids (4th grade)

From Britannica Kids, this biography details the life and accomplishments of mathematician and scientist Katherine Johnson. Students may have some background knowledge regarding Katherine Johnson if they have seen the film Hidden Figures .

After reading this biography, show students the Related Media video “ Daughters of NASA Trailblazer Katherine Johnson Remember Her Legacy .” Ask students to share what they learned from this interview and how what they learned adds to their understanding of Katherine Johnson’s “remarkable journey.”

Want more engaging biographies for elementary students? Check out other Britannica Kids biographies about   Rosa Parks , Michael Jordan , Jackie Robinson , and Bayard Rustin !

“ Ruby Bridges ” by Kio Herrera (5th grade)

In this informational text, Herrera discusses Ruby Bridges’s experience integrating a school as a six-year-old and how she became a symbol for the  fight for civil rights in America.

After reading this biography, have students read the Paired Text, “ We Will Walk ” by Sarah Kovatch. This piece of historical fiction focuses on a young girl, Sadie, during the Montgomery Bus Boycotts. Ask students “How are Ruby’s and Sadie’s actions similar and different? What would Ruby say about Sadie’s point of view on the boycott? How did both Sadie’s and Ruby’s actions lead to change in their communities?”

“ The History of Michael Jordan for Kid s” by Breck LeSuer (5th grade)

In this text, LeSuer teaches about the life and achievements of famous basketball player, Michael Jordan.

After reading this text, have students reflect on Discussion Question 2, “Michael Jordan believes failure is a part of success. Do you agree with him? Why or why not?” This Discussion Question would also serve as a great morning meeting or journal activity for students, especially for a lesson focused on perseverance!

“ Justice for All ” by Lynn Rymarz (5th grade)

This informational text discusses an incident in which journalist and activist Ida B. Wells refused to give up her seat on a train when asked to do so because of the color of her skin.

After reading this biography on Ida B. Wells, have students read the Paired Text poem “ The Many and the Few ” by J. Patrick Lewis. Use the following prompts to help students dive into some cross-textual analysis: “Ask students to discuss how Ida B. Wells’s actions compared to Rosa Parks’? How is Wells one of the ‘Few’ who changed the lives of the ‘Many,’ in terms of J. Patrick Lewis’ poem?”

“ Voice for Freedom ”  by Jodie Shull (5th grade)

This biography by Jodie Shull discusses the life and accomplishments of James Weldon Johnson, a Black American writer and civil rights activist.

After reading this inspiring text, invite students to share their thoughts on Discussion Question 4, “After college, James Weldon Johnson returns home to Jacksonville, but finds that it has changed. Have you ever left a place and then returned later? Was it the same when you returned? If it was the same, how did that make you feel? If it was different, how did you react?” Students may benefit from journaling independently before sharing full-class.

Looking to explore more great instructional ideas to celebrate Black History Month? Check out our Black Heritage Text Set and our upcoming webinars !

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Teaching Students to Write Biography Reports

Biographies are many students’ first glimpse at history. It is one of my favorite units to teach every year. It is a great opportunity for students to read, research, use technology, and write!

If you’re teaching students to write biography reports this year, then check out how I like to break it down!

Breaking Down Writing a Biography Report (Grades 2-5)

Writing these types of reports is part of the Common Core writing standards for Grades 2-5 as well as many other states’ standards. There are several steps to take as you teach your students to write a biography report.

The first step ALWAYS: Introduce Biographies

Before I even begin to teach my students how to write a biography, I like to read several from our school library.

For second and third grade students :

• Have several biographies in the classroom and give students time to explore the books. Then discuss: What did you notice about all these books? How are they the same? How are they different?
• Discuss genre and introduce biographies.
• Then, I would read them biographies about many different people.

For fourth and fifth grade students :

• Make a class anchor chart discussing what you already know about biographies. Look for gaps in understanding, and make sure students know the main characteristics of a biography.
• Then, read several different biographies about the same person with a focus on the different information each biography shared, as well as what information was the same. Did all of the biographies have the characteristics we listed on our anchor chart?

It is important to make note of the characteristics that biographies have so that when students write their own, they already have an understanding of how they are written!

Once students have been exposed to biographies, you can begin to teach about writing them.

Discuss Text Structure of Biographies

Depending on the grade you teach, you may not necessarily call it “text structure,” however it is important for students to understand that most biographies are written in a chronological/sequential way.

Since we are writing about someone’s life, it wouldn’t make sense for the report to be out of order.

While we go over this, I like to create a timeline with my students.

If you are using my biography writing units, I recommend:

• Using the mentor text to create a timeline of the subject’s life. You can do this on the board or on chart paper.
• Use the research text to create a timeline of the subject’s life (this is the person the students will write about, and a text is included in the units). For older students, you may choose to have them fill out the timeline on their own.

How to Write an Engaging Introduction for the Biography Report

At the beginning of the report, students should write an engaging introduction that includes one (or both) of two main components.

The introduction should include one (or both) of these components:

• Introduce the subject with their full name and birth information or
• Briefly preview what they are most famous for

Practice writing a variety of introductions and have students choose the one they like the best. ( TIP: Model some poorly written introductions as well , and discuss why those are not a good fit!)

Crafting the Body Paragraphs of the Biography Report

When teaching your students to write biography reports, it is important to explain to them what the body paragraphs should include.

The body paragraphs should include the major events in the person’s life.

Read over the body paragraphs from your mentor text and discuss what was included and what was not included. What was included in the timeline you created? What did you leave out?

You can make a T chart with your students and discuss what are major events in your own life, and what are not.

Writing a Conclusion for the Biography Report

Most conclusions in a biography end with the person’s death.

While this can be noted, it’s important for students to understand that they shouldn’t just end their report with “and then they died in 1894”. It is more important for them to end their report with the legacy of the person.

To help students understand what a person’s legacy means:

• Review and write legacies of other famous individuals from biographies you have read to your class.
• Ask them what their person is most known for (and review their introduction).
• Ask them how this person has impacted other people.

If you are looking for resources for teaching your students to write a biography report, check out my writing units.

These units also include a Google Slides option so you can teach the whole unit digitally!

Preview the grades 2-5 biography writing units here:.

Get resources for teaching your Grades 2-5 students to write a biography report here.

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40 Biography Questions that Kids Can Ask When Writing Biography Reports

When teaching kids about history, few topics captivate and engage young learners more than biographies. Kids love learning about real people who have made a difference in our lives.

Asking the right questions is key for students as they explore the life stories of famous people who lived before them. From answering significant life events to learning its lessons, prompting your students with thoughtful biography questions will lead them on a journey that helps bring their subjects to life.

Continue reading to learn some great inquiry-based questions for kids that teachers can use when teaching how to write biography reports in the classroom!

Personal Information and Background: A Starting Point for Biography Questions

Uncovering a biographical subject’s personal information and background forms the cornerstone of any comprehensive biography report. This section aids students in understanding their subject’s early life influences, the environments they were brought in, and their personal characteristics.

These questions are designed to help young learners understand the early years of their chosen individuals. They provide valuable insights into the experiences that shaped these notable figures.

• What is the full name of the person, and were they known by any other names or nicknames?
• When and where was the person born?
• What were the person’s parents’ names and backgrounds?
• What was the person’s childhood like?
• What were the person’s hobbies and interests as a child?
• What significant events happened during the person’s early life?
• Where did the person go to school, and what were their favorite subjects?
• Did the person have any role models or mentors?
• What were the person’s dreams and ambitions as a young adult?
• What challenges or obstacles did the person face during their life?
• Did the person have any siblings or close family members?
• How did the person handle success and fame, if applicable?

Would you like a Biography Questions PDF that your students can use to select the questions they want to research to write a biography report? Sign up to get the Biography Questions PDF delivered to your inbox.

Achievements and Contributions: Unveiling the Impact and Legacy of Biographical Subjects

As we move further into the life stories of influential individuals, the focus naturally shifts to their accomplishments and contributions. This section presents an opportunity for students to appreciate the impact of their subjects on society or their field of work. The following questions are designed to aid students in unearthing the milestones, achievements, and lasting legacies these figures have left behind.

These questions enrich the biographical narrative, from monumental breakthroughs to the subtle yet impactful changes they’ve brought forth, painting a comprehensive picture of the person’s life journey.

• What achievements or accomplishments are they known for?
• What contributions did the person make to society, their field, or their community?
• Did the person have any awards or honors during their lifetime?
• What impact did the person have on their local community or region?
• Did the person engage in any philanthropic or charitable activities?
• How did the person’s work or achievements influence the world today?
• Are there any museums, monuments, or places dedicated to the person’s memory?
• What role did the person play in any important historical events or movements?

Life Events and Experiences: Delving into the Personal Journey

Everyone has a story to tell, and in the case of biography subjects, their life events and experiences weave together to form a rich tapestry of personal journeys. This section emphasizes the importance of understanding the lived experiences, the highs and lows, the joys and sorrows, which molded our subjects into the individuals they became.

The biography questions listed here are designed to uncover the personal and human side of these figures, providing insights into their daily lives, relationships, and personal philosophies. Students can gain a broader perspective, going beyond the standard facts and dates to truly connect with these individuals on a more personal level.

• What important life lessons can be learned from the person’s experiences?
• Were there any hardships or setbacks the person had to overcome?
• What legacy did the person leave behind?
• Did the person face any significant challenges related to their health?
• What was the person’s personality like? How would you describe their character?
• Did the person have any notable friendships or relationships in their life?
• How did the person spend their retirement years, if applicable?
• What were some of the person’s favorite books, movies, or music?
• Did the person receive any awards or honors during their lifetime?
• Were there any controversies or debates surrounding the person’s life or work?
• Did the person have any significant personal or professional failures?

Influences and Inspirations: Why Did the Person Make the Choices They Made?

It is important for students to understand the influences and inspirations that sparked a person’s choices during their lifetime. These decisive factors often serve as the driving force behind their achievements, connecting their personal lives to their public successes.

The biography questions in this section are aimed at helping students unravel these catalysts, offering them a unique glimpse into the minds of their subjects. They will discover the people, ideas, and events that inspired and influenced these notable figures, thus gaining a richer understanding of their motivations, aspirations, and the driving forces behind their actions.

• What were the person’s values, beliefs, or philosophies?
• Did the person have a particular sense of humor or a funny side?
• How did the person adapt to changes in technology or society during their lifetime?
• What historical events or movements did the person witness or participate in?
• What role did the person’s cultural background or heritage influence their life and work?

Legacy and Impact: Probing the Footprints Left Behind

Every individual, particularly those worthy of biographical exploration, leaves an indelible mark on the world – a legacy that shapes societies, inspires future generations and often alters the course of history .

In this section, students focus on the biography questions that help uncover the significant impacts made by the subjects and the enduring legacies they’ve carved. These questions aren’t just about identifying the tangible results of their work, but also about understanding the lasting impressions they’ve imprinted on the hearts and minds of people worldwide.

• What impact did the person’s life story inspire or impact others?
• What can we learn from the person’s experiences and apply them to our own lives?
• What is the most fascinating or surprising thing you learned about the person during your research?
• What books, articles, or documentaries have been written or made about the person?

These topic-organized biography questions aim to assist students in conducting research by asking deeper questions. By focusing on specific aspects of an individual’s life and accomplishments, students can explore the subject’s life and understand why that person is significant.

More Biography Resources

Biography Report for Any Person Teach Students to Write a Biography Report Kid-Friendly Biographies Students Can Use for Research

The Biography Collection

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• Biography Report
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Biography Lesson Plan: An Introduction to Biographies

Submitted by: stacey lopez.

In this lesson plan which is adaptable for grades 1-5, students will use BrainPOP and/or BrainPOP Jr. resources to learn about biographies. Students will then select a person whose biography they would like to read (or watch a short video about on BrainPOP). Finally, students will write their own biography on a selected person.

Lesson Plan Common Core State Standards Alignments

Students will:.

• Define and explain what a biography is.
• Read or watch an example of a biography.
• Compose a biography.
• Computer with internet access for BrainPOP
• Interactive whiteboard (or just an LCD projector)
• Chart Paper
• Markers--variety of colors
• Sticky notes and pencils for students
• Biography template (optional)

Preparation:

Lesson procedure:.

• Explain to students that a biography of a famous person includes many facts. Ask them to take notes while they are watching either the BrainPOP Biography movie or the BrainPOP Jr. Biography movie. Explain that they will contribute to a class anchor chart about biographies.
• After the movie has finished, ask each student for a fact to add to the anchor chart. Alternate the colors to make it exciting. Students will be able to identify their contribution to the class anchor chart.
• Ask to students to read or watch a biography for a selected person in order to gather more information. Students could watch any of the BrainPOP topics in the Famous Historical Figures Unit or BrainPOP Jr. Biographies Unit , or read about the person's life in a book or online. Instruct students to take more notes while reading.
• Talk with students about the common features their biographies shared. What makes a good biography? Add to the anchor chart as needed.
• Each student may then write their own biography of another person using some of the facts that the class gathered.

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George Washington

Introduction.

Early Life and Career

At age 16 Washington joined a group sent to survey unknown lands on the Virginia frontier. In 1749 he became the official surveyor of Culpeper County. After Lawrence’s death in 1752, Washington became head of Mount Vernon and one of the richest planters in Virginia. Enslaved people did most of the work on his estate.

American Revolution

The fighting lasted for six difficult years. The army’s lowest point was the winter of 1777–78, which it spent at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Many soldiers died from the cold, and more than 2,000 deserted. Washington held the army together, however, and continued fighting. Finally, in 1781, the British surrendered.

Washington believed in a strong federal, or central, government. He also believed that the United States should remain neutral, or not take sides, in foreign affairs. Political parties developed because of his views. The Federalists, such as Alexander Hamilton, supported Washington’s ideas. The Democratic-Republicans, such as Thomas Jefferson, defended the power of the states. Washington tried to keep a balance between the two parties.

Another problem faced by Washington was finding ways to pay the expenses of the new government. Congress passed taxes on certain products, including whiskey. In 1794 farmers in Pennsylvania rebelled against the whiskey tax. Washington sent about 13,000 soldiers to end the rebellion. His actions showed the power of the federal government.

Retirement and Death

Washington was honored in many ways after his death. In 1800 the U.S. capital was moved from Philadelphia to the new city of Washington, D.C. The city is also the site of the Washington Monument , which was built in 1884. Washington’s birthday is remembered every February on Presidents’ Day .

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How to Write a Biography

Biographies are big business. Whether in book form or Hollywood biopics, the lives of the famous and sometimes not-so-famous fascinate us.

While it’s true that most biographies are about people who are in the public eye, sometimes the subject is less well-known. Primarily, though, famous or not, the person who is written about has led an incredible life.

In this article, we will explain biography writing in detail for teachers and students so they can create their own.

While your students will most likely have a basic understanding of a biography, it’s worth taking a little time before they put pen to paper to tease out a crystal-clear definition of one.

What Is a Biography?

A biography is an account of someone’s life written by someone else . While there is a genre known as a fictional biography, for the most part, biographies are, by definition, nonfiction.

Generally speaking, biographies provide an account of the subject’s life from the earliest days of childhood to the present day or, if the subject is deceased, their death.

The job of a biography is more than just to outline the bare facts of a person’s life.

Rather than just listing the basic details of their upbringing, hobbies, education, work, relationships, and death, a well-written biography should also paint a picture of the subject’s personality and experience of life.

Full Biographies

Teaching unit.

Teach your students everything they need to know about writing an AUTOBIOGRAPHY and a BIOGRAPHY.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ( 26 reviews )

Features of a Biography

Before students begin writing a biography, they’ll need to have a firm grasp of the main features of a Biography. An excellent way to determine how well they understand these essential elements is to ask them to compile a checklist like the one-blow

Their checklists should contain the items below at a minimum. Be sure to help them fill in any gaps before moving on to the writing process.

The purpose of a biography is to provide an account of someone’s life.

Biography structure.

ORIENTATION (BEGINNING) Open your biography with a strong hook to grab the reader’s attention

SEQUENCING: In most cases, biographies are written in chronological order unless you are a very competent writer consciously trying to break from this trend.

COVER: childhood, upbringing, education, influences, accomplishments, relationships, etc. – everything that helps the reader to understand the person.

CONCLUSION: Wrap your biography up with some details about what the subject is doing now if they are still alive. If they have passed away, make mention of what impact they have made and what their legacy is or will be.

BIOGRAPHY FEATURES

LANGUAGE Use descriptive and figurative language that will paint images inside your audience’s minds as they read. Use time connectives to link events.

PERSPECTIVE Biographies are written from the third person’s perspective.

DETAILS: Give specific details about people, places, events, times, dates, etc. Reflect on how events shaped the subject. You might want to include some relevant photographs with captions. A timeline may also be of use depending upon your subject and what you are trying to convey to your audience.

TENSE Written in the past tense (though ending may shift to the present/future tense)

THE PROCESS OF WRITING A BIOGRAPHY

Like any form of writing, you will find it simple if you have a plan and follow it through. These steps will ensure you cover the essential bases of writing a biography essay.

Firstly, select a subject that inspires you. Someone whose life story resonates with you and whose contribution to society intrigues you. The next step is to conduct thorough research. Engage in extensive reading, explore various sources, watch documentaries, and glean all available information to provide a comprehensive account of the person’s life.

Creating an outline is essential to organize your thoughts and information. The outline should include the person’s early life, education, career, achievements, and any other significant events or contributions. It serves as a map for the writing process, ensuring that all vital information is included.

Your biography should have an engaging introduction that captivates the reader’s attention and provides background information on the person you’re writing about. It should include a thesis statement summarising the biography’s main points.

Writing a biography in chronological order is crucial . You should begin with the person’s early life and move through their career and achievements. This approach clarifies how the person’s life unfolded and how they accomplished their goals.

A biography should be written in a narrative style , capturing the essence of the person’s life through vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and quotes. Avoid dry, factual writing and focus on creating a compelling narrative that engages the reader.

Adding personal insights and opinions can enhance the biography’s overall impact, providing a unique perspective on the person’s achievements, legacy, and impact on society.

Editing and proofreading are vital elements of the writing process. Thoroughly reviewing your biography ensures that the writing is clear, concise, and error-free. You can even request feedback from someone else to ensure that it is engaging and well-written.

Finally, including a bibliography at the end of your biography is essential. It gives credit to the sources that were used during research, such as books, articles, interviews, and websites.

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Biography

Biography writing tip #1: choose your subject wisely.

There are several points for students to reflect on when deciding on a subject for their biography. Let’s take a look at the most essential points to consider when deciding on the subject for a biography:

Interest: To produce a biography will require sustained writing from the student. That’s why students must choose their subject well. After all, a biography is an account of someone’s entire life to date. Students must ensure they choose a subject that will sustain their interest throughout the research, writing, and editing processes.

Merit: Closely related to the previous point, students must consider whether the subject merits the reader’s interest. Aside from pure labors of love, writing should be undertaken with the reader in mind. While producing a biography demands sustained writing from the author, it also demands sustained reading from the reader.

Therefore, students should ask themselves if their chosen subject has had a life worthy of the reader’s interest and the time they’d need to invest in reading their biography.

Information: Is there enough information available on the subject to fuel the writing of an entire biography? While it might be a tempting idea to write about a great-great-grandfather’s experience in the war. There would be enough interest there to sustain the author’s and the reader’s interest, but do you have enough access to information about their early childhood to do the subject justice in the form of a biography?

Biography Writing Tip #2: R esearch ! Research! Research!

While the chances are good that the student already knows quite a bit about the subject they’ve chosen. Chances are 100% that they’ll still need to undertake considerable research to write their biography.

As with many types of writing , research is an essential part of the planning process that shouldn’t be overlooked. If students wish to give as complete an account of their subject’s life as possible, they’ll need to put in the time at the research stage.

An effective way to approach the research process is to:

1. Compile a chronological timeline of the central facts, dates, and events of the subject’s life

2. Compile detailed descriptions of the following personal traits:

•      Physical looks
•      Character traits
•      Values and beliefs

3. Compile some research questions based on different topics to provide a focus for the research:

• Childhood : Where and when were they born? Who were their parents? Who were the other family members? What education did they receive?
• Obstacles: What challenges did they have to overcome? How did these challenges shape them as individuals?
• Legacy: What impact did this person have on the world and/or the people around them?
• Dialogue & Quotes: Dialogue and quotations by and about the subject are a great way to bring color and life to a biography. Students should keep an eagle eye out for the gems that hide amid their sources.

As the student gets deeper into their research, new questions will arise that can further fuel the research process and help to shape the direction the biography will ultimately go in.

Likewise, during the research, themes will often begin to suggest themselves. Exploring these themes is essential to bring depth to biography, but we’ll discuss this later in this article.

Research Skills:

Researching for biography writing is an excellent way for students to hone their research skills in general. Developing good research skills is essential for future academic success. Students will have opportunities to learn how to:

• Gather relevant information
• Evaluate different information sources
• Select suitable information
• Organize information into a text.

Students will have access to print and online information sources, and, in some cases, they may also have access to people who knew or know the subject (e.g. biography of a family member).

These days, much of the research will likely take place online. It’s crucial, therefore, to provide your students with guidance on how to use the internet safely and evaluate online sources for reliability. This is the era of ‘ fake news ’ and misinformation after all!

COMPLETE TEACHING UNIT ON INTERNET RESEARCH SKILLS USING GOOGLE SEARCH

Teach your students ESSENTIAL SKILLS OF THE INFORMATION ERA to become expert DIGITAL RESEARCHERS.

⭐How to correctly ask questions to search engines on all devices.

⭐ How to filter and refine your results to find exactly what you want every time.

⭐ Essential Research and critical thinking skills for students.

⭐ Plagiarism, Citing and acknowledging other people’s work.

⭐ How to query, synthesize and record your findings logically.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip #3: Find Your Themes In Biography Writing

Though predominantly a nonfiction genre, the story still plays a significant role in good biography writing. The skills of characterization and plot structuring are transferable here. And, just like in fiction, exploring themes in a biographical work helps connect the personal to the universal. Of course, these shouldn’t be forced; this will make the work seem contrived, and the reader may lose faith in the truthfulness of the account. A biographer needs to gain and maintain the trust of the reader.

Fortunately, themes shouldn’t need to be forced. A life well-lived is full of meaning, and the themes the student writer is looking for will emerge effortlessly from the actions and events of the subject’s life. It’s just a case of learning how to spot them.

One way to identify the themes in a life is to look for recurring events or situations in a person’s life. These should be apparent from the research completed previously. The students should seek to identify these patterns that emerge in the subject’s life. For example, perhaps they’ve had to overcome various obstacles throughout different periods of their life. In that case, the theme of overcoming adversity is present and has been identified.

Usually, a biography has several themes running throughout, so be sure your students work to identify more than one theme in their subject’s life.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip: #4 Put Something of Yourself into the Writing

While the defining feature of a biography is that it gives an account of a person’s life, students must understand that this is not all a biography does. Relating the facts and details of a subject’s life is not enough. The student biographer should not be afraid to share their thoughts and feelings with the reader throughout their account of their subject’s life.

The student can weave some of their personality into the fabric of the text by providing commentary and opinion as they relate the events of the person’s life and the wider social context at the time. Unlike the detached and objective approach we’d expect to find in a history textbook, in a biography, student-writers should communicate their enthusiasm for their subject in their writing.

This makes for a more intimate experience for the reader, as they get a sense of getting to know the author and the subject they are writing about.

Biography Examples For Students

• Year 5 Example
• Year 7 Example
• Year 9 Example

“The Rock ‘n’ Roll King: Elvis Presley”

Elvis Aaron Presley, born on January 8, 1935, was an amazing singer and actor known as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Even though he’s been dead for nearly 50 years, I can’t help but be fascinated by his incredible life!

Elvis grew up in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a tiny house with his parents and twin brother. His family didn’t have much money, but they shared a love for music. Little did they know Elvis would become a music legend!

When he was only 11 years old, Elvis got his first guitar. He taught himself to play and loved singing gospel songs. As he got older, he started combining different music styles like country, blues, and gospel to create a whole new sound – that’s Rock ‘n’ Roll!

In 1954, at the age of 19, Elvis recorded his first song, “That’s All Right.” People couldn’t believe how unique and exciting his music was. His famous hip-swinging dance moves also made him a sensation!

Elvis didn’t just rock the music scene; he also starred in movies like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.” But fame came with challenges. Despite facing ups and downs, Elvis kept spreading happiness through his music.

Tragically, Elvis passed away in 1977, but his music and charisma live on. Even today, people worldwide still enjoy his songs like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Elvis Presley’s legacy as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll will live forever.

Long Live the King: I wish I’d seen him.

Elvis Presley, the Rock ‘n’ Roll legend born on January 8, 1935, is a captivating figure that even a modern-day teen like me can’t help but admire. As I delve into his life, I wish I could have experienced the magic of his live performances.

Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis faced challenges but found solace in music. At 11, he got his first guitar, a symbol of his journey into the world of sound. His fusion of gospel, country, and blues into Rock ‘n’ Roll became a cultural phenomenon.

The thought of being in the audience during his early performances, especially when he recorded “That’s All Right” at 19, sends shivers down my spine. Imagining the crowd’s uproar and feeling the revolutionary energy of that moment is a dream I wish I could have lived.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical prodigy; he was a dynamic performer. His dance moves, the embodiment of rebellion, and his roles in films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock” made him a true icon.

After watching him on YouTube, I can’t help but feel a little sad that I’ll never witness the King’s live performances. The idea of swaying to “Hound Dog” or being enchanted by “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in person is a missed opportunity. Elvis may have left us in 1977, but he was the king of rock n’ roll. Long live the King!

Elvis Presley: A Teen’s Take on the Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon”

Elvis Presley, born January 8, 1935, was a revolutionary force in the music world, earning his title as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Exploring his life, even as a 16-year-old today, I’m captivated by the impact he made.

Hailing from Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis grew up in humble beginnings, surrounded by the love of his parents and twin brother. It’s inspiring to think that, despite financial challenges, this young man would redefine the music scene.

At 11, Elvis got his first guitar, sparking a self-taught journey into music. His early gospel influences evolved into a unique fusion of country, blues, and gospel, creating the electrifying genre of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In 1954, at only 19, he recorded “That’s All Right,” marking the birth of a musical legend.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical innovator; he was a cultural phenomenon. His rebellious dance moves and magnetic stage presence challenged the norms. He transitioned seamlessly into acting, starring in iconic films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.”

However, fame came at a cost, and Elvis faced personal struggles. Despite the challenges, his music continued to resonate. Even now, classics like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” transcend generations.

Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is undeniable. He was known for his unique voice, charismatic persona, and electrifying performances. He sold over one billion records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling solo artists in history. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including three Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Elvis’s influence can still be seen in today’s music. Many contemporary artists, such as Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, and Justin Timberlake, have cited Elvis as an inspiration. His music continues to be featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Elvis left us in 1977, but his legacy lives on. I appreciate his breaking barriers and fearlessly embracing his artistic vision. Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is timeless, a testament to the enduring power of his artistry. His music has inspired generations and will continue to do so for many years to come.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING TEACHING IDEAS AND LESSONS

We have compiled a sequence of biography-related lessons or teaching ideas that you can follow as you please. They are straightforward enough for most students to follow without further instruction.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 1:

This session aims to give students a broader understanding of what makes a good biography.

Once your students have compiled a comprehensive checklist of the main features of a biography, allow them to use it to assess some biographies from your school library or on the internet using the feature checklist.

When students have assessed a selection of biographies, take some time as a class to discuss them. You can base the discussion around the following prompts:

• Which biographies covered all the criteria from their checklist?
• Which biographies didn’t?
• Which biography was the most readable in terms of structure?
• Which biography do you think was the least well-structured? How would you improve this?

Looking at how other writers have interpreted the form will help students internalize the necessary criteria before attempting to produce a biography. Once students have a clear understanding of the main features of the biography, they’re ready to begin work on writing a biography.

When the time does come to put pen to paper, be sure they’re armed with the following top tips to help ensure they’re as well prepared as possible.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 2:

This session aims to guide students through the process of selecting the perfect biography subject.

Instruct students to draw up a shortlist of three potential subjects for the biography they’ll write.

Using the three criteria mentioned in the writing guide (Interest, Merit, and Information), students award each potential subject a mark out of 5 for each of the criteria. In this manner, students can select the most suitable subject for their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 3:

This session aims to get students into the researching phase, then prioritise and organise events chronologically.

Students begin by making a timeline of their subject’s life, starting with their birth and ending with their death or the present day. If the student has yet to make a final decision on the subject of their biography, a family member will often serve well for this exercise as a practice exercise.

Students should research and gather the key events of the person’s life, covering each period of their life from when they were a baby, through childhood and adolescence, right up to adulthood and old age. They should then organize these onto a timeline. Students can include photographs with captions if they have them.

They can present these to the class when they have finished their timelines.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 4:

Instruct students to look over their timeline, notes, and other research. Challenge them to identify three patterns that repeat throughout the subject’s life and sort all the related events and incidents into specific categories.

Students should then label each category with a single word. This is the thematic concept or the broad general underlying idea. After that, students should write a sentence or two expressing what the subject’s life ‘says’ about that concept.

This is known as the thematic statement . With the thematic concepts and thematic statements identified, the student now has some substantial ideas to explore that will help bring more profound meaning and wider resonance to their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 5:

Instruct students to write a short objective account of an event in their own life. They can write about anyone from their past. It needn’t be more than a couple of paragraphs, but the writing should be strictly factual, focusing only on the objective details of what happened.

Once they have completed this, it’s time to rewrite the paragraph, but they should include some opinion and personal commentary this time.

The student here aims to inject some color and personality into their writing, to transform a detached, factual account into a warm, engaging story.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON TEACHING BIOGRAPHIES

Teach your students to write AMAZING BIOGRAPHIES & AUTOBIOGRAPHIES using proven RESEARCH SKILLS and WRITING STRATEGIES .

• Understand the purpose of both forms of biography.
• Explore the language and perspective of both.
• Prompts and Challenges to engage students in writing a biography.
• Dedicated lessons for both forms of biography.
• Biographical Projects can expand students’ understanding of reading and writing a biography.
• A COMPLETE 82-PAGE UNIT – NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

FREE Biography Writing Graphic Organizer

Use this valuable tool in the research and writing phases to keep your students on track and engaged.

WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (92 Reviews)

To Conclude

By this stage, your students should have an excellent technical overview of a biography’s essential elements.

They should be able to choose their subject in light of how interesting and worthy they are, as well as give consideration to the availability of information out there. They should be able to research effectively and identify emerging themes in their research notes. And finally, they should be able to bring some of their personality and uniqueness into their retelling of the life of another.

Remember that writing a biography is not only a great way to develop a student’s writing skills; it can be used in almost all curriculum areas. For example, to find out more about a historical figure in History, to investigate scientific contributions to Science, or to celebrate a hero from everyday life.

Biography is an excellent genre for students to develop their writing skills and to find inspiration in the lives of others in the world around them.

HOW TO WRITE A BIOGRAPHY TUTORIAL VIDEO

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO BIOGRAPHY WRITING

How to write an Autobiography

How to Write a Historical Recount Text

15 Awesome Recount & Personal Narrative Topics

Personal Narrative Writing Guide

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63 Tips, Tricks, and Ideas for Teaching 3rd Grade

Brilliant ideas from brilliant teachers (like you).

Third graders are roly-poly and rambunctious, and best of all, curious as all get out. Whether you’ve taught this pivotal, precocious grade for years or are setting up your first class, we’ve got you covered with tips from real teachers. We’ve scoured our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook and the web for some of the best tips and ideas for teaching third grade. While it by no means covers every possible topic, we hope this list of gems will inspire you. Plus, we’ve organized the list by topic to make it easy to cruise for ideas!

Getting Your Classroom Ready

1. create an inviting classroom.

Need ideas to take your classroom to the next level? We’ve gathered  real-life third grade classrooms for you to browse through.

2. Gather all the supplies

Not sure what supplies you need for your third grade classroom? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this list of essential third grade classroom supplies .

3. Pick an inspiring theme for your classroom

“Even at this age, kids like the themed rooms,” says third grade teacher Kathleen W. We love these calming classroom theme ideas . Plus, check out these door-decorating ideas .

4. Try different classroom layouts

Long gone are the days of straight rows of desks lining the classroom.  Throw out your seating chart and try one of these ideas instead .

5. Put together an irresistible classroom reading nook

Your third graders are well on their way to becoming readers, so make this time extra special for them by setting up one of these awesome reading nooks .

6. Fill your classroom library with these classic third grade books

Teaching third grade involves a lot of reading! Here are our favorite third grade books.

7. Get a jump start on lessons

Teacher planning and prep time are precious! It makes life a lot easier when you can purchase existing lessons, bundles, books, and pages. And why not support other teachers while you do it? Check out our favorite Teacher Pay Teachers sellers for third grade .

The First Days of School

8. introduce yourself creatively.

Make day one memorable by introducing yourself in a creative way, such as sending postcards over the summer! Here are our favorite creative teacher introduction ideas .

9. Start the year with a challenge

Divide students into groups and give each group 56 cups. Then, challenge them to build the tallest (or most stable) tower. Here are even more team-building games and activities .

10. Send home a classroom brochure

Third grade teacher Kendall R. shares, “I made a brochure for parents rather than a welcome-back letter. The brochure was easier to look at and it was easier to find the information. It included the behavior plan, information about lunch prices, and pickup and dismissal times.”

11. Take advantage of their “in-between-ness”

Third graders are not little kids, they’re not quite upper elementary students, and they’re far from middle schoolers. That means they still love their teachers and school and aren’t afraid to show it! Take advantage of that with fun ideas for back-to-school night or parent-teacher conferences.

12. Start the day with a morning meeting

Third graders are not too old for morning meetings. Consider including class rules, a self-reflection (What did you do well as a researcher yesterday?), an interesting class question (What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?), sharing good news/bad news, and the Word of the Day. Here is a big list of morning meeting questions to take you through the year.

13. Plan an end-of-the-day check

Third grade teacher Natalie E. shares, “We have a PMIL end-of-day check. Students say positive things from their day and a minus (if one occurred), an interesting thing from their day, and one thing they learned.”

14. Establish a culture of kindness

Print these free downloadable posters  to remind your students that kindness matters most of all.

15. Build your students’ social-emotional skills

Teaching third grade means building SEL skills. Use these SEL read-alouds  to talk about everything from kindness to courage to trying your best.

16. Teach growth mindset

Third graders can be perfectionists. Help them get in the mindset to try, grow, and change with these growth mindset activities .

17. Use the walls for anchor charts instead of premade posters

You can check out our top third grade anchor charts for inspiration here.

Ideas for Language Arts

18. incorporate daily writing prompts.

We’ve gathered a big list of third grade writing prompts that you can download and use to have your third graders practice their writing skills.

19. Insist on full sentences

Third graders are still forming those academic habits, so when they ask questions, talk about their reading, or explain themselves, make them speak in complete sentences. It’ll pay off in their writing and their thinking.

20. Have students write a letter to their future selves

Christina, a third-grade teacher on Long Island, describes a letter-writing assignment she’s given her 8-year-old students every year since she began teaching over 20 years ago.

21. Make phonics fun

Phonics is the foundation for reading success. Breaking words into their constituent sounds helps kids understand and build their literacy skills, bit by bit. Check out these phonics activities .

22. Try a vocabulary activity. Or 15!

Use RAFTs, try Vocabulary Jeopardy, and more with these vocabulary activities .

23. Start students in literature circles

Third graders are ready to start discussing what they read in their own groups. Learn more about literature circles and how you can implement them in your class. Check out this list of books that are ideal for third grade literature circles .

24. Stock the shelves with graphic novels

Third grade is often the year that students discover Dogman, Captain Underpants, and other graphic novel characters. Inspire a love of storytelling in all its forms with our favorite graphic novels .

Ideas for Math

25. practice math-fact fluency (every day).

Fourth- and fifth-grade teachers will thank you! The better your students are at their math facts, the easier math time will be, particularly when they get into problem-solving. Check out these fun activities for math facts practice.

26. Focus on fractions

If it’s not math fluency, it’s fractions. The better understanding third graders have of fractions, the better off they’ll be when the quantities get more complicated or the operations get sophisticated. We really love this pool noodle fractions hack for teaching third grade.

27. Get graphing

Third graders are learning how to represent data in lots of ways. As you work through science projects, incorporate graphing in all its forms—pie, bar, line, dot. Check out this graphing lesson that you can use throughout the year.

28. Watch videos

It’s much more fun to teach multiplication and division when you’re watching a video. Check out this list of our favorite multiplication and division videos on YouTube .

29. Start math talk routines

Third graders benefit from hearing you talk through your thinking. Use a math talk routine, like this one from The Routty Math Teacher .

30. Teach the dreaded word problem

Try these word problem activities and strategies .

31. Play math games

Math doesn’t have to be boring! Make it fun with one of our third grade math games .

32. Use spare LEGO bricks

LEGO bricks aren’t just for building—you can use them for math too. Here are some of our favorite ideas for using LEGO bricks to teach math concepts .

Ideas for Science

33. get hands-on with science.

Science is the perfect subject for kids to get down and dirty. Try these third grade science projects  for inspiration.

34. Try daily STEM challenges

These STEM challenges are designed with your third graders in mind. Try one each day or each week to get their minds thinking outside the box.

35. Teach the plant life cycle

The plant life cycle always makes a fun science unit . You get to talk about growing, planting, and nature. Plus, students love digging in and getting their hands dirty when they plant seeds themselves.

36. Teach electricity

It’s electrifyingly good fun! Shock them with these electricity science experiments !

37. Explore animal habitats

Ready to explore animal habitats around the world, from rain forests to deserts and everything in between? These fun activities are just what you’re looking for. Take a walk on the wild side!

Ideas for Social Studies

38. use current events.

Third graders’ interest in the world is ever-increasing. Capitalize on that by bringing in articles from sites like Newsela . While students read each article, they can track their ideas, reactions, and comments on sticky notes, then use those to write comments about the articles (or post their comments on a large board in your classroom).

39. Have students insert themselves into history

After reading biographies, have students create presentations that put themselves in history, like this idea from a third grade blogger .

40. Learn about heroes

Read biographies about famous people in history. Match books to holidays. Here are some book recommendations for Presidents’ Day and Black History Month.

41. Use online learning

There are some amazing websites out there for teaching social studies lessons. Check out our favorite social studies websites .

Ideas for Classroom Organization

42. use an uncommon organizing method for the common core.

Here’s an idea from Teaching in OZ . Create separately labeled folders for each standard, then file activities that align with each standard in the appropriate folders. Genius!

43. Put classroom-wide homework checks in place

Third grade might be the first time students have homework, so help them get organized and stay organized with a planner. And build good organization habits with a classroom routine to help students stay on top of their planners each morning and afternoon. Here are our favorite academic planners for students .

44. Try out new exit tickets

Know exactly what students have learned and where they need to go next with creative exit tickets .

45. Avoid nameless homework

Here’s an idea from Life Between Summers . When students highlight their names before handing in work, you’ll never receive a nameless paper again!

46. Organize your command central

Who can think straight when their workspace is utter chaos? Check out these hacks for keeping your teacher desk organized .

47. Get your classroom library in order

Make sure your third graders have easy access to loads of reading materials. These book bins will help you organize your fiction, nonfiction, biographies, graphic novels, and more.

48. Take good care of your anchor charts

Anchor charts are such an amazing resource for teaching third grade. When you create one that is truly a work of art, you want to make sure you keep it. Here are some awesome ways to organize and store your anchor charts.

Ideas for Classroom Management

49. create a call-and-response routine.

Use a call-and-response, like saying “Class, class, class!” to which students answer “Yes, yes, yes!” Or to start work, snap your fingers and say “Go!” then students respond by snapping their fingers and saying “Go!” This call-and-response gets third grade students’ attention and helps them know exactly what to do.

50. Get the wiggles out

Even grown-ups can’t sit still and listen all day! Get your kids up and moving with these third grade brain breaks .

51. Invest time in teaching third grade students procedures and jobs

“Model and practice your classroom procedures,” recommends third grade teacher Pam W. “You’ll love how independent third graders can be!”

Third grade teacher Kristi H. adds, “Pick jobs that they can do around the classroom. It will save you time and you will be amazed at how competent third graders can be.”

Here’s a big list of unique classroom jobs to try.

52. Anticipate that third graders will call out

Here’s an idea that third grade teacher Jessica H. shared: “Put icons on desks as reminders for when students blurt out. That reminds them to raise their hand with a nonverbal warning. If they do blurt out, place a laminated warning on their desk, like a stop sign that says ‘Please stop what you are doing and make better choices.’”

53. Love a list

Thought you loved a well-organized to-do list? Your third graders may just have you beat. Stock your room with clipboards and cover your walls with lists to keep your kids organized and as excited about completing each task as you are. “Lists, clipboards … they love them,” says third grade teacher Kristi H.

54. Teach friendship skills

Third graders love their friends and always want more. Use these friendship videos to teach your third graders how to be a good friend, and how to get through sticky friend situations.

55. Have a policy for school supplies (we’re looking at you, mechanical pencils)

Third grade teacher Tefi C. shares, “I allowed my third graders to use clickable lead pencils. However, my policy on them was that if I saw them playing with lead or breaking pieces, they were banned from using it for the rest of the year. I only had to ban a handful of students.”

56. Invest in fidgets

If you have students who fiddle with just about anything (and teaching third grade, you will), keep their hands occupied with fidget toys so their brains can stay on task. They can be as simple as squishy balls from the party store and maybe, just maybe, it will keep the fidget spinners out of your classroom. Plus, check out more of our favorite fidget toy ideas .

57. Talk about emotional bank accounts

Help third graders understand how their words and actions impact others with an ongoing discussion of emotional bank accounts.  We love the anchor chart from this third grade blogger.

58. Model, model, and model some more

“Modeling and practice for sure,” says third grade teacher Cathy T. Third graders are increasingly developing their independence, but they still need modeling (and lots of it)! Plan to model, and model again during whole group, then be ready to step in with more modeling during centers or small-group work.

Other Ideas

59. have a sense of humor.

Teaching third grade requires a sense of humor, both for yourself and your students. Poetry from Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky hit right at third graders’ funny bones. Or try one of our third grade jokes to start the day .

60. Build positive relationships with parents

Here are 10 tips that make working with parents the easiest part of your job .

61. Make sure you’re supporting your students with disabilities

It’s likely that some of your third graders will have accommodations or modifications that you’re in charge of. One way to make sure you’re providing students with their accommodations is to make a note of which accommodations they need by their name on a discussion or participation tracker . This will help you feel confident that you’re helping each student access learning, and it will allow you to contribute insights at the IEP meeting.

62. Work smarter, not harder

Why sweat it trying to reinvent the wheel? Check out these brilliant teacher hacks for everything from monitoring voice levels and color-coding your organizer to repurposing a spice rack for teaching supplies.

63. Stay inspired

The past few years in teaching have been tumultuous, to stay the least. We could all use a few words of encouragement. Bookmark this roundup of inspiring quotes about teaching to pull out on those days when you need to be reminded of just how important the work you do is.

What are your top tips for teaching third grade? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

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U.S. public, private and charter schools in 5 charts

While children in the United States are guaranteed a free education at their local public school through state constitutional law, many families weigh other educational options for their children. Even before the coronavirus pandemic upended families’ usual routines, 36% of parents with K-12 students say they considered multiple schools for their child in the 2018-19 school year.

Students’ school environments vary widely – sometimes even for children living in the same community – depending on whether they attend traditional public, private or charter schools.

Here are some key distinctions between these three types of schools, based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). All figures reflect the most recent school year with data for all three types of schools.

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to better understand how U.S. students’ school experiences might differ depending on whether they attend a traditional public school, a private school or a charter school.

Data comes from the Institute of Education Sciences’ National Center for Education Statistics . We used the most recent year in which data is available for all three school types.

Public, private and charter schools include those that teach students in kindergarten through 12th grade, unless otherwise specified. Racial categories used in this analysis include those who report being a single race and non-Hispanic. Hispanics are of any race. National School Lunch Program data for 2021-22 is not available for Alaska.

What’s the difference between public, private and charter schools?

Until a few decades ago, parents with kids in elementary, middle or high school could choose to send them to either a traditional public school or a private one. More recently, many states have added a third option: public charter schools.

• Traditional public schools are taxpayer funded, are tuition free and must adhere to standards set by a school district or state board of education. These are the most common schooling option in the U.S.
• Private schools are known for being selective, religiously affiliated or sometimes both, and charge tuition rather than receive public money. In addition to tuition dollars, private schools may be funded through a combination of donations, endowments or grants from other private sources. As a result, they have more autonomy when it comes to curriculum and other academic standards. During the 2021-22 school year, about three-quarters of private school K-12 students (77%) attended a religiously affiliated school. The largest share went to Catholic schools, which accounted for 35% of all private school enrollment. Another 23% of private school students attended secular institutions.
• Public charter schools are legally allowed to operate in nearly all states, plus the District of Columbia, as of 2024. Like traditional public schools, these are taxpayer funded and tuition free. They’re open to any student who wishes to enroll. But unlike their traditional counterparts, agreements – or charters – with the state or local government allow them flexibility when it comes to curriculum and other standards. They also may turn students away due to space constraints.

Differences exist in the size and locale of each type of school, NCES data from the 2021-22 school year shows.

Traditional public schools tend to be larger than the other types. For instance, 39% of public schools enroll 500 or more students, compared with 32% of charter schools and 8% of private schools. And while 31% of public schools have fewer than 300 students, 44% of charter schools and 82% of private schools do.

Public schools are relatively evenly distributed across urban, suburban and rural areas, while most charter and private school campuses are located in either cities or suburbs.

(Traditional public and charter school environment data includes prekindergarten students, who account for less than 1% of enrollment at these types of schools.)

Where is enrollment growing and shrinking?

During the 2021-22 school year, the vast majority of the country’s roughly 54.6 million public, private and charter school students in pre-K through 12th grade (83%) attended traditional public schools. Another 10% were enrolled in private schools, and 7% went to public charter schools.

Enrollment numbers have shifted over the last decade:

• Traditional public school enrollment has declined. In fall 2011, about 47.2 million students attended public elementary, middle and secondary schools, accounting for 87% of all school enrollment. By fall 2021, the number of public school students dropped to about 45.4 million, resulting in a small drop in public schools’ share of total enrollment.
• The popularity of charter schools has grown. Minnesota became the first state to pass legislation allowing charter schools in 1991. In the last 10 years alone, enrollment has risen from about 2.1 million students in fall 2011 to nearly 3.7 million in fall 2021, an increase from 4% to 7% of total enrollment.
• Private school enrollment has held relatively steady. Private school students have consistently made up about 10% of school enrollment, with numbers that have fluctuated from a 10-year low of fewer than 5.3 million in 2011 to a peak of almost 5.8 million in 2015.

How does enrollment look at the state level?

Nationwide, the vast majority of students in pre-K through 12th grade attend traditional public schools – but shares vary somewhat from state to state. In Wyoming, for example, nearly all students (97%) attend public school, while 45% do in D.C.

The states with the highest percentages of public school enrollment include some of those with the lowest population density . In addition to Wyoming, West Virginia (95%), Montana (93%), Kansas and Alaska (91% each) round out the top five states by share of public school enrollment.

In most states, students are more likely to attend a private school than a charter school. Charter school students make up a larger share of enrollment than private school students in just 12 states and D.C. (Data is unavailable for seven states because they did not have any charter schools or legislation allowing them in fall 2021.)

Among the places where students are the least likely to attend traditional public schools:

• D.C. has the highest share of charter school students, at 36%. Just 45% of K-12 students there attend traditional public schools. Another 19% attend private schools.
• D.C. and Hawaii have the largest percentage of students in private schools, at 19% each. In Hawaii, another 76% of students are enrolled in public school, and 6% are enrolled in charter schools.

How do student demographics vary by school type?

Charter schools had the most racial and ethnic diversity during the 2021-22 school year. Hispanic students make up the largest share of enrollment there (36%), followed by White (29%), Black (24%) and Asian American students (4%).

In contrast, 47% of traditional public school students and 65% of private school students are White. Smaller shares are Hispanic, Black or Asian.

Differences also exist by household income level. Nearly all public and charter schools are part of the National School Lunch Program , which provides free or reduced-price meals to students based on family income.

In general, charter school students are more likely than public school kids to qualify for the program. For instance, 31% of charter students and 21% of traditional public school students are enrolled at a school where more than three-quarters of their peers qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

Because a relatively small share of private schools participate in this program, 2021-22 data is not available for them. However, research shows that private school enrollment rates are highest among upper-income families .

What does the teaching staff look like at each type of school?

More than 4.2 million full- and part-time teachers worked at public, private and charter schools during the 2020-21 school year, the most recent year with available data. That year, about 3.5 million teachers (83%) taught at traditional public schools. Another 466,000 (11%) worked in private schools, and 251,000 (6%) taught at public charters.

The teaching force in each environment varies based on race and ethnicity, age, experience, and educational attainment.

• Charter school teachers are the most racially and ethnically diverse: 69% of charter school teachers are White, compared with about eight-in-ten at both traditional public and private schools. Charters also employ the largest shares of Black and Hispanic teachers.
• Private school teachers skew slightly older, while charter school teachers are the youngest: About 17% of private school teachers are ages 60 and older, compared with 8% in public schools and 7% in charter schools. And in charter schools, 21% of teachers are under 30, compared with 14% each in public and private schools.
• Charters employ a larger share of teachers with fewer years of experience: For instance, 13% of both private and charter school teachers have fewer than three years of experience, compared with 7% of public school teachers. And 43% of charter school teachers have between three and nine years of experience, compared with 28% each in public and private schools.
• Public school teachers are the most likely to have a master’s degree: 52% of public school teachers have a master’s degree, compared with about 41% each in charter and private schools.

Katherine Schaeffer is a research analyst at Pew Research Center .

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