The third grade reading Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) requires students to read stories that are about 350 words long and correctly answer questions about what they have read. It also requires them to be able to use charts, graphs, maps, and other materials to gather information to correctly answer questions.These skills are described in Florida’s Sunshine State Standards (SSS). Designed by teachers, the Standards tell what Florida students should know and be able to do at each grade level. They are in line with national education standards.
Addressing the needs of students in the third grade is much easier and more effective than waiting until students are older and would face significant academic and emotional challenges in high school. Florida is not a “wait to fail” state. Students who are falling behind their classmates can now be identified at an earlier age. Immediate support and assistance is most effective to lessen potential social implications.