Grade 3
In third grade, students begin to understand the influence of nature on human experience and humans on nature. Students consider how weather, climate and the environment influence the lives and choices of people who lived in Massachusetts in the past. In the spring, students return to the theme of weather and climate as they consider how habitats can change and be changed both naturally and in response to human behavior. In the spring, students will visit a local wetland habitat to investigate why some organisms can survive better in certain environments.
Note: All adults who work with children in the Big Backyard program must have a valid CORI . Please click here to fill out a CORI form. CORI checks are good for 3 years.
Read the walk guide before your walk to familiarize yourself with areas to visit and activities.
Pre-Walk Training at School
It is strongly recommended that volunteers attend the on-site training at your school. Trainings are 30-45 minutes, typically, on the day of the walk, and begin in the lobby. If you are unsure of when the training occurs look back at the signup email or contact your Big Backyard team.
View these 15 minute videos to learn an overall approach to guiding children outdoors as well as modeling of the activities on each specific walk.
Additional tips are available to support you as you lead students on their explorations.
Fall Walk
The Needs of Indigenous People in New England In the fall third graders will learn what it was like for the native people who lived here 500 years ago and how they obtained what they needed from nature.
Spring Walk
Wetland Field TripStudents will visit a local wetland to conduct a field study. They will survey the shoreline to identify different habitats and compare the components of each habitat and the diversity of plant and animal life in each area. Students will collect and observe animals and consider how they would be impacted if the habitat were to be changed.