Social Studies

"Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere."

Social Studies

The third grade Social Studies program is based upon an interdisciplinary approach to learning about other cultures.

Grade 3 Social Studies outlined by the New York State Social Studies Framework, in “Communities around the World,” students learn about communities around the globe and about global citizenship. Students bring with them knowledge about their communities. Students will make comparisons across time and space, examining different communities and their cultures. Culture includes social organization, customs and traditions, language, arts and literature, religion, forms of government, and economic systems. Students are introduced to the concepts of prejudice, discrimination and human rights, as well as to social action. There will be six units of study covered this year:


Unit 1: Geography

Geography: Map and Global Skills focusing on cardinal directions, grid reference, and maps’ keys. Students will gain a deeper understanding of geography with a connection of culture and its environment.

Unit 2: The United States

Unit 3: Brazil

Unit 4: China

Unit 5: Kenya

Countries: Students dive into various countries’ cultures and heritages. They will explore the history of each while centering on landmarks, traditions, and communities. Students will work on projects developing their perception of what life may be in other countries!

Unit 6: Making a Difference

Making a Difference: The title of this unit goes without saying- Fostering habits of good citizens and presenting contributions we can make as a society.