In this course, third graders practice important social studies skills while learning about the United States. They begin by discovering ways that maps can help us better understand the impact of geography on people and settlements over time. A tour across the United States highlights different features and landmarks across the nation. Then, a study of cultures, including worldwide and on a community level, helps students understand the American identity and how groups change over time. Focusing on American government the course introduces important concepts such as founding documents, federalism, and the functions of government at each level. A discussion of the importance of voting transitions to the next unit where students consider the meaning of citizenship and how people uphold their civic duties. Next, after studying the relationship between humans and the environment, students identify a public issue and complete a research-based report encouraging change. The final units introduce basic economic concepts concerning the American economy and important concepts of money and personal finance to help guide future economic decision-making.
