Third graders learn about the history of Massachusetts from the arrival of the Pilgrims. They
also learn the history of Greenfield, famous people and events in Massachusetts’ history. In
addition, they read biographies of prominent Massachusetts people in science, technology, the
arts, business, education, and political leadership.
To this end, students will:
Geography
• Use cardinal directions, map scales, legends, and titles to locate places on contemporary
maps of New England, Massachusetts, and Sudbury
• Describe the difference between a contemporary and a historical map of Sudbury and
notice changes over time by examining several examples
• Describe how the natural environment influences clothing, food, housing, and activities in
the areas of study
History
• Explain the meaning of time periods or dates in (i.e. decade, century, 1600s, 1776)
• Observe visual sources such as historic painting, photographs or illustrations that
accompany historical narratives and describe details such as clothing, setting, action
• Observe and describe historic artifacts and generate questions about their function,
construction, and significance
• Cite examples of how communities change over time
Civics and Government
• Give examples of why it is necessary for communities to have governments
• Give examples of the different ways people in a community can influence their local
government
• Understand the word citizen within their own school and community
• Discuss the meaning of American national symbols and selected national holidays,
including the first Thanksgiving
Economics
• Define specialization in jobs and businesses and give examples of specialized
businesses in the community, historic and modern day
• Discuss the differences between goods and services and give examples of supply and
demand
• Discuss how changes in the environment and economics can cause people to relocate
