Third graders are focusing on exploring Chicago’s neighborhoods this year in Social Studies. The students kicked off the unit by exploring symbols on various flags such as the American flag, the Chicago flag, and the Israeli flag. Then, students brainstormed four symbols they believed represented themselves, including a Jewish one, and then wrote about what each symbol meant to them. Finally, the children created their own identity flag using felt and dowel rods. Check out these artistic pieces in the third-grade hallway!  

Next, we will focus on cardinal directions and map skills. We will use these skills to create a city map and begin to learn about the neighborhoods we live in as well as some of the unique features of the neighborhoods around us.