Regions Unit

Primary Standards
Places and Regions
3.3.5 Explain that regions are areas that have similar physical and cultural
characteristics*. Identify Indiana and the local community as part of a specific
region.
3.3.6 Compare and contrast the physical characteristics of Indiana to
neighboring states using words, illustrations, maps, photographs, and other
resources.
Secondary Standards
Writing Standard
3.W.3.1 Write persuasive compositions in a variety of forms.
3.W.6.2b-1 Use apostrophes correctly.
Reading Standard
3.RN.4.2 Compare and contrast points and details in two texts on the same
topic.
3.RV.2.2 Identify relationships among words (synonyms, antonyms, etc.)
Mathematics
3.M.2: Choose and use appropriate units and tools to estimate and measure
length, weight, and temperature. Estimate and measure length to a quarterinch, weight in pounds, and temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.
3.M.6: Multiply side lengths to find areas of rectangles with whole-number side
lengths to solve real-world problems and other mathematical problems, and
represent whole-number products as rectangular areas in mathematical
reasoning.
Unit Purpose
Students will be able to distinguish between the five regions of the United States of
America. They will be able to identify specific characteristics that are unique to each
region.
Lesson Outline
Lesson 1
Social Studies: Midwest Region
Introduction to characteristic of region with a focus on Indiana.
Lesson 2
Social Studies: Southwest Region
Introduction to characteristic of region and cardinal directions.
Lesson 3

Social Studies: West Region

Introduction to characteristic of region and the compass rose.
Lesson 4
Social Studies: Southeast Region
Introduction to characteristic of region and how to use a compass.
Lesson 5
Social Studies: Northeast Region
Introduction to characteristic of region and map legends and symbols.
Lesson 6
Map Skills- compass skills, compass rose, cardinal directions
Learn map skills and how to use a compass rose.
Lesson 7
English Language Arts: Compare and contrast regions.
Region stations- Each student will compare and contrast their teams assigned
regions with the remaining four regions.
Lesson 8
English Language Arts: Regional Folktale Comparison
The students will compare and contrast folktales from various regions.
Lesson 9
Mathematics: Region Fractions
The students will find various fractions related to the Regions of the United States.
Lesson 10
Writing: Persuasive Writing
Write a persuasive letter to convince a friend or family member to visit in a specific
region.
Project Idea
Students will create a travel brochure for a specific region. The brochure should
include important information about the region, specific features, and illustrations.