Have your third-graders draw a map of the state of Tennessee focusing on the landscape and terrain. For example, students may draw mountains to indicate the Blue Ridge or rivers where the Mississippi and Cumberland River are located. Encourage them to draw pastures in rural areas and high-rise buildings in cities. Having the students locate where they are on the map will help them better internalize the importance of geography and their home.
Give your students historic pictures of the Tennessee landscape and agriculture. Compare them to present-day photos. Which areas have been turned into cities? Farmland? Mills or businesses? By comparing the past with the present, students will understand how time itself changes the landscape.
Teach your children about the importance of money by setting up your classroom to represent various towns in the state of Tennessee. Each town will be manned by four or five students who "sell" something that is representative of that place. For example, in Memphis they can sell replicas of Elvis. In small towns, like Dickson, they can sell hay. Students will learn that things cost more or less in different towns depending on the economics of the towns.
Teach your students about the local Tennessee government and its branches. Have them identify on their map where each branch is located. Have them also make a flow chart of their local town government, starting with the mayor. Explain the importance of government as part of the large economic framework.