The course theme of this grade 3 social studies curriculum guide is Man and His Institutions. With a background of family and community study in grades 1 and 2, the purpose at this level is to analyze more institutions created by man to meet the growing complexities of society. Specific institutions selected for study are: 1) Government as an Institution; 2) Transportation and Communication; 3) Urbanization and Industrialization; and, 4) Education as an Institution (Optional). Format of the guide is consistent with the series with major divisions for 1) Concepts, 2) Teaching Strategies, 3) Content and Materials, 4) Varieties in Strategies and Content; and 5) Evaluation. Baltimore, Maryland and the planned city of Columbia, Maryland are the urban communities chosen for study. Related documents are: SO 001 185 through SO 001 189. (Author/JSB)