The term "environment" refers to the surroundings in which living things exist. It includes everything around us, such as the air we breathe, the water we drink, the land we walk on, and all the plants and animals that live in those areas.
In a grade 3 context, you might explain it like this:
- The environment is where we live and play.
- It includes all the trees, animals, rivers, and even the weather.
- It is important to take care of our environment to keep it healthy and clean.
You could also talk about how people can help the environment, such as by recycling, planting trees, or not littering!