The lessons that comprise this unit were designed to give students an opportunity to draw from their prior knowledge as well as new experiences to develop a deeper understanding of the concept of philanthropy.  Learners will first take a pre-test on key concepts addressing philanthropy and civil society. Through research, they will build on this knowledge and will construct a presentation to teach the class one of the major concepts addressed. Learners will then engage in a variety of research methods to create both oral and visual presentations outlining the life and work of a chosen philanthropist from history. After the initial lesson on key terms the learner will give examples of philanthropists (from history and present day) that help define their assigned concept.  Using the information they have researched, students write a letter as the philanthropist they have researched, addressed to a student of today.  The learners then give an oral report to their classmates on the lives they have researched, and create a visual display featuring the presentation of the highlights of the philanthropist’s life and work and their letter. Students will read four writings from people in American history vital in creating a free democratic society.  Each student will be a member of a group charged with facilitating the class discussion of these readings.  The unit concludes with a post-test over the same terms-concepts from the pre-test.