The goal of this unit is to provide students with the opportunity to learn about Alfred Nobel and his legacy for the common good. Concepts such as altruism, perpetuity, common good and intent will be examined. Students will then engage in researching a Nobel Peace Prize recipient to learn why the individual or organization was chosen. On a personal level, students will examine family, school and local community individuals or organizations and identify qualities they share which positively impact the common good and leave a legacy. In addition, students will learn about the role of a community foundation. Finally, students will create a certificate and award to show appreciation for selected nominees and plan a celebration to recognize them.

The learner will:

• list defining characteristics and actions of Alfred Nobel.

• evaluate the purpose and criteria for awarding the Nobel Peace Prize.

• explain how the common good benefits from philanthropy.

• describe the work of various winners of the Noble Peace Prize.

• analyze how choices made by the recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize improved the common good.

• recognize values that best reflect the good of the community.

• explain the structure and function of the local community foundation.

• explain the role of altruism in individuals who champion causes which add to the fabric of the community.

• identify individual philanthropists and non-profit groups within the community and describe how their work aids the common good.

• use proper form to write and send invitations to a celebration.

• evaluate the worth of community volunteers and organizations.

This unit includes several assessment formats. In Lesson One: Was Nobel Noble? Meet the Man, assessment will take the form of group discussion as well as creation of a personal banner. In Lesson Two: Projecting the Image−What Can One Person Do? students engage in research and presentations with a rubric to evaluate their work. In Lesson Three: A Design of Our Own, writing, a pencil/paper assessment, and another artistic creation will be the forms of assessment. Finally, in Lesson Four: A Breakfast for Champions, students will write an essay as a reflection of their learning.

As provision for the service-learning component of this unit, funds to carry out the celebration will be necessary. In order to remain connected to unit concepts learned in Lesson Three, it is suggested that the teacher solicit funds from the local community foundation. However, funds may be obtained from another source such as parents, school sources or other local resources.