Learning to Give, Philanthropy education resources that teach giving and civic engagement

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Our Constitutional Connection

Unit of 3 lessons

3rd-5th Grade

Subjects:

Language Arts, Library / Technology, Philanthropy and Social Studies

Key Words/Concepts click to view

Lesson 1 :	ELA:	Miss Rumphius; Fiction Literature; Listening; Reading; Speaking; Vocabulary; Writing Process
	PHIL:	9/11genOn; Common Good; Nonprofit Organizations; Time/Talent/Treasure; Volunteer
Lesson 2 :	ELA:	Listening; Visual Media; Writing Process
	PHIL:	Common Good; Service Project; Time/Talent/Treasure
	SOC:	Amendments to Constitution; Citizenship/Civic Engagement; Constitution of the United States; Individual Rights; Voting
Lesson 3 :	ELA:	Listening; Visual Media
	PHIL:	Common Good; Service Project; Time/Talent/Treasure
	SOC:	Amendments to Constitution; Citizenship/Civic Engagement; Constitution of the United States; Individual Rights; Voting

Unit Overview:

This unit will introduce students to the concept of philanthropy and its integration into their lives. It introduces the contents and meaning of the Constitution of the United States, with emphasis on the first three articles. Explanations of the roles of federal, state, and local governments are detailed. Attention is placed on the three amendments that focus on voting and civic responsibility.

Unit Purpose:

Students will understand the definition of philanthropy and recognize philanthropic activities within the home, school, community, state, and nation. They will become familiar with the roles and services provided by federal, state, and local governments. The role of the Constitution in enabling a healthy democracy and strong citizenship will be explored. Students will discuss the importance of electing officials who are trustworthy since, through their offices, they contribute to the common good.

Unit Objectives:

The learners will:

identify a key idea in literature that is reflected in every day life.
define the term “philanthropy,” recognize philanthropic deeds within self and others, and describe nonprofit organizations as an important part of the community.
explain the purpose of the first three articles of the Constitution.
contrast the diverse roles of the federal, state, and local governments.
research and identify representatives of the people in the government and explain the importance of electing trustworthy officials.
describe the importance of voting for a strong democracy.

Service Experience:

Although lessons in this unit contain service project examples, decisions about service plans and implementation should be made by students, as age appropriate.

Students will create colorful posters that will encourage citizens in their community to “get out” and vote. They will then distribute them in key locations where they will be visible reminders to voters.

Unit Assessment:

Students illustrate their understanding of the concept of philanthropy and write a short paragraph describing their drawing and specifically using the definition of philanthropy in their writing.
Reading Response Journal—self reflection about attending the Constitutional Convention.
Students will participate in a Human Tableau as “convention delegates” answering interview questions about the three branches of government, the Constitution, and Constitutional principles.
Completion of a pre- and post-Anticipation Guide.
Completion of a brochure or newsletter about a state government official (Rubric included).
Student reflection paragraphs to share understanding of the voting process.
Short unit quiz on basic voting and philanthropic concepts.

School/Home Connection:

Students, with the help of parents, will locate a newspaper or magazine article that exhibits a philanthropic activity. Students will explain to parents why their article is an example of philanthropy and present it to the class.
Students will visit a City Hall council meeting or attend a school board meeting with parents and share the experience with class.