Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society

Unit of 4 Lessons
Grade Levels: 
9
10
11
12
Subjects: 
Language Arts
Philanthropy
Social Studies
Media / Technology
Issue Area: 
Democracy
Focus Question 

 What is a citizen's responsibility to participate in civil society? 

 

Photo Credit:  Outstanding Graduate/Professional Student Award by Wayne State University Dean of Students Office is licensed under CC by 2.0

Unit Overview 

Students define philanthropy and discuss the difference between duties and responsibilities of civic participation. Students become aware of the role of nonprofits in promoting social justice and fairness for minorities when the government can't do everything. Students look for support for philanthropy in national and state documents. They use parliamentary procedures and the town meeting format to develop their own philanthropic project.

Service Experience 
  Students hold a town meeting to discuss a timely issue and decide on a service project and make a detailed plan to carry it out.
Lessons in This Unit 
Unit: 
Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society
Lesson 1 of 4
Grades: 
9
10
11
12

Learners are introduced to the concept of philanthropy, as giving time, talent, or treasure and taking action for the common good. They evaluate the role of philanthropy in the smooth functioning of government, and describe the role of families in shaping a democratic society.

Unit: 
Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society
Lesson 2 of 4
Grades: 
9
10
11
12

Learners will define government and describe a democratic republic with a Constitution. They identify the role of government at all levels - national, state, and local and talk about what young people can do to have a voice.

Unit: 
Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society
Lesson 4 of 4
Grades: 
9
10
11
12

Students will learn the fundamental principles of parliamentary procedure and use the procedure to create a plan for a service project in the community.