Learning to Give, Philanthropy education resources that teach giving and civic engagement
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Purpose:
Duration:
One Forty-Five Minute Class Period
Objectives:
The learner will:
- define philanthropy.
- list characteristics of a philanthropic person.
- identify actions of philanthropic people.
- give an example of his or her own philanthropy.
Materials:
- Song: "Chain of Love" by Clay Walker
- Clear chalkboard or wall
- Journal notebook and pencil
- Teacher prepared Post-It Notes from List of Philanthropic and Non-Philanthropic Traits (Attachment One)
Instructional Procedure(s):
Anticipatory Set:
Play the song "Chain of Love" by Clay Walker. Ask the question, "What is the theme of this song? What is it talking about?" (Helping others) "What was the result when these people helped the strangers? Did they have to pay them or do something in return?" Lead students to the idea that they helped just because it was the right thing to do.
- Introduce the definition of philanthropy. (The definition in this lesson will be: "individuals or organizations providing their time, talent, and/or treasures intended for the common good throughout history and around the world.") Explain that philanthropic organizations are known as nonprofits.
- On the board or wall, draw a large T-graph. Label one side "Philanthropic Traits," the other side "Non-Philanthropic Traits." Give each student a self sticking note with a trait listed on it from List of Philanthropic and Non-Philanthropic Traits (Attachment One). Allow students to bring their self sticking notes to the board and place them under the correct heading. Discuss why each does or does not belong under that heading.
- In class discussion, have three to five students share examples of Americans and others who helped others or acted for the common good.
- In individual journals, direct students to write a ¾-1 full-page entry on a philanthropic act they experienced either as a recipient or a giver. They should also describe how it made them feel.
- Explain to students that there are also organizations that are philanthropic. Ask students to give two or three examples, e.g., Big Brothers/Big Sisters, American Red Cross.
- Ask students to prepare two or three examples of other philanthropic organizations to bring to class the next day. Encourage them to ask someone at home for help or ideas, or use the Web site www.guidestar.org. The examples should include the name of the organization and its main focus or mission.
Assessment:
Students will be graded on their journal entry based upon the following criteria:
- Entry should be ¾ - 1 full page.
- Entry should describe the students philanthropic act and how they felt about it.
- Credit or No Credit will be given.
School/Home Connection:
The students may ask a parent for ideas on philanthropic organizations.
Bibliographical References:
Walker, Clay. Live, Laugh, Love. Wea/Warner Brothers. Audio CD, August 24, 1999. ASIN B00000IXUN.
Lesson Developed By:
Holly PetermanReeths-Puffer Schools
Reeths-Puffer Middle School
Muskegon, MI 49445
Handouts:
Handout 1Print Handout 1
List of Philanthropic and Non-Philanthropic Traits
Directions: Put one word on each Post-It Note. A list of possible word choices is represented below.
caring
giving
helpful
serving
bequest
altruism
concerned
volunteering
cooperative
understanding
charitable
generous
humanitarian
selfless
supportive
virtuous
respectful
sacrificer
rescuer
partner
selfish
stingy
uncaring
uncollaborative
irresponsible
self-absorbed
greedy
egocentric
vain
conceited
pompous
mean
Unit Contents:
Overview:Philanthropy, You, and Your World Summary
Lessons:
- 1.
- Characterizing Philanthropic People
- 2.
- What Does a Philanthropic Organization Do?
- 3.
- Get To Know Your Local Philanthropic Organizations
- 4.
- Letter of Appreciation to Philanthropic Volunteers
All rights reserved. Permission is granted to freely use this information for nonprofit (noncommercial), educational purposes only. Copyright must be acknowledged on all copies.
Comments
(The positive aspect of using this lesson was) the anticipatory set idea started us off strongly.
(The positive aspect of using this lesson was) the students were able to discuss how people help others, including themselves. They were stunned to find that even small acts of kindness were included (such as somebody getting their locker open, etc.).