Parent Letter

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Over the next few weeks we will be studying The Great Depression. Specifically, we will be reading an award-winning novel set during this difficult era (A Year Down Yonder, by Richard Peck).

The students will be identifying acts of philanthropy within the novel in class. Philanthropy, as defined for the students, is "The giving of one’s time, talent or treasure, and taking action for the sake of another or for the common good."

To extend the lesson, the students have a week-long homework assignment to observe acts of philanthropy in their own environments. I would like you to assist your child in identifying acts of philanthropy at home. Attached is a worksheet. Each time your child identifies philanthropy in action, he or she should complete a section of the worksheet. This may include any small or great philanthropic acts by a family member or friend, at church, at the store, on TV, or elsewhere.

After your child records observations for a week, please go over the worksheet with your child, discussing the specific observations. Please sign the worksheet before your child returns it to school.

Thank you for your help in making this a meaningful assignment.

Sincerely,

Assignment Due Date __________________