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Compliments Can Change the World!
  1. Strand PHIL.I Definitions of Philanthropy
    1. Standard DP 01. Define Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark E.1 Define philanthropy as the giving and sharing of time, talent, or treasure intended for the common good.
    2. Standard DP 02. Roles of Government, Business, and Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark E.6 Explain why acting philanthropically is good for the community, state, nation, or world.
  2. Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
    1. Standard PCS 02. Diverse Cultures
      1. Benchmark E.2 Discuss the importance of respect for others.
      2. Benchmark E.4 Demonstrate listening skills.
    2. Standard PCS 07. Skills of Civic Engagement
      1. Benchmark E.2 Discuss an issue affecting the common good in the classroom or school and demonstrate respect and courtesy for differing opinions.

In response to the book, Thank You, Mr. Falker, the children identify the negative effects of bullying or exclusion. They explore the effects of positive treatment and respect for others.

Duration: 
PrintOne 45 Minute Session
Objectives: 

The learner will:

  • identify examples of teasing and treating others unfairly.
  • identify philanthropic acts.
Materials: 
  • read-aloud copy of Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
Instructions: 
Print

  1. Anticipatory Set:

    Tell the children that you are going to read a story about a girl who couldn't read because she had a disability. When other children teased her, how do you think that made her feel? Hold up the book allowing a few minutes to discuss their predictions. Tell them to listen for examples of bullying and unkindness and how she moved through that.

  2. Read the book Thank You, Mr. Falker to the learners and allow time for discussion. Talk about the effects of bullying.

  3. After reading, ask the children what is the kind way to respond when someone is learning something new or at a different pace. What are their stories of overcoming something that was difficult to do?

  4. Talk about how respecting others and their differences gives them strength and builds a kinder community. Make a list of positive traits of people they know, like kindness, curiosity, artistic, strong, persistent, brave, and smart. 

  5. Discuss the definition of philanthropy: giving and sharing of time, talent or treasure intended for the common good. What are things we can say to encourage others? Talk about ways to build up others with kind words instead of teasing. What would it take to give specific compliments and notice things about people instead of teasing them for what they don't know or do? 

  6. Help the children make a plan to promote kind and fair treatment of others in the classroom and community.

Reflection: 

 Write a list of ten kind things to say to someone. Make a point of saying two kind things every day.