In this lesson, youth discuss the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and especially focus on his ethic of service.

After reading the book The Librarian of Basra by Jeanette Winter children talk about the importance of books to any community. They discuss ways to take action for the good of the community related to literature. 

Children get inspiration from a story about kindness and community, and they identify acts of service and kindness (philanthropy) they can do for people they care about.

Children listen and respond to a biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. They discuss the importance of kind acts and service to others. They reflect on a quotation by Dr. King and apply it to their own lives.

Children listen to and respond to stories about the value of a home and the difficulties of not having a home. They make painted rocks or other comfort items and give them to a friend or donate them to a local shelter.

A read aloud story demonstrates caring and philanthropy related to environmental stewardship and animal welfare.

The children brainstorm ways to give and share to bring cheer to someone. 

Children learn about caring and sharing through discussion of the book Martin's Big Words. The lesson introduces the "big" word philanthropy (giving time, talent, and treasure for the common good). 

A Dr. Seuss story tells about two groups of characters who have no self-respect or respect for others. They analyze the effects of lack of respect and identify ways to demonstrate respect in real-life situations.

Learners analyze the words to a song about prejudice, "Carefully Taught." They rewrite the lyrics with a more positive message.