Even the smallest things, when shared, can be examples of philanthropy. In the folktale, "A Drum," a poor boy gives away his meager possessions when the need arises and receives a great gift in the end. The question of one’s being naturally generous is discussed. In the Palestinian folktale, "Ma...
Sometimes it is wise to follow the advice of others and at other times it will only bring disaster. To know when to obey can be the problem. This lesson will focus on stories from South Africa, Morocco and Nigeria and character traits valued in those cultures.
This lesson emphasizes the importance of doing your share of the work. Students listen to a story that illustrates this point and contribute their effort in a cooperative baking project.
Two picture books -- The Three Questions by John J. Muth and Have you Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud -- help students reflect on "doing good" for others. Students walk around the school and community to identify some community and school needs. ...
The purpose of this lesson is to give each learner an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of an endangered species (animal) of their own choosing. Each learner will "adopt" an endangered animal to research. They will then write and...
This predictable and repetitive story, The Doorbell Rang, has a charming and surprising ending. The children must share a plate of cookies with a growing number of neighbors, but what do they do when there are more kids than cookies? They might surprise you! ...
Students visit a local preschool or retirement facility of their choosing to read aloud a book they wrote and illustrated about generous giving. They share a drumming experience and give the drums and books as gifts. When they return to class, they reflect on the impact the experience had on...
This interdisciplinary unit involves working with staff to plan an evening fundraising meal and with the art teacher to create clay bowls. There are many "empty bowls" within a community, and students get involved in planning and advertising for a dinner to fill them for one night. ...
The purpose of this lesson is to explore the concept of human environmental interaction and stewardship of water resources. Learners will develop a deeper understanding of water conservation by looking at the city of Phoenix, Arizona located partly in the Sonoran Desert in the south western...
Students learn about the history of foundations and the role individuals played in their development.