In a kid-friendly approach, we look at the components of the U.S. Constitution and put early government-forming events in a context. We distinguish the roles of the three branches of government, especially the structure and responsibilities of our judicial system.
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Unit: We the Kids - The Three Branches and Me
Participants analyze the essential qualities of the Core Democratic Values and how these values are evident in relationships and behavior in a classroom/group and in the community/nation.
In this lesson, we analyze the Bill of Rights and explore the importance of the issues involved. We participate in a creative performance, singing and dancing to learn and teach the Bill of Rights. The performance may be planned for members of the community (younger children or senior...
Unit: Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society
Learners will define government and describe a democratic republic with a Constitution. They identify the role of government at all levels - national, state, and local and talk about what young people can do to have a voice.
Unit: Our Constitutional Connection
Three amendments to the Constitution extended voting rights to more citizens. Look at the language of these amendments and the effectiveness of everyone actually getting the vote. Youth discuss the purpose of voting, and they take action to make a difference, such as by making ...
Unit: Character Education: Integrity (Grade 8)
We explore the integrity of Elizabeth Cady Stanton who fought for the rights of women when many people disagreed they should be allowed to vote. She was strong in her cause for women, but in the mid-1800s, she didn't speak up for Black women who were fighting the same right to vote.
Unit: Bullying Prevention Plan
Youth make a plan as empowered and responsible members of the civil society to take action to prevent bullying behavior while being sensitive to the people involved, from the victim to the bystander to the bully.
Unit: We ARE the Government
In this lesson, learners read primary documents that illustrate the motivations of the founding fathers of the United States related to philanthropy (government by the people, advocacy, civil rights, shared power). We have a long history of demanding civil rights for a population that was...
Unit: Forced to Flee and Find a New Home
Young people investigate, plan, and facilitate a service-learning project that benefits refugees in their community.
Photo Credit:...
Unit: George H.W. Bush and Points of Light
Students explore the legacy of George H. W. Bush and how he has contributed to the common good as part of his lifelong commitment to service and through his Points of Light initiative. The students work in small groups to answer questions and present to the class for discussion. Each student...