Learners will develop an understanding of the importance of participating in active citizenship through their contributions to society. Benjamin Franklin will be highlighted as an example of a person who engaged in active citizenship.

The purpose of this lesson is to acquaint students with the Core Values of American Democracy or Core Democratic Values.

In a persuasive essay learners will describe responsibilities of American citizenship and determine the cost of freedom. They will determine whether philanthropic giving is a part of those costs.

Students read about voluntarism during the Civil War and Reconstruction and today. 

Students gain awareness of the work of nonprofits and how they form to address issues that impact the common good. They learn more about one nonprofit and plan voluntary action to support its work through volunteering, donations, or advocacy. 

Students explore how people apply the Core Democratic Values in problem-solving situations. They use role-playing to demonstrate positive strategies in order to promote the common good at school.

The purpose of this lesson is to give the children background information on the early pilgrims and the reasons for their migration from England. It will also introduce them to the idea that in leaving their home, the Pilgrims met people of different cultures.

Students will utilize primary source material to identify three key ways that both Native American societies and our early government promoted leadership in their citizens.

Learners will research how colonial organizations, which developed in the nonprofit/ independent sector, have transformed themselves over time to continue to provide for the common good.

Through an introductory pre-test, the learners will establish their prior knowledge of key terms and concepts important to creating and sustaining a democratic society.  The learners then will expand this knowledge and understanding through guided reading and presentations.