The learners define and explain the importance of civic engagement and responsible citizenship. They explore the reasons why people may hesitate to become involved in solving problems and consider ways in which they can be "part of the solution" rather than a "part of the problem."
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Unit: What's My Civic Responsibility?
Unit: My Country, My Community
In a persuasive essay, learners describe the responsibilities of American citizenship and the cost of freedom. They connect how philanthropic action is a part of those costs. “Freedom isn’t free. It passes on an enormous debt to the recipient.”
Unit: Women of the Industrial Era
This lesson explores the contributions made by Clara Barton as a nurse and founder of the American Red Cross. Her work is an example of the women from the Industrial Era making a difference through contributions to society. This lesson incorporates a service project connecting youth to the Red...
Unit: Stitch in Time for the Common Good
Learners explore the contributions and recommendations of Benjamin Franklin as a person who engaged in active citizenship.
Unit: Grow Involved 9-12
In this lesson, young people compare the communications and strategies of Malcolm X with those of Martin Luther King, Jr. They discuss the causes, effects, and ways to address racism through a discussion forum. They plan and hold the forum in the community.
Unit: Soup's On in Our Community
Based on the recommendations of the soup kitchen guest from lesson one, young people decide how they will take action to help address a need. They may donate canned food, volunteer to serve lunch, bring games to play with children at the soup kitchen, or make bowls to sell as a fundraiser. This...
Unit: Telling Our Stories of Giving
Students learn about the characteristics of an effective personal narrative and compare those to a news article. They do prewriting activities and practice writing details to show rather than tell about an experience.
Unit: Road Less Traveled
Participants read about the philanthropic traditions of early African-American culture and place the values of giving in a hierarchy circle.
Unit: Selflessness in Community
The young people reflect upon themselves as community members and use descriptive language to give themselves meaningful names.
Unit: Living History-An Intergenerational Philanthropy Project
The children write and publish their Living History books, following their interview notes and book format traditions.