Truth, Trash and Treasure
How do people in a democratic state use their rights to practice the idea of civic virtue?
Learners will examine the rights and responsibilities inherent in our democratic system of government by studying historical documents and the words of some famous American leaders. They will discuss the meaning of civic virtue and decide on their own role as responsible citizens. Through the use of literature, video and music, learners will reflect on what they can do to make a difference in the world as responsible citizens. They carry out a philanthropic project and write a reflective, five-paragraph essay and a mixed-media collage and a poem.
Through an understanding of the terms, rights and responsibilities, learners will investigate how democracy in the United States makes civic virtue possible. How do people in a democratic state use their right to be responsible citizens by practicing the idea of civic virtue?
Can a young person truly make a difference in our world? Learners will carry out an act of philanthropy by cleaning up a park. Learners will reflect on their experience and, through the use of literature, understand the importance of philanthropy, thus realizing that one person, a young adult, can make a difference in our world.
The learners will create a bridge between their personal reflections and a visual expression of their experience.
The focus will be on words and images that express the learner's emotional response to the service-learning experience and a reflection of their role as a responsible citizen.