Learning to Give, Curriculum Division of The LEAGUE
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Unit Overview:
Unit Purpose:
This unit introduces the learners to philanthropy, giving of time, talent, and/or treasure, through the example of Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman). By participating in a variety of lessons, the learners will develop a deeper understanding of how Environmental Stewardship and Philanthropy are related. Included in this study is a science component in which students learn about how the apple tree (and other trees) benefits the environment and people.
Unit Duration:
The unit can be simplified/shortened by substituting apple slices for making applesauce.
Unit Objectives:
The learner will:
- listen to and discuss the story of Johnny Appleseed.
- state the definition of philanthropy as giving of time, talent and treasure for the common good.
- give examples of small acts of philanthropy.
- raise awareness of philanthropy in the school and home by wearing a nametag that challenges others to ask about philanthropy.
- sequence the stages in the life cycle of an apple tree.
- state two ways that trees have an impact on the environment.
- discuss the benefits of planting trees in a common location.
- choose a common area within the community to plant some trees.
- get permission to plant the trees.
- find a source for donated trees.
- prepare the area for tree planting.
- dig holes and plant trees.
- maintain the planted trees over time.
- stamp apple shapes on a paper and make invitations.
- participate in making applesauce.
- in a performance, read and recite what he/she has learned.
- draw a picture showing how he/she felt when sharing with another class.
Service Experience:
The Service Learning experience is a group celebration party to which they invite another class. The students share what they have learned in a performance and share some homemade applesauce. Concepts to present include what it means to give their time, talents and their treasures, a recitation about Johnny Appleseed and a reading of the poem, "The Word for Me Is Philanthropy," by Janet Wakefield.
Unit Assessment:
Assessment methods include teacher observation of student involvement in activities, discussions with students, student drawing/writing performance and sequencing activities.
School/Home Connection:
"Copy-and-Paste" Class/School Newsletter Information Insert:
Johnny Appleseed was a philanthropist! Does this surprise you? Usually the name Johnny Appleseed conjures up images of a ragged man traveling the country planting apple trees. In this unit, we examine the work that John Chapman did for the common good. While we learn about Johnny Appleseed, we will also explore the benefits of apples and apple trees. Students will feel firsthand the joy of being philanthropists by planting a tree in the community to benefit themselves and many other citizens.Interactive Parent / Student Homework:
Lesson One: Johnny Be Good – The students wear philanthropy nametags at home to generate discussion at home about philanthropy.
Lesson Three: Dig Those Holes – Students sing the Johnny Appleseed song for their families.
Lesson Four: Apple-icious – Students review with their families a poem about philanthropy.
Notes for Teaching:
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One to two months prior to beginning this unit, teacher should contact an organization that could provide trees so that the trees are available before the start of Lesson Three: Dig Those Holes.
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Familiarize yourself with the entire unit before beginning.
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To guarantee success during any season or climate, establish a relationship with a contact person for trees.
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Check early with your administrator for safe areas to plant the trees and plans for a field trip.
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Write your own public-relations report for the unit, including a photograph. Include proper spellings, dates and other details. This could be used for publication in local newspaper, on local radio and other communication venues.
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All lessons require teacher preparation before presentation.
State Curriculum and Philanthropy Theme Frameworks:
See individual lessons for benchmark detail.
Lessons Developed and Piloted By:
Cindy Hall
East 91st St. Christian Church School
God's Kids Preschool & Kindergarten
6049 East 91st St.
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Laura Gutzwiller
Mooresville Consolidated School Corporation
Newby Memorial Elementary School
240 N. Monroe St.
Mooresville, IN 46158
Unit Contents:
Overview:Go, Johnny, Go! Summary
Lessons:
- 1.
- Johnny Be Good
- 2.
- An Apple a Day
- 3.
- Dig Those Holes
- 4.
- Apple-icious
All rights reserved. Permission is granted to freely use this information for nonprofit (noncommercial), educational purposes only. Copyright must be acknowledged on all copies.