Learning to Give, Curriculum Division of The LEAGUE

The LEAGUE

Home / Teachers / Philanthropic Behavior / Kindness Certificate

Kindness Certificate

Lesson 6:

From Unit Philanthropic Behavior

Lesson

Handouts

Academic Standards

Philanthropy Framework

Kindergarten-2nd Grade

Subjects:

Language Arts, Library / Technology, Philanthropy and Social Studies

Key Words/Concepts click to view

ELA:	Brainstorming; Critical Thinking; Listening; Reflection
PHIL:	Kindness; Personal Wealth; Time/Talent/Treasure; Volunteer
SOC:	Good Character; Reflection

Purpose:

Students will demonstrate that gifts do not need to be bought. They will brainstorm "kindness" types of gifts, such as a service or a homemade creation.

Duration:

One to Two Thirty-Minute Class Periods

Objectives:

The learner will:

increase listening comprehension and use critical thinking skills.
list different types of gifts.
identify services and creations as "kindness" gifts.
make "kindness" service cards and "creations" that may be given away.
explain when or why we would give these gifts to friends or family.

Service Experience:

Although this lesson contains a service project example, decisions about service plans and implementation should be made by students, as age appropriate.

Students will perform small acts of kindness, which are a form of philanthropy, with family or friends.

Materials:

Chart paper
Markers
5" x 8" Cards
Crayons
Envelopes

Instructional Procedure(s):

Anticipatory Set:

Ask students, "Do you like to get gifts?" and "Do you like to give gifts?" Ask why it feels good to give a gift. Ask the students whether their personal wealth allows them to buy the things they want to buy for the people they love. Ask how we can give gifts if we don't have money to buy what we want. "Could there be gifts that cannot be bought?" Allow the children to brainstorm a list of possible free gifts (homemade and services). Record their ideas on chart paper.

Introduce the concept of "kindness gifts" as gifts they can give that do not cost money and make someone feel good. Discuss when and to whom we could give "kindness gifts."
Show the 5" x 8" cards and explain that they will write a "kind service" on each, such as "I will give you a gentle hug." Or "I will help you clean your desk." Or "I will make a picture for you." Explain that they will be giving that service to someone in the class. Have each student create one kindness certificate on a card. They may get some ideas from the list brainstormed at the beginning of class. Have them write their names on their certificates and put them in an envelope. Place all the envelopes in a box.
Have each student pull one out envelope. Provide time for the students to give and receive the "kindness services."
Discuss how they felt when they gave their gifts. Ask students whether the gift they gave or received had a value. Could they place a monetary value on the "kindness gifts?" Have students propose reasons that people would choose to volunteer their time, talent, or treasures.
Provide materials for the students to make one or more kindness certificates to take home for their family members.

Assessment:

Students created an appropriate certificate that demonstrated understanding of the concept of a free gift.
Students contributed to the brainstorming and discussion of concepts.

Extension:

Have the students provide artwork or services for residents of a local retirement community.

Lesson Developed and Piloted by:

Pamela McIntosh
Detroit Public Schools
Woodward Elementary School
Detroit, MI 48208

Handouts:

Academic Standards:

State/Country:

Philanthropy Framework:

Unit Contents:

Overview:Philanthropic Behavior Summary

Lessons:

1.: Rules
2.: Cooperative Building
3.: Class Soup
4.: Hug O' War
5.: Nature Tribute
6.: Kindness Certificate
7.: Picture Sharing