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Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
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Standard PCS 03. Philanthropy and Economics
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Benchmark MS.5 Define <i>stewardship</i> as a trust of common resources held by a community for citizens.
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By comparing lightbulbs, young people learn about technology, energy conservation, and personal responsibility. Their personal choices can impact family energy costs and reduce the amount of energy consumed for the common good.
The learner will:
- compare the costs and environmental impact of different types of light bulbs.
- define stewardship as the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care.
- define philanthropy as taking action for the common good.
- three types of lightbulbs and their packaging (incandescent, CFL, and LED)
- three thermometers for measuring the heat of the bulbs
- three similar lamps
Anticipatory Set:
Show learners three different types of light bulbs: incandescent, CFL, and LED. Ask them to observe: “What is the visual difference between the three light bulbs?” Discuss their prior knowledge about the differences.
Put the bulbs into three lamps to compare brightness. Discuss the differences.
Have three people hold thermometers near the three bulbs (same distance) to measure how much heat is radiating from each.
Based on these observations, which bulbs would they prefer to use? Discuss what else they need to know before deciding the best choice.
Have them read data about the energy efficiency and cost of the three bulbs and their environmental impact.
Ask: How can this information help individual consumers make responsible decisions? Talk about personal responsibilities and how they impact the common good.
Energy conservation is important because electricity is often produced by using non-renewable fossil fuels (coal and oil). It is also the responsibility for each citizen to be good stewards of resources. Using more efficient lighting is one way to conserve energy. Stewardship is the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care.
When we have information that helps people save money and the planet, sharing that information is a form of taking personal action for the common good, or philanthropy. Brainstorm ways to be advocates for conserving electricity.