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A Story of the Joy of Giving

Grades: 
9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: 
Language Arts
Philanthropy
Social Studies
Keywords & Concepts: 
Fable
Philanthropic Act
Generosity
Enlightened Self-Interest

Through a fable, learners discuss how generosity improves the quality of life in their communities.

Duration 
PrintOne 50-Minute Session
Objectives 

The learner will:

  • analyze the impact on community from a mindset of philanthropic giving.
Materials 
  • read-aloud copy of The Quilt Maker’s Gift
  • learner copies of Time, Talent, Treasure Recording Sheet (handouts below) spanish version, included
Bibliography 

Brumbeau, Jeff. The Quiltmaker’s Gift. Illustrated by Gail de Marcken. NY: Scholastic Inc., 2001. ISBN: 0439309107

Related Resources 

Instructions

Print

  1. Anticipatory Set:

    Review the definition of philanthropy, as giving time, talent, or treasure and taking action for the common good.

  2. Distribute the handout Time, Talent, Treasure Recording Sheet. The learners fill in the first part of the handout as you read the book, The Quilt Maker’s Gift. Stop at the line "exhanging treasures for smiles" and discuss how the king has evolved and why. Discuss how the community has flourished from generosity. 

  3. Discuss the first part of the handout and then have the learners complete Part Two, showing how families contribute time, talents or treasure to their communities, and Part Three showing how the learners can contribute time, talent and treasure to the betterment of family life in the community. 

  4. Further questions:

    If giving helps the giver feel good, is it still philanthropy? Is all giving and receiving reciprocal?

    When you reflect on what you are grateful for or a need you see in the world, what do you think you can give to share your knowledge, treasure, or joy with others?

Philanthropy Framework

  1. Strand PHIL.I Definitions of Philanthropy
    1. Standard DP 01. Define Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark HS.1 Define philanthropy to include giving and sharing; volunteering; and private individual action intended for the common good. Explain how a volunteer individual/group can act for the common good.
    2. Standard DP 06. Role of Family in Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark HS.3 Identify how subgroups and families in society demonstrate giving, volunteering, and civic involvement.