These statements written on a chart: "Take responsibility!" "Be responsible!" "You're older now; you should be more responsible!" "If you don't take responsibility for yourself now, when will you?"

Anticipatory Set:

With the phrases below displayed on a chart, discuss how adults use the word "responsibility" and how the learners think and respond when they hear these words.

Chart: "Take responsibility!" "Be responsible!" "You're older now, you should be more responsible!" "If you don't take responsibility for yourself now, when will you?"
Responsibility is an important character trait we can each choose to take in different situations. Give the learners 3-5 minutes to reflect in writing what it means personally to them to be responsible, and when they want to be seen as responsible by people they care about.
Move individuals to work with a partner to select words from their personal reflections that capture the meaning of responsibility. Allow 3 minutes.
Next, have each group write a sentence definition of responsibility. When they have a final sentence, they write it on a sheet of paper in large letters. Put all of the definitions around the room for everyone to walk by and read.
As they move around, they quietly compare definitions, noting similarities or differences. Discuss as a whole group.

For group and personal reflection, ask the question, "What circumstances motivate a person to be responsible?"

Philanthropy Framework

Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
1. Standard PCS 01. Self, citizenship, and society
  1. Benchmark MS.4 Describe the characteristics of someone who helps others.
Strand PHIL.III Philanthropy and the Individual
1. Standard PI 01. Reasons for Individual Philanthropy
  1. Benchmark MS.9 Identify pro-social behavior in different cultures and traditions.

Take Responsibility