In this lesson, young people identify idioms in the book Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen. They discuss the meanings of idioms and talk about hurtful language in the literal meaning of some idioms. They may playfully modify idioms to reflect a philanthropic heart.
Through the three Suni folktales, learners analyze the lessons in generosity and behavior for the common good.
The featured folktales explore themes of helping people make judgments of integrity in different situations.
There are times when a person learns that it is better not to give a generous gift at all if it will be disrespected by the receiver. There are also times a person may realize too late that there is a cost for bad behavior.
Children interview and write a story about a person in their family or community. They share their stories to celebrate the unique differences in people in the community.
Introduce the folksinger Woody Guthrie and his legendary song This Land Is Your Land. His songs were written for everyone to get involved in their community. Learners understand that it is the responsibility of everyone to help take care of each other and the Earth.
With guidance from a local environmental agency, prepare the youth in advance of volunteering their time to clean up a lake or river for the common good. Arrange a field trip that includes picking up trash and recording the data.
We learn about the brave work of a Quaker, Laura Smith Haviland, who used her ties and talent to lead anti-slavery work before, during, and after the Civil War.
We observe how power and privilege are used to keep African American families oppressed even after they were freed from slavery.
Expanding on the lesson about critical conversations, participants explore ways to use their voices for good. The book Say Something by Peter Reynolds encourages readers to find their own way to express their voice - through speaking, poetry, song, and other ways.