Youth distinguish between public and private, and categorize a list of places as public or private. They determine their personal responsibility to care for public (common) areas and share their new understanding by making posters about taking care of "common" or public areas in...
We explore the difference volunteers make in our world. Youth recognize that even they can volunteer and make a difference in their community.
This culminating activity gives youth an opportunity to teach about our land to others. They spread the word that "commons" are needed, and that when people work together they can make something better.
Young people listen to a story, summarize the main idea, and then act it out together. They identify the theme of community and describe the benefits of cooperation for the common good.
In this activity that follows the model of the story of Stone Soup, we learn about a mindset that says "yes we can" rather than looking at what we don't have. We cooperate to solve a problem for the good of all.
Young people recognize that nature is an important part of their world that needs their responsible care.
A neighborhood becomes a broader picture for them to think about as a place where they are a member and can make a difference. Learning that the community is diverse is important The lesson will introduce some community helpers in whom the learners can put their trust.
A read-aloud book teaches about George Washington Carver and his contributions to science. Students gain an understanding of a famous person of the past and the importance of his actions for the common good.
Fables teach lessons or morals through animal actions. The exaggerated human-like characteristics of animals make the moral lesson appealing. The story of the "Lion and the Mouse" illustrates that a kind deed is never wasted.
This predictable and repetitive story, The Doorbell Rang, has a charming and surprising ending. The children must share a plate of cookies with a growing number of neighbors, but what do they do when there are more kids than cookies? They might surprise you!