This lesson focuses on the meaning and benefits of gratitude. Teens research one aspect of gratitude in order to understand its relationship to health, happiness, or generosity. For their service project, they decide how they can 'deliver gratitude' to a deserving person or group. They will then...
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.
From history we know that working in community (not on our own) is the best way to make change. Young people explore the work of nonprofits related to equity and social justice.
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.
We learn about the ancient Aztec culture in Mexico.
What is something that makes you excited to get up in the morning and gives you energy? Whatever that vision is, that is your "spark." Young people may not know what their spark is today, and it may change many times over...
Through discussion of the book The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss, we learn about tolerance and the value of diversity in community.
Read and compare a variety of literature to explore motivations and impact of young people taking action and helping others. We recognize that we all have time, treasures and/or talents to share.
This lesson guides youth to take take action with a group. They plan and carry out a tikkun olam project of their choosing to help the local community.
Lead a discussion about the power of words to include, instruct, and inspire action. Participants analyze quotes by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, about being open and inclusive. Design social justice posters to teach others about what they learned.