This lesson examines the connections between the five basic guaranteed rights in the Bill of Rights and their corresponding responsibilities. Participants explore the natual consequences of fulfilling, or not fulfilling, responsibilities connected to their rights.

Using realistic scenarios to spark discussion, the learners discuss the importance and strategies of following through on responsibilities. 

Learners reflect on a role-play scenario demonstrating fair and unfair decision-making techniques. They identify behaviors that promote or create barriers to making decisions. A Dr. Seuss book provides a discussion starter.

In this activity, the learners discuss and illustrate what it means to show respect for their personal identity, values, and emotions. 

Learners identify and investigate local and national nonprofit organizations by researching their histories, services, and target populations, as well as job opportunities using the Idealist.org web site.

To learn about the different philosophies of three renowned philanthropists.

Image source: John D. Rockefeller in 1885. From Wikimedia Commons. Original source: Rockefeller Archive Center.

We explore the integrity of Elizabeth Cady Stanton who fought for the rights of women when many people disagreed they should be allowed to vote. She was strong in her cause for women, but in the mid-1800s, she didn't speak up for Black women who were fighting the same right to vote. 

Students evaluate their learning about philanthropy and the process of selecting a service-learning project. They write a guided reflection on their experience.  

Several questions spark conversation and critical thinking about the meaning of fairness. Learners work together to create a definition of fairness.