Young people learn about the contributions made by Benjamin Franklin to the common good. They categorize his accomplishments in the nonprofit, business, and government sectors. They select a quote from Franklin that they would like to apply to their own lives.
In this lesson, students define serial reciprocity as "paying it forward." They compare the concept of paying it forward (serial reciprocity) with the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. They brainstorm issues and campaigns they can address to make an impact that ripples forward as a result of...
We define the nonprofit, or third, sector and explain why it is important as an alternative power structure.
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.
The learners analyze many variations of the Golden Rule and relate it to the concept of serial reciprocity. They rewrite the golden rule to reflect respect for cultural differences.
Learners will reflect in writing on the role of the common good and honesty when rules are not clearly stated and people have different amounts of power.
In this lesson, learners recognize that courage is something we need when making a difficult choice about something important. A hero makes courageous choices for the good of all, sometimes risking personal safety and comfort.
Youth explore the history of philanthropic behavior (sharing, community collaboration, service) in ancient cultures and today, as well as compare themes of love and service in different world religious practices.
In this lesson young people learn about the tools of advocacy for the common good. They investigate the characteristics of advocates and develop their own personal advocacy style.
Using award-winning literature, the learners describe and analyze racism in Mississippi during the Great Depression. The readers identify the injustices in the community as well as the values and self-respect that build community relationships and strength.