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Promises, Promises

Grades: 
6, 7, 8
Subjects: 
Language Arts
Philanthropy
Social Studies
Keywords & Concepts: 
Character Education: Trustworthiness
Group Discussions

On their own, learners take a stand on several statements about the nature of promises. Then in a group, they argue and discuss a point of view about each statement.

Duration 
PrintOne 20-minute lesson
Objectives 

The learner will:

  • be open to other points of view as they develop self-awareness about the meaning of promises.
Materials 
  • copies of the handout below Do You Agree or Disagree?
Related Resources 

Instructions

Print

  1. Anticipatory Set:

    Ask the group whether anyone has made a promise. Discuss: What is a promise?

  2. Give the learners a copy of the handout below Do You Agree or Disagree? Each learner circles how strongly they feel about each statement. (They fill out the second half of the paper later.)

  3. Read the first statement aloud. Ask the learners to make statements of support for their point of view. Discuss differences and special situations that may impact or strengthen the statement. Individuals may change their minds or convince others. 

  4. Discuss each statement in this manner.

  5. After discussing each, have them circle how they feel about each statement now (bottom half of the paper) after hearing the different points of view. Reflect on the process. Ask whether the discussions clarified their thinking or changed their point of view.

  6. Ask the learners how promises relate to trustworthiness. Discuss. (Example: Trustworthiness means keeping a promise, or doing what you say you'll do.)

Philanthropy Framework

  1. Strand PHIL.I Definitions of Philanthropy
    1. Standard DP 01. Define Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark MS.4 Give examples of how individuals have helped others.
  2. Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
    1. Standard PCS 01. Self, citizenship, and society
      1. Benchmark MS.4 Describe the characteristics of someone who helps others.