Learning to Give, Philanthropy education resources that teach giving and civic engagement
generationOn
Unit Purpose:
In this unit, the learners will explore some common approaches taken to problem-solve. They will explore how individuals, groups and/or organizations use problem-solving approaches to resolve community issues or needs and promote the common good. The unit will offer learners opportunities to explore ways of addressing issues of animal welfare and humane treatment.
Focus Questions:
What do I believe about the welfare and humane treatment of animals, and how can I act on those beliefs in a rational problem solving manner that promotes the common good?
Unit Objectives:
The learner will:
- define problem solving.
- identify three approaches to problem solving and articulate their effectiveness in promoting the common good.
- demonstrate new learning by application to a "life-like situation."
- review/define the term common good.
- articulate the merits of using a rational approach as a way to problem solve, and to promote animal welfare for the common good.
- define what it means to be a "true/real" hero.
- identify and define character traits of heroes.
- understand why groups and/or organizations can also be considered heroes for their cause.
- identify heroes who advocate for animal welfare.
- research or interview an individual, or organization identified as a hero for animal welfare.
- define the word excuse and recognize commonly used excuses.
- recognize that heroes seldom use or make excuses.
- plan and implement a service/advocacy project for animal welfare/humane treatment of animals using the rational approach.
- Reflect on, celebrate, and share the successful completion of his/her implemented plan.
Service Experience:
The learners will plan and implement a project of service/advocacy for the humane treatment of animals. They will share their work with their peers and/or community, helping them better understand the need for the humane treatment of animals, and encourage their support for the concept of humane treatment.
Unit Assessment:
Learner involvement in the class discussions and group work will provide a portion of the assessment for this unit. Selection and research on a Hero for Animals will be assessed. The major portion of assessment for this unit will focus on the planning and successful implementation of the service/advocacy plans and/or active participation in a plan. Student explanation of and contribution to the service/advocacy project should also be taken into consideration. The ability to use their knowledge of animal welfare in the final essay may also be assessed.
School/Home Connection:
- Lesson One: Students will be asked to share and discuss approaches to problem solving, and the Dear Abigail example, with the family.
- Lesson Two: The research and development of the commemorative plaque is a homework assignment.
- Lesson Three: The learners may be asked to implement their service/advocacy plan.
Notes for Teaching:
The unit "Sports and Entertainment" (learningtogive.org/lessons/unit430/ 6th - 8th grade) may be taught prior to this unit to provide valuable background into why advocacy for the humane treatment of animals is needed.
State Curriculum and Philanthropy Theme Frameworks:
See individual lessons for benchmark detail.
Lessons Developed By:
Barbara Dillbeck
Director
Learning to Give
Dennis VanHaitsma
Curriculum Consultant
Learning to Give
All rights reserved. Permission is granted to freely use this information for nonprofit (noncommercial), educational purposes only. Copyright must be acknowledged on all copies.
