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Civic Virtue in Democracy
Students identify and describe characteristics of civic virtue. Following a class discussion, they create their own definitions of civic virtue. They write essays based on their own definitions and formulate conclusions on the state of...
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George Washington & Civic Virtue: The Necessary Elements of the Republic
Students examine the character of George Washington. In this George Washington lesson, students read "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior," Washington's First Inaugural Address, and his Farewell Address. Students use the included...
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The League
Students explore the concept of civic virtue in a democratic state. In this democracy lesson, students listen to John F. Kennedy's inaugural speech, read selections on democracy, and discuss the importance of civic rights and...
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We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution
Robert Coles’ The Story of Ruby Bridges forms the basis of this powerful cross-curricular study of civic education and civic responsibility. Class members consider how the book presents authority, responsibility, justice, and privacy.....
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Communities in Crisis Lesson 1: Primary Source? What is That?
Distinguish between primary and secondary source documents using the theme of philanthropy. Middle schoolers discuss Anne Frank: The Diary of Young Girl as a way to study the past using a primary source. Then they investigate how to...
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What is Democracy?
Learners explore the facets of democracy. In this civic responsibility lesson, students create a definition of democracy and discuss the difference between a spectator and a participatory citizen. Learners discuss whose responsibility...
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The Statue of Liberty: The Meaning and Use of a National Symbol
Engage your class in a series of activities, each related to the use or analysis of symbols used to convey patriotic or national concepts. They identify different national symbols and explain their meanings, discussing the importance of...
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The Preamble to the Constitution: How Do You Make a More Perfect Union?
Students analyze the Preamble of the Constitution and identify the historical context that led to its wording. They, in groups, interpret phrases from the Preamble, examine relevant court cases and create illustrations for their portion...
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People and Places in Indiana's Underground Railroad
Fourth graders use an Indiana map to explain why Indiana's geographic location was important to its role in the UGR. They experience personal stories and feelings of the people involved in UGR through role-play and literature.
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Making a Difference
Students create a plan to better their school. In this civil service lesson, students will deepen their understanding of the term "philanthropy" by reflecting on Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" speech and a quote by John F....
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A Share in America
Students examine map - reflect on why English colonist kept coming to America (scarcity of land in England / seemingly endless land in America)
Recite line from English poem. They discuss English attitude towards Indians and their lands.
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We the Community
Learners explore the concept of philanthropy. In this service learning activity, students design and create informational books regarding nonprofit agencies and philanthropists in their community.
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The First American Party System: Federalists and Democratic-Republicans: The Platforms They Never Had
Students investigate the beginnings of the political party system in the US. They determine the key positions of both the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans. They compare the views of the early political parties with those of today.
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Small Steps; Great Journeys
Twelfth graders examine contributions to communities. In this philanthropy lesson, 12th graders discuss the quote, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." Students identify issues that exist in their community and...
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Documents and Symbols and American Freedom
Students complete a unit of lessons on the documents, symbols, and famous people involved in the founding of the U.S. government. They create a personal bill of rights, write a found poem, design a flag, conduct research, and role-play...
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The Star Spangled Banner
Fourth graders investigate the importance of The Star Spangled Banner after listening to a teacher explanation of how Francis Scott Key wrote the song. They talk about the battle during the War of 1812 that led to the writing of the...