Middle schoolers are introduced to the concept of orphan trains. In groups, they research the history of the New York Children's Aid Society and begin to identify the social-trade offs involved on the orphan trains. They examine the...

Students use readings and discussion to investigate the 19th century practice of Orphan Trains - sending U.S. urban orphans from the East to the Midwest in hopes of procuring them a home. They focus on the concept of social trade-offs.

Students practice the skill of decision making and anticipate the consequences of their choices.  In this consequences lesson students complete several worksheets.

Students practice reasonable decision making and anticipate the consequences of their choices.  In this consequences lesson students discuss trade offs and how to solve problems.

Students make estimates on how many people they believe live on Earth. While watching a video, they take notes on the issues facing Kenya, Japan and India. In groups, they calculate how long it takes for a country to double in size. To...