Lesson Plan

Alphabody ABCs of Giving

Duration: Two to three 40-Minute Class Periods
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The students develop a list of ABCs related to giving and work cooperatively to create alphabet letters with their bodies.

Objectives

  • identify independent philanthropic opportunities.
  • solve a problem using kinesthetic awareness.
  • define philanthropy

Materials

  • Philanthropic Menus (see handout)
  • Philanthropic Menu Suggestions (see handout)

Instructions

  • Anticipatory Set: Brainstorm words about giving/kindness that begin with each letter of the alphabet. List words on the board and alphabetize them. See the handouts for ideas.
  • Tell each student to choose a partner. Working with the partner and using their bodies, have the students form each letter of the alphabet.
  • Have students act out the "giving/kindness" words for each letter of the alphabet.
  • Tell the students that they can say a big word that describes what they are acting out. Define the kindness/giving actions as acts of philanthropy. Define philanthropy as "giving time, talent, or treasure for the common good" (for the good of all, not just self).
  • Discuss:
    • In what ways are the kind/giving actions they acted out good for all, the common good?
    • Are those things also good for themselves?
    • Can you do something that helps yourself and others at the same time?

Assessment & Evaluation

Select a student team to demonstrate the “construction” of an alphabet letter with their bodies and also pantomime the action described for each letter.

Handouts

Sources