PLEASE READ THE EVENT DESCRIPTION THOROUGHLY. PRINT THE DESCRIPTION, AND RETAIN IT FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. The ten 20-minute student programs in the My America series explore the basics of American government: how laws are made, ideals of a democratic government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens in a democracy. Programs combine elements of traditional civics and social studies curricula with techniques and activities that encourage children to participate actively in their schools and local communities and to experience the democratic process. The underlying theme is that a democracy works best when everyone participates, and that each single vote and voice matters. America is defined not as the traditional melting pot, but as a country rich in diversity and community.
In each program, children give thought-provoking opinions on the featured topic. Documentaries use on-location footage and animation to provide historical context and relevant examples of children making a difference in their communities. A classroom modeling lesson demonstrates cooperative learning, and encourages children to use their creativity to bring alive the educational objective of each program. My America teaches in the voices of children in a way that respects their intelligence and natural curiosity.
About THIS Session: The presenter will discuss the works of citizens who volunteer to care for their communities using student generated ideas while stressing the importance of volunteers. Famous heroes such as Norman Borlaug and Martin Luther King as well as volunteers during disasters, and active citizens in our own communities will be mentioned. The featured video will be shown followed with discussion of Johnny Appleseed and examples of how students can become active citizens in their communities through their own unique talents.
Educational Objective: To understand that democracy works best when everyone participates.
Student Concept: I can make a difference.
Video Preview: Being a good citizen means being an active, caring citizen. Children define who citizens are and what they do in a democratic country. We hear the story of John Chapman, the person we know as Johnny Appleseed, who became legendary for helping people and planting apple trees. We see a modem day good-citizen story about how the children of Des Moines, Iowa, and Homestead, Florida, helped each other during two terrible natural disasters. In Washington, DC, children create an Energy Patrol Project that saved their school $17,000 in one year, while giving them an opportunity to accomplish important work and make a true difference.
Following the ICN session, registrants receive the complimentary book Story of the White House or alternate title by mail.
