Problem+Based+Lesson+(Elem+1)


 * Problem Based Lesson - Elementary 1**

Problem based lessons are designed to give students a chance to work on real and relevant problems or issues that they may face in everyday life. Providing students with ownership of their learning, choices about their topics, and choices about programs or procedures as they attempt to solve the problems increases rigor and engagement!


 * Title: Give a Little - Get a Lot! **


 * Problem: Your group wants to work on a civics project that will help people in the community. You have heard that student groups often raise money for different charities and you feel that is a good way for your group to contribute. However, you find there are literally hundreds of different organizations that appear to be in need of funds. First, you must to decide on an organization to support that will be important to the people in your group. Second, create a plan that is both reasonable and manageable for raising the funds.**

Choose two or three about which your group members feel strongly. Put the names on your Charity Choice spreadsheet.
 * Step 1**- Research local charities at the following website. http://www.charity-charities.org/charities/TN/Clarksville.html


 * Step 2** - Brainstorm pros and cons for each of the chosen charities. List the pros and cons on your Charity Choice spreadsheet.


 * Step 3** - Come to a group consensus on the ONE charity your group will support for this project! Type the name of the chosen charity on the Charity Choice spreadsheet. Also, briefly explain or defend this choice.


 * Step 4** - Brainstorm ways your group can check the validity and reliability of the charity. How might you be sure it is real and that the money you raise will really go to people in need? Write those ideas on the Charity Choice spreadsheet, as well.


 * Step 5** - Brainstorm ideas for fundraising. Consider the following questions: How can students your age and with your resources raise money? What are the upfront costs for your ideas? What materials, personnel, and space is needed? From whom do you need permission to proceed? Who will organize the fundraiser? Who will collect, count, and monitor funds that are collected?


 * Step 6** - **//Create a prospectus that highlights your selected ideas and provides all necessary information to be presented to the teacher and the class. Your group may choose how to present this prospectus. Consider PowerPoint, iMovie, Voicethread, etc... You are trying to "SELL" your idea to the teacher and the class. CREATIVITY SELLS!//**

Relevancy Note* - Each 4th and 5th grade class that participates in 4-H must complete a community service project. This lesson might serve as the outlet for choosing the class project! You have researched ideas for fundraising that help meet the needs of your local community. Consider the bigger picture! Discuss ways that individuals can contribute to charities on a national, international, and global scale. There are many sites that spotlight charities that provide assistance on a global scale and allow individuals to donate small amounts of money that can be combined with the donations of others so that large amounts can be collected and distributed. Check out http://www.feedthechildren.org, http://www.savethechildren.org, http://www.tg.stjude.org, or other sites that reflect charity on a larger scale. //Create a// //comparison and contrast project focused on local versus national or global charities.//
 * //Enrichment//** -

A new and innovative way for individuals to help others is growing in popularity. Organizations such as http://www.kiva.org, provide an opportunity for individuals to LOAN small amounts of money to individuals or groups that have applied for small loans and presented plans for using the money to improve livelihoods. Small donations are grouped to make loans at requested amounts and the money is repaid over an 18 month period. Investors can read biographies on many individuals who have requested money and can choose which to support. //Research this new type of charity and create a project outlining the procedure and giving your opinion about its validity and potential effectiveness.//