Lesson 2: A Cause to Believe In

Select one or more causes or organizations to support through a service project launching on September 11, 2012, the eleventh anniversary of the attacks. Projects can last one day, one week, or an entire semester.

OBJECTIVE
Select one or more causes or organizations to support through a service project launching on September 11, 2012, the eleventh anniversary of the attacks. Projects can last one day, one week, or an entire semester.

MATERIALS
A blackboard, whiteboard, or flip pad; computer access

DIRECTIONS
Teacher Note: This lesson is designed for students of all ages. However, you know your students best. Use the tips here to help you tailor the materials. New ideas can be added at this point, if desired. Ask: Do we still feel this is the right cause or organization to support?

Review the list of potential activities again. Debate the merits of each and choose one action that students feel they can accomplish in the scheduled time frame. Remind students to think about how much time it will take to plan, what supplies will need to be collected, as well as the number of volunteers that will be needed.

Choose a project and work with students to write one or two sentences describing the what and how of your project’s goal. For example: We will support the American Red Cross by sponsoring a community blood drive.

TEACHERS OF YOUNG STUDENTS
Instead of working in small groups, consider working as a single group. Guide the conversation with concrete examples of volunteer activities.

If you have limited time or very young students, select a project yourself, develop your plan with less student input, and recruit adult volunteers.

TIPS FOR SELECTING A PROJECT
If your students are having trouble generating ideas, think about: the size of your class, the age of your students, skills students or their families might have to offer, as well as how much time you and your students are willing to spend planning and implementing your project. You may need to guide students to select a project that is appropriate for them. Visit 911day.org to review and download service project lesson plans provided by Youth Service America, Hands On Network, CNCS, and other groups.

Instead of creating a new service project, students can participate in an existing charity drive or activity. For example: take part in a Walk-a-Thon, work at a local food pantry, or volunteer at the aquarium. Check with your town’s Rotary Clubs, scout troops, the Chamber of Commerce, libraries, and hospitals to see which organizations need extra hands!

CALLOUT
Need Help?
Go to 911day.org to find resources to help you plan your service project and teach about the events of September 11, 2001. You will find a database of local service projects, tool kits to help you plan your event, and lesson plans and resources about the 9/11 terror attacks. Use these handy resources to help your students understand the spirit of unity that tragedy can inspire.