In this lesson, students will observe a social group and identify the common traits shared by the group. They will compare the common traits and daily challenges of a group different from their own self-identified group to connect the meaningfulness of perseverance in varying contexts and people.

This free video series provides definitions of literary terms in English literature to students and teachers. It also offers examples of how these literary devices can be applied to poems, plays, novels, and short stories. We are in the process of translating the videos into Spanish and many of them now contain these subtitles.

In this lesson, students will demonstrate their understanding of perseverance by reviewing the lives and actions of significant figures facing hardships requiring perseverance. The lesson includes a graphic organizer and an exit ticket. This lesson is based on a video about the life of Carl Erskine and perseverance, The Parallel book, and students’ research and perceptions of the concept. 

After reading Playing for Change, students will have the opportunity to break into groups and do research about various subgroups and topics provided in the text. The intention is for this to be a jigsaw activity where groups can organize their information with the interactive notebook sheets provided, and then present or share with the class what they have learned. Teachers can use this for language arts or social studies assessments, if needed. 

Story tells how Carl Erskine became lifelong friends with Johnny Wilson, then Jackie Robinson. Also, learn the story of how Carl compares his World Series ring and son Jimmy’s Special Olympics medal.32 pages Suggested for grades 4-6  ISBN: 979-8-9863985-1-8Library of Congress: GV861. L87 B76 2022

In this lesson, students will demonstrate their understanding of respectfulness through discussion with their classmates. An optional infographic activity is provided. This lesson is based on a video about the life of Carl Erskine and the respect he showed others.

In this lesson, students will recognize and celebrate their differences and diversity within their classroom community by creating a classroom tree to display. Additionally, they will discuss the importance of inclusivity and acceptance.

In this lesson, students investigate how one person can make a difference. They will examine Neil Gaiman’s crowdsourcing fan ideas to develop a poem supporting refugees.Students tap into their creativity to create a “welcome to the US” resource for refugees. The resource places the student in a mentor role to the refugee(s). It shares vital themes that refugees need to know/be able to do to thrive and succeed as a member of US society.

Story tells how Calr Erskine became lifelong friends with Johnny Wilson, then Jackie Robinson.  Also, learn the story of how Carl compares his World Series ring and son Jimmy’s Special Olympics medal. This video is 8:37 minutes.32 pages Suggested for grades 1-3  ISBN: 979-8-9863985-0-1Library of Congress: HM831. E77 E65 2022