Classroom Lessons
Classroom Lessons
Climate Change Showdown: Keystone XL Pipeline
May. 16, 2013Environmentalists passionately opposed to a giant pipeline that would transport crude oil from the tar sands of Canada to the Gulf coast are going head-to-head with proponents of the project. Students explore the controversy surrounding the Keystone XL pipeline and the strategic questions it raises for environmentalists.
Coming Out: Jason Collins
May. 1, 2013NBA player Jason Collins recently became the first openly gay athete in a major American team sport. In this activity, students read some of Collins' coming out statement, discuss it, and then consider their views on the impact coming out can have, both personally and for society.
Cut Social Security? Ask a Senior!
Apr. 20, 2013President Obama's recent proposal to cut Social Security's cost-of-living increases is part of a major national debate, but one that many students know little about. In this activity, students find out about Social Security by interviewing a senior family member or friend about it, and through reading and small and large-group discussion.
Countering Anti-Muslim & Anti-Arab Bias in our schools
Apr. 24, 2013The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee has reported an increase in attacks and discrimination targeting Arab and Muslim Americans following the bombing in Boston.” Here are some guidelines aimed at helping to make our schools safe and supportive environments for youngsters with these backgrounds; and to prevent and counter expressions of bias against these groups in any school.
An Introduction to Circles
Mar. 3, 2013
Circles use a highly structured process to create a safe space where people can share their feelings and experiences. Since 2011, Morningside Center has partnered with the NYC Department of Education to introduce Peace and Restorative Circles into schools around New York City. Here, Morningside Center trainer Marieke van Woerkom outlines the basic elements of Circles.