World Changers

SEL Domain(s): Empathy

Relational Risk: Low

Grades: 4-8

*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students

Description:

Students imagine a better world by creating and presenting actionable ideas for helping others through a poster exhibition.

Materials

• Poster board

• Construction paper

• Markers or crayons

• Index cards

• The Dark and The Light story (download from buildingintentionalcommunities.com)

• Lesson script

Steps

1. Read Aloud:

   • Read The Dark and The Light story aloud to students.

2. Facilitate Discussion:

   • Ask:

     • “What do you think of this story?”

     • “Could this happen in our world today?”

     • “What might be different if everyone helped each other?”

3. Idea Generation:

   • Distribute index cards.

   • Each student writes one idea to make the world better.

4. Poster Creation:

   • Students design a poster showing their idea and a step-by-step plan to implement it.

5. Presentation & Exhibition:

   • Students present their posters to the class.

   • Optional: Invite guest judges (e.g., community members, parents) to select a winner.

   • Hold a student vote for a "Students' Choice" winner.

6. Debrief Questions:

   • Would your plan work?

   • What would make it easy or hard?

   • What could happen if everyone had to do three kind things daily?