Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story - Citizen Action Lesson Plan
created by Shannon Overdahl
Grade Level: 4th grade
Subject: Orphan Trains
Title of Lesson: Helping those in need
Prior Knowledge:
Students have been studying the orphan trains and understand that this was a philanthropic effort to help homeless children.
They have read all or portions of the book: Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story by Andrea Warren.
Essential Question:
How can I help?
Objective:
Students will learn that homelessness is still prevalent today. They will identify current organizations that help homeless children. They will demonstrate how they can make a difference.
Procedure:
Students will be divided into five groups. Each group will be given a website to research (see website links below). Students will research the organization and determine the best way to share the information with other students – options include poster board, pamphlet, flyer, PowerPoint presentation. Student will present their information to the students in their class. The presentations will then be posted in the hallway.
Assessment:
Students will be assessed on the details of their findings; including the organization's name, purpose, audience (who they help), volunteer opportunities (how they can help). Students will also be asked to share three facts about homelessness that they obtained from the internet – citing their source(s).
Students will also manage a collection drive – food or clothing drive. Students will create poster boards to advertise their collection drive. Students will work with staff to set up tables and begin their collections. Teacher will manage the transfer of goods from the school to the local organization.
Extension: Students could participate in the Empty Bowls fundraiser by creating bowls in their art class. (www.emptybowls.net)
Five group website/organizations:
Children's Hope International – www.helpanorphan.net
Habitat for Humanity MN – www.hfhmn.org
America's Second Harvest / Feeding America – www.feedingamerica.org
Beyond Shelter – www.beyondshelter.org
United Way – www.unitedwaytwincities.org
Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story
Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story_Lesson Plan
Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story_Reading Activity
Another orphan train book (Grades 2-4) Train to Somewhere (includes lesson plans)
Orphan Train Video
Orphan Train Helpful Links
NCSS Theme - Individuals_Groups_and_Instititutions
Social Studies Standard - History
Book Title
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