Active learning ideas
The final topic in the 5th Year SPHE curriculum explores the concept of community at both a local and global level. Students examine the rights and responsibilities of being a citizen and how they can contribute positively to their school and neighborhood. They also look at the 'wider world,' exploring global issues like poverty, justice, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This topic fosters a sense of global citizenship and empathy for people in different circumstances.
Activity 01
In small groups, students create a map of their local area, identifying all the places and people that help the community (e.g., the library, the GAA club, the post office). They then identify one 'gap' where they could help.
What does it mean to be an active citizen?
Activity 02
Students look at the items in their lunch and trace where in the world they came from. They discuss with a partner how we are connected to farmers and workers across the globe through the things we buy.
How are communities around the world connected?
Activity 03
Groups are assigned one of the Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., Zero Hunger). They must come up with one 'Local Action' (something they can do in school) and one 'Global Action' (how they can support international efforts) for that goal.
What can we do to help those in need in our community?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Being a 'citizen' just means having a passport.
Explain that citizenship is an active role involving rights and responsibilities. A 'Rights vs. Responsibilities' sorting activity helps students see that being part of a community involves giving as well as receiving.
Global problems are too big for children to help with.
Focus on the 'Think Global, Act Local' principle. Use examples of successful child-led campaigns to show students that their voices and actions have power, which is best reinforced through a small-scale classroom project.
Methods used in this brief
Environmental Awareness
Children investigate their role in protecting the local and global environment. They explore sustainable practices such as recycling and energy conservation.
8 methodologies
Media Awareness and Cyber Safety
Pupils critically analyse media messages and advertising. They also learn essential rules for staying safe and respectful online.
8 methodologies