Service Learning Project Rationale

Context: This project was a requirement for my Social Studies 3110 Block II class during the spring of 2008. I completed this project under the advisment of Dr. Bryant and with the help of Mrs. Ashley Bowers and her 2nd grade class.

Impact: During this project, the 2nd graders and I wrote letters to the troops in Iraq, showing our appreciation for all they do for us. The students learned how to write thank you letters and also learned how to be more involved in their community.

Alignment: This project satisfies the requirements for North Carolina Elementary School teachers by the following:

Standard 4: Elementary teachers have a broad knowledge and understanding of the major concepts in social studies.

Indicator 11: I have met this indicator by promoting principles of good citizenship by having students write letters to soldiers showing appreciation of all they do for our country.

Standard 11: Elementary teachers connect social studies with the broad curriculum. Teachers use the scope and sequence of the social studies curriculum to teach skills through the integration of the social studies content with the areas listed below.

Indicator 1: I met this indicator by having students write a letter to the troops. I also communicated to the students the importance of our troops and what they do for our country.

Indicator 2: I met this indicator by explaining to the class how our letters are letters of encouragement. I also explained in what ways the troops are helping the Iraqi nation.

Standard 16: Elementary teachers develop as leaders in their shools and communities by staying informed about educational policy issues and supporting professional development. Elementary teachers participate in co-curricular activities, provide leadership in student and curriculum involvement, and connect these activities to the development of citizenship ideals in their students.

Indicator 7: I met this indicator by promoting student awareness and encouraging other volunteer activities. We discussed what other areas of involvement that citizens should be concerned with.