Instructions for Activity

1. Introduce the book "Thank You, Mr. Falker". Explain to the children that it is based on a true story about a girl that was made fun by others because she was different.

2. Read the story aloud with the class and ask children about some of Trisha's strengths and qualities. Then ask them how they think other students are treating Trisha.

3. After reading the story, discuss with each other how different people behaved towards Trisha and what effect their behavior had.

4. a. Introduce the definition of philanthropy as "giving time, talent, or treasure and taking action for the common good." Discuss a time when children were philanthropic, asking for specific examples.

b. Ask students for adjectives to describe Mr. Falker. Discuss how Mr. Falker was a philanthropist.

c. Ask the students if everyone in the classroom is the same, looks the same, has the same beliefs, and has the same talents and strengths. For what traits are people seen as “different”? We all have different gifts and we all bloom at different times. Discuss whether classroom diversity (in ability, interests, appearance, experience) makes a stronger or weaker community and why. Analyze how the definition of philanthropy relates to treating diverse people with respect.

5. Reflection Activity: Give each student a large sheet of drawing paper and have them fold it into four sections. Tell them to label the sections as indicated below and make a quick drawing in each part:

A. How we are different

B. How we are the same

C. A hard battle

D. A kindness to share

6. Have children discuss their reflections.