| Call to Action Letter – Overview |
| Have students write a “call to action” letter about an issue that includes their positions on the issue, why individuals should act, and at least three things they should do to help the cause.
Grades: 6-12 |
| The Activity |
| Have students research an issue on ProCon.org. The issue can be one relevant to the unit you’re teaching or one chosen by you. After their research, have an informal discussion about the issue. First discuss the student’s opinions on the issue to help them articulate their stances. Then brainstorm about what specific actions individuals could take in support or opposition of that cause. Have students write a ‘call to action’ letter about the issue that includes their positions on the issues, why individuals should act, and at least three things they should do to help the cause.
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ProCon.org Topics: All sites Subjects: Social Studies, Public Policy, Civics, American Government, Communication Common Core Anchor Standards: CCRA.R.1, CCRA.R.2, CCRA.W.1, CCRA.W.4, CCRA.W.7, CCRA.SL.1, CCRA.SL.2 Common Core Content Standards: RI.1, RI.2, RI.6, W.1, W.4, W.7, SL.1, SL.2, WHST.1 |
| Adaptations |
Make the lesson easier
- Choose the position and specific actions to recommend as a class, requiring students only to craft them into a letter.
- Provide an example on the same position or issue, to provide students with more concrete ideas.
- Have students design a brochure with a call to action section, as opposed to a full letter
Make the lesson harder
- After the letters are written and have gone through a revision process, have students research a non-profit/interest group that shares their position on the chosen issue. They can contact them directly and send their letter for possible use in promotional materials.
- Have students write two ‘call to action’ letters, one from each side of the issue.
| Related Links |
