Teaching for Civic Competence April 9, 2012

Guest Speaker: John Wheeler Iowa Bar Association

Quickwrite The original intent of public schooling was to create an educated citizenry. Is this still one of the roles of school today? What is your role as a teacher in civic competence? Provide an example of how you plan to do this.

Civic Competence It’s an attitude! “Requires that we understand important social issues, participate in dialogues and conversations about public social life, volunteer and serve in public roles, and take action when problems demand our involvement.” How do we teach this?

Examples of Elementary Focus of Civic Education Setting class rules Establishing “fairness” Teaching patriotism (National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance) Teaching national symbols such as the Statue of Liberty, the Eagle, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, etc. Teaching citizenship roles and responsibilities Discussion of current events, social issues

Getting to Civic Competence Conversation: Casual talking Discussion: Talking guided by teacher Dialogue: Talking that is direct and purposeful. Goal is building a shared vision. Debate: Highly focused talking aimed at a resolution.

Examples of Civic Action Article: Young Citizens Take Action for Better School Lunches Book: The Emperor’s New Clothes Mock Trial: The Case of the Missing Puppy