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Type: Teaching Program
Creator: Samantha Gladwell, San Diego Cooperative Charter School - Edited by: Andrea Yoder Clark
File: ZIP

The Economics Of Aid

As an aid organization, SurfAid aims to “improve the health, wellbeing, and self-reliance of people living in isolated communities connected to us through surfing.”  This work requires ongoing financial support and commitment from those dedicated to SurfAid’s mission. To become effective global citizens who can enact change throughout their lives, students will benefit from understanding the financial parameters that govern the work of aid organizations and nonprofits such as SurfAid, and from having the opportunity to create and implement an action plan for their own service projects.

This interactive unit combines the development of background knowledge with an opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world context. The lesson series is designed for upper elementary student’s grades 4-6 (though it is adaptable to many grade levels) and develops students’ knowledge and skills in the areas of economics, social studies, mathematics, and critical thinking. In preparation for engaging in an authentic fundraising effort, students will learn about global poverty, the differences between humanitarian aid and development aid, and role of nonprofit organizations like SurfAid in promoting global citizenship.