Exploring Public Service Careers

Shannon Janovitz

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Exploring Public Service Careers

Introduce public service careers

In this lesson, students will explore various careers in public service and community organizations through interactive discussions and a volunteer project. This lesson is important as it helps students understand the significance of public service roles and how they contribute to society. By engaging in discussions and a hands-on project, students will gain insights into the skills and responsibilities required in these careers, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement.

Audience

9th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Introduce public service careers

Materials

Discussion Questions, Volunteer Project Guidelines, Pens, and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin with a brief introduction to public service and community careers.
Discuss the importance of these roles in society.
Explain the objectives of the lesson.

Step 2

Interactive Discussion

20 mins

Use the provided discussion questions to engage students in a conversation about public service careers.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and any personal experiences related to community service.
Highlight key roles and responsibilities in public service.

Step 3

Volunteer Project Planning

20 mins

Introduce the concept of a volunteer project.
Divide students into small groups and provide them with the Volunteer Project Guidelines.
Have each group brainstorm and plan a small volunteer project they could implement in their community.

Step 4

Closure

10 mins

Have each group briefly present their volunteer project idea to the class.
Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson.
Encourage students to consider participating in community service activities outside of school.

Discussion

Discussion Questions for Public Service

A set of questions to guide a discussion on public service careers.

What are some examples of public service careers?

Encourage students to think about roles in government, education, healthcare, and non-profits.

Why are public service careers important to society?

Discuss the impact these roles have on community well-being and societal functioning.

What skills do you think are necessary for a career in public service?

Highlight skills such as communication, empathy, leadership, and problem-solving.

Worksheet

Volunteer Project Guidelines

Guidelines to help students plan a volunteer project.

Identify a community need that your project will address.

Think about issues like environmental conservation, helping the elderly, or supporting local shelters.

Describe the steps your group will take to implement the project.

Outline the tasks, resources needed, and timeline for the project.

What impact do you hope your project will have on the community?

Consider both short-term and long-term effects.