Classroom Content
Sphere provides educators with viewpoint diverse resources to bring conversations to the classroom and equip students to engage in civil discourse. Sphere offers lesson plans, discussion questions, videos, and publications on various topics for use in the classroom that are exclusively nonpartisan.
Collections
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America’s 250th
Sphere Education Initiatives’ 250th collection integrates the study of civics across disciplines to help students identify, analyze, and evaluate the underpinnings of the founding principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence through the framework of civil discourse.
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Getting Started with Civil Discourse
Learn how civil discourse can help you foster strong discussions and connections for your students. Explore our lessons, conversation frameworks, teacher tools, and explainers adaptable for all disciplines and grade levels to get started.
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Human Progress
This collection explores historical figures and cities who epitomize human progress and innovation worldwide. Students will examine influential individuals and places in science, art, and social reform, appreciating their transformative impact on shaping our world.
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Civil Discourse and Economics
This collection aims to cultivate critical thinking skills in students as they explore microeconomics and macroeconomics, examining the role of government in the economy through lessons that encourage analysis, evaluation, and understanding of economic principles and government interventions.
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Politics and Society
Politics and society are interconnected and shape our daily lives. Values and principles should steer decisions on healthcare, education, immigration, and national security. Fostering civil discourse amidst disagreement is important for constructive governance and social harmony.
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Civil Discourse and English Language Arts
This equips teachers with engaging lesson plans to promote respectful and inclusive discussions around literature, enabling students to develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and effective communication while exploring diverse perspectives and themes in literary works.
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Constitution and Law
Examine the Constitution’s principles and interpretation. How to balance personal freedoms with government intervention in areas such as health or national security? Consider the implications of constitutional amendments or law changes on rights and governance.
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Civil Discourse in Science and Technology
This collection is curated with lessons and resources that support the unique nature of civil discourse discussions in the science classroom. Lessons help students explore the intersection of the sciences, economics, public policy, and human progress.
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Centers of Progress
This module explores the locations that have served as hubs for human progress and innovation throughout world history. Students will delve into the stories of significant cities and regions, examining their contributions in fields such as science, technology, arts, and governance, fostering a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of societies and the impact of key cultural and intellectual centers.
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Heroes of Progress
This module explores people who have made extraordinary contributions to human wellbeing throughout world history. Students will delve into the stories of important individuals, examining their contributions in fields such as science, technology, arts, and governance, fostering a deep appreciation for innovation, openness, and curiosity.
Latest Lessons
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Discussing the Declaration of Independence
In this lesson, students will practice rhetorical listening skills and fairminded critical thinking through civil discourse.
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The Inspiration and Influence of the Declaration of Independence on the World
Through this lesson, students will identify the role rhetoric plays in inspiring and influencing individuals as well as whole communities throughout history.
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No Voice No Choice: The Toll of Tyranny and The Fees of Being Unheard
In this lesson, students will explore how the absence of representation in government led to taxation, unrest, and ultimately rebellion in colonial America.
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Who Holds the Purse Strings?
The Power of the People to Determine Economic Freedom
Students will examine how colonists resisted the British taxation and spending decrees forced on them and instead demanded the right of consent to and representation in government decisions.
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TRADING FOR LIBERTY! The Civic and Economic Power of Free Trade
In this lesson, students will understand how England’s mercantilist system and trade restrictions limited the colonists’ ability to prosper, created frustration, and fueled rebellion.
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Writs of Assistance
Students will explore the role the Writs of Assistance had in the American Revolution. This lesson is suitable for U.S. History and economics classes.
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The Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts
Students will explore the role economics had in the Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts had during the American Revolution. This lesson is suitable for U.S. History and economics classes.
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Lesson 3: The Rewrite
Now, you will invite students to share their thoughts and work collaboratively to rewrite the document using modern vernacular and lingo. This lesson is meant to provide students with a chance to make the Declaration relevant as they reinterpret it and make it their own.
