Things That Work in Community Service Learning

THINGS THAT WORK IN COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING, VOLUME 1 is a compilation of fifteen curriculum units which illustrate the many ways in which Community Service Learning (CSL) - also known as "service-learning" - can be infused into secondary education. Service-learning is a teaching methodology which integrates service experiences into classroom curriculum. While some teachers build learning activities around service projects, others identify service experiences that complement pre-existing curriculum. An example of CSL might consist of having students who, while learning about history, correspond with senior citizens. This approach helps learning become more experiential, relevant & meaningful. The case studies in THINGS THAT WORK resulted from a mini-grant program in which actual teachers facilitated service-learning projects & then documented the process for this publication. Many of the participating teachers claim CSL is the best thing they ever tried in their teaching career. The authors are English, social studies, science, music, psychology, & home technology teachers who explored intergenerational, homeless, environmental & peer mentoring service themes. Each unit outlines the academic connections to service projects & steps for connecting with the community. Part of the proceeds from this manual will be used to fund future mini-grants. To order contact: Community Service Learning Center, Inc., 285 Washington Blvd., Springfield, MA 01108; 413-734-6857. $20.00 plus $5.00 shipping & handling.Laplante, Lisa I. is the author of 'Things That Work in Community Service Learning' with ISBN 9780964433007 and ISBN 0964433001.