The United Nations has declared September 21 as the International Day of Peace. In a message commemorating the Day in 1995, Secretary-General Boutros-Ghali stated,
“the world, once more, cries out for peace. And for the economic and social development that peace alone can assure. . . . Let us keep our goal clear and simple. . . . . Let us work for peace.”
The ReadWriteThink.org calendar entry on the day invites students to brainstorm, identify, and present possible solutions that could address causes of conflict.
“Think Peace,” a podcast episode from ReadWriteThink.org, shares books for younger readers and explains how they can be used as a springboard to discuss how children and adults alike can use peaceful, nonviolent methods to effect change in society.
For older readers, “Peace from Within: Teaching Texts That Comfort and Heal” describes how the author taught a literature course that used literary selections and a film series to examine physical healing, mental healing, and healing from grief.
Process drama is a powerful and motivating teaching tool that engages students in writing for imaginative and functional purposes. In this lesson from ReadWriteThink.org, students will participate in a simulation of a “Peace Journey” as they engage in a variety of literacy activities.
How do you promote peace in your community?