How can I be a changemaker in my local community? (Unit of work)

How can I be a changemaker in my local community?

This 11-lesson unit of work guides students through the process of becoming active citizens, emphasising the power of individuals and communities to effect positive social change.

Beginning with an exploration of community and the concept of “changemakers,” students identify local issues and develop skills in critical thinking, research, and advocacy. The unit includes lessons on understanding social issues, conducting secondary and primary research, and evaluating credible sources. Students apply their learning to create and implement action plans, drawing on examples of successful campaigns and exploring nonviolent, impactful strategies.

Reflection is woven throughout, as students evaluate their progress, the effectiveness of their actions, and the skills gained, while also considering how to amplify their impact through reporting and potentially viral campaigns. This comprehensive approach empowers students to become thoughtful, informed, and engaged members of their communities.

National Curriculum links
The different ways in which a citizen can contribute to the improvement of his or her community, to include the opportunity to participate actively in community volunteering, as well as other forms of responsible activity.

Citizenship skills
Using a range of research strategies, weighing  up evidence, making persuasive arguments, substantiating  conclusions,  active citizenship

Citizenship concepts
Society, power, human rights, public service, responsibilities,, active citizenship, change, making a difference

Building progression
This scheme of work is part of ACTʼs model core curriculum for Citizenship in secondary schools, which has been designed to develop and deepen studentsʼ knowledge, skills and understanding throughout Key Stages 3 and 4. Other units linked to this Year 8 scheme of work include: 

Year 7: What role can I play in making our school a fairer place?

Year 8: Who really has the power to bring about change in our local communities? 

Year 9: Community volunteers or social media influencers – who has most power and influence?

Year 10: What tools can we use to challenge injustice in our communities?

The ACTive Citizenship Toolkit for Key Stage 4 is a useful resource for students throughout this unit of work.

This unit of work forms part of our model core curriculum which is exclusively available to School and College Members.