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
collection
Getting Started with Civil Discourse
This signature collection is crafted to enhance civil discourse in the classroom, through lessons, conversation frameworks, teacher tools, and explainers.
collection
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.
collection
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.
collection
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.
collection
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.
collection
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.
Modules from
module
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.
module
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
Lesson
William Manchester’s A World Lit Only by Fire
The world our ancestors faced was more gruesome than modern minds can fathom.
Lesson
Louis B. Wright’s Everyday Life in Colonial America
In colonial times, the American dream was a living nightmare.
Lesson
Practicing Civil Discourse Techniques with Election Topics
2‑Day Lesson
Introduce civil discourse skills with partner and group discussions on election topics, providing tools useful for various discussions.
Lesson
Exploring the 10 Most Common Issues in Presidential Elections
In this two day lesson, explore and analyze the significance of 10 common issues that arise during Presidential elections. Adaptable for 6th‐12th grades.
Lesson
Exploring Different Methods of Voting
This lesson will help students compare and contrast different voting methods to understand their process.
Lesson
Middle School Teacher Resource: Let’s Talk about Elections!
Find strategies to discuss elections respectfully and effectively using civil discourse with students in this guide.
Lesson
Exploring Alternatives to the Electoral College
In this lesson, students will learn to explain the purpose of the electoral college and explore alternatives that have been proposed over time through a group activity.
Publication
Parent Email: Teaching Election Topics with Respect and Reason
Utilize this template to inform parents about election topics you will be discussing and how they can support their child.