Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will understand the basic concepts of government and citizenship as they relate to the video game Island Saver.

Materials and Prep

• A computer or gaming console with Island Saver installed
• Pen and paper
• Basic knowledge of how to play Island Saver

Activities

1. Play Island Saver together and discuss the different characters and their roles in the game. Talk about how the characters work together to clean up the island and help the environment.

2. Ask your child to imagine that they are the mayor of the island in Island Saver. Have them think about what responsibilities they would have and how they would make decisions to keep the island clean and safe.

3. Have your child draw a picture of their island and the different things they would do as the mayor to improve it. Encourage them to think about how they would involve the citizens in their decision-making process.

First Grade Talking Points

• "Government is a group of people who make decisions and rules to help take care of a place, like an island."
• "Citizens are the people who live in a place and follow the rules made by the government. They also help make their place better by taking care of it."
• "In Island Saver, we can see how the characters work together to clean up the island and make it a nice place to live. Just like in real life, people in a community work together to make their place better."
• "As the mayor of the island in Island Saver, you would have important responsibilities. You would need to make decisions to keep the island clean and safe for everyone."
• "You can involve the citizens in decision-making by listening to their ideas and asking for their opinions. This helps everyone feel included and valued."
• "Now, let's use our imagination and draw a picture of your island as the mayor. Think about what you would do to make it better and involve the citizens in your decisions."