NCSS STANDARD:  Standard IV - Teachers of social studies at all school levels should provide developmentally appropriate experiences as they guide learners in the study of ideas associated with individual human development and identity.

Artifact #:  5.1

Name of Artifact:  "Do Elementary School Children Need Philosophy?" By Matthew Lipman

Works Cited:     Lipman, Matthew.  "Do Elementary School Children Need Philosophy?"  The Finnish Journal of Education (March, 1994): pp. 281-86.                             

Date: March, 1994

Rationale Statement:  The below article written by Matthew Lipman is eye-opening and enlightening.  Not only did this article help me grow intellectually, but if implemented it will help millions of young students across the nation.  I read this article on my own time during the 2007 Winter quarter.  Lipman asks the question, "do elementary school children need philosophy?"  He then goes on to give many reasons why we should introduce philosophy in the grade school levels.  Among many other concepts, Lipman believes that philosophy in the elementary levels would improve logical thinking skills and help younger students better grasp the way the world works.  After reading it I agree.  My eagerness to read this article on my own time demonstrates my willingness to develop professionally.