Generations United

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers on the story of Emily, an 87-year-old resident at Maplewood Retirement Home, who strikes up an unexpected friendship with Jake, a 27-year-old aspiring musician. Their companionship starts over a shared interest in knitting and music, and blossoms further as they exchange stories and introduce each other to their respective passions: Emily to the swing music of her youth, and Jake to modern music. Their relationship defies the generational gap, with each learning from the other, leading to a fulfilling exchange of experiences and a combined musical and knitting project that brings joy to the other residents.

The worksheet is designed to teach students about the value of intergenerational relationships and the richness they can bring to everyone involved. It shows how shared interests can bridge age differences and lead to meaningful connections and mutual learning. Through Emily and Jake’s friendship, students learn that companionship and the exchange of culture and skills can transcend age barriers, enriching lives in a community setting. It also conveys that friendships can form in the most unexpected places and become a source of inspiration and hope.