Working in small groups, learners match the classic hero traits to an activist who took social action for the common good.
The learner will:
- identify real-life heroes and their traits.
chart paper and markers
Anticipatory Set:
Review the meaning of courage and the list of classic hero traits from the previous lesson.
Brainstorm a list of real-life heroes from various situations and cultural backgrounds. (examples: Rosa Parks, Madam C.J. Walker, Gandhi, 9-11 firefighters, Mother Teresa, Cesar Chavez, Malala Yousafzai, Nelson Mandela, first responders).
Allow the learners to pick one of the people who they will examine for their classic hero traits. They may work on their own or in small groups.
Discuss these questions for the person you are examining. Write their name and these answers on a chart for others to read about.
- What is the context in which this individual took action?
- What classic hero traits do they have and what actions and qualities make the person courageous?
- Describe the philanthropy of this person in the action they took. How did they give time, talent, or treasure for the common good? How did their actions create change or affect others?
Allow the groups 10-15 minutes to conduct research and write about their person on the chart paper.
Display the completed charts around the room for the next lesson.