Overview
Having read literature based on the Max Warburg Curriculum (Special
#1) and paid tribute to family and neighborhood heroes (Special #2),
students discuss several character-building themes of courage: friendship,
loyalty, death, and overcoming prejudice. Students then write their
own stories of courage and post them on their Courage Web Site. |
For more about Special #3 from
Connecting Courage ~ Community ~ Computer, e-mail
Lisa Vasallo, author and AT&T
Teacher Disseminator. |
Learning
Standards
Read, understand, and review four books and other selections in
depth.
Write personal reflections on the books and answer personal questions
that emerge.
Write about a particular period and experience in life that conveyed
a strong impact and an unforgettable lesson.
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Classroom
Activities
In preparing to write their own stories of courage, students:
Review fiction and biographies read throughout the year.
Discuss various ways to display courage in everyday life.
Describe stories of courage in personal essays that reveal how
they have dealt with sickness, sorrow, loss, danger, conflict, etc.
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As an option, pair with older student-mentors who have experienced
the Courage Curriculum and can act as peer editors.
Enhance word processed essays with computer generated borders,
clip art or personally scanned illustrations.
Create a bulletin board of Courage in My Life essays and display
prominently.
Submit essays to a local competition.
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Community
Activities
Students create a web site or create a links page to spread messages
of courage and hope. They learn the importance of protecting personal
information, i.e. names and addresses. |
Careers
Students discuss careers in publishing on the web or for traditional
magazines: proofreaders, editors, copy editors, lay out artists, graphic
artists, writers, etc. |
Materials
Selected books: Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson;
So Far the Bamboo Grove by Yoko Kawashima Watkins; Number
the Stars by Lois Lowry; Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry,
by Mildred Taylor; Taking Sides by Gary Soto; writing and bulletin
board materials |
Technology
Students use ClarisWorks for essays, KidPix for art work, and a scanner
for illustrations. They continue to research courage on the school
web site. |
Assessment
Teachers and peer editors evaluate written essays and web site links.
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Web Sites
Students research courage essays at: the
Timilty Home Page and Max
Warburg Home Page
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