Character Counts

Heroic Citizenship

Heroic citizenship is not just shown by someone who rescues people from car accidents or burning buildings. They are people who help others in their community

Heroic Citizenship - Character Counts
Grade Level: 6-12

 

Character Skills
  • Good Citizenship
SEL Skills
  • Self-Awareness
Academic Skills
  • Curiosity and Passion

Definitions

Good Citizenship
  • Do your share to make your home, school, and community better.
  • Cooperate.
  • Stay informed. Vote.
  • Be a good neighbor.
  • Make choices that protect the safety and rights of others.
  • Protect the environment.
Self-Awareness

Identify and understand emotions, values, attitudes, motivations, mindsets, and personal attributes.

Curiosity and Passion

Enthusiastic to understand more about themselves, others, and the world around them.

Share This Activity

Students will read stories of teenage heroism, define the qualities of heroic citizens, and discuss how young people can be courageous.

Materials/Preparation
Instructions
  • Ask students how they would describe a heroic citizen.
  • Students should create a list of words they use to define a heroic citizen. They  could use sticky notes to stick on poster paper or use an online word cloud generator (For example, TagxedoPollEverywhere, or Word Cloud Generator)
  • Ask students to discuss with a partner:
    • Do you believe society thinks teenagers can be heroic citizens? Why or why not? 
Small-Group Reading and Discussion Prompt
  • Ask students to read the 9 stories of heroic teens in small groups.
      • How did the teens in the stories show heroism?
      • Did anything surprise you in the stories?
Large Group Discussion Prompt
  • Why do you believe teenagers may not always be considered examples of heroic citizenship?

Student Reflection

  • Think about someone you know who contributes to their community. Why are they a hero?
  • What are ways that you show heroism by helping others in your community?

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