I love the idea of teaching students positive life lessons rather than a list of things they shouldn't do. Leadership is an essential skill to modern life. Whether you are a leader at work, in your community, or simply within your household, every person will need to take the lead at some point.
In some ways, leadership seems like a gift or talent. Certainly, some people are natural leaders and seem to have a certain je ne se qua about them. However, like all things, leadership skills can be taught and using great historical leaders is a great way to combine a little history and leadership into one lesson.
Lesson 1: Defining a Leader
- A leader is...
- I like it when leaders...
- One day, I would love to lead...
Before they leave, class completes a ticket out. I have included my ticket out page for you here! Students can choose to write: I learned, I think, or I wonder.
Lesson Two: Non-violent Action
The nonviolent approach does not immediately change the heart of the oppressor. It first does something to the hearts and souls of those committed to it. It gives them self respect; it calls up resources of strength and courage that they did not think they had. Finally, it reaches the opponent and so stirs his conscience that reconciliation becomes a reality.
Martin Luther King
Lesson Three: A History of Perseverance
You can re-create these lessons on your own or find everything together for you on Teachers Pay Teachers. Do you teach leadership with your little ones? What are some of your go-to activities?