F R E D G A M B L E J R . D E V E LO P I N G C H A RAC T E R T H R O U G H T H E

C U R R I C U LU M

FOSTERING CIVIC VIRTUE: CHARACTER EDUCATION IN THE SOCIAL STUDIES

BRAVE AND COURAGEOUS

OBJECTIVE

The student will be able to interpret the meaning of respect and integrate that understanding by viewing a video on “The Little Rock Nine” and respond to questions and a writing prompt.

INDICATORS • Definition of respect • Definition of disrespect • Interpret the history of the Little Rock Nine • Respond to specific questions about the video • Respond to a writing prompt to ensure proficiency on the

character education topic and historical connotations

CHARACTER EDUCATION IN SOCIAL STUDIES

"The United States has been called the world's first new nation: the first nation to be founded not on bloodlines or kinship, but on a shared commitment to fundamental principles and ideals. Although, at times, these ideals have not been fully realized, the history of America may be seen as the ongoing extension of the guiding principles of our democracy more justly and completely to all citizens. The framers of the Constitution understood well that advancing the ideal of "liberty and justice for all" requires a virtuous citizenry. When a people no longer relies upon bloodlines, a state religion, or autocratic rulers to ensure social cohesion, other sources must be found. In our society the principles of constitutional democracy protect and promote our individual rights and bind us together as a people" (National Council for the Social Studies, 2012).

WHAT ARE SOME WORDS THAT DESCRIBE RESPECT?

Adoration Appreciation Courtesy Recognition Reverence

WHAT ARE SOME WORDS THAT DESCRIBE DISRESPECT?

Disregard Discourteous Insult Mockery Overlook Push Aside

THE VIRTUE OF RESPECT AND THE LITTLE ROCK NINE

ON YOUR WRITER’S PAPER, ADDRESS THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS

What issues did the Little Rock Nine face during their first school year at Central High School?

Why was it important for the National Guard to escort these students during the day?

How do you think these young people felt dealing with opposition from the students and the community?

Why did these students face this type of attitudes from their other classmates?

What would you have done in this situation? Think from the perspective of the Little Rock Nine and from the perspective of the students and the community.

PERSONAL RESPONSE ESSAY

On your writer’s paper, think of the young people who were dubbed “The Little Rock Nine” by the media and the people of the community. What do you think some of their thoughts were as they were attempting to integrate Central High School? What character traits do you feel they exemplify? At the end of the year, how do you think their classmates and the community viewed them? Use details from the video and your prior knowledge to support your answer.

HARD WORK AND DEDICATION

OUR HEROES

REFERENCES

Higgins, S. (Creator) klhiggi1967 (Poster) (2007, July 28). Little

Rock Nine History Project Documentary [Video] Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iH4Zx96xbY

National Council for the Social Studies (2012). Retrieved January 12, 2012 from http://www.ncss.org/positions/character