Lesson 1: Researching the Meaning

• Create or review classroom rules that will guide behavior during discussions related to character traits.

• Identify six essential character traits needed for the well being of individuals and society.
• Compare the character traits addressed in the unit with the core democratic values.
• Develop a plan to research the meaning of the six character traits.
• Survey peers and adults to investigate the meaning of the character traits and the behaviors that demonstrate the traits.

Lesson 2: Planning to Share Our Discoveries

• Summarize their research findings on how the character traits are demonstrated and how the traits impact individuals and society.

• Create a five-minute presentation to communicate research findings on the character traits.

Lesson 3: What Do We Mean By...- Part 1

• Communicate their research findings on the character traits.

• Describe behavioral examples of the character traits.
• Analyze the impact on individuals, the school community, and society when these character traits are demonstrated.
• Assess how well they think they demonstrate the character traits.

Lesson 4: What Do We Mean By... - Part 2

• Communicate their research findings on the character traits.

• Describe behavioral examples of the character traits.
• Analyze the impact of the individuals, the school community, and society when these character traits are demonstrated.
• Assess how well they think they demonstrate the character traits.

Lesson 5: Courage - Part 1

• Recognize that it often takes courage to demonstrate the six character traits.

• Evaluate behaviors to determine if they are examples of the six character traits.

Lesson 6: Courage - Part 2

• Evaluate behaviors to determine if they are examples of the six character traits.

• Identify situations where courage is necessary in order to demonstrate the six character traits.
• Analyze what it takes to be courageous.
• Practice communication skills needed to act courageously. (Optional)

Lesson 7: Uncovering the Character in Our School - Part 1

• Review research that investigates the impact of a positive school community on students.

• Assess ways students and staff demonstrate the six character traits.
• Identify school groups and organizations that promote the six character traits.

Lesson 8: Uncovering the Character in Our School - Part 2

• Select one or two character traits to improve within the school community.

• Create plans for gathering additional information on what might be done to increase the demonstration of the selected traits.

Lesson 9: Assessing the Character in Our School

• Compile the data regarding which of the character traits students, staff, and school organizations believe should be encouraged to improve the school community.

• Assess what could be done to maintain or improve the demonstration of the character traits in the school.
• Develop optional ways to increase the demonstration of the selected traits.

Lesson 10: Building on the Character in Our School

• Develop plans to increase the demonstration of the selected traits and improve the school community.

• Assess their personal behavior and how they demonstrate the six character traits.
• Develop a personal plan for maintaining or improving their demonstration of the character traits.