​Materials & Teacher Preparation
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In this download center you can access, download or print copies of handouts, activities, and discussion-related materials you will need to make this lesson a success. We recommend the following class preparation.
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Equipment
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Computer with Internet access for teacher
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Computers with Internet access for students (if you are teaching this lesson using online versions of materials)
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Computer projector
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Speakers
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Whiteboard
Teacher Preparation
Follow the instructions below before starting this lesson.
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If teaching this lesson using print materials, make the appropriate number of copies of all student materials. (Quantities listed below.) If running the gallery walk activity on Day One as a physical gallery walk, make one copy of Stations 1–5 and arrange the classroom so that there are five “stations” placed as far apart as possible in the classroom. Place one Station description at each station.
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Set up and test computer, projector, speakers, and the videos (available online) before starting the lesson. Confirm that you are able to play and project the video with adequate audio volume.
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If you are teaching this lesson using online versions of materials, ensure that computers are available for in-class student use.
Students explore the meaning of leadership and attempt to characterize it by reflecting on personal experiences of effective leadership. They then learn about five theories of leadership, assess the strengths and weaknesses of each, and consider the extent to which these theories resonate with their own experiences.
Materials
Day One
Materials
ACTIVITY
Students define leadership themselves and discuss a provided definition.
Teacher Information
ACTIVITY
Have students reexamine their notions about leadership in light of five main theories of leadership.
Materials
ACTIVITY
Students review the five theories of leadership as a group and then reflect on them together.
Students turn their attention to practical, contextual leadership. They watch short videos of U.S. Presidents, members of Congress, and fellow students reflecting on the real-world practice of leadership in different contexts. Finally, students consider the leadership characteristics they would like to embody and how best to foster those characteristics within themselves and others.
Materials
Day Two
WATCH
Students hear from Members of Congress about their views on leadership.
Materials
ASSIGNMENT
Students compose a final reflection on leaders they know and their own leadership experiences.
WATCH
In this video young Americans talk about leadership.
Materials
ACTIVITY
Have students reflect on the role and value of effective leadership in government and society at large in the United States.
WATCH
Former U.S. Presidents discuss what leadership qualities they find most important.
Use these extension activities to extend the lesson and reinforce understanding.
Materials
Extension Activies
ACTIVITY
Engage students in a debate about the role leaders play in shaping history.
Materials
ASSIGNMENT
Have students consider which theory of leadership most resonates with them.
