Activities
What is "Courage"?
Give students a few minutes to reflect upon and define for themselves the meaning of the word 'courage.'
Have students share and discuss their various definitions of courage. Ask students to distinguish between differing types of courage i.e. physical, and political courage.
Discuss with them the following questions:
Is courage a desired trait for our elected leaders to possess? Why or why not?
Is there a lack of political courage among our elected leaders today?
Has the definition of political courage changed over time?
Have the students present their 'finished' definition of political courage to the class.
2. Past/or Present Profiles in Courage
Have students find an example of courage from the past or the present.
How were/are this individual's actions/decisions courageous?
What obstacles, dangers, or pressures did/do this individual encounter?
Do you believe this individual's course of action best served/serve the larger public interest? Why or why not?
Does this individual exemplify political courage in your opinion?
3. Create a Presentation
Present your past or present "Profile in Courage" on a poster or powerpoint presentation or video clip.