Lesson flow
5 min
Opening Hook
Begin with a brief discussion about ambition. Ask students if they have ever wanted something but were afraid to ask for it. Share a personal story that relates to ambition to engage the class.
15–20 min
Story Exploration
Read "An Inflated Ambition" aloud to the class. Pause at key moments to ask students what they think will happen next and how they feel about the characters’ actions.
15 min
Analysis Exercises
Divide students into small groups to discuss the key characters and the story's moral. Have them list examples of ambition from their own lives or from other stories. Regroup and share findings.
10 min
Application/Reflection
Ask students to write a short paragraph about a time they had an ambition or a desire and how they went about asking for it. Encourage them to reflect on the outcomes.
STORY OVERVIEW
- Title and moral/theme: An Inflated Ambition - The moral of the story is that ambition and aspirations can lead to unexpected opportunities and expansive possibilities if one is willing to ask for what they truly desire.
- Plot Summary: In this engaging tale, the President of a great Corporation visits a dry-goods shop and notices a sign that encourages customers to ask for what they want if they don't see it. Motivated by this message, he takes a chance and asks the shopkeeper for what he desires, leading to unforeseen opportunities and a broader perspective on ambition.
- Key Characters and their significance:
- The President: Represents ambition and the power of asking for what one wants.
- The Shopkeeper: Symbolizes wisdom and the importance of guidance in achieving aspirations.
- The Salesman (John): Acts as a facilitator of possibilities, showing how others can help in realizing ambitions.
LESSON FUNDAMENTALS
- Learning Objectives:
- Students will understand the moral lesson regarding ambition and the importance of asking for what they desire.
- Students will identify key characters and their roles in the story.
- Students will analyze the impact of the shopkeeper's advice on the President's journey.
- Students will connect the story to their own experiences of ambition and seeking opportunities.
- Students will develop critical thinking skills through discussion and reflection on the story's themes.
- Discussion Questions:
- What does the sign "If You Don't See What You Want, Ask For It" represent in our lives?
- How did the President's decision to ask change his situation?
- Can you think of a time when asking for something led to a positive outcome in your life?
- Required Materials:
- A copy of "An Inflated Ambition"
- Whiteboard and markers
- Paper and pencils for student reflections