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Lesson plan

The Man of Principle

Grades
9+
Time
50 min
Reading level
4
PDFPrint the worksheetRead the story

Lesson flow

5 min

Opening Hook

Start with a brief discussion about principles. Ask students to share a principle they believe in strongly and a time it might have caused a problem for them.

15–20 min

Story Exploration

Read the story aloud to the class. Pause at key moments to elicit predictions and reactions. Discuss the main events and characters.

15 min

Analysis Exercises

In small groups, have students analyze the Man of Principle's decisions. Ask them to create a pros and cons list regarding his adherence to principles and discuss their findings with the class.

10 min

Application/Reflection

Have students write a short paragraph about a personal experience where sticking to their principles led to a challenging situation. Encourage them to reflect on what they could have done differently.

5 min

Assessment Strategy

Conduct a quick quiz with true/false statements about the story and its moral, or ask students to share their reflections in a brief oral presentation.

STORY OVERVIEW

  • Title and moral/theme: The Man of Principle; Moral: Adhering rigidly to one's principles can lead to impractical and dangerous situations.
  • Plot Summary: In a rainstorm, a man insists on remaining under an ostrich for shelter, despite being warned that the bird could be dangerous. His stubbornness leads him to ignore practical advice, illustrating the folly of being overly principled.
  • Key Characters and their significance:
    • The Man of Principle: Represents the dangers of inflexibility and stubbornness.
    • The Keeper of the Zoo: Serves as a voice of reason, highlighting practical solutions to problems.

LESSON FUNDAMENTALS

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Students will understand the moral implications of rigid adherence to principles.
    • Students will identify the consequences of impractical decision-making.
    • Students will analyze character motivations and their outcomes.
    • Students will relate the story to contemporary situations where principles may conflict with practicality.
  • Discussion Questions:
    1. What do you think the Man of Principle could have done differently?
    2. How does the Keeper’s advice reflect common sense, and why do you think the Man of Principle disregarded it?
    3. Can you think of a time when sticking to your principles led to a negative outcome?
  • Required Materials:
    • Copies of the story "The Man of Principle"
    • Whiteboard and markers
    • Paper and writing utensils for student reflections

SUPPORTING ELEMENTS

  • Extension Activities:
    1. Write an alternate ending for the story where the Man of Principle makes a different choice.
    2. Research and present examples of historical figures known for their principles and the consequences of their actions.
  • Differentiation Strategies:

Answer key

1 E, 2 F, 3 A, 4 B, 5 C, 6 D