Two Politicians: Lesson plan

STORY OVERVIEW

Title and moral/theme: Two Politicians; The moral is that true fulfillment in public service may come from selflessness rather than seeking external validation or rewards.
Plot Summary: Two politicians engage in a conversation about the rewards of public service. One seeks the gratitude of citizens, while the other cynically notes that such gratitude requires leaving politics. They share a moment of understanding and ultimately choose to be content with their roles, despite the lack of recognition.
Key Characters and their significance:
- First Politician: Represents idealism and a genuine desire to serve the public.
- Second Politician: Symbolizes realism and the disillusionment that can come from political life.

Learning Objectives:
- Students will understand the importance of selflessness in public service.
- Students will analyze the motivations of the characters in the story.
- Students will reflect on personal values related to service and recognition.
- Students will discuss the implications of seeking external validation versus internal fulfillment.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think motivates each politician in their approach to public service?
- How do societal expectations shape our views on success and fulfillment?
- Can true service exist without the desire for recognition? Why or why not?
Required Materials:
- Copies of the story "Two Politicians"
- Whiteboard and markers
- Sticky notes and pens for reflections

Opening Hook (5 min): Begin with a brief discussion on what students think motivates people in positions of power. Ask students to share examples of public figures who seem to serve for the greater good versus those who seek personal gain.
Story Exploration (15-20 min): Read the story "Two Politicians" aloud. After reading, ask students to summarize the main points and identify key themes. Encourage students to share their immediate reactions.
Analysis Exercises (15 min): Divide students into small groups. Assign each group to discuss one of the main characters and their motivations. Have them prepare a short presentation on their character’s perspective and what that perspective reveals about public service.
Application/Reflection (10 min): Have students write a brief reflection on a time when they acted selflessly or sought recognition. What did they learn from that experience? Encourage sharing in pairs.
Assessment Strategy (5 min): Conclude with a whole-class discussion, allowing students to share insights from their reflections. Use this as formative assessment to gauge understanding of the moral lessons.

Extension Activities:
- Write a creative moral story inspired by "Two Politicians," focusing on a different public service scenario.
- Research real-life public servants who embody the story's moral and present findings to the class.
Differentiation Strategi

Original text available on the story page.