Learning about Courage

Lesson Overview

Curriculum Area: History
Level: Key Stage 1
Age Group: Year 2 (6-7 years old)
Lesson Duration: 45 minutes
Focus: Rosa Parks and her role in history

Learning Objectives

• To introduce students to the life and impact of Rosa Parks.
• To help students understand the concept of bravery and standing up for what is right.
• To discuss the significance of fairness and respect for all individuals.

Materials

• A picture book about Rosa Parks ("Rosa Parks" by Lisbeth Kaiser or similar)
• A short animated video of Rosa Parks’ story (ensure no hyperlinks or specific platforms, just a reminder to source an age-appropriate version)
• Chart paper and markers
• A large floor mat or space for circle time
• Printable handout depicting a bus with a dividing line

Lesson Outline

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Circle Time: Gather the students in a circle on the mat. Begin with a simple question to gauge prior knowledge: "Has anyone heard of Rosa Parks?" Use their responses to invoke curiosity.

2. Read Aloud: Show the picture book cover and tell the students a bit about Rosa Parks. Read the story, pausing to show illustrations and describe emotions or key actions.

Main Activity (25 minutes)

1. Discuss: After reading, discuss the story briefly. Highlight Rosa's courage and why she chose to remain seated. Questions to consider:

   • "How do you think Rosa felt on the bus?"
   • "What does it mean to be brave?"

2. Short Video: Watch the animated video together. Remind students to pay attention to how Rosa Parks' actions helped change the world.

3. Activity - Bus Scene Role Play:

   • Divide the class into small groups. Each group is given a bus handout.
   • Ask them to place passengers (using crayons or marker) on either side of the bus line, imagining an unfair rule.
   • Encourage them to re-arrange the passengers to create a fair seating arrangement.
   • Have each group display their "fair bus" and explain their choices. Prompt them to use words like "fair", "brave", and "equal".

Conclusion (10 minutes)

1. Reflect: Return to the mat for a reflective circle time. Ask students, "What is one thing you learned about Rosa Parks today?"

2. Create a Courage Board:

   • On chart paper, write the heading "Ways to Be Brave."
   • Each student can share one act of bravery or kindness they commit to in their daily life and add it to the board.

3. Closing Statement: Remind students that small acts of bravery, like Rosa Parks', can make a big difference.

Differentiation

• For Advanced Learners: Encourage them to draw pictures or write sentences about other scenarios where they could act bravely.
• For Learners Needing Support: Pair them with a classmate during the bus activity to ensure comprehension and participation.

Assessment

• Monitor student participation during discussions and activities for engagement and understanding.
• Review their explanations and ideas on the courage board, acknowledging their grasp of the concepts.

This lesson leverages storytelling, discussion, visualization, and creative reflection to introduce young students to Rosa Parks and the value of courage in a way that's engaging, age-appropriate, and educational. It aligns with the KS1 History Curriculum in exploring the lives of significant individuals who contributed to national and international achievements.