Benjamin Franklin's Virtues
Student Handout Grade 6 Social Studies Learning About Character Through History
Reading Passage: Benjamin Franklin - A Life of Virtues
Benjamin Franklin was born in 1706 and grew up in a large family where hard work was essential. From a young age, he showed great diligence by teaching himself to read and write and working as an apprentice in a printing shop. Franklin's humility was seen in how he always sought advice and was willing to learn from others. Throughout his life, Franklin showed wisdom in his scientific inventions and community service. He organized libraries, volunteer fire departments, and schools, believing that serving others was a Christian duty. Franklin's life teaches us that success comes from careful work, a humble heart, and wise choices guided by faith.
Vocabulary: Franklin's Three Virtues
DILIGENCE: Working hard and not giving up HUMILITY: Being modest and willing to learn from others WISDOM: Making good choices and helping your community Write each definition in your own words below: Diligence means: _______________ Humility means: _______________ Wisdom means: _______________
Guided Questions - Use the Reading Passage to Help!
1. Name three virtues Benjamin Franklin showed: Answer: _______________ 2. How did diligence help Franklin achieve his goals? Answer: _______________ 3. Why is humility important? How did Franklin show humility? Answer: _______________ 4. How did Franklin show wisdom in his community service? Answer: _______________
Worksheet Activity: Match Franklin's Achievements
Part 1: Fill in the blanks with the correct virtue (Diligence, Humility, Wisdom) 1. Benjamin Franklin worked hard every day. This shows _______________ 2. He listened to others and never acted proudly. This shows _______________ 3. He made wise choices in science and community service. This shows _______________ Part 2: Match the virtue to the achievement: • Invented the lightning rod → _______________ • Created public libraries → _______________ • Learned many skills by practicing daily → _______________
Personal Application: How Can You Show These Virtues?
Think about your own life at home and school: How can you show DILIGENCE this week? Example: Finishing homework without being reminded Write your idea: _______________ How can you show HUMILITY this week? Example: Asking for help when you don't understand Write your idea: _______________ How can you show WISDOM this week? Example: Making good choices about friends Write your idea: _______________
Bible Verse Reflection
Copy this verse carefully: 'Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.' - Colossians 3:23 What does this verse mean to you? Write your thoughts: _______________ _______________ _______________ How does this verse connect to Benjamin Franklin's life? Write your answer: _______________