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Today's Objective: To cultivate the positive character trait of perseverance.

Essential Questions/Topic Starters: In the childrens' book, The Little Engine that Could, the little engine said, "I think I Can, I think I Can." Why do you think the engine kept trying even though the task was difficult?

Class Format: Journalizing, Whole-group discussion

Time Allotment: One 15-Minute Session

Today's Activities:
  • 1 minute
    • Define Perseverance (and write or display definition on the board). Definition: The quality of trying hard and continuously in spite of obstacles and difficulties.
  • 2 minutes
    • Discuss the Essential Question: In the childrens' book, The Little Engine that Could, why do you think the engine kept trying even though the task was difficult?
  • 5 minutes - Journalize
  • Remaining Session
    • Whole-group Discussion: Discuss student goals and the importance of perseverance.
    • Identify and discuss people who have persevered in life.
  • Homework: Continue to work hard and persevere toward the goal even when obstacles and difficulites arise.

Key Terms: Perseverance, Determination, Constancy, Patience
Quote: "It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer." - Albert Einstein, Theoretical Physicist and Scientist

Resources: Martin J. Marrazo, Quotations by ThinkExist

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