OOPA’s World of Words: COURAGE 

How can we show COURAGE?

COURAGE Teaching Guide 

In this civics lesson, students will visit OOPA’s Wordshop to connect with the word COURAGE. They will watch a short video that introduces this civic character trait through conversation and movement. Then, students will create a ladder craft that represents how they show COURAGE.

Learning Objectives 

Students will be able to: 

• Identify places or situations where they observed or showed COURAGE
• Explain ways to show COURAGE
• Create and share a ladder craft that represents COURAGE in places and situations

Materials 

• COURAGE video 

• Chart paper and markers
• Wallet-sized photos of each student in a climbing pose
• Writing and drawing supplies, craft sticks, construction paper, and glue
• Optional: journal or shoebox

Accommodations and Modifications 

Prepare the learning space to allow room for movement. Students can stand or sit while connecting to the word COURAGE in the movement segment. Use assistive art tools for the ladder craft and provide ample time for student reflection.

Before the Video 

What do you know about COURAGE? Allow students time to reflect and respond to the question or have a “turn and talk.”

During the Video 

Play the COURAGE video from OOPA’S World of Words. If needed, pause the video after the conversation in the Wordshop segment [3:05] to prepare students for movement.

After the Video 

What does the word COURAGE make you think about? How does the word COURAGE make your body move? Allow students to reflect and respond to the question or have a “turn and talk.”

Whole Group Movement 

Write the word “COURAGE” on chart paper or the board. Create a two-column visual, with the left side titled “I show COURAGE when…” and the right side titled “Movement.” Create a class list of 10 ways students show courage, then brainstorm a movement/gesture to pair with each. Encourage students to be specific and dig deep into their responses— “learning something new” vs “learning” or “standing up for others” vs “being brave.” Use those responses to generate movement ideas. For example, learning something new/alternating small and big leaps, standing up for others/rising from a crouched or seated position with confident posture. Be playful and have fun with the movements! When the list is done, lead students through the movements. Each day, select a different student to review the list and guide the class in a group movement activity.

Going Deeper with the Arts  

Advance preparation: Take photos of each student from the back view while they pose as if they are climbing (e.g., arms reaching up, one leg lifted). Print the photos in wallet-size, then cut out the silhouettes of each student, focusing on the outline of their climbing pose.

Ask the essential question: How can we show COURAGE? Distribute paper with writing and drawing supplies. Have students draw a simple landscape scene on the paper. This should include elements like the ground, trees or mountains, and a sky. At the top of the paper, students should either draw or write about something they are reaching for—a personal goal or dream. Encourage them to choose a goal that requires COURAGE. Hand out craft sticks and glue. Explain that they will build a ladder on their paper using the craft sticks. (Tip: Pre-cut some sticks into thirds to use as ladder rungs.). Once their ladder is assembled and attached to the paper, they’ll glue their photo silhouette climbing up the ladder. Have students showcase their work. Ask: How can a ladder symbolize facing fears and finding COURAGE?

Extend the Learning 

CIVICS Journal or Mailbox 

Create a class CIVICS journal or mailbox where students, teachers, and staff can document acts of COURAGE, FREEDOM, GRATITUDE, JUSTICE and SERVICE that they witness throughout the school year. Establishing a routine to celebrate and recognize these acts fosters a positive school community, strengthens relationships and enhances well-being.

Say Hi to OOPA

OOPA loves to receive and respond to letters. Use this Write to OOPA Template or send your own letter and drawing to:  OOPA, PO Box 467, Pipersville, PA 18947

Head back to the main page to view the other videos in the series!