Students construct meaning of the concept of responsibility through personal and shared discussion. Students investigate the benefits/consequences of taking responsbility and not taking responsibility. Students examine the consequences of Abraham Lincoln's responsible decisions. The introduction of the concept of common good adds a dimension to the benefit/consequences of taking responsibility. Students gain insight into differing perspectives by examining a scenarios and engaging in a debate about the benefits/consequences of taking or avoiding responsibility. Through writing, students share their insights into taking responsibility with the resulting benefits or consequences.

Focus Question: What role does responsibility play in relationships and life success? How can developing responsibility equip people as world citizens who contribute to the common good?

The learner will:

• describe responsibility from a personal perspective.
• share descriptions with others to seek common ideas.
• write a definition of responsibility through a group process.
• construct ideas about benefits/consequences of being responsible and not being responsible.
• evaluate risks with each.
• read a passage about Abraham Lincoln.
• analyze the responsibility demonstrated.
• reflect on the consequences of his decisions and actions. analyze a situation dealing with responsibility.
• examine a situation from a point of view.
• present arguments from one point of view.
• reflect on benefit/consequences of taking responsibility.
• reflect in writing in response to a quote.
• reflect on past, present, or future opportunities for taking responsibility.

• In lesson 4, please note the Extension suggested.  Please read lesson 4 in advance and carefully consider the merits/benefits of extending this activity.
• It is recommended that learners keep a journal to record their learning and reflections about the character traits studied.