The Hero Is in You

Grades: 
6, 7, 8
Keywords & Concepts: 

Learners listen to the lyrics of the song "Hero" by Mariah Carey. They explore the feelings and actions that go along with being a hero.

Duration 
PrintOne 20-minute lesson
Objectives 

The Learner will:

  • identify examples of courage in the song "Hero" by Mariah Carey.
Materials 
  • video of Mariah Carey singing "Hero" 
  • printout of lyrics of "Hero" 

Instructions

Print
  1. Anticipatory Set

    Play the song "Hero" and give copies of the lyrics by Mariah Carey and have learners listen to and identify the lyrics that relate to courage.

  2. They are to highlight, circle or underline words or phrases in the song that define or describe courage.

  3. Discuss the essential traits of a hero and discuss whether young people can be heroes or be brave.

  4. Jackie Robinson was a hero because he had the courage to stand up for what he knew was right. The issue was so important to him that he persevered [stuck with it] through his fears and humiliations, and he changed the future of baseball.

  5. Have the learners pair up to discuss and identify other character traits and actions that heroes exhibit. Share these with the whole group.

Philanthropy Framework

  1. Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
    1. Standard PCS 01. Self, citizenship, and society
      1. Benchmark MS.4 Describe the characteristics of someone who helps others.
    2. Standard PCS 02. Diverse Cultures
      1. Benchmark MS.2 Describe the importance of hearing all voices in a community and respecting their right to be heard.
      2. Benchmark MS.3 Give an example of how philanthropy can transcend cultures.
  2. Strand PHIL.III Philanthropy and the Individual
    1. Standard PI 01. Reasons for Individual Philanthropy
      1. Benchmark MS.3 Identify and give examples of stewardship in cultural traditions around the world.
      2. Benchmark MS.4 Identify and describe the actions of how citizens act for the common good.
      3. Benchmark MS.5 Describe the responsibility students have to act in the civil society sector to improve the common good.

Discussion