A guide for using our resources

Students will analyze the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and examine what it means to be great.

Vocabulary: interrupt, peaceful, welcome, empathy

Social Studies Focus: heroes

CCSS (and states that have similar standards): RI.1.1 RI.1.1 key details; RI.1.4 vocabulary; RI.1.5 nonfi ction text features; RI.1.7 use visuals; RI.1.10 informational text; SL.1 participate in conversations

Simple, spectacular ideas to boost your lessons.

• This picture book uses quotes that shaped Dr. King’s life and quotes from his most memorable speeches to paint a picture of his legacy.

• Work together to find and circle each question mark in the issue.
• Then tell students: there are two exclamation marks in the issue. Can they find them both?

• Remind students that one way to be great is by being peaceful. Ask students to think about ways they calm down. Make a class list.
• As a class, practice a few ways to calm down: take deep breaths, count to 10, drink a glass of water, or anything else on their list!

Skills: writing, social awareness

Materials: I Can Be Great Banner skills sheet, crayons, scissors, hole puncher, yarn or string

• Students consider how they can be a great part of the class with this community-building activity!
• Give each child a copy of the skill sheet to fill out. Students can write about how to be great, draw a picture of themselves, and cut out the banner.
• Punch two holes in each banner and allow students to string their banner through a long piece of yarn.
• When everyone has added their banner, hang it up for everyone to see what makes your class great!