Leaders Changing Minds Lesson Plan

In the VotesforSchools lesson plan tailored for Primary 5-7 students, the central question posed is whether it's acceptable for leaders to change their minds. The lesson aims to foster critical thinking and discussion among young learners about the qualities that define good leadership and the complexities involved in decision-making processes. The lesson begins with a brief review of the previous week's topic results, engaging the whole class in reflecting on past discussions.

The session progresses with a starter activity where students collaborate to brainstorm characteristics and words associated with leaders. This activity sets the stage for the week's VoteTopic, encouraging students to consider leaders in their own lives and the importance of adaptability in leadership. Subsequently, through pair work, students are prompted to step into the shoes of a Class Leader and evaluate scenarios where their decisions might be contested, discussing whether they would stand firm or reconsider their stance. The whole class then examines various perspectives on a leader's right to change their mind, using a simple thumbs up or down voting system to express agreement or disagreement and to articulate their reasoning. Finally, after individual or paired reflection on the core question of the lesson, students engage in a democratic vote to conclude the session, weighing the arguments for and against leaders changing their minds.