Role Models: Unit Overview

Role models inspire us and set examples for us to follow.  In this unit, I draw on picture book biographies to introduce students to key individuals who may not be featured in the homeroom lessons.  I tried to balance the lessons in terms of gender (two female, three male), nationality (French, Kenyan, U.S.A twice, UK), and areas of expertise.  However, I do focus heavily on the sciences and entertainment/the arts.  Introduce your students to Jacques Cousteau, Wangari Maathai, Walt Disney, Wynton Marsalis, and Jane Goodall and watch their worlds expand.  Hopefully they will be inspired to continue exploring biographies and learning more about people who have shaped our world.  This unit makes a fine start!