Lesson · Elementary (BRI Jr)
(K-3) Social Studies Mini Lesson – Benjamin Franklin’s Own Words
Guiding question
What are civic virtues?
Founding Principles
Virtues
About this lesson
How this lesson flows
Every stage is laid out below, so you can see the whole lesson at a glance. Nothing is hidden.
Guiding questions
- What are civic virtues?
- How did Benjamin Franklin practice civic virtues to improve himself and his community?
Objective
- Students will understand that we can learn about historical figures by reading their own words and thinking about what they mean.
Lesson components
Everything you need, in the version that fits your class.
ActivityK–1Mini-Book Option A – Franklin’s Fantastic Civic VirtuesMini-Book. Early Readers, Virtue, Benjamin Franklin. This K-1 mini-book introduces Benjamin Franklin and civic virtue using simple sentences, supportive illustrations, and predictable text patterns. Students practice early literacy skills and learn how Franklin's daily habits connect to contributing to one's community.
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Activity2–3Printable Mini-Book Option B – Franklin’s Fantastic Civic VirtuesMini-Book. Grades 2-3, Franklin, Virtue, Character. Use this version if you are printing mini-books for student use. This mini-book helps growing readers explore Benjamin Franklin's civic virtues with richer vocabulary and historical detail. Students see how Franklin's habits and choices strengthened his community.
Open
Activity2–3Digital Mini-Book Option B – Franklin’s Fantastic Civic VirtuesMini-Book. Grades 2-3, Franklin, Virtue, Character. This mini-book helps growing readers explore Benjamin Franklin's civic virtues with richer vocabulary and historical detail. Students see how Franklin's habits and choices strengthened his community.
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ActivityK–3Civic Virtue Songs Lyric SheetsSong Lyrics and MP3 Audio Files. Vocabulary, Movement. Two classroom-ready songs that introduce civic virtue and vocabulary. Each song uses simple movements, so students remember key ideas through actions and fun repetition.
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ActivityK–1Group Assessment Option 1 – Franklin’s Fantastic Civic VirtuesAssessment. K-1, Virtue and Benjamin Franklin. A whole-group assessment using visuals and teacher read-aloud to help teachers quickly check students' understanding of Franklin's virtues.
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Activity2–3Group Assessment Option 2 – Franklin’s Fantastic Civic VirtuesAssessment. Grades 2-3, Virtue and Benjamin Franklin. A short 10-question quiz that measures students' understanding of Franklin's civic virtues. Teachers can get a clearer picture of students' historical comprehension and vocabulary.
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Student Materials
Two versions of the mini-book are available based on the lexile level of your learners. Option A features clear, simple sentences, large easy‑to-read print, and a dedicated reflective writing page. With fewer total pages, it’s an ideal choice for younger learners or those who benefit from a streamlined, accessible format. Option B features more complex sentence structures and a longer page format. Skills boxes appear throughout to reinforce key literacy concepts including phonic spelling patterns (sounds), Fluency and Vocabulary practice words, and targeted phonemic awareness skills. This option offers a more robust challenge for developing readers who are ready for increased rigor.
- Franklin’s Fantastic Civic Virtues Mini-book
- Two versions of the mini-book are available based on the lexile level of your learners.
- Option A (K-1)
- To create: Print single-sided, staple on left side where indicated, then cut on the dotted line to create books.
- Print-Ready Option B (2-3)
- Print double-sided, along short edge. Fold along center line and staple to create a book.
- Digital Option B (2-3) – meant to be accessed via a device
- Option A (K-1)
- Two versions of the mini-book are available based on the lexile level of your learners.
- Group Assessment
- Two options of the assessment are available to choose from based on the needs of your learners.
- Paper and Crayons (optional for reflection)
Teacher Materials
The lesson, step by step
Open each stage as you teach it, or expand them all to read straight through.
Standards
Related for little learners
How did Benjamin Franklin’s develop and practice virtue? Help students identify ways they can make being virtuous a habit.