Incorporating the Language of the Virtues
Incorporating the Language of the Virtues
Gabe Norton
Making deliberate use of the language of the virtues helps students understand and acquire them.
Just like I had to sneak vegetables into my kids food when they were little, I slip virtue lessons into their school work.
- History: “The founding fathers had fortitude.”
- Math: “I know fractional percents are hard for you, but your perseverance is humbling.”
- Science: “Thomas Edison was industrious.”
So I use virtue vocabulary; teaching what they mean and prompting discussion about who else we have learned about that has these qualities and how we can foster them in ourselves. I try to always encourage and compliment them using virtues. I also use virtues when I correct them. The Education in Virtue educators guide has been a magnificent resource for me.