Ishmael Beah was forced to become a child soldier in Sierra Leone. He wrote about his experience in his memoir, A Long Way Gone. Today he is a human rights activist. This lesson plan can be used after reading A Long Way Gone or independently to learn about the issue of children being forced to become child soldiers.
Students read the stories and watch the film below before considering the discussion questions.
Read this story by a high school student about her hero Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone.
Students read these stories and watch the film about Mohamed Sidibay, former child soldier in Sierra Leone, now a Human Rights Activist.
Global education activist and former child soldier Mohamed Sidibay has dedicated his life to education for all.
Mohamed Sidibay's Journey
Youth media activist Mohamed Sidibay discusses his transition from a child soldier to a peace activist.
Discussion Questions and Activities
1. Both Ishmael Beah and Mohamed Sidibay were forced to become child soldiers during the civil war in Sierra Leone. What were the causes of this war?
2. There are places today where children are still forced to become soldiers. Research this issue. Who is working to help? Share the story with MY HERO.
3. Both Ishmael and Mohamed are human rights activists. Who is a human rights activist you admire? Share his or her story with MY HERO.
4. What is a cause you believe in? What can you do? Create an action plan, get others involved and share the story of your efforts with MY HERO.
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This lesson plan was created by MY HERO Teacher and Learning Circle Director Laura Nietzer. |
Learn about a New Hero Every Day of the Year: Use the MY HERO Calendar in the Classroom
Students can share their Hero Essays, Films and Art through our Create Program
Outstanding essays submitted to MY HERO will be considered for a certificate/t-shirt prize or be featured on the Story Homepage.
Submit your artwork to be entered in the MY HERO art contest or to be exhibited on our Gallery Homepage.
Students can submit their films for free with a waiver to the MY HERO International Film Festival.
Organizer created on 10/22/2019 10:39:15 AM by Laura Nietzer
Last edited 11/16/2019 11:37:33 PM by Shannon Luders-Manuel
