CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name of Lesson: Affective Lesson # 3: Mission Statements

Topic: Examining Mission Statements and Writing Your Own

Gifted Standard and element(s):

G4AG1 & G5AG1: Students will reflect upon their abilities.

a. Recognize and develop areas of strength in self.

b. Recognize and develop areas of weakness in self.

G4AG2 & G5AG2: Students will be respectful members of their communities.

b. Recognize the value of individual differences.

d. Recognize the strengths of others.

Unit Essential Question(s):

How can establishing who I want to be help me identify and realize personal dreams and

goals that will enrich my future and increase the impact I have on the world around me?

What tools and skills can I develop and implement to help make my dreams, goals, and

visions of the future a reality?

Lesson Questions: How can recognizing the strength of others help me to find my own strengths?

How can examining the life of an individual allow us to deduce his or her core purpose and

values?

What does an effective mission statement look like? What does it need to contain?

What is my own personal mission statement?

Lesson Summary: Students will explore what an effective mission statement is by creating one for

a famous person, and by analyzing sample mission statements. Then, they will transfer this

knowledge in creating their own personal mission statements.

Assessment Description/Performance Task:

Constructed response Informal assessment

Performance task Selected response

Brief Description of Assessment: Students will write a personal mission statement.

Instructional Methods:

Lesson Overview:

Hook: “I Was Here” video

Analysis of Mission Statements

Creating Mission Statements for people who contributed to society

Begin Personal Mission Statements

*Teacher Notes: This lesson is part 2 of a 2 part lesson on writing a mission statement. Today,

the focus should be on the process of writing a mission statement. Don’t forget, the video you

watched last week focused on two ideas: 1) 80th birthday where friends and family are

reminiscing about the positive impact of the man 2) Covey talking about the importance of

having a mission statement and how to write one. You need to recall the 2nd part of the video

and review it with students, because today, students will only focus on the 2nd aspect of the

video as they begin working on their personal mission statements.

Hook/Activator: Watch the performance of the song, “I Was Here” at the following link:

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i41qWJ6QjPI

Give students the lyrics to follow along, so they can reflect upon the words. Note with the

students how the song connects to the “80th Birthday” video viewed last week. For instance, as

in the 80th birthday video from the last lesson, the singer in today’s video thinks about herself in

the future and how she hopes to be.

Teaching Strategy:

1. 1. Students analyze sample mission statements (in groups or individually). Noting the Covey

video from last week, talk about the meaning of a personal mission statement.

Use the following analogy here to explain the concept of a mission statement: A mission

statement is like a compass or a GPS device. Your mission statement points you in the right

direction and tells you what is your true north.(In future lessons, this analogy will be continued

using goals as the “map”, and action steps as “getting in the car, starting it and stepping on the

accelerator.” It takes all pieces, beginning with a mission statement, to get where you’re going

in life.) Discuss with students how a mission statement is a reflection of your core purpose, or

what you hope to accomplish in life.

Give students the handout of sample mission statements. Ask them to compare and contrast

the mission statements provided using the provided T-chart. (Note: there are teacher support

materials to guide you through this process.) You may also want to take a look at your local

school’s mission statement to analyze it in terms of your discussion. In other words, does it

contain what a mission statement should?

After analyzing the mission statements, lead students in a discussion directed by the questions

on the assignment sheet: “What makes a mission statement a mission statement? What will

their mission statement need to contain? What is a mission statement NOT?”

(Remember, the guide sheet is helpful here). Have students record their answers on the

assignment sheet.

2. Creating Mission Statements for people who contributed to society. Go to the following link:

http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/inspired/mission_statement_examples

Pick one of the featured leaders and model with students the process of determining that

person’s character strengths, principles and values. Once you have focused on this process with

students, discuss what a mission statement for this person might look like. There are five

leaders highlighted at the Covey link, after you have chosen one, ask students to pick one of

the others (you assign or allow them to pick, to review and create a mission statement on the

activity page. You may allow them to this alone or in groups of 2 or 3.

3. Homework Assignment: Students will write a personal Mission Statement (It is encouraged

that students do these at home where they have time and personal space to reflect).

Using today’s discussion and the character traits generated in last week’s 80th

birthday activity, students will generate their own personal mission statement.

Students can write these mission statements on their own, or they may wish to use

the Covey website to help them construct their mission statements.

These tools may only be used at home with the aid of a parent because the website requires a

login with an email address. For this reason, you may want to either send an email to parents

or post information on your blog about this assignment.

Covey Mission statement website: http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/

If students click on “Build Yours Now”, they have 2 options:

Build a personal mission statement

Free write your mission statement

Teachers need to go through this process themselves and explore both options, so that you can

more readily explain the difference between the 2 options to the students.

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Summary by the Learner: Students respond in writing to the following questions (on the

activity sheet): “What makes a mission statement a mission statement? What will their mission

statement need to contain? What is a mission statement NOT?”

Items to be placed in affective portfolio:

I Was Here Lyrics

Mission Statement

(These items will be placed into a book in Lesson 14 of this unit.)

Differentiation:

More abled writers or students who are clear in their values may write their mission

statements without using the support materials on the Covey website.

Students who struggle with writing or who are unclear of how to begin the process may use

the tools on the Covey website to assist them with the writing of their mission statements.

Materials for this Lesson:

“I Was Here” video on Youtube

“I Was Here” lyrics

“Mission Statement” Activity page

Sample Mission Statements (attached)

Reflections from the “Future Me” activity from previous lesson

Vocabulary for this Lesson:

Mission Statement: a written declaration of

an individual’s core purpose, values, and

reasons for existence

Core purpose: reflected in a mission

statement; it is a definition of what you

want to accomplish in life

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name________________________________ Date______________________

I wanna leave my footprints on the sands of time

Know there was something that

Meant something that I left behind

When I leave this world,

I'll leave no regrets

Leave something to remember,

So they won't forget

I was here...

I lived, I loved

I was here...

I did, I've done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I will leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here...

I want to say I lived each day,

Until I die

And know that I meant something in somebody's life

The hearts I have touched,

Will be the proof that I leave

That I made a difference

And this world will see

[ Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/b/beyonce/i_was_here.html ]

I was here...

I lived, I loved

I was here...

I did, I've done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I will leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here...

I lived, I loved

I was here...

I did, I've done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I will leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here...

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

I just want them to know

That I gave my all,

Did my best

Brought someone some happiness

Left this world a little better just because...

I was here...

I was here...

I lived, I loved

I was here...

I did, I've done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I wanna leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here...

(I lived, I loved)

(I did, I've done)

(I lived, I loved)

(I did, I've done)

I was here...

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name ___________________________ Date________________________ Look at the sheet of sample mission statements. Read each statement and spend a few moments thinking about what character strengths, core purpose and values are represented by each statement. Then, consider how the statements are alike and different. Fill in the T-chart below with similarities and differences you find among the various statements. Similarities Differences

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

After the group discussion, take a few moments to record your thoughts on the following questions:

1. What makes a mission statement a mission statement?

2. What should a mission statement contain?

3. What is a mission statement NOT? After reading or listening to the life philosophies of the individuals on the “Be Inspired” Covey website assigned by your teacher, choose one person to think about more deeply. Consider that individual’s character strengths, core purpose and values, and then write a mission statement for that person. HOMEWORK: Thinking about the examples you have seen, and the things we have discussed concerning core purpose, character strengths and values, consider what is important to you. Be sure to think about the strengths and traits you identified in the Future Me assignment in the last lesson. Using another sheet of paper, now write or type your own personal mission statement. If you need some help, have your parents sit down with you and use the Mission Statement Builder on the Covey website http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name _______________________________________ Date________________________

1) I believe in living each day to the fullest. I believe in treating others with the same respect that I myself deserve. I want to build healthy relationships with others in which we can become each other's biggest advocates. I will grow stronger with each accomplishment, and even stronger with each setback. I believe everything happens for a reason, and there is no better place to be than right here, right now. I will not blame others. I believe in a higher power, and I will let that higher power guide me whenever possible.

To forgive but not forget, so as to learn from each experience. To find my inner strength and overcome obstacles that hide my goals. To be guided by my values and beliefs. To give thanks in some measurable way each day. To laugh every day. To act as if I have nothing to lose, because in reality, there truly is nothing to lose. To show compassion for others in need.

I will look for strengths in others, and the good in every situation.

I will ensure that I do what I can to create a learning environment everywhere I go. I will live with an attitude of gratitude. I will repay every kindness shown to me. I will live, work, and play with renewed spirit.

I want to continuously promote and foster a cooperative environment wherever I go.

I want to make everyone feel welcome in my presence, and yet retain my strength and individuality. I will use my talents as a communicator to teach others. I will use my social skills to bring people closer together. I will be inspired by the smallest of challenges. I will live in awe of my good fortune in life.

2) "My personal mission is to trust my intuition and inner guidance which will provide meaning, purpose and direction in my life. In turn, this will bestow me with the wisdom and courage needed to stand in my truth and become the leader I was meant to be." I WILL… attempt to further my knowledge everyday either through taking classes, reading books, or educating experiences so I can be as intelligent and insightful as my parents.

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

I WILL… be a better daughter, sister, student, teammate, and friend by improving on my inferior qualities like organization, responsibility, and compassion.

I WILL… continue to exercise my body a few times a week in order to become lean and fit. This way I will have the muscle and endurance to achieve my goals and live a long, healthy life.

I WILL… find a job every summer until I begin attending college in order to at least triple my current bank account. The money I earn will be used to pay for college expenses, and left untouched otherwise.

I WILL… treasure time spent with my family and friends above everything else by putting aside time for them no matter how busy my schedule may become.

I WILL… become a respected and noted leader to those who surround me through taking charge and succeeding in difficult situations."

3) "My purpose throughout each day of my life is to express my commitment to love and cherish my family and friends, improve myself personally and professionally so that I can advance within my career, lead a successful career that I will enjoy, and take on any challenges that come my way." To value and live in a manner that shows reverence for all living beings by fostering healthy relationships and mutual respect for all so that those around me so that they may be influenced and encouraged to live positively and fruitfully. Accordingly, I will do this by continuing my education both academic and personal so that I may continue to grow and learn in order to make a progressive, effective, and beneficial impact in my relationships with other people and the environment." 4) "Contentment - Enjoying life to its fullest. In every moment, there is a memory. The seemingly small moments can be some of the most important. A hug, a chuckle, a friendly smile, a quiet time, family and friends. How I receive these times and These Moments Make my life. To Treat Others as I Would Want to be Treated. I reap my own harvest. I get what I give. I want to hold on to this: The Golden Rule. It takes me on the Greatest path and a wondrous journey. Dignity, Honor, Justice, Love and Truth I hold these qualities dearly in my heart and soul. I pray to keep them and abide in them, in God And in his Son Jesus. To Know My Weaknesses and My Strengths With this, I can find my way through the good and the bad times. I can use both of these to help others. Sometimes just a friendly ‘hello’ can cheer, other times, just lending an ear. There are many ways, big and small, that will help others along this path called life."

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name ___________________________ Date________________________

Look at the sheet of sample mission statements. Read each statement and spend a few moments thinking

about what character strengths, core purpose and values are represented by each statement. Then,

consider how the statements are alike and different. Fill in the T-chart below with similarities and

differences you find among the various statements.

Similarities Differences

They all express what is important Some are short and others are long

And valuable to the individual

They all provide direction for how the Some are written with a set format like I individual will live

his or her life WILL….. and others are written in a free

form

They all deal with inner character The values in the statements may be strengths and core

values, not jobs different; different people value different

or material possessions character traits

After the group discussion, take a few moments to record your thoughts on the following questions:

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

4. What makes a mission statement a mission statement?

A personal mission statement is like a personal constitution, the basis for making major, life-directing

decisions, the basis for making daily decisions in the midst of the circumstances and emotions that

affect our lives.

It clearly defines

Who you are

Why you exist

Who you hope to become

5. What should a mission statement contain?

Your values and ethics

Things that are important to you

What you stand for

Why you do the things you do

6. What is a mission statement NOT?

A list of goals or things you want to accomplish

The job you want to have when you are older

A very long essay or paper- keep it short

Lots of big words or ideas that don’t have real meaning for you

After reading or listening to the life philosophies of the individuals on the “Be Inspired” Covey website

assigned by your teacher, choose one person to think about more deeply. Consider that individual’s

character strengths, core purpose and values, and then write a mission statement for that person.

HOMEWORK: Thinking about the examples you have seen, and the things we have discussed concerning

core purpose, character strengths and values, consider what is important to you. Be sure to think about the

strengths and traits you identified in the Future Me assignment in the last lesson. Using another sheet of

paper, now write or type your own personal mission statement. If you need some help, have your parents

sit down with you and use the Mission Statement Builder on the Covey website

http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

Name _______________________________________ Date________________________

With relevant character strengths noted in red, although there may be others too:

1) I believe in living each day to the fullest. I believe in treating others with the same respect that I myself deserve. I want to build healthy relationships with others in which we can become each other's biggest advocates. I will grow stronger with each accomplishment, and even stronger with each setback. I believe everything happens for a reason, and there is no better place to be than right here, right now. I will not blame others. I believe in a higher power, and I will let that higher power guide me whenever possible.

To forgive but not forget, so as to learn from each experience. To find my inner strength and overcome obstacles that hide my goals. To be guided by my values and beliefs. To give thanks in some measurable way each day. To laugh every day. To act as if I have nothing to lose, because in reality, there truly is nothing to lose. To show compassion for others in need.

I will look for strengths in others, and the good in every situation.

I will ensure that I do what I can to create a learning environment everywhere I go. I will live with an attitude of gratitude. I will repay every kindness shown to me. I will live, work, and play with renewed spirit.

I want to continuously promote and foster a cooperative environment wherever I go.

I want to make everyone feel welcome in my presence, and yet retain my strength and individuality. I will use my talents as a communicator to teach others. I will use my social skills to bring people closer together. I will be inspired by the smallest of challenges. I will live in awe of my good fortune in life.

Zest, Kindness, Love, Social Intelligence, Humility, Spirituality and Sense of Purpose,

Perseverance, Gratitude, Optimism, Hope, Love of Learning, Authenticity

2) "My personal mission is to trust my intuition and inner guidance which will provide meaning, purpose and direction in my life. In turn, this will bestow me with the wisdom and courage needed to stand in my truth and become the leader I was meant to be."

CCSD Version Date: May 2011

I WILL… attempt to further my knowledge everyday either through taking classes, reading books, or educating experiences so I can be as intelligent and insightful as my parents.

I WILL… be a better daughter, sister, student, teammate, and friend by improving on my inferior qualities like organization, responsibility, and compassion.

I WILL… continue to exercise my body a few times a week in order to become lean and fit. This way I will have the muscle and endurance to achieve my goals and live a long, healthy life.

I WILL… find a job every summer until I begin attending college in order to at least triple my current bank account. The money I earn will be used to pay for college expenses, and left untouched otherwise.

I WILL… treasure time spent with my family and friends above everything else by putting aside time for them no matter how busy my schedule may become.

I WILL… become a respected and noted leader to those who surround me through taking charge and succeeding in difficult situations."

Spirituality and Sense of Purpose, Courage, Leadership, Love of Learning, Curiosity, Social Intelligence 3) "My purpose throughout each day of my life is to express my commitment to love and cherish my family and friends, improve myself personally and professionally so that I can advance within my career, lead a successful career that I will enjoy, and take on any challenges that come my way." To value and live in a manner that shows reverence for all living beings by fostering healthy relationships and mutual respect for all so that those around me so that they may be influenced and encouraged to live positively and fruitfully. Accordingly, I will do this by continuing my education both academic and personal so that I may continue to grow and learn in order to make a progressive, effective, and beneficial impact in my relationships with other people and the environment." Love, Love of Learning, Spirituality and Sense of Purpose, Kindness, Citizenship 4) "Contentment - Enjoying life to its fullest. In every moment, there is a memory. The seemingly small moments can be some of the most important. A hug, a chuckle, a friendly smile, a quiet time, family and friends. How I receive these times and These Moments Make my life. To Treat Others as I Would Want to be Treated. I reap my own harvest. I get what I give. I want to hold on to this: The Golden Rule. It takes me on the Greatest path and a wondrous journey. Dignity, Honor, Justice, Love and Truth I hold these qualities dearly in my heart and soul. I pray to keep them and abide in them, in God And in his Son Jesus. To Know My Weaknesses and My Strengths With this, I can find my way through the good and the bad times. I can use both of these to help others. Sometimes just a friendly ‘hello’ can cheer, other times, just lending an ear. There are many ways, big and small, that will help others along this path called life." Zest, Authenticity, Fairness, Spirituality and Sense of Purpose, Perseverance, Citizenship