Picture This!: Using Picture Story Books for Character Education in the Classroom

In districts across the country, character education is rapidly earning a place in the required core curriculum. Quality literature provides an excellent starting point for addressing the issue of character. Good stories provide students with a neutral ground where they can comfortably confront problems and choices. They also make different cultures, experiences, and attitudes more accessible, challenging students to evaluate and think critically about the world around them. This critical thinking is key to expanding students’ awareness and moral compass.

Recognizing the mixed messages students are receiving from various media, and the many social problems they face from an increasing number of socio-cultural factors, educators are seeking ways to teach core values that were once taught exclusively at home. This book is the next step in character education. Picture story books are categorized by virtue, and a wealth of supplemental resources-including lesson plans, student activities, and reproducible worksheets-will help media specialists teach that virtue to students.

Ideas for integration with all curricular areas are included. Parents and teachers will find an organized list of related Web sites, so that the virtues covered as topics can be further researched and students will be able to practice essential research skills. Whether you are establishing a character education program or are interested in challenging your students to become more conscientious citizens, this book is an essential tool, and is suitable for elementary school teachers, library media specialists, and parents.