Formation of Christian Chastitylessons - Grade 5

Lesson Plan 3

Theme: Wise Decisions/Being Prudent

Prayer

Lord, thank You for another day within this life of mine. Give me the strength to live it well, whatever I may find. To use the hours wisely, for I cannot have them back. In which to make amends for little slights or petty words, inflicted on my friends. Lord, thank You for another chance, in which to try to be a little more deserving of the gifts You've given me. For yesterday is over, and tomorrow's far away, and I remain committed to the good I do today!

Catechismof the Catholic Church (#1806)

Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it;" the prudent man looks where he is going" Keep sane and sober for your prayers. Prudence is "right reason in action", writes St. Thomas Aquinas.. The prudent man determines and directs his conduct in accordance with this judgment. With the help of this virtue we apply moral principles to particular cases without error and overcome doubts about the good to achieve and the evil to avoid.

Objectives:

• Student will know when to avoid dangerous and harmful activities
• Student will know how to implement and the importance of a Buddy System
• Student will develop a safety plan.
• Student will practice assertive body language.

Jesus is the Truth. We can know his truth about what is good and right through reason (our ability to think, understand, and judge.) We have a conscience to know right from wrong, good from evil. It is wise and prudent to formulate a plan to avoid dangerous situations. God gave us our parents, friends, and teachers to help us know when and how to avoid dangers.

It is Prudent to have a "Buddy System". That is you never go alone, always have a "buddy" with you.

Now that you are older, parents are giving you more responsibilities and along with this you must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. To have a "Safety Plan" is very prudent of you. Here are some good rules for your plan:

• Always be with a group when outdoors. Be aware of your surroundings
• Never hitchhike
• Use well lit streets, walkways, and playgrounds. Do nut use shortcuts
• Carry identification with you
• When home alone be sure you have emergency numbers and a number of a neighbor or a near-by friend.

You have read the "Safety Plan". Sit in small groups and discuss what else you can include in "your safety plan". Discuss with your parents your plan and ask for their guidance when you are on an outing. Practice saying "No" and acting in an assertive way by responding to these situations listed below:

• You are walking home from school and a car with a young man
  pulls up and asks you for directions. How can you respond to this situation?
• You are babysitting your younger sister and brother and the
  doorbell rings. How would you respond to this?
• You answer the telephone and you do not recognize the voice on the phone. The person says very unkind words to you. What will you do?
• Your friend and you are shopping at the mall and a stranger is
  following you, asking you questions. How would you respond to
  this situation?

Conclusion

Jesus is the Truth and He wants us to know and follow him. We can also know the truth about what is good and right through reason. Jesus wants us to be happy and safe and he gave us the gifts and tools to make good choices and have a plan when we are in danger. Always travel with a buddy and be sure you have a plan when you become scared or unsafe.