As class begins, invite teens to answer this question: “What makes a good leader?” Write down all answers on a whiteboard (or screenshared document).
Then, have them decide together which qualities are the most important. Have them call out their answers. Underline their top 3-5 answers.
Around the world, there are many different kinds of leaders. Some have the traits you listed, others do not. Let’s watch a video that tells us a little bit about the leader of Russia, Vladimir Putin, who’s been leading the war against Ukraine for almost two years. As you watch the video, pay close attention to what characteristics you think President Putin might have.
Share the following video with your students [3:32]:
Who is Vladimir Putin? – BBC News
- Based on that video, would you say that Vladimir Putin demonstrates the traits we decided were most important in a good leader? Why or why not? (Answers will vary.)
- Would you be happy to follow his leadership? What makes you say that? (Accept all reasonable responses.)
A quick Internet search will tell you that Vladimir Putin is a ruthless leader. Today we are going to talk about a different kind of leader, whose direction is always for the best, even when we can’t see it. Let’s check out how Paul followed this amazing leader’s direction.