About the inquiry

This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the concept of “courage” in general, and the actions of those who responded to the 9/11 attacks, more specifically. Those attacks, over 10 years ago, have now passed from current event to history. By focusing on a relatively recent event, students should see that history is not resigned to the distant past. Moreover, by featuring individuals who responded to the 9/11 attacks in a variety of ways, students should see that history consists of more than the actions of a famous few.

Compelling Question

How Should We Define Courage?

Staging Question

Have students read a sampling of historic quotes on “courage” and identify elements of courage within the quotes.

Summative Performance Task

Argument: How should we define courage? Construct an argument (e.g., detailed outline, poster, essay) that answers the compelling question using the featured sources.

Extension: If a crisis responder award was being developed, nominate criteria for the award.

Taking Informed Action

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