High School Lesson Plan
Documentary: Heart of a Servant – The Father Flanagan Story
Grade Level: 9-12th Grade | Length: 3 class period
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Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Materials NeededThe following links to the documentary, study guide, slides, and assessment Printed copy of the Study Guide for students to complete as they watch the documentary ANSWER KEYS: Study Guide, Assessment |
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Daily Lesson Plans
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Day One
Day 1: Context, Introduction, and Viewing (Part 1)
Opening (10 minutes)
Begin with a guided discussion:
- What does it mean to live a life of Christian service in a complex society?
- Where do we see injustice or marginalization today, and how might faith call us to respond?
Provide a brief background on Father Edward J. Flanagan and the founding of Boys Town:
He was a Catholic priest that realized there was a problem with homeless, troubled youth
Devoted his life to creating a place for these boys to grow into men that could contribute to society
Explain expectations for viewing the film and completing the study guide, emphasizing thoughtful responses.
Activity: Film Viewing (30-40 minutes)
- Distribute the film study guide.
- Begin watching Heart of a Servant: The Father Flanagan Story.
Pause periodically to:
- Clarify historical, theological, or ethical points
- Allow students time to complete study guide questions
- Facilitate brief discussions
Closing (5 minutes)
Exit prompt (written or verbal):What aspects of Father Flanagan’s vision stand out as countercultural for his time?
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Day Two
Day 2: Viewing & Analytical Discussion (Part 2)
Opening (5 minutes)
- Review key themes and events from the first portion of the film.
- Invite students to share insights or questions from their study guides.
Activity: Film Viewing (30–35 minutes)
- Continue and complete the film.
- Pause at key moments to:
- Examine moral dilemmas and leadership decisions
- Discuss institutional resistance and social barriers
- Connect events to Catholic social teaching and Scripture
Guided Discussion (10 minutes)
Discussion questions may include:- What risks did Father Flanagan take in defending the dignity of children?
- How did his approach challenge prevailing social attitudes?
- In what ways does Father Flanagan model prophetic leadership?
Closing (5 minutes)
Reflection prompt:How does Father Flanagan’s example challenge modern Christians?
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Day Three
Day 3: Review, Discussion Activities & Assessment
Opening (5 minutes)
Review major themes of the film:
- Heroic virtue
- Moral courage
- Responsibility to the marginalized
Activity: Slide Presentation & Discussion (20–25 minutes)
Use the slide presentation to summarize:- Key moments from Father Flanagan’s life
- Central theological and moral themes
- Work through the discussion activities included in the slides, encouraging students to:
- Cite specific examples from the film
- Connect themes to Church teaching and real-world issues
Assessment Activity (15–20 minutes)
Students complete the assessment quiz individually.Optionally include these short-answer questions.
Closing Reflection (5 minutes)
Conclude with a reflective prayer or written response:How can you personally respond to God’s call to serve others in your school, parish, or community?
