Middle School Lesson Plan
Documentary: Heart of a Servant – The Father Flanagan Story
Grade Level: 6-8th 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: Introduction & Viewing (Part 1)
Opening (10 minutes)
Begin with a discussion:
- What does it mean to live out your faith through action?
- How are Christians called to respond to injustice or poverty?
Introduce Father Edward J. Flanagan, providing brief historical context for his work and the founding of Boys Town.
Explain expectations for viewing the film and completing the study guide, emphasizing thoughtful and complete responses.
Activity: Film Viewing (30–35 minutes)
- Distribute the film study guide.
- Begin watching Heart of a Servant: The Father Flanagan Story.
Pause at key points to:
- Clarify historical or theological ideas
- Allow students to answer study guide questions
- Engage in short, guided discussions
Closing (5 minutes)
Ask students to write a brief exit response:What motivated Father Flanagan to serve others?
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Day Two
Day 2: Viewing & Thematic Discussion (Part 2)
Opening (5 minutes)
- Review key events from the previous class.
- Invite students to share insights from their study guide responses.
Activity: Film Viewing (30–35 minutes)
Continue watching the remainder of the film.Pause as needed to:
- Discuss moral dilemmas and leadership decisions
- Highlight connections to Catholic social teaching
- Complete remaining study guide questions
Guided Discussion (10 minutes)
Discuss questions such as:- What risks did Father Flanagan take to stand up for vulnerable children?
- How did society respond to his work, both positively and negatively?
- In what ways did Father Flanagan model Christian leadership?
Closing (5 minutes)
Ask students to reflect:How does Father Flanagan challenge us to live our faith today?
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Day Three
Day 3: Recap, Discussion Activities & Assessment
Opening (5 minutes)
Review the major themes of the film, including:
- Faith in action
- Social responsibility
- Respect for human dignity
Activity: Slide Presentation & Discussion (20–25 minutes)
Use the slide presentation to recap:- Key moments in Father Flanagan’s life
- Core themes and moral lessons
- Facilitate the discussion activities included in the slides, encouraging students to:
- Support their responses with examples from the film
- Make connections to Scripture or Church teaching
Assessment Activity (15–20 minutes)
Have students complete the assessment quiz individually or as a class.Remind students to use what they learned from:
- The documentary
- Study guide
- Class discussions
Closing Reflection (5 minutes)
End with a short written reflection or prayer:What were some of the virtues that Father Flanagan demonstrated that you found most admirable? What virtues would you like to grow in?
