LESSON PLAN ADVANCE SHEET 

 

TITLE: Moral Leadership

 

 

HOURS: 1 HOUR EXPANDABLE

 

TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE:  Assist in identifying the value of Moral Leadership, and how it pertains to the individual soldier and to the Army.

 

ENABLING LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

 

1. Communicate to the soldier the importance of personally embracing Moral Leadership.

 

2. Challenge the soldier to define and adopt a life style of Moral Leadership.

 

3. See Moral Leadership as absolutely necessary for unit effectiveness.

 

4. Design and use personal improvement action plan.

 

CONDITION:  Given a classroom setting with an overhead projector, chalkboard and/or easel with butcher paper.

 

STANDARD:  Participate in an interactive discussion on Moral Leadership and decide upon a personal improvement action plan.

 

REFERENCES:  FM 22-100 Leadership, DA PAM 165-16 Moral Leadership Values: Stage of the Family Life Cycle.

 

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:  Conference, overhead slides, practical exercises.

 

TRAINER NOTES:  This class is designed to be a discussion type class. The role of the trainer will be to: 1) impart information from the lesson plan; 2) elicit information and ideas from class participants; 3) affirm the input of the class participants; and 4) call the class members to action, both for themselves and for the unit.

 

The lesson plan is written in a positive way and needs to be presented in that manner as well. It is an opportunity for you, as the trainer, to help the participants examine their beliefs and begin to develop more healthy values.

 

This lesson plan may "open the door" for further ministry within your unit. At the end of the session, you might ask those who may have concerns about areas of personal growth or value conflicts in their lives to speak with you privately .

 

NOTE: The trainer will want to make sure the classroom is set-up with all necessary equipment at least 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the class. Good lighting and ventilation of the classroom are important for a good class.

 

Some ideas to keep in mind during you presentation of the class are:

 

- When you ask a question, allow time for discussion.

- Write down all the responses given without making judgments about the input.

- Encourage class participation. You may want to call on a class member for input who you observe as either being disruptive or withdrawn from the class.

- Your slides may be upgraded with color, graphics or unit symbols.

 

At the end of each lesson plan is a "Personal Action Plan." Use this to measure the effectiveness of the session. The top portion of the page is to be kept by the class participant as a guide for his/her future personal development. The bottom portion of the page should be turned in to you at the end of the class. These should not be signed. You may use this information as you advise the commander on the "climate" of the unit. It can also be used as a "bottom up review" of the unit in regard to the particular value. In this way, the information can be used as a means to support Total Army Quality (TAQ) in the unit.

 

You will need to reproduce the number of personal action plans to correspond with the number of class participants. this will enable you to have a response from all class participants. After response forms are completed, insure the "climate" information is shared with the chain of command. This will assist in improving the quality of life for soldiers.

 

PRE-SESSION PREPARATION:

 

SPECIAL NOTE:  SLIDES VU1-VU5 ARE THE SAME FOR ALL 12 LESSON PLANS AND THEREFORE DO NOT HAVE A CHAPTER INDICATOR. THEY ARE FOUND IN LESSON ONE.

 

THE WORDS IN “QUOTES” ARE FOR YOU TO SAY. WORDS IN {PARENTHESES} ARE FOR YOUR HELP OR INFORMATION.

 

+  Review the material contained in this lesson thoroughly. A poorly prepared class is no better                         than no class at all.

+  Make overhead slides of the paper slides located at the back of this lesson as well as slides VU1-           VU5 found at the end of Lesson One.

+  Make sufficient copies of the Personal Action Plan sheet found at the end of this lesson so that         all class members will have one.

+  Ensure that the classroom is designated and all needed equipment is set up prior to class time.

+  Be sure that units have sufficient time to schedule the class and that soldiers are available to                             attend. Conflicting with other requirements of a training schedule will make the lesson                            ineffective.

 

 

INSTRUCTOR NOTES AND SLIDES

 

SHOW:  VU1 "America's Army Core Values"

 

{THIS SLIDE CAN BE shown on the overhead as the class begins to arrive. It is your "title slide" which sets the stage for the material to be presented in the session.}

 

“Good morning/afternoon. My name is _________. Today’s class is one of a series of classes on America’s Army Core Values.”

 

SHOW:  VU2 & VU3 "List of Values"

 

“Some of our Core Values are listed on this slide.”

 

{It is helpful to briefly go over the list of values as presented on VU2 & VU3. However, each of these values will be presented as a separate lesson.}

 

“Some Other Core Values are listed on this slide (VU3).”

 

SHOW:  VU4 "Purpose of Training"  {Allow time for the class to read the slide.}

 

“The purpose of our training is found on this slide (VU4).”

 

“Why do you think it is important for us to study values?  {Allow time for discussion.}

 

Some responses might be:

 

- Increase of violence in the nation.

- There seems to be less attention given to affirming each other's value systems.

- To help build citizenship.

- To help build personal responsibility within the community.

 

“Service members of the Army, (NCOs and officers) are evaluated annually on this list of America's Army Core Values in the NCOER and the OER. Many things have been written about all these values and they are all important. The things that shape our individual values are what we have read, what we have heard from parents, pastors, teachers and other significant individuals to us.”

 

SHOW:  VU5 "Values, Ethics, Morals"

 

{TO THE INSTRUCTOR:  Leadership cannot function without underlying principles which guide both the leader and the unit. Those underlying principles are the values outlined in these lessons. Additionally, leadership must be Moral Leadership. Moral Leadership suggests that the principles which govern how leaders lead are built upon beliefs about what is correct behavior. Moral Leadership also suggests that leaders also lead as examples of those moral values which guide a unit, the military, and the nation. As soldiers look to their leaders they look for leadership which is an example of those values upon which the United States has been built. They also look for that leadership to apply principles which are moral and virtuous.}

 

 “The primary focus of today's class will be on the value of MORAL LEADERSHIP.”

 

“Would someone tell me why you believe the Army would be placing emphasis on providing classes on Values at this time?”

 

“Perhaps it would be good for us to see how these values, ethics and morals are defined. This slide shows these definitions.”

 

“Are there any comments or questions so far?”  {Field any questions or comments the class members may have at this point.}

 

{Ask the class to hold questions about specific values until later in the class.}

 

SHOW:  VU7-6 "Definition of Leadership"

 

"The process of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing purpose, direction, and motivation (FM 22-100)."

 

“QUESTION: What is the difference between MORAL leadership and just LEADERSHIP? “

 

“ANSWER: MORAL LEADERSHIP takes into account people’s needs and feelings, being more concerned with subordinates than self, helping subordinates to become successful in their duties.”

 

“Everything depends on good leaders in the Army! Take a look at this current definition...the same FM tells us that "leadership is the most essential element of combat power." It can be learned through self-study, education, training and experience. Everyone of you is a leader to one degree or another...the question is, "What kind of a leader are you?"

 

SHOW:  VU7-7 "Why is Leadership Important?"

 

“Why is leadership important? The basic answer is "So the mission can be accomplished!" But, there are many other reasons why you should be concerned about this Army Core Value. For example, you probably can think of leadership that inspired you.”

 

{Use an illustration of your own, if you have one. Allow class members time to respond:}

 

Possible Responses:

 

- Drill Sgt was tough, but cared.

- Parents who persevered with you.

- Teachers who encouraged.

- Siblings who stood up for you.

 

“Great! Now, does anyone have an example of leadership styles that discouraged you...?”

 

{Use an illustration of your own, if you have one. Allow class members time to respond}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Superior who puts you down.

- Superior who has no integrity.

- Superior who says one thing, does another.

 

“Leadership comes packaged in various styles of boxes. What is your opinion of a great leader's trait?”

 

{Allow class sufficient time to respond. Record responses on overhead, chalkboard, or butcher paper.}

 

Suggested Responses:

 

- Cares

- Tough

- Inspires

- Intelligent

- Honest

- Fair

- Trustworthy

 

“This class cannot possibly cover all the elements of leadership. In fact, your whole life is a training event for leadership. But, the Army has identified eleven (11) "Principles of Leadership" that are good anytime, anywhere with anyone. The first three are: (refer to VU7-8, below)”

 

SHOW:  VU7-8 "Principles of Leadership:

 

(1) Know yourself and seek self-improvement

(2) Be tactically and technically proficient

(3) Seek responsibility for your actions."

 

“Let's talk a few minutes about how each of us is developing these traits in our own lives.  How are you developing them in your life?”

 

{Allow time for class responses. Record responses on overhead, chalkboard, or butcher paper.}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Army schools/classes

- Ask questions

- Work for promotion

- Know your MOS

 

SHOW:  VU7-9 "Principles of Leadership:

 

(4) Make sound and timely decisions

(5) Set the example

(6) Know your soldiers and look out for their well-being

(7) Keep your subordinates informed"

 

“The next four are (refer to VU7-9, above)”

 

“How are you allowing these principles to influence your life?”

 

{As time permits, allow time for class member responses.  Record responses on overhead, chalkboard, or butcher paper.}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Working with integrity

- Seeking to assist others

- Keeping communication flowing up and down

- Having the selflessness attitude

 

“The last four are (refer to VU7-10)”

 

SHOW:  VU7-10 "Principles of Leadership:

 

(8) Develop a sense of responsibility in your subordinates

(9) Ensure the task is understood, supervised and accomplished

(10) Build the team!

(11) Employ your units in accordance with its capabilities."

 

“In your present rank how can you develop these principles?  

 

Suggested Responses:

 

- Help your team strengthen its weaknesses

- Be sure you understand the task at hand

- Be responsible

- Complete every job without complaining or shirking.

- Do your job with excellence no matter if someone is looking or not!

 

SHOW:  VU7-11 "What Do I Do Now?"

 

“It is important to see that these principles are important whether you are a private or general. Some will have greater influence as you increase responsibility. But great leaders start developing the principles from the beginning!”

 

“So, where do you start to develop your moral leadership?”

 

SHOW:  VU7-12 "Be a Person of Strong and Honorable Character"

 

“First, be a person of strong and honorable character. What is involved in being "honorable?" What behavior would exhibit this trait?”

 

{Allow time for responses. Record responses on overhead, chalkboard, or butcher paper.}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Determined

- Compassionate

- Self-disciplined

- Initiative

- Flexibility

 

“Second, be committed to the professional Army ethic!”

 

SHOW:  VU7-13 "Be Committed to the Professional Army Ethic"

 

 “What are some of the ethical values that are critical to leadership?”

 

{Allow time for responses. Record responses on overhead, chalkboard or butcher paper.}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Loyalty to the Army/Nation/unit/family

- Selfless service

- Honesty

- Duty

- Honor

 

“Third, be an example of individual values.”

 

SHOW:  VU7-14 "Be an Example of Individual Values"

 

“What do you want people to see in you as you work with them?”

 

{Allow time for responses. Record responses on overhead, chalkboard, or butcher paper.}

 

Possible Responses are:

 

- Courage

- Candor

- Competence

- Commitment

 

SHOW:  VU7-15 "Be Able to Resolve Complex Ethical Dilemmas"

 

“Fourth, be able to resolve complex ethical dilemmas (see VU 7-15).”

 

“A soldier must be a thinking person to accomplish this. Check out the steps in VU7-15. You can be an excellent leader, always thinking about the situation. Leadership is a consistent activity of the mind, at a minimum! Leadership is a value that anyone can develop to one degree or another. At every level of life demonstrate principles. You can demonstrate principles in your home, unit, community. The key is WANTING to be a leader!”

 

“Resolving complex ethical dilemmas requires a leader to:

 

- Interpret the Situation

- Analyze all Factors

- Choose course of Action that seems best

 

“To assist you in thinking about Moral Leadership we have prepared a handout called a Personal Action Plan. Let me hand them out.”

 

“There are two parts: the top portion is for you. Please take time right now to complete the two statements in the top part.”

 

SHOW:  VU7-16 "Personal Action Plan"

 

{Hand out the Personal Action Plan. Sufficient copies of the Personal Action Plans were prepared prior to class session beginning. It is located at the end of this lesson.}

 

{Give them time to complete form.}

 

“Now consider the bottom part. Please write your comments and do not sign your name. When completed, tear off the bottom portion and pass it to me.”

 

{Allow sufficient time to complete the forms.}

 

“A trained and ready Army, has, as its foundation, competent and confident leaders. If you value leadership, I am positive you will do all you can to be one yourself. As the saying goes, "Lead, Follow, or Get out of the Way!" Thank you for our attention!”

 

{Collect the Personal Action Plans.}

PERSONAL ACTION PLAN

 

 

Regarding the value of MORAL LEADERSHIP, I am doing well in the following ways:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regarding the value of MORAL LEADERSHIP, I would like to improve my life in the following ways:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

------------------------------------ (Tear this half off and give to instructor)-----------------------

 

 

Regarding the value of MORAL LEADERSHIP, my unit is doing well in the following ways:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regarding the value of MORAL LEADERSHIP, my unit would improve if:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SLIDES

 

VU 7-6:  DEFINITION of LEADERSHIP

 

The process of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing

PURPOSE, DIRECTION, AND MOTIVATION. (FM 22-100)

 

 

VU7-7:  WHY IS LEADERSHIP IMPORTANT?

 

 

VU7-8:  PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP

 

1. Know yourself and seek improvement.

2. Be tactically and technically proficient.

3. Seek responsibility for your actions.

 

 

VU7-9:  MORE PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP

 

4. Make sound, timely decisions.

5. Set the example.

6. Know your soldiers and look out for their well-being.

7. Keep your subordinates informed.

 

 

VU7-10:  AND EVEN MORE PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP

 

8. Develop a sense of responsibility in your subordinates.

9. Ensure the task is understood, supervised and accomplished.

10. Build the team!

11. Employ your units in accordance with its capabilities.

 

 

VU7-11:  WHAT DO I DO NOW ?

 

 

VU7-12:  BE A PERSON OF  STRONG AND HONORABLE CHARACTER

 

 

VU7-13:  BE COMMITTED TO THE PROFESSIONAL ARMY ETHIC.

 

 

VU7-14:  BE AN EXAMPLE OF INDIVIDUAL VALUES

 

 

VU7-15:  BE ABLE TO RESOLVE COMPLEX ETHICAL DILEMMAS

 

 

VU7-16:  PERSONAL ACTION PLAN