Terrorist Leaders (Profiles in History)
Profiles in history Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
This volume explores the motives behind the massive violence perpetrated by terrorist groups and their leaders, as exemplified by the September 11, 2001 attacks. It delves into why some individuals believe that targeting innocent people is a valid method to achieve their objectives. The book is suitable for readers aged 12 and older and fulfills the 'Individuals, Groups, and Institutions' standard from the National Council for the Social Studies Curriculum Standards for Middle School.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
1 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes someone become a leader, even for harmful causes?
How do the actions of these leaders affect the people around them and the world?
Can you think of ways that people could prevent such negative leadership in the future?
What qualities do you think a good leader should have?
How do you feel about the decisions these leaders made?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by asking your child their initial thoughts about the book to gauge their understanding and feelings.
Encourage your child to compare and contrast the leaders in the book with positive leaders they know or have read about.
Discuss the impact of leadership on both small and large scales, prompting your child to think critically about influence and power.
Support your child in thinking critically by asking them what they would do differently if they were in positions of leadership.
Highlight the importance of learning from history to understand and solve present-day issues, fostering a deeper appreciation for the subject matter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical contexts
Explanation: The book provides detailed biographies of various historical figures labeled as 'terrorist leaders', illustrating their backgrounds and the events that shaped their actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to consider the broader context behind events or actions, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy towards differing perspectives in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking about media and labels
Explanation: Through exploring the complex stories of these leaders, the book encourages readers to question and analyze the labels and narratives presented in media.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to critically evaluate the information they encounter in media, teaching them not to accept information at face value and to seek deeper understanding.
Example Lesson: The consequences of extreme ideologies
Explanation: The book discusses the outcomes of the actions taken by these leaders, showing the often destructive consequences of pursuing extreme ideologies.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of balance and the dangers of extreme behaviors, which they can apply by promoting peace and understanding in their own interactions.
Example Lesson: Leadership and its impacts
Explanation: By studying the leadership styles and decisions made by these individuals, readers can discern the significant impact leaders have on their followers and societies.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop responsible leadership qualities and understand the effects their decisions can have on others within group and team settings.