Definition:

A combination of hope and courage are virtues that are needed for dreamers and achievers. Children need a vision for their future, and the willingness to take risks in order to achieve that vision. Dream big and take healthy risks.  Believe that something good can happen.

In short:

Believe that something good can happen.

Summary:
Jonathan Livingston Seagull is an ambitious bird who focuses on reaching flight speeds that no other seagull has ever been able to achieve. Even though he excels at flying, Jonathan is thrown out of his flock because the elders disapprove of his efforts to become greater. After leaving his flock, he meets ambitious seagulls and trains with them. Before Jonathan returns home to the flock that had originally rejected him, he meets a new friend, Fletcher. Jonathan trains him and Fletcher inherits the tradition of pursuing excellence. Jonathan is welcomed back to his flock and when it comes time for him to leave, he entrusts Fletcher with the task of continuing the important work Jonathan started. 

Lesson Objectives: 

1. Link the story to an academic subject like animal behavior, with a focus on seagulls and other birds that flock. 
2. The teacher can lead students in a discussion about how to set goals and improve one’s performance, in a sport, music, academics, etc. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. What do you think Richard Bach wanted readers to learn from this fictional story? 
2. How was Jonathan Livingston Seagull different from other members of his flock? 
3. Why do you think the elders rejected Jonathan? 
4. Did Jonathan give up after he became an outcast? Explain your answer. 
5. Why do you think Jonathan agreed to train Fletcher? 
6. Have you ever pushed yourself to run faster, or do something better than you’ve ever done before? What was that like and how did that make you feel? If you haven’t done that, think of a way to push yourself and do it. 
7. Ask a family member question #6. 
8. Has anyone ever pushed you to try harder at something? Was it difficult or easy to accept their advice? Explain your answer. 
9. Interview someone who is a coach and ask them to explain how they motivate their trainees to improve. 
10.  Read the chapter book Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach.