Teaching Perseverance and Bullying with Greater (2016)

When motivation fades in the classroom, stories rooted in true determination can reignite students' drive. Greater (2016) is a compelling film based on the life of Brandon Burlsworth—a story that resonates deeply with high school students navigating doubt, setbacks, and pressure to conform.

Whether you're teaching character development, launching a growth mindset unit, or simply need an engaging film for your high school English or advisory class, Greater delivers a powerful message: greatness is earned, not given.

Why Greater Belongs in the Classroom

Brandon Burlsworth doesn’t fit the mold. Overweight, overlooked, and doubted by nearly everyone, he walks onto a Division I football team and transforms through effort, integrity, and unshakable values. This journey offers students more than just a sports narrative—it invites them to reflect on personal goals, perseverance, and how to handle adversity.

Greater is especially effective in:

• English language arts classrooms focused on character analysis

• Advisory or homeroom settings centered on goal setting

• Health or SEL programs exploring resilience and self-worth

• Faith-based or values-driven schools promoting moral leadership

Unlike fictional feel-good movies, Greater grounds its message in real-world stakes, making it a meaningful launchpad for classroom discussion and personal writing.

Key Themes to Explore with Students

• What does it mean to pursue excellence despite setbacks?

• How can someone stay true to their values when ridiculed?

• How do small daily decisions build long-term character?

• What defines “success” in a world focused on instant results?

Brandon’s journey challenges students to rethink how they measure personal progress and encourages them to view criticism as a stepping stone rather than a stopping point.

Structured Activities for Deeper Learning

To support thoughtful engagement, the Greater Movie Guide offers time-stamped discussion questions, written response prompts, and flexible worksheet formats compatible with Google Slides and printed use. The guide is classroom-ready, ideal for busy teachers looking to deliver meaningful content without additional prep.

Use this resource during:

• Short-term units on resilience or perseverance

• Substitute teaching days

• End-of-quarter reflection projects

• Athletic or extracurricular leadership programs

Get the full teaching guide here:
Greater Movie Guide | K12MovieGuides.com

Suggested Scenes for Analysis and Discussion

Several moments in the film lend themselves to close viewing and writing exercises:

• Brandon practicing alone while teammates mock him

• His emotional breakthrough when he finally sees the field

• A conversation with his older brother about doubt and faith

• The ending reflections on what it means to leave behind a legacy

Each scene reinforces a different aspect of perseverance, making it easy to tailor your lesson to the needs of your students—whether you’re building writing fluency, tackling theme analysis, or leading a social-emotional discussion.

Final Thoughts

Greater may not be a film your students have heard of—but that’s part of its strength. It surprises them. It challenges assumptions. And most importantly, it offers a grounded, inspiring lens on what it takes to reach a goal in the face of rejection, fear, and failure.

When you’re searching for a high school movie that teaches grit without relying on cliché, this film stands out as one of the most effective and underrated options available.

Download the guide and bring Brandon Burlsworth’s story to your students today:
Greater Movie Guide | Download at K12MovieGuides.com