Examination of the values characterizing the characters in the 3rd grade primary school Life Studies textbook

This study aims to examine which core values are represented by the characters in the 3rd grade Life Science textbook published by the Turkish Ministry of National Education and how these values are reflected through associated attitudes and behaviors. Conducted within the framework of a qualitative research design, the study employs the document analysis method. The discourse and actions of characters featured in the textbook—within texts, dialogues, and narrative structures—were systematically analyzed. As a result of the analysis, a total of 101 unique characters were identified. It was determined that a significant portion of these characters were designed to serve as positive examples for students, with 87% functioning as role models. In terms of value representation, all ten core values defined in the national curriculum were found to be included in the textbook; however, these values were not evenly distributed across units and characters. The most frequently emphasized values were responsibility (f=119) and patriotism (f=66), followed by respect (f=52), helpfulness (f=46), and self-control (f=40). In contrast, justice (f=7), honesty (f=4), and patience (f=8) were found to be represented less frequently. A unit-based analysis revealed that the units "Life in Our School" and "Life in Our Country" stood out in terms of character and value diversity, while "Healthy Living" and "Life in Nature" featured more limited content. In the transmission of values, characters' behaviors, problem-solving processes, and real-life contexts were utilized as functional tools. In conclusion, while the textbook demonstrates strong potential for conveying core values, it also presents areas for improvement, particularly in making underrepresented values more visible and ensuring a more balanced distribution of values across the curriculum units.