Students identify and reflect on the values that matter most to them, exploring how these shape their sense of self and influence their attitudes and choices.
This routine encourages students to think critically about their choices and behaviours.
Values
Begin the activity by discussing the concept of values and why they are important in our lives. Ask students to think about what they believe is essential to their happiness and wellbeing.
It may be helpful to provide students with a list of common values (e.g., honesty, kindness, freedom, respect) and ask them to choose up to three that resonate most with them.
Students write a brief reflection or discuss each chosen value, explaining why it is significant to them and how they embody it in their daily lives.
Identities
Next, facilitate a discussion about how values shape who we are. Ask them to identify how their values shape their identity.
Students could create a visual representation (like a mind map or collage) that illustrates their identity, incorporating elements that reflect their chosen values. Encourage students to share their visual representations with a partner or in small groups, discussing how their values contribute to their sense of self.
Extension: Students could be prompted to consider the different spheres of relationship where their identity is encountered by others. (in different contexts).
Actions
Lastly students reflect on how their values and identities influence their choices and behaviours. Pose questions like: “What actions do you take that align with your values?” and “How do your values guide your decisions in challenging situations?”
This could be discussed in small groups or as a class.
OR
Students could write a short narrative or scenario in which they describe a situation where they had to make a decision based on their values. Encourage them to include the outcome of that decision and how it felt to act in alignment with their values.
Facilitate an opportunity for students to share their narratives with one another.