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Discovering Our Strengths: A Lesson in Self-Awareness

Objective: Students develop self-awareness by identifying and understanding their strengths and abilities. They gain insight into their unique qualities, fostering a positive sense of self and boosting confidence.

Duration: 45-60 minutes, depending on class size and engagement.

Materials:

  • Flipchart or whiteboard

  • Markers or colored chalk

  • Sticky notes

  • Index cards or small pieces of paper

  • Writing materials (pens, pencils, markers)

  • Index cards with scenarios (current or future challenges students face where they can use their strengths to overcome)

Introduction

Say: Today, we're going to explore our strengths and discover what makes us remarkable. Understanding our strengths can help us excel in various areas of our lives and build a strong foundation for future growth. Let's get started!

Activity 1: Unleashing Our Superpowers

Introduction and Instructions (10 minutes)

Do: Gather the students in a circle or around a table.

Say: Each of us possesses unique strengths or superpowers that make us special. Today, we will uncover and celebrate these superpowers.

Do: Write the word "Strengths" on the flipchart or whiteboard.

Ask: What do you think of when you hear the word "strengths"? Can you give examples of strengths people might have?

Discuss: Engage the students in a brief discussion about strengths and their significance in personal growth and success.

Strengths Reflection (15 minutes)

Do: Distribute index cards or small pieces of paper and writing materials to each student.

Say: Take a few minutes to reflect on your own strengths. Be honest with yourself and think about both academic and non-academic strengths.

Ask: What are you good at? What qualities or abilities make you feel confident and accomplished?

Do: After reflecting, ask the students to write down at least three of their strengths on the index cards.

Sharing and Celebration (10 minutes)

Do: Go around the circle, giving each student a chance to share one or more of their strengths. Create a positive and supportive atmosphere by celebrating each student's strengths.

Discuss: After everyone has shared, discuss how recognizing and celebrating our strengths can boost our self-esteem and confidence.

Activity 2: Strengths Collage

Introduction and Instructions (10 minutes)

Say: Now that we've identified our strengths, let's create a visual representation of them through a strengths collage.

Do: Provide each student with a sheet of paper and art supplies such as markers, colored pencils, scissors, and glue.

Say: Use the art supplies to create a collage that reflects your strengths. You can include images, words, symbols, or anything that represents your abilities and qualities. Express your creativity and showcase your uniqueness through your collage.

Sharing and Reflection (15 minutes)

Do: After completing their collages, have the students present their artwork to the class. Each student should explain the elements they included in their collage and how these elements represent their strengths.

Discuss: Facilitate a discussion on the various strengths represented in the collages and how diverse strengths contribute to a strong and successful community.

Activity 3: Strengths in Action

Introduction and Instructions (5 minutes)

Say: Discovering our strengths is only the beginning. Now, we will explore how to apply these strengths in real-life situations.

Do: Write the phrase "Strengths in Action" on the flipchart or whiteboard.

Real-Life Scenarios (20 minutes)

Do: Divide the students into small groups.

Instruct: Each group will receive a set of scenario cards (prepared in advance) that describe situations that might be a challenge.

Ask: How can your group members use their strengths to address the challenges presented in the scenarios?

Discuss: Allow each group to discuss their responses and share their strategies for leveraging strengths in different situations.

Closing

Say: Today has been a journey of self-awareness, discovering our strengths, and exploring how these superpowers can positively impact our lives. Remember, knowing your strengths is just the beginning. Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your abilities, and continue to grow and thrive.

Written by Brooke Lektorich
Education World Contributor
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