Students discuss passion and work to clarify and connect with their individual interests.
Objectives
- Cognitive: Students will be able to identify examples of passions.
- Affective: Students will feel supported by clarifying their interests and exploring personal passions.
Materials
looseleaf paper, writing utensils, a whiteboard/overhead projector, markers
Teacher Prep
Be prepared to share a personal passion.
Exercises
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 min | Ask each student to give their own definition of passion
Introduce another definition of passion by saying that it can be: a strong, compelling enthusiasm or desire for something. Then say that this activity is a quick way of introducing the idea of passion and how they can move people to take action. |
Remind students this may be a new idea – encourage students to be patient and consider what they enjoy and care about. |
| 3 min | Ask students to respond to these questions on a piece of paper anonymously:
|
Validate passions of all students. |
| 8 min | Collect papers and redistribute anonymously.
Students will then “stand” for someone else and declare “their passion”. When a student has declared a peers’ passion, write the passion on board until all students have spoken and all “passions” have been identified Discuss and celebrate the range and content of student passions. |
Encourage students to respect others’ sharing.
Celebrate the value of different passions and introduce collaboration on common passions. |
| 2 min | Wrap up the activity by highlighting that having a specific purpose or passion can be life-affirming and motivating. Passions can change over time. Identifying them can offer you direction. | Optional discussion: How can having a purpose affect your daily choices? |
Teacher Reflection
How did you feel after the activity? Did students participate and seem engaged?
Remember to ask the students to share their feedback on the activity: What went well? What suggestions do they have for making the activity better? Think about what you might do differently next time.
Emotional Intelligence Tips
- Caution: Not all students can readily identify a passion.
- Focus on interests and strengths (social, emotional, physical, inter/intrapersonal skills).
- Encourage students to be patient, curious, respectful, open, and reserve judgement about their preferences.