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S11-30009

Different Opinions​

Understanding different opinions helps us in many ways. It broadens our perspective, improves critical thinking, empathy, and communication. Valuing diverse opinions makes us well-rounded, ready to navigate the world with respect and understanding. It challenges our beliefs and encourages alternative perspectives.

Activity Time

STEM Concept

Subject & Grades

Interpersonal

15

minutes

All

6th-12th

Connections between STEM Concepts, Learning Targets and Standards

Learning Objective

  • Students will identify and apply many Interpersonal  techniques to everyday situations.

  • Students will understand how these skills relate to their confidence and success.

Success Criteria

  • Students will be able to explain why Interpersonal skills are needed for life.

  • Students will identify and use the appropriate Interpersonal strategies and techniques. 

  • Students will apply Interpersonal approaches to arrive at a practical solution. 

Pathway 2: Qualified staff members create STEM courses and curricula that meet recognized​

standards and integrate multiple disciplines.​

Pathways 4: Leaders involve various community partners and stakeholders to uphold and​

maintain STEM programs and initiatives.​

Pathway 5: Leaders make sure everyone can regularly learn about STEM implementation.​

Pathway 8: Students have school and after-school chances to enhance their STEM learning.​

Activity Introduction

Watch this video about how opinions differ. Seeing other opinions and standing in someone else's shoes benefits people in multiple ways. It broadens perspectives, enhances critical thinking, nurtures empathy, improves communication, and fosters personal growth. By actively seeking out and valuing diverse opinions, we become more well-rounded individuals who are better prepared to navigate the complexities of the world with understanding and respect. Seeing other opinions and standing in someone else's shoes allows us to reflect on our own beliefs, biases, and values. It challenges us to question our assumptions and consider alternative perspectives,

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[Click image to enlarge]

Prompts for group activities

Discuss how interpersonal skills and empathy build connections now and into the future 

Think about how you can approach a difference of opinion with respect and open-mindedness, ensuring productive and respectful dialogue with others.

  • What strategies can you employ to actively listen to someone with a different opinion and try to understand their perspective without immediately dismissing or becoming defensive?

  • How can you find common ground or areas of agreement with someone who holds a different opinion, fostering collaboration and building bridges instead of creating further divisions?

Step 1: Watch the video

Different Opinions

Activity Tips

  1. Remind the students to write down words they don’t understand or questions that immediately come to mind about the topic they’re watching.

  2. Tell them to be ready to share with their group.



Step 2:
Group Session

After the video, divide students into groups of 3 or 4 and let the students begin their discussions while you circulate; it’s all about what THEY think and feel. Ask them to listen carefully to their friends as they might have different opinions to them.

Step 3:
Assessment

Ask the students:

  • Ask the students who they believe the best listeners and best team players are from this activity. 

  • Ask them to justify their answers in a simple sentence. 

  • Explain to them that the idea is everyone improves both their listening and teamwork skills over time.

  • Ask the students to summarize the video in 6-8 words only.

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