S12-300007

Reflect on how change happens

Sarah Thomas made history as the first female official in college football. With hard work and persistence, she broke barriers and inspired others. Her journey in high school and college officiating led to being selected for the NFL program. Sarah's achievement encourages others to follow their dreams and make a difference.

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Activity Time

STEM Concept

Subject & Grades

Reflecting

minutes

All

6th-12th

Connections between STEM Concepts, Learning Targets and Standards

Learning Objective

Students will identify and apply many reflective 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 reflection skills are essential skills needed for life.
Students will identify and use the appropriate reflection strategies and techniques.
Students will apply reflection techniques to arrive at a practical solution.

Pathway 10 : Students demonstrate STEM literacy outcomes for their future education and

career readiness

Pathways 12: All students are introduced to STEM careers, and a plan is in place for outreach

support to promote sustainability and integration.

Pathway 13: Teachers often collaborate, using state standards to identify STEM learning targets,

plan cross-curricular activities, and create STEM-based assessments.

STANDARD 1: Learners engage in STEM learning experiences that integrate all STEM disciplines with an emphasis on processes and practices associated with STEM .

STANDARD 5: Leaders ensure that all stakeholders have ongoing opportunities to access information and learn about STEM implementation.

STANDARD 8: Learners benefit from a formal structure of within-school and extracurricular opportunities to extend STEM learning.

Activity Introduction

Watch this video about Sarah Thomas and how she made history by becoming the first female official in college football. Through her hard work, dedication, and persistence, she broke barriers and paved the way for other women in the sport. Sarah's journey involved gaining experience in high school and college football officiating, showcasing her skills and knowledge of the game. Her exceptional performance led to her being selected as a finalist for the NFL's Officiating Development Program. Eventually, in 2007, she became the first woman to officiate a major college football game. Sarah Thomas's achievement highlights the importance of breaking stereotypes and pursuing opportunities inspiring others to follow their dreams and make a significant impact.

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Prompts for group activities

How do reflection skills help you consider school, life and future jobs?

Sarah Thomas broke barriers as the first female official in college football. What strengths or unique qualities do you possess that you believe could help you break barriers or make a positive impact in your own chosen field or community?
Reflecting on Sarah Thomas's journey, think about how your own strengths and talents can contribute to creating positive change or breaking stereotypes in areas where you are passionate. How can you harness your strengths to make a difference, inspire others, or promote inclusivity and equality?

Step 1: Watch the video

Reflect on Challenges

Activity Tips

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