S11-30011

There Is Only Us

We are reminded that we have more in common than what sets us apart. Diverse individuals unite, sharing experiences, emotions, and dreams. Despite our differences, we all seek acceptance, belonging, and understanding. Recognizing our shared humanity can bring us together, promoting unity and compassion.

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Activity Time

STEM Concept

Subject & Grades

Interpersonal

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.

STANDARD 2: Professional staff members implement high-quality STEM courses and curriculum aligned to recognized standards and organized into interdisciplinary frameworks.

STANDARD 3: Professional staff members and leaders participate in an ongoing system of STEM-specific professional learning.

STANDARD 4: Leaders engage a diverse network of community partners and stakeholders in order to support and sustain STEM programs and initiatives.

Activity Introduction

Watch this video about our similarities and differences. The "Just Us" video is a powerful reminder that we have more similarities than differences. It showcases individuals from diverse backgrounds coming together, highlighting shared experiences, emotions, and aspirations. The video emphasizes that despite our unique identities and perspectives, we all possess common desires for acceptance, belonging, and understanding. By focusing on our shared humanity and recognizing our commonalities, we can bridge divides, foster unity, and build a more inclusive and compassionate society.

[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 differences with respect and open-mindedness, ensuring productive and respectful dialogue with others.

In what ways can empathy help bridge divides and foster unity among individuals from diverse backgrounds?
Why do you think developing empathy is important for building a more inclusive and compassionate society, and how can this skill positively impact your own life and relationships?

Step 1: Watch the video

Just Us

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.