Active learning ideas
Healthy relationships are built on a foundation of respect, communication, and trust. For 1st year students, this topic is crucial as they navigate new peer groups and potentially the early stages of romantic interests. It aligns with the NCCA 'Respected' indicator, teaching students to identify the hallmarks of positive connections and the 'red flags' of toxic or manipulative behavior.
Activity 01
The room is divided into 'Green Flags' (healthy) and 'Red Flags' (unhealthy). Students place scenario cards (e.g., 'A friend gets mad if you hang out with others') on the correct side and discuss the 'Amber' flags that could go either way.
What are the signs of a healthy relationship?
Activity 02
Students practice 'I statements' (e.g., 'I feel upset when you share my secrets') in various scenarios. They experiment with body language and tone to see how being assertive differs from being aggressive or passive.
How can we recognise manipulative or controlling behaviour?
Activity 03
Groups analyze how relationships are portrayed on social media versus reality. They identify the pressures these 'perfect' images put on young people and brainstorm ways to keep their expectations realistic.
How do we communicate our feelings respectfully?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
If someone is jealous, it just means they really like me.
Students often mistake control for affection. Through the 'Red and Green Flags' activity, they learn that healthy love is based on trust, not monitoring or possessiveness.
Conflict means a relationship is failing.
Many students fear any disagreement. Role playing assertive communication shows them that healthy relationships involve working through problems respectfully, rather than avoiding them.
Methods used in this brief