Active learning ideas
Decision making and goal setting are vital life skills that empower 6th Class students to take agency over their lives. As they gain more independence, the ability to weigh consequences and plan for the future becomes increasingly important. This topic aligns with the NCCA Strand Unit on Self-identity, focusing on the factors that influence choices, such as peer pressure, family values, and personal ambitions.
Activity 01
The teacher presents a dilemma, such as whether to tell on a friend who broke a rule. Groups are assigned different 'stakeholders' (the friend, the teacher, the student) and must debate the best decision based on the consequences for their specific person.
What steps should I take when making a difficult decision?
Activity 02
In pairs, students take a vague goal, like 'get better at Irish', and use a checklist to transform it into a SMART goal (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). They then peer-review another pair's goal.
How do my choices affect myself and others?
Activity 03
Using a large floor space, students physically walk a 'decision tree'. At each junction, they must discuss the potential outcome of a choice before moving to the next 'branch', visualizing how one decision leads to different future realities.
How can I set and achieve a personal goal?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
A 'good' decision always has a perfect outcome where everyone is happy.
Many good decisions involve trade-offs or difficult consequences. Simulation activities help students realize that a responsible decision is based on the best available information and values, even if the result is challenging.
Goals are only for big things like careers or sports championships.
Goal setting is equally important for daily habits and short-term tasks. Peer teaching allows students to share small, successful goals they have set, making the process feel more attainable and relevant.
Methods used in this brief
Self-Awareness and Self-Esteem
Students explore their personal strengths, talents, and the factors that influence their self-esteem. They learn to appreciate their unique qualities and those of others.
8 methodologies
Identifying and Expressing Feelings
Pupils learn to identify, explore, and appropriately express a wide range of emotions. They discuss healthy coping mechanisms for difficult feelings.
8 methodologies