Being true to oneself can be difficult when faced with pressure from others. In this lesson, participants first list what they value and then role-play a series of scenarios that test these values. To conclude, individuals list three important values and explain how these values influence their actions.

Concepts

values, social-emotional learning, making decisions, responsible decision-making

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Instructional Ideas

• Consider using O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi" as an example of a story that emphasizes values
• Post the Shakespeare line, "To thine own self be true," in a prominent place in the classroom

Classroom Considerations

• Third of five lessons in the Confidence Building unit of the Overcoming Obstacles course
• Requires copies, one for each participant, of the "Top Ten" activity sheet

Pros

• For homework, participants decorate a box or bag, fill it with objects that represent them and their values, and then share their "Me Bag" with the class the next day
• The role-play exercise permits pupils to practice saying "no" in situations that don't line up with their values

Cons

• None