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multiculturalCircles

This task is rooted in the educational curriculum of Social-Emotional Learning. We often perceive others as being different from us. To live peacefully in a society of growing mobility and migration, it is crucial to see differences as part of an enriching diversity. An effective way to do so is to start thinking that we ourselves are different, too. What makes us multicultural? To which groups in society do we belong? How are they related? What do they have in common? This task allows students to look at themselves from a different perspective. By identifying different parts of their personality they can find answers to the question “Who am I?” which will not only lead to a better understanding of themselves but also of others.

 

The circles symbolise different groups the students identify with. E.g. a student can be a big sister at home, a part of a swim team, and a loyal friend. Maybe someone is an attentive listener whereas someone else is a convincing speaker. The first step is to fill out their own “multiculturalCircle” (“I’m Multicultural”). Afterwards they fill out a “multiculturalCircle” for one of their classmates (“You’re Multicultural”). In the end, they discuss both circles together. Thereby, they can develop awareness for different perceptions and realise that diversity doesn’t have to be an obstacle but can rather be an enrichment.

Reference: Jonathan Cohen, 1999,

"Educating minds and hearts: Social emotional

learning and the passage into adolescene”,

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