Grades 9–12
NarrativeSparksYour students will reframe an ancestral and/or family story using words related to identity and community.
BEFORE YOU START
Set up four pieces of butcher paper or poster boards around the classroom with markers easily accessible at each station. Every paper should be labeled with one of the following themes: identity, culture, family, and community.
STEP 1: Four Corners (15 Minutes)
Divide the class into four groups, with each group starting at one of the four themes identified on the pieces of butcher paper. Encourage students to write down any words that they associate with their starting theme; these topics should hopefully evoke strong responses from students. Allow them to self-identify as much as possible, rather than supplying ideas. There are no wrong answers, but there should be honest answers.
After 3-4 minutes at a station, have the groups rotate. Repeat the process until all groups have visited all the theme stations. The lists they have now made will likely reveal their values, beliefs, and loves. Many classmates might find similarities that had been previously unknown or unspoken—this is a simple, energizing way to revitalize the classroom community and prepare your students for the rest of the session.
STEP 2: Writing Activity (20 minutes)
As your class reflects on the word association activity, give them the following prompt.
As students begin writing, and if they’re ever stuck or lacking inspiration, they should utilize some of the words from the word banks to help them find their footing.
If you have time, have your students share their writing with a partner or the class!
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