Lesson Plan | Active Methodology | Identity

Premises: This Active Lesson Plan assumes: a 100-minute class duration, prior student study both with the Book and the beginning of Project development, and that only one activity (among the three suggested) will be chosen to be carried out during the class, as each activity is designed to take up a large part of the available time.

Objective

Duration: (5 - 10 minutes)

The Objectives stage is crucial for setting the direction of the lesson, ensuring that both the teacher and students are united in their learning goals. In this instance, the lesson seeks to develop a thorough understanding of personal identity, enabling students to utilize philosophical tools for exploring and critically examining how their identities are shaped. This clear initial framework optimizes the blended classroom experience, where students come prepared with foundational knowledge to deepen during hands-on activities in class.

Objective Utama:

1. Examine and grasp the key components that constitute human identity, including biological, cultural, social, and psychological influences.

2. Cultivate critical reflection skills about one's own identity and its development, employing philosophical tools to question and analyze different facets.

Objective Tambahan:

1. Foster empathy and comprehension of the diverse identities present in our society.

Introduction

Duration: (20 - 25 minutes)

The introduction aims to engage students and activate their prior knowledge on identity, utilizing problem situations to prompt critical thinking and reflection. Additionally, the contextualization underlines the importance of studying identity in real-life settings, heightening students' interest and helping them see how philosophy can shed light on these intricate matters.

Problem-Based Situation

1. Imagine discovering at 18 that you were adopted, and your life story is entirely different from what you believed. How might this revelation impact your understanding of your identity?

2. Consider a scenario where someone with beliefs and values vastly different from your own is compelled to change their cultural identity. How would we approach understanding and accepting this situation?

Contextualization

Identity is a multifaceted concept that deeply affects our self-perception and how we're perceived by others. Notably, our identity is often molded by unforeseen events or situations beyond our control, such as migration, family revelations, or societal shifts. These experiences can lead to both internal and external conflicts, providing rich ground for philosophically delving into the subtleties of identity.

Development

Duration: (70 - 75 minutes)

The Development stage encourages students to apply the concepts of identity discussed in a practical and imaginative manner. Through the proposed activities, they can visualize and reflect on the various aspects of their own identity as well as those of others, utilizing methods that range from artistic creation to critical discussion. This approach not only reinforces their learning but also promotes empathy and respect for diversity in identities across the globe.

Activity Suggestions

It is recommended that only one of the suggested activities be carried out

Activity 1 - Masks of Identity

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: Visually explore various facets of identity and encourage reflection on how these aspects interconnect and influence both self-perception and the perception of others.

- Description: In this activity, students will design masks that represent different facets of their identity, drawing inspiration from the concept of traditional Indian masks. Each mask should reflect an aspect of their identity, such as cultural, emotional, professional, and more.

- Instructions:

• Divide the class into groups of up to 5 students.

• Each group will receive materials like chart paper, paints, brushes, and decorative supplies.

• Students should discuss and select the identity aspects they wish to portray through their masks.

• Using the materials provided, students will create their masks, applying painting and decorative techniques.

• Present the masks to the class, elaborating on the significance of each element depicted.

Activity 2 - The Identity Family Tree

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: Gain an understanding and visual representation of the myriad influences shaping individual identity, from ancestors to contemporary icons, and how these connections create a complex network.

- Description: Students will construct a unique family tree, incorporating not just biological relationships but also significant individuals who have shaped their identities. This task will involve prior research and creativity in graphical representation.

- Instructions:

• Each student selects a branch of the family tree to explore, which can be their own lineage or historical and cultural figures that have impacted their identity.

• Students will gather information about the chosen individuals, including photos, quotes, and brief biographies.

• Using a large sheet of craft paper, students will compile the family tree, drawing connections that showcase the influence of these individuals on their lives.

• Present the family tree to the class, explaining each connection and the rationale behind the inclusion of each individual.

Activity 3 - Identities Debate

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: Enhance argumentation skills and critical understanding of identity's complexities, enabling students to appreciate diverse viewpoints and learn to respect differing opinions.

- Description: Students will engage in a structured debate, where they defend viewpoints related to identity based on pre-determined scenarios. The scenarios may encompass issues such as migration, gender, and culture.

- Instructions:

• Form two groups in the classroom, each representing opposing viewpoints on a particular identity scenario.

• Present the scenario to both groups.

• Each group will have time to prepare their arguments based on their masks and family trees, along with any prior knowledge and additional research.

• Conduct the debate, alternating between groups so that each can put forward their arguments and challenge the opposing group's points.

• Conclude with a collective reflection on how different perspectives influence the debate and our comprehension of identity.

Feedback

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

The goal of this stage is to consolidate students' learning, allowing them to express and share the insights and reflections gained from the practical activities. The group discussion helps strengthen mutual understanding and appreciation for the diversity of identities, as well as offering the teacher a chance to assess the collective and individual comprehension of the subject matter.

Group Discussion

At the end of all activities, gather the students in a circle for a group discussion. Kick off the conversation with a succinct summary highlighting the importance of sharing insights and what each group learned about identity during the activities. Encourage students to express how the activities prompted them to reflect on different aspects of their own identities and those of others. Use the masks and family trees as conversation starters, asking each group to articulate the meanings behind their choices and creations.

Key Questions

1. What did you find most challenging when representing your identity through these activities, and why?

2. How did the varying perspectives shared during the debate shape your understanding of how identities are formed?

3. In what ways can today's activities assist in better understanding and respecting the identities of others?

Conclusion

Duration: (5 - 10 minutes)

The conclusion stage is vital for reinforcing the learning achieved during the lesson, ensuring that students can connect the practical activities with the theoretical concepts discussed. Furthermore, it underscores the real-world significance of studying identity, preparing students to apply this knowledge in their relationships and daily interactions. This final reflection aids in knowledge consolidation and inspires students to continue exploring the topic independently.

Summary

To wrap up, let’s revisit the key topics discussed regarding identity. Throughout the lesson, we examined how factors like culture, biology, social environment, and personal experiences shape who we are. We also delved into how philosophy aids in questioning and gaining a deeper understanding of these intricate dimensions of our identity.

Theory Connection

Today's lesson was structured to effectively weave together theory and practice. We initiated with an introduction that encouraged reflection on realistic and hypothetical scenarios, paving the way for hands-on activities. Activities like crafting masks and creating family trees enabled students to creatively implement philosophical concepts surrounding identity, reinforcing theoretical understanding through both personal and group experiences.

Closing

Comprehending identity is crucial not just for personal growth, but also for our interactions within the world. The ability to reflect on who we are cultivates empathy and enhances our understanding of others' identities, fostering a respectful and positive dialogue. Consequently, the study of identity transcends mere academics; it's an essential tool for personal and societal development.