Activity 1 Topic 5
Title
Discussing common values & basic concepts
Duration
1h35 min. – the duration of each step may vary depending on your class needs
Expected learning outcomes
By the end of this activity, students will be able to:
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Understand the meaning of culture, multiculturalism, citizenship and more specifically European citizenship
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Develop a sense of common belonging
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Respect different views and cultural backgrounds
Methodology
Role-play, critical thinking
Required resources
Blackboard/ flipchart
Sheets of paper, pens
Description
The aim of this activity is to create a relaxing atmosphere, boosting students’ confidence and motivation to participate, stimulating exchange of ideas and reflection on basic concepts such as citizenship.
Note for teacher: it is important to act as a mediator/facilitator in order to make your students feel comfortable in intervening and making mistakes.
Step 1. 10 min
Brainstorming session: “What is a good citizen?”
Group discussion:
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What are the main similarities/differences in the answers?
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How can we define a good citizen?
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Are rules important? What would happen without them at home or school?
Step 2. 10 min
Ask students to draw their image of a European citizen.
Group discussion:
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Why do you think of a European citizen in this way?
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What are the typical elements of a European citizen?
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What is your role in the community when you think of your relations with family/friends/neighbourhood?
Step 3. 15 min
In pairs: How is EU present in your daily life?
Group discussion:
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What does it imply to be part of the EU?
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What is its impact on your life (including on your school, country, neighbourhood)?
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What are your rights and duties as EU citizen?
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How can you contribute to your community?
Step 4. 15 minutes
In pairs: What is a multicultural society?
Group discussion:
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Do you have friends from different countries, religious or ethnic groups?
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Do you use other languages beyond your mother tongue?
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How do you communicate with people speaking another language?
Step 5. 15 minutes
Divide the class in two groups and ask them to create a story starting by:
1st Group: there was a boy named Marco, he…
2nd Group: there was a boy named Ibrahim, he…
Once both groups are ready and have presented their story to the whole group, discuss:
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Are you interested in other cultures?
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How can you learn more about other cultures and backgrounds?
Step 6. 30 minutes
Role play: divide students in reporters and citizens.
Reporters: walk among the citizens and ask them some quick questions about various topics. At the end they make a brief summary of the answers collected.
Questions asked by reporters may include:
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Can you tell me something about the EU?
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What do you think of…[a people]?
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Do you speak foreign language(s)? Would you like to learn a new language?
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Which countries are part of the EU?
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Where would you like to go in EU? Why?
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Do you have friends from different cultural backgrounds?
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What is culture/value/community?
Original source
GEM IN: Guide on methodological approach. Link: https://gem-in.eu/en/resources