how do we push ourselves positively?

There's quite a market when it comes to self-improvement. Some methods are fads (think juicing and the Thigh Master), others have proven to be effective (think meditating and de-cluttering). So is all this worth it? And if you're going to focus on self-improvement, which method would you try?

Module summary:

• Read about some common issues facing teens
• Discuss methods for self-improvement 
• Review research resources and source types
• Choose one method to research
• Compile a presentation on your chosen method of self-improvement

As everyone knows, the quest for self-improvement begins by standing on a gigantic pile of books and looking into the distance through a telescope.

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essential questions

• What kinds of sources add depth to research?
• How do we present information effectively?

goals

• Students will understand that solid research includes a variety of sources and perspectives.
• Students will understand that an effective presentation capitalizes on clear organization and relevant information.

activities

INTRODUCE

• Warm-up: read and annotate a teen issues article (choose from these)
  • Completing independently? Print an article from the folder linked above
• Review syllabus and expectations for the week
  • Completing independently? Read through module webpage and note important elements, then discuss with Morgan

EXPOSE

• Discuss issues facing teens today based on articles read
  • Use annotations to share take-aways and opinions
  • Make a collective list of issues facing teens (from articles and experience)
  • Completing independently? Create a list of issues on your own and share it with Morgan
• Brainstorm self-improvement techniques
  • Use Google to add to list, if needed
• Review research techniques and source types - read through Research pages in the R&W Handbook (check Table of Contents for pages)
  • Develop list of source types to use - list at least five different source types you can start with and review with Morgan

PRACTICE

• Choose one self-improvement strategy to focus on for your research - get it approved by Morgan
• Research your chosen self-improvement strategy
  • Collect your notes here (save a copy of the doc to your Drive)
  • Convert your sources into MLA citations
  • Include at least four sources from three different source types

CREATE 

• Participate in group discussion on self-improvement strategies
  • Incorporate your findings on definitions, methodology, benefits, and rationale
  • Try to convince your classmates that your strategy is most effective in addressing common teen issues
  • Cite specific research points
• Self-evaluate discussion participation with rubric
• Discuss rubric and performance with Morgan and get syllabus signed off

c-tachs

Writing

• Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
• Conduct short and more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem 

Speaking and listening: 

• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions

resources

Self-improvement syllabus
Teen issues articles
Discussion rubric

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