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SEL: Philosophical Chairs - Intro to Bias

This activity prompts young people to think and speak critically with their peers about a real-world topic. They consider how the topic applies to them and how it might impact others. During this activity, youth share their opinions, debate their positions, and sometimes even change sides as their opinions shift to accommodate new information or other viewpoints. This activity introduces young people to the concepts of bias and stereotypes by discussing how the judgments we make can be very damaging. 

In this lesson, learners identify bullying behavior using two literature books, Mr. Lincoln's Way and The Secret Bully.  They compare and contrast two examples of bullying behavior portrayed in the books and create a peer/staff/family survey to research bullying behavior in their own school community.

Participants examine the meaning of and examples of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination. They reflect on ways that stereotypes develop and have the potential to turn into discrimination.

Through an activity with differently wrapped gifts, youth examine the meaning of stereotypes and prejudice. They discuss the importance of respecting diverse voices to avoid stereotyping and prejudice.

One of our roles in a civil society is connecting to diverse others and seeing their light within. In this lesson, learners watch a video and listen to an audio recording that both show how we can overcome first impressions about people and value the diversity of their experiences and culture. 

The purpose of this lesson is for learners to evaluate what first impressions of people they form and to deliberately be more open to treating people respectfully.

Learners define respect and explore the meaning of self-respect and respect for others. They explore the relationships between respect and prejudice, bias, racism and stereotype.  

Learners explore and share their attitudes about diversity and issues of justice and kindness. The learners brainstorm ways that they can promote the common good by working to eliminate stereotyping, intolerance, discrimination, and prejudice. Students also explore these issues and have time for introspective reflection.

In this lesson, we define stereotype as a mistaken generalization about a group of people and raise awareness of ways to advocate for inclusion and kindness.