Mrs. Strueby-Denkert

Unit I: The Human Condition 

"Understanding Ourselves"

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The discovery of self is a most profound discovery. On the path to this discovery, we develop our understanding of who we are, what it means to be human, and the purpose of our lives. We find meaning and fulfillment as we explore these concepts. Through powerful texts, both literary and informational, we examine the human condition - the great and the ghastly, the generosity and the greed, the good and the corrupt, the dignity and the disgrace, the truth and the deception - and the nature of the human mind and heart. Individually and collectively, we search for answers and strive to realize our hopes and dreams despite self-doubt and fear. In this unit, students consider who they are, how they relate to others, how they develop their individual identity, what kind of identity they wish to create for themselves throughout life, and how they respond to joys, inspiration, doubts, and fears.

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Introduction Lesson

Introduction Lesson – Syllabus & Student Inventory 

TED Talk: Grit – The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Lee Duckworth

1. Explain a moment in which you preserved despite challenges demonstrating “grit”.  What did you learn about yourself?

2. In your opinion, how does “gril” connect to the classroom?

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The Human Condition

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i. Sense of Self

 

Question for Deeper Understanding: Who are we? 

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Lesson #1 - Informational Texts (CR B30.4) (d) (i)

i. Personality: Is our identity pre-determined? 

Opinion Piece: "What is identity?" by Anne Hodgskiss

• What identity factors would you include in your equation? 

Magazine Article: "Falling in Line: The Power of Birth Order" by Laura Janecka

Online Article: Engaging Generation Z Students

• Read the above articles, and create a description of yourself based on the information. Next, reflect on whether the description is accurate.

Article: Adolescence and Internet Identity

• This article states that in the 21st Century, adolescents (i.e.,students) have both an online/offline identity that expands beyond the traditional identity formation. Do you agree or disagree? Explain.

Reflection & Discussion

In relation to the articles read, do you believe we are born into our identity? If not, explain.  If so, can we change it?