Understanding Our Identity

Activity Objectives

Students will understand how their identity is made up of different parts, and can be influenced by factors such as their culture, community, and experiences
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Then, students will practice ways to learn about others' identity (instead of making assumptions about them) and learn about skills that can facilitate this, such as cultural humility, critical thinking, and respectful communication

This activity supports the development of the following social-emotional skills: self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

Learn

Engage students in a discussion about identity. You might explain: "Our identity makes us who we are, like our experiences, beliefs, hobbies, and more! It can include who we think we are, who others say we are, and who we hope to be. What else do you think our identity includes?"

Use the slideshow or Kahoot! game below to help students learn about different parts of their identity, and ways they can learn about others' identity (instead of making assumptions about them). Then, students will engage in short reflection exercises and reflect on what they learned.

Activity Slideshow

Kahoot!

Reflect‍

Guide students through a post-activity reflection by asking the following questions:

How is our identity influenced by how we see ourselves, as well as how others see us?
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Have you noticed that your identity changes depending on the people you are with, how you are feeling, or as you grow older?
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What are parts of your identity that you are proud to share with others? Are there parts of your identity that you feel more hesitant to share? Why?
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Have you ever been stereotyped? What assumptions did others make about you? How did this make you feel?
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How can you avoid making assumptions about others?