Looking Back and to Tomorrow

1. Who- This exercise is designed for teenagers and up.

2. What – Participants in this activity will be setting goals in order to increase a sense of accomplishment.

3. UDL and/or SEL? This activity is informed by the SEL competency of Self-management.

4. Why – Having spoken with teenagers (and adults) through the course of the pandemic, a lot of their comments revolve around “what could have been.” Setting new and achievable goals will help instill motivation and renewed energy.

5. How – Participants will follow the directions on the provided handout. First, participants will be asked to pick a song that describes their life right now. Next, give time for students to reflect on why they chose that song. You may want to have them share what parts/lyrics stood out to them and if they’re willing, for what reason(s). After, direct the students’ attention to the fact that as a group, leaning on each other is necessary to grow and is even more applicable as a local, national, and global community. Transitioning from past to present/future, students will now set goals for themselves: achievable goals. Once they identify goals for the day, week, and month, have them choose songs that represent each of the goals they set. There are spaces provided for students to explain why they chose those songs.

6. List materials-

   1. A writing utensil

   2. Included handout

   3. A method of finding/playing the chosen songs (smartphone, tablet, computer, etc.)

Example: