5A P1a #SeeTheHuman

Current Status
Not Enrolled
Price
Closed
Get Started
This task / project is currently closed
Click for Braille About LG More Schedules Help Me Learn Tasks & Projects Mining Expeditions Statistics Settings

Dear Pupils,

The structure of this project will be very different than what you are used to. It is a project that serves English learning goals but also many learning goals beyond English-learning learning goals.

This project is about deep-democracy, burgerschap and learning inter-personal and inter-cultural skills. We hope that you are willing to give it a shot and look back on it positively. This type of project relies heavily on how teachers and pupils work together, so please inform us and teach us whenever you want so we can make the project a success together.

1) Before watching this video, grab your notebook

Reserve 10 pages, and write down the tile of this project and then write down what you think SeeTHeHuman symbolizes.

2a) Now watch the video:

2b Read the letter from us to you

Dear pupils,

Thank you for watching the video. This is a message for you, personally written by the author of this project.

As an educator, I’ve always believed that there are two pivotal moments in a year when we should pause, reflect, and set new goals filled with hope. The first of these moments is the most obvious in Western countries and cultures – December 31st, a time when we naturally reflect on the past year and harbor aspirations for a peaceful and healthy year ahead.

The second time I find myself reflecting deeply each year occurs as we embark on the school year, typically in late August or early September – right around the time you’re reading this introduction. During this period, I contemplate the significance of the year ahead, drawing insights from my experiences teaching you last year, and recognizing the valuable lessons you, my students, have taught me. I assess my strengths and areas where I can improve, aiming to enhance my teaching and amplify the positive impact on your learning journey.

This project was conceived on December 29, 2023, see a 7-minute overview here, following a challenging year (There were good moments too, click me!) characterized by growing divides between individuals and governments in which both sides truly belief they are right or the good ‘guy’, escalating conflicts we have all heard and read about and sometimes acted upon with for example, protests. Moreover, there have been deadly natural disasters such as earthquakes in Turkey–Syria, Morroco Afghanistan and Nepal and floods in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Malawi destroying the lives of so many people. In 2023, even more than before, the truth and objective reporting on all disasters and conflicts became increasingly elusive, as people confined themselves to echo chambers and disregarded alternative perspectives. Misinformation proliferated, and fear and prejudice often clouded judgment.

In the midst of this tumultuous figurative landscape, the primary objective of this project emerges—to bridge the gap between us, to see beyond policies, conflicts, and preconceived notions, and to reconnect on a human level. While we may hold differing beliefs, it is imperative that we learn to truly understand one another, for without this understanding, true peace remains elusive. As Baruch Spinoza once wrote, “Peace is not an absence of war; it is a virtue, a state of mind, a disposition for benevolence, confidence, and justice.” I hope that, step by step, we can rediscover that peace, as we all share the common bond of being human, with hopes, dreams, and loved ones, transcending culture, religion, gender, nationality, and any other characteristic that may seek to divide us.

Undoubtedly, this endeavor presents a considerable challenge. Opening up to one another and letting our guards down can be daunting, both for students and teachers. It’s particularly complex when divisions exist even within our own country, our families, and our school communities, often preventing us from seeing each other’s perspectives and shared humanity.

On behalf of all English teachers in the department, I extend an invitation to each of you—to seek understanding rather than demanding to be understood. If we all make an effort to understand one another, everyone will naturally feel more understood. This act of truly understanding one another is a form of love and attention that every human being craves deep within. Let’s work together towards helping each other experience it.

Warm regards!

Activity 3

Watch the video and answer the questions while watching

Read more: click me!

3) Questions:

  1. Mention a cycle of suffering that you know occurring in the world, this country or at this school.
  2. What is meant with ‘Conflicts are viewed in an overly simplistic way’. Involve the words: up-close, behind the headlines, people and local face in your answer.
  3. What can dialogue achieve according to you?
  4. What is the danger of stereotypes according to you?
  5. Do you think that peacebuilding can be effective? Why or why not? Under what circumstances would it be possible?

FAQ

Why can’t we decide who to work with during activity 7?

The essence of this project is to broaden your horizons and help you connect with diverse perspectives. While it’s comfortable and familiar to work with friends, this project encourages you to step out of your comfort zone. By interacting with peers you might not usually choose to work with, you get the opportunity to understand and appreciate different viewpoints and life experiences. This diversity is key to developing empathy and intercultural understanding. While you might still find yourself in a group with some friends by coincidence, our primary goal is to create varied groups that reflect a mix of backgrounds and thoughts, drawn from your Activity 5 assignments.

What are the learning goals?
  1. Enhancing English Language Proficiency:
    • CEFR Goals: The project should aim at improving skills in all areas – reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
    • Project Relation: The use of English in discussions, reflections, and presentations helps improve linguistic competencies corresponding to the students’ CEFR levels.
  2. Effective Communication:
    • CEFR Goals: Emphasizes the ability to express oneself fluently and spontaneously (B2-C2) and to interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity (B1-C2).
    • Project Relation: The speaking test and group discussions in the project foster fluency, spontaneity, and interaction, aligning with mid to high CEFR benchmarks.
  3. Understanding Deep Democracy and Burgerschap:
    • CEFR Goals: Includes intercultural awareness and understanding (B1-C2), and the ability to mediate texts and concepts across cultures (B2-C2).
    • Project Relation: The project’s focus on societal issues and cultural diversity enhances intercultural competencies and mediation skills.
  4. Cultivating Inter-personal and Inter-cultural Skills:
    • CEFR Goals: Involves the ability to understand and express cultural nuances (B2-C2) and adapting language for different social contexts (B1-C2).
    • Project Relation: Activities requiring students to engage with diverse perspectives and express empathy contribute to their sociolinguistic and pragmatic competencies.
  5. Encouraging Self-reflection and Empathy:
    • CEFR Goals: Encompasses the development of existential competence (B1-C2), which is the ability to reflect on oneself and one’s place in the world.
    • Project Relation: Reflective tasks and creative expressions in the project promote existential competence.
Do we need to study vocab or grammar? Begrippenlijst

This project does not contain grammar topics but there is some vocabulary that you will study and use: here’s a list of questions that you might be able to answer after this project. These questions mainly relate to vocabulary.

  1. What word describes a tendency to favor one thing over another, often in an unfair way?
  2. What is the process of creating lasting peace by addressing root causes of conflict?
  3. What teaching method involves asking questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas?
  4. What term refers to a conversation or discussion to resolve conflict?
  5. What is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another?
  6. What is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment?
  7. What is the ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions or behavior that one dislikes?
  8. What term describes the practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized?
  9. What is the process of intervening in a dispute to resolve it?
  10. What term refers to a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person?
  11. What is the process of working together to the same end?
  12. What is the process of making two opposing things compatible?
  13. What is the act of asking questions to gain information, clarify understanding, or challenge ideas?
  14. What is the principle of not being biased towards a party or issue?
  15. What is the process of resolving a dispute or conflict?
  16. What term refers to a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something?
  17. What is the quality of being just, impartial, or fair?
  18. What is an act of asking for information?
  19. What is the process of listening to someone and then summarizing back what you heard to confirm understanding?
  20. What is a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience?
  21. What is a general agreement among a group of people?
  22. What is the willingness to consider new ideas and listen to others’ opinions?
  23. What is confidently expressing one’s views and opinions without being aggressive?
  24. What is the understanding of the differences and similarities between cultures?
  25. What is the practice of achieving goals through peaceful protests and not using violence?
  26. What is the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds?
  27. What is fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and then remembering what is being said?
  28. What is the quality of forming a pleasing and consistent whole, often in a social context?
  29. What is the quality of making judgments that are free from discrimination?
  30. What is the consideration and regard for the rights and feelings of others?
  31. What does ’empathy’ involve?
  32. What does ‘diversity’ mean in a social context?
  33. What is a ‘perspective’?
  34. What is ‘dialogue’?
  35. What is a ‘stereotype’?
  36. What does ‘conflict’ imply?
  37. What is a ‘resolution’?
  38. What does ‘intercultural’ relate to?
  39. What is ‘mediation’?
  40. What is ‘prejudice’?
  41. What does ‘narrative’ mean?
  42. What does it mean to be ‘reflective’?
  43. What is ‘insight’?
  44. What does ’empowerment’ involve?
  45. What is ‘sympathy’?
  46. What does ‘tolerance’ imply?
  47. What is ‘collaboration’?
  48. What does ‘bias’ mean?
  49. What does it mean to ‘advocate’?
  50. What is ‘cultural’?
  51. What does ‘inclusive’ mean?
  52. What is an ‘assumption’?
  53. What is a ‘mindset’?
  54. What is ‘compassion’?
  55. What does ‘globalization’ mean?
  56. What does ‘globalization’ entail?
  57. What does ‘advocate’ imply in a social context?
  58. What does being ‘inclusive’ mean in a group setting?
  59. What is an ‘assumption’ in critical thinking?
  60. What defines a ‘mindset’ in psychological terms?
  61. What word describes a selfless concern for the well-being of others?
  62. What is the action of stopping someone from being angry or discontented?
  63. What term describes actions that are morally right and good?
  64. What is the examination of one’s own thoughts and feelings?
  65. What is the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of complete awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings?
  66. What is the quality of being based on facts without being influenced by personal feelings or opinions?
  67. What is the belief that any violence, including war, is unjustifiable and that all disputes should be settled peacefully?
  68. What is the approach that evaluates theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application?
  69. What is the quality of being based on or in accordance with reason or logic?
  70. What is unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest?
  71. What is the skill of dealing with people in a sensitive manner?
  72. What describes someone who shows no prejudice for or against something?
  73. What is the conformity to facts; accuracy or truthfulness?
  74. What is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment?
  75. What is the obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions?
  76. What is sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others?
  77. What is the art of managing international relations, typically by a country’s representatives abroad?
  78. What is mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation?
  79. What is a modest or low view of one’s own importance?
  80. What is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles?
  81. What is just behavior or treatment?
  82. What is the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate?
  83. What is the ability to read and write?
  84. What is the avoidance of excess or extremes, especially in one’s behavior or political opinions?
  85. What is the discussion aimed at reaching an agreement?
  86. What is the quality of being open and willing to receive new ideas?
  87. What is the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, problems, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious?
  88. What is the act of asking questions to gain understanding or challenge assumptions?
  89. What is a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements?
  90. What is the fair and just relation between the individual and society?

These words and phrases are chosen for their relevance to the themes of intercultural communication, empathy, and understanding in diverse social contexts, which are central to the #SeeTheHuman project.

Answers:

  1. Bias
  2. Peacebuilding
  3. Socratic Method
  4. Dialogue
  5. Empathy
  6. Critical Thinking
  7. Tolerance
  8. Inclusion
  9. Mediation
  10. Stereotype
  11. Collaboration
  12. Reconciliation
  13. Inquiry
  14. Neutrality
  15. Conflict Resolution
  16. Perspective
  17. Equity
  18. Inquiry
  19. Active Listening
  20. Prejudice
  21. Consensus
  22. Open-mindedness
  23. Assertiveness
  24. Cultural Awareness
  25. Nonviolence
  26. Diversity
  27. Active Listening
  28. Harmony
  29. Objectivity
  30. Respect
  31. Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
  32. Diversity in a social context refers to the inclusion of different types of people, such as those of different races, cultures, or genders.
  33. A perspective is a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something.
  34. Dialogue is a conversation or discussion aimed at resolving conflict.
  35. A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person.
  36. Conflict implies a disagreement or clash between ideas, principles, or people.
  37. Resolution is the process of finding a solution to a dispute or conflict.
  38. Intercultural relates to the interaction or relationship between different cultures.
  39. Mediation is the process of intervening in a dispute to help resolve it.
  40. Prejudice is a preconceived opinion not based on reason or actual experience.
  41. Narrative means a story or account of events, experiences, or the like, whether true or fictitious.
  42. Being reflective involves examining one’s own thoughts and feelings.
  43. Insight is the ability to gain an accurate and deep understanding of a situation or person.
  44. Empowerment involves providing individuals or groups with the power or confidence to take control of their lives.
  45. Sympathy is feeling pity or sorrow for someone else’s misfortune.
  46. Tolerance implies the willingness to accept or tolerate differing opinions or behaviors.
  47. Collaboration is the process of working together to achieve a common goal.
  48. Bias means an inclination or preference that can lead to unfair treatment.
  49. To advocate means to publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy.
  50. Cultural relates to the customs, beliefs, and social behaviors of a particular group or society.
  51. Inclusive means embracing and involving people of all backgrounds.
  52. An assumption is something that is accepted as true without proof.
  53. A mindset is a set of beliefs or attitudes that shape how one thinks and behaves.
  54. Compassion is the feeling of concern for the suffering or misfortune of others.
  55. Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of the world’s economies, cultures, and populations.
  56. Globalization entails the process by which businesses, cultures, and people become interconnected across the globe.
  57. To advocate in a social context means to support a particular cause, often for social justice or equality.
  58. Being inclusive in a group setting means ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued.
  59. An assumption in critical thinking is an accepted belief or idea taken for granted without evidence.
  60. A mindset in psychological terms refers to established attitudes or ways of thinking.
  61. Altruism describes a selfless concern for the well-being of others.
  62. Pacification is the action of calming someone or something, often to end anger or discontent.
  63. Ethics or morality describes actions that are right and good.
  64. Self-reflection is examining one’s own thoughts and feelings.
  65. Mindfulness is the practice of nonjudgmental awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings.
  66. Objectivity means basing judgments on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions.
  67. Pacifism is the belief in resolving disputes peacefully, without violence.
  68. Pragmatism is an approach that evaluates theories or beliefs based on practical outcomes.
  69. Rationality is the quality of being based on reason or logic.
  70. Solidarity is unity or agreement of feeling or action among individuals with common interests.
  71. Tact is the skill of dealing sensitively with others.
  72. Impartial describes someone who shows no favoritism or prejudice.
  73. Veracity is conformity to facts, representing truthfulness.
  74. Wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.
  75. Accountability is the responsibility for one’s actions.
  76. Compassionate concern is the care for the suffering of others.
  77. Diplomacy is the art of managing international relations sensitively.
  78. Equanimity is mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.
  79. Humility is a modest view of one’s own importance.
  80. Integrity is the quality of being honest and morally upright.
  81. Justice is fair treatment or behavior.
  82. Kindness is being friendly, generous, and considerate.
  83. Literacy is the ability to read and write.
  84. Moderation is avoiding extremes in behavior or opinion.
  85. Negotiation is a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.
  86. Receptiveness is openness to new ideas.
  87. Patience is the ability to tolerate delays or suffering without frustration.
  88. Questioning is asking questions to gain understanding or challenge ideas.
  89. Respect is a feeling of admiration for someone’s abilities or qualities.
  90. Social justice is the fair relation between the individual and society.
What if I find it hard to communicate with people in my group?

It’s natural to face communication challenges in a diverse group. Consider this an opportunity to practice patience, active listening, and expressing yourself clearly. If you encounter difficulties, feel free to reach out to your teacher for guidance. Remember, overcoming these challenges is a crucial part of learning and personal growth.

How will our final speaking test be graded?

Your test will be assessed based on three criteria: Use of English and Communicative Effectiveness, Depth of Reflection and Peer Understanding, and Application of Interpersonal and Intercultural Understanding. Each criterion has a detailed rubric outlining expectations for Insufficient, Sufficient, and Outstanding levels. The total points from these criteria will determine your grade on a scale of 1.0 to 10.0.

What should I focus on in the creative tasks?

In your creative tasks (Activity 5), focus on expressing your personal identity, experiences, and perspectives related to the themes of hoops, hurdles, and wheelbarrows. Be genuine and thoughtful in your reflections, and try to incorporate how these aspects relate to broader societal and cultural contexts.

Can we use resources outside of the provided materials for our projects?

Absolutely! You are encouraged to bring in additional resources that you find relevant and insightful. This can include articles, books, videos, or personal experiences. Just make sure they align with the project’s themes and enhance your understanding and reflections.

What if I disagree with someone’s viewpoint in the discussions?

Disagreements can be valuable learning moments. If you find yourself disagreeing, approach the situation mainly with respect and curiosity. Focus more on asking questions to understand their perspective better than sharing your own point of view. This project is about seeking to understand rather than to be understood and trying to convince someone of your opinion doesn’t bring you and the other person closer together. If you do share your opnion, share your viewpoint calmly and clearly. Again: the goal is not to win an argument but to learn from each other’s experiences and viewpoints.

How will this project help us in our future?

This project equips you with vital skills for your future. By improving your English communication, enhancing your understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives, and developing empathy, you’re preparing not just for academic success but also for being a thoughtful, informed, and compassionate member of a global society.

Concepts to know:

1. Bias
2. Peacebuilding
3. Socratic Method
4. Dialogue
5. Empathy
6. Critical Thinking
7. Tolerance
8. Inclusion
9. Mediation
10. Stereotype
11. Collaboration
12. Reconciliation
13. Inquiry
14. Neutrality
15. Conflict Resolution
16. Perspective
17. Equity
18. Inquiry
19. Active Listening
20. Prejudice
21. Consensus
22. Open-mindedness
23. Assertiveness
24. Cultural Awareness
25. Nonviolence
26. Diversity
27. Active Listening
28. Harmony
29. Objectivity
30. Respect
31. Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
32. Diversity in a social context refers to the inclusion of different types of people, such as those of different races, cultures, or genders.
33. A perspective is a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something.
34. Dialogue is a conversation or discussion aimed at resolving conflict.
35. A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person.
36. Conflict implies a disagreement or clash between ideas, principles, or people.
37. Resolution is the process of finding a solution to a dispute or conflict.
38. Intercultural relates to the interaction or relationship between different cultures.
39. Mediation is the process of intervening in a dispute to help resolve it.
40. Prejudice is a preconceived opinion not based on reason or actual experience.
41. Narrative means a story or account of events, experiences, or the like, whether true or fictitious.
42. Being reflective involves examining one's own thoughts and feelings.
43. Insight is the ability to gain an accurate and deep understanding of a situation or person.
44. Empowerment involves providing individuals or groups with the power or confidence to take control of their lives.
45. Sympathy is feeling pity or sorrow for someone else’s misfortune.
46. Tolerance implies the willingness to accept or tolerate differing opinions or behaviors.
47. Collaboration is the process of working together to achieve a common goal.
48. Bias means an inclination or preference that can lead to unfair treatment.
49. To advocate means to publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy.
50. Cultural relates to the customs, beliefs, and social behaviors of a particular group or society.
51. Inclusive means embracing and involving people of all backgrounds.
52. An assumption is something that is accepted as true without proof.
53. A mindset is a set of beliefs or attitudes that shape how one thinks and behaves.
54. Compassion is the feeling of concern for the suffering or misfortune of others.
55. Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of the world’s economies, cultures, and populations.
56. Globalization entails the process by which businesses, cultures, and people become interconnected across the globe.
57. To advocate in a social context means to support a particular cause, often for social justice or equality.
58. Being inclusive in a group setting means ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued.
59. An assumption in critical thinking is an accepted belief or idea taken for granted without evidence.
60. A mindset in psychological terms refers to established attitudes or ways of thinking.
61. Altruism describes a selfless concern for the well-being of others.
62. Pacification is the action of calming someone or something, often to end anger or discontent.
63. Ethics or morality describes actions that are right and good.
64. Self-reflection is examining one's own thoughts and feelings.
65. Mindfulness is the practice of nonjudgmental awareness of one's thoughts and feelings.
66. Objectivity means basing judgments on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions.
67. Pacifism is the belief in resolving disputes peacefully, without violence.
68. Pragmatism is an approach that evaluates theories or beliefs based on practical outcomes.
69. Rationality is the quality of being based on reason or logic.
70. Solidarity is unity or agreement of feeling or action among individuals with common interests.
71. Tact is the skill of dealing sensitively with others.
72. Impartial describes someone who shows no favoritism or prejudice.
73. Veracity is conformity to facts, representing truthfulness.
74. Wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.
75. Accountability is the responsibility for one’s actions.
76. Compassionate concern is the care for the suffering of others.
77. Diplomacy is the art of managing international relations sensitively.
78. Equanimity is mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.
79. Humility is a modest view of one’s own importance.
80. Integrity is the quality of being honest and morally upright.
81. Justice is fair treatment or behavior.
82. Kindness is being friendly, generous, and considerate.
83. Literacy is the ability to read and write.
84. Moderation is avoiding extremes in behavior or opinion.
85. Negotiation is a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.
86. Receptiveness is openness to new ideas.
87. Patience is the ability to tolerate delays or suffering without frustration.
88. Questioning is asking questions to gain understanding or challenge ideas.
89. Respect is a feeling of admiration for someone’s abilities or qualities.
90. Social justice is the fair relation between the individual and society.

Task / Project Content