Previewing Activities
Before viewing the video, consider explaining to students
how decisions are made and the influence of alternatives
and variables using a sample diagram (decision tree) on the
chalk board on "How did you decide what to eat for
breakfast?" Have student teams then make their own flow
charts to assess how they make choices when answering,
"How do you decide what to wear to school?" Monitor the
students' progress and record what you hear them say.Once
the charts are completed, have the students share them with
the class. You could then go on to more complicated issues.
Discuss how simple decisions can affect other decisions and
ultimately shape their lives.
Focus for Viewing
During the
video have students record the choices Jeremy and Nikki
made the day of the party. Ask them to record who was affected
by these decisions and how these decisions affected their own
lives. Have them record the choices that Chris made. Have
them compare the probable outcome of choices being made
by Chris to the choices being made by Jeremy and Nikki.
Post-Viewing Activities
Have the class make a flow chart for the decisions Jeremy
and Nikki made and discuss how those decisions affected
their lives and led to a potentially horrible situation/outcome.
Encourage open dialogue between the students by using
some of the "Talking Points" in this pamphlet to stimulate
conversation. Show It's A Wonderful Life to the class and
discuss how one person can have an effect on the whole
community.
