Time is ticking to share
Objectives
- Students will learn about their peers and make connections
- Students will express themselves in a creative way
- Students will develop confidence in speaking to a larger group
Sharing about yourself to a large group can be intimidating but rewarding! This activity is an exciting way to open a space where everyone can share about themselves and learn from each other.
1. Ask: “Who has ever seen or heard of a TED Talk?” You can show an example of a TedTalk if needed. Some example TEDTalks by and for youth:
- We Are All Different - and THAT'S AWESOME! | Cole Blakeway | TEDxWestVancouverED (4:39min)
- The Reality of Self Acceptance | Tamara Bong’o | TEDxYouth@BrookhouseSchool (6:44min)
- Give Me More Recess | Darius Richards | TEDxCrestmoorParkED (3:20min)
2. Say: “People give TEDTalks when they are passionate about a topic, to share their knowledge and passion with others. They sometimes include pictures, videos, or even demonstrations! Today, we are going to come up with our own TEDTalks about ourselves and the things we like so we can learn more about each other.”
3. Give students time to think about topics they think they should include in their own TedTalk. Topic examples could include:
• Where you grew up
• The people and pets that make up your family
• Things you like to do outside of school
• Your favorite snacks
• Your favorite books
• Your favorite animal (and why)
• A favorite memory
• What you were like when you were younger
4. Present the TEDTalks to the class!
1. Switch up the topic! Rather than introductions, have students take 3 minutes to discuss an approved topic they are passionate about, research about something they’re interested in, or explain a skill (“How to make the perfect sandwich” or “The rules of professional Tag and why it’s the most exciting sport”)
2. No need to listen to everyone in one go! Spread out the 3 minute talks when you have time; between lessons, after lunch, before leaving for the day, etc. You can draw names or take volunteers. Doing too many at one time could pull away from student buy-in and active listening.
3. Amp up your TEDTalk! Take the time to allow students to create visuals, make PowerPoint presentations, and add flare to their speech.
4. Present your TEDTalk in front of the whole class, or in small groups chosen by the facilitator. Small groups can take turns sharing their talks and asking questions after each presenter.
1. Get in on the fun! Presenting your own TEDTalk to the group can break down barriers of discomfort or hesitation around sharing in front of the group. Plus, it helps your students know you.
2. We’ve all been excited about a topic before- we can sometimes talk for hours about one thing. A 3 minute time limit will be your friend (give or take a few seconds, of course).
Ask:
“What was one new thing you learned about somebody in our class?”
“Do you have anything in common with someone that you didn’t know about before?