Authentic You Lesson PlanAuthentic You Teacher Lesson Plan Grades 6-8 Lesson Objective Students will identify, appreciate, and celebrate their personal strengths and unique qualities. By the end of this lesson, students will understand that authenticity is a source of inner power and will have created a visual representation of their personal values and talents. Essential Questions • What makes a personal "strength" more than just being good at something? • How does embracing our authentic selves impact our confidence and relationships? • How can we use our unique qualities as a "shield" against external negativity? Materials Needed "Power Within" Slides "Strength Shield" Worksheets "Authenticity Journal" Reflection Markers, pencils, and colored pens 45-60 Minutes Instructional Flow 5 min The Hook: "The Hidden Treasure" Open with the Slides. Ask students to think of one thing they like about themselves that has nothing to do with school grades or sports scores. Share in pairs. 10 min Direct Instruction: Strengths vs. Skills Use the slide deck to define "Authenticity." Discuss the difference between a skill (something you learn) and a strength (an inherent quality like empathy, persistence, or humor). 25 min Creative Work: Strength Shields Hand out the "Strength Shield" activity. Explain that in ancient times, shields didn't just protect—they told a story of who the bearer was. Students will design a shield representing their core values and "superpowers." 15 min Reflection & Wrap-Up Students complete the "Authenticity Journal." Wrap up by having a few volunteers share one element from their shield and why it makes them feel powerful. Differentiation For EL Students: Provide a word bank of strength-related adjectives (e.g., resilient, creative, loyal). Allow drawing symbols instead of writing sentences on the shield. For Enrichment: Ask students to consider how they can use one of their strengths to help their community this week. Teacher Tip "Middle schoolers are often self-conscious about 'bragging.' Reframe the activity as 'finding your equipment.' You wouldn't go into a game without your gear; you shouldn't go through life without knowing your strengths."
Power Within SlidesAUTHENTIC YOU Embracing Your Inner Power The Hidden Treasure "Think of one thing you like about yourself that has nothing to do with school grades or sports scores." Turn & Talk with a Neighbor What is Authenticity? It's the courage to be your true self, even when the world tries to make you like everyone else. It’s not about being "perfect"—it’s about being real. Skill vs. Strength The Skill Something you learn or practice. • Solving equations • Playing an instrument • Scoring a goal The Strength A quality that's part of who you are. • Having empathy for others • Never giving up • Finding humor in hard times Which ones are yours? Kindness Curiosity Optimism Persistence Leadership Creativity ...and hundreds more. The Shield Tradition In many cultures, a shield wasn't just for protection. It was a billboard for who you were. It showed your values, your history, and the power you brought into the world. "Today, your strengths are your shield." Action Time! 01 Identify your 4 core strengths. 02 Design a symbol for each on your shield. 03 Add your "Battle Cry"—a positive self-quote. Be Bold Be Colorful Be YOU "Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are." — Brené Brown
Strength Shield ActivityStrength Shield Visual Identity Activity Name: Date: Strength Bank Resilient Empathetic Creative Curious Loyal Brave Humorous Patient Honest Inclusive Strategic Optimistic Symbol Ideas Sun = Positivity Anchor = Stability Flame = Passion Feather = Creativity Waves = Resilience Fill each quadrant with a symbol and a label that represents your unique strength. Use color and patterns to make it yours. Q1: Inner Quality Q2: How You Help Q3: Unique Spark Q4: Core Value My "Battle Cry" (A powerful quote or original phrase that reminds you of your worth) "Your authenticity is your most powerful asset." Authentic You Lesson Series
Authenticity Journal ReflectionTHE AUTHENTIC PULSE Personal Reflection Journal Name: Date: Which part of your "Strength Shield" was the easiest to identify? Which was the hardest? Why? Think of a challenge you might face this week (at school, home, or with friends). How can you use one of your strengths as a "shield" to help you through it? Middle school can be a place where people feel pressure to "fit in." What is one thing you will do to stay true to yourself when the "noise" gets loud? If you had to choose 3 words to describe the real, authentic YOU, what would they be? "Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do."
