Spatial Requirements: Regular classroom setup: little or no space required
Activity Type: Object lesson
Grades: K-12
Group Size: 2 or more
Time: 25-30 minutes

Introduction: This activity allows students to think about their strengths, accomplishments, goals, dreams, and positive qualities.  When these are acknowledged, students will be empowered to tear off their negative labels and launch them into a positive future.

Materials: 

• 1 empty one-gallon jug or a large container
• Laminated sheet of 5×20 paper, or create a large label that fits on your container of choice
• Clear tape
• 1 permanent marker
• Small strips of folded paper with positive traits written on them. You can use phrases like “leader,” “happy,” “fun-loving,” “responsible,” “kind,” “hard-working,” “honest,” etc.

Activity:

Put the small strips of folded paper inside the jug. Tape the laminated label to the jug, or affix your label to your container.

For the activity, explain that society often labels certain actions or behaviors, many of which are unfair and hurtful. Have the class identify negative labels that are used against students, and write these negative words on the label using the marker.

When the label is full of words, say, “Let’s talk about how to tear off negative labels.”

Processing the Experience:

• Have you ever been given a negative label because of your actions?
• Why is it easy to live up to those labels?
• Are these labels ever an excuse for our behaviors?  Why?
• How can a negative label be torn off?
• Tell me a strength that each of you have.

Now invite a student to come forward and tear the label off the container. Open the container and invite students to retrieve the slips of paper with positive attributes.

• How will your strengths help you tear off your negative labels?
• What does the following statement mean: “Believe in the real you, NOT the label.”

Conclude by explaining, “Your strengths, accomplishments, goals, dreams, and positive qualities will launch you toward your future successes.”