The Summary:
"Big Potential" is a captivating book that explores the power of working together to achieve greatness. The author, Shawn Achor, emphasizes that success isn't just about individual talents, but rather about the collective potential of a group. Through inspiring stories and scientific research, Achor explains how supporting and uplifting others can lead to remarkable achievements. The book encourages junior high school students to embrace teamwork, positivity, and collaboration, showing them that by helping each other grow, they can unlock their big potential and create a brighter future together.
Suggestions for Classroom Use:
Chapter 1 – The Power of Hidden Connections
In the opening chapter of "Big Potential," Shawn Achor emphasizes the significance of hidden connections and working together to achieve greatness. He highlights the prevailing focus on individual achievement, which often leads to increased stress and limited potential. To illustrate this point, you can engage your students in a thought-provoking exercise. By asking them about their capabilities, such as doing well on the ACT, earning A's in class, graduating from high school, or obtaining a medical assisting certification, they will likely respond with a unanimous "everyone." This realization opens the door for a meaningful discussion on the power of collaboration and supporting one another. The students will understand that their year will be much more successful and enjoyable when they work together to learn and develop the skills needed to become medical assistants. In doing so, they unlock their big potential and foster a positive environment that nurtures growth and success for all.
Chapter 5 – Enhance Your Resources
Chapter 5 is all about a fascinating concept called "Falling Up." But what does that mean? Well, it's about learning from our failures and turning them into stepping stones for success! You see, sometimes in life, we all face setbacks and challenges. It might feel discouraging, and we might want to give up. But here's the exciting part – those failures can actually help us grow and become even better than before! Shawn Achor shows us that with the right mindset and support from others, we can "fall up" and use our mistakes as opportunities for improvement. In this chapter, you'll discover inspiring stories of famous people who faced failures but didn't let them define their future. They used their setbacks to learn, adapt, and eventually achieve remarkable things. You'll also learn practical tips on how to develop a positive mindset, find motivation, and build resilience when faced with obstacles.
Reflection Exercise for Students
This is a great time for personal reflection by students. I know some teachers who use this weekly or twice a month, to help students to reflect on their work.
· My current grade in this class is:
· Are you happy with this grade?
· I am getting this grade because: [Explain}
· Do you understand the material covered in class? Circle one: YES - SOMEWHAT - NO
· **If you selected NO or SOMEWHAT, answer the next two questions:
o Do you make appointments for extra help? YES - NO
o Do you ask questions in class? YES - NO
o Have you asked other students for help? YES - NO
o Have you formed study groups? YES - NO
· Are you putting forth your best effort in this class – studying daily, attending regularly?
· Describe your behavior on an average day in this class. Provide an example of something good and something you can improve.
· Are you helping other students in class? Provide an example
· Remember, this form helps you understand your progress and how to improve further. Don't be afraid to ask for help and keep working hard to reach your goals! You've got this!
(Reflection Idea provide by Garth McFarland, West H.S. Modified by Denise Abbott)
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