21 days to build up a new habit and get rid of an old one

itle: Building New Habits: Exploring the 21-Day Theory

Objective:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

Listen actively to a TED Talk about the 21-Day Theory of habit formation.

Analyze and evaluate the speaker's arguments and evidence.

Engage in a structured discussion to critically evaluate the validity of the 21-Day Theory.

Materials:

Access to a TED Talk video or transcript on the 21-Day Theory.

Discussion prompts (written on the board or distributed as handouts).

Procedure:

Introduction (5 minutes):

Begin by discussing the concept of habits with the students. Define what habits are and why they are important in our daily lives.

Introduce the topic of the 21-Day Theory, explaining that it suggests it takes 21 days to form a new habit or break an old one.

Explain that the class will be watching/listening to a TED Talk where the speaker discusses this theory and its implications.

Viewing/Listening Activity (15 minutes):

Play the TED Talk video or provide students with the transcript to read.

Instruct students to listen actively and take notes on the speaker's main arguments, examples, and evidence supporting the 21-Day Theory.

Encourage students to pay attention to any counterarguments or critiques the speaker presents.

Discussion Preparation (10 minutes):

Divide the class into small groups.

Provide each group with discussion prompts related to the 21-Day Theory. Prompts may include questions about the validity of the theory, personal experiences with habit formation, and potential limitations or criticisms of the theory.

Allow groups time to discuss and prepare their responses.

Group Discussion (20 minutes):

Facilitate a group discussion where each group shares their insights and perspectives on the 21-Day Theory.

Encourage students to support their arguments with evidence from the TED Talk or personal experiences.

Ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate and contribute to the discussion.

Prompt students to consider whether they accept or reject the 21-Day Theory and to provide reasons for their stance.

Whole-Class Reflection (10 minutes):

Summarize key points raised during the discussion.

Encourage students to reflect on how their understanding of habit formation has evolved based on the TED Talk and the ensuing discussion.

Conclude by emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning in evaluating theories and concepts.

Homework Extension:

Assign students to write a short reflection essay on their personal experiences with habit formation, considering how the 21-Day Theory aligns or conflicts with their own observations.

Assessment:

Assess students' participation in the discussion, considering their ability to articulate arguments, engage with peers respectfully, and critically analyze the 21-Day Theory.

Evaluate students' written reflections for depth of insight, clarity of expression, and connection to course content.