During our final month together, we are talking about the largest circle in our circles of connection- the people we might not have made a connection with yet. This month, we are hearing from Ethan Wall. His story is unique because it shares the story of how Only7Seconds began. Ethan shares how lack of connection during a his senior year led to depression, but how he has learned to reaching out when he feels lonely. Ethan's challenge to you this month is to be open to the people around you. How can you expand your community circle? Who can you connect with?
this story's theme:
my expanding connections
09.
Hey! My name is Ethan! I love to play music and sports. I’m currently pursuing a college degree in music. I have learned to not judge a book by its cover and to connect with people that are outside my normal friendship circles. Every single person matters and has a purpose!
meet
ethan Wall
- Start by asking, “Is there anyone in your life that this video makes you think about? Can you reach out and connect with them right now?”
- Allow time for students to text or call someone they are thinking about in the moment.
- Use the questions below to engage in a rich conversation with your students focusing on student engagement. Lead the conversation with the whole group or have small groups answer each question and then share their answers.
- It is vital that all students feel seen in this process so pay close attention to anyone responding in a way to the videos that is unexpected. Follow up with them after the discussion to ensure the video or conversation was not upsetting to them.
downloadable discussion guide
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Hand out Connection Bingo sheets. Students can be paired for this activity.
- Students will search for people who match the descriptors. When they find someone, they will take a photo with that person. If completing the challenge tech-free, students can obtain their signature.
- Remind students the goal is to reach out to those outside your circle of influence to make more connections.
Connection Challenge
for more Discussion Questions & guidance :
Connection Challenge Download
