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LEARNING OBJECTIVE
To describe the concept of herd mentality, identify the positives and negatives of being part of a group, and recognize when an individual decision is necessary
HEALTH ED STANDARD
Demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills to enhance health (NHES 5)
KEY VOCAB
traits, herd mentality, evolutionary, susceptible, instincts
Lesson Plan: Are You Following the Herd?
Teens are programmed to make decisions based on the behavior of those around them. Knowing the science behind “herd mentality” can help them understand the importance of making choices on their own.
ESSENTIAL QUESTION
How can I make decisions for myself, no matter what others are doing?
CLOSE-READING QUESTIONS
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CRITICAL-THINKING QUESTIONS
CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
EXTENSION ACTIVITY
NHES 5
How much of a role does herd mentality play at your school? In this activity, students will brainstorm as a class to come up with a silly trend to start (like, say, mismatched socks). Then, they’ll see how quickly they can get it to spread throughout the school. Our SOCIAL EXPERIMENT worksheet will help them document and analyze their findings.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
NHES 8, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.7
The social cure theory says that the force of group dynamics can be wielded to change lives. It’s important that students realize how powerful social media can be in this capacity. Using the SOCIAL MEDIA CURE activity sheet, they’ll find an example (like the Ice Bucket Challenge) to analyze and share with the rest of the class.
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