Rationale
Assertive communication is the ability to provide positive and negative thoughts and opinions in an honest and direct manner. When students can stand up for themselves, while still respecting the views of others, they grow in confidence, and earn the respect of others. This skill can help with relationships, managing conflicts, and reducing stress.
Testimonials From the Field-Test
Benefits for Educators:
- “I received valuable learning next steps information for each of my students” (Self-Advocacy Cards).
Benefits for Students:
- “This lesson brought an important day to the students’ attention and made them aware of some of the struggles women have faced and are still facing. More background information (likely a whole other lesson) would be beneficial if using this strategy as a classroom teacher. However, as a daily supply teacher, I know that this lesson touched certain students deeply and that they felt empowered and had fun doing it, despite the fact that we merely touched the surface. With proper planning, and a block of time for proper design, this strategy could easily be fit into the visual arts curriculum, as well as social studies, history, and media studies” (Inspirational Outdoor Graffiti).
