Aspire Generation - Learning to Learn

Australian curriculum content descriptions:

Year 9 Work Studies:

• Describe the implications of individual learning preferences for learning at home, school, work and in the community (ACWSCL002) 
• Identify the attitudes and skills required for self-directed and lifelong learning (ACWSCL003) 
• Explain the importance of active and lifelong learning for personal and community development (ACWSCL004) 
• Plan and implement strategies and processes to improve their learning and enhance the potential to realise their aspirations and personal wellbeing (ACWSCL005) 

Year 10 Work Studies:

• Assess the value of self-directed and lifelong learning in responding to changes and challenges in circumstances (ACWSCL022) 
• Explain the relationship between lifelong learning and work in the 21st century and its importance for future work opportunities (ACWSCL023) 
• Focus their learning strategies on personal and work-related aspirations (ACWSCL024) 

General capabilities: Literacy, Critical and Creative Thinking, Personal and Social Capability.

Relevant parts of Year 9 achievement standards: Students understand the importance and components of self-directed and lifelong learning. They explain the importance of teamwork and collaboration and plan and implement strategies to improve their learning and strengthen their individual learning skills.

Relevant parts of Year 10 achievement standards: Students understand the importance of growing self-awareness in improving learning, accessing work opportunities and developing appropriate skills and making more-informed subject and career choices. 

Unit of work: Aspire Generation – Work Studies

Time required: 120 mins.

Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion.

• Student Worksheets – one copy per student (also accessible online), computers/tablets to access the online worksheet and online personality test, device capable of presenting an online video to the class
• A copy of The Marshmallow Challenge – one per group
• 1 packet dry spaghetti, 1 packet marshmallows, 1 roll of masking tape (split into 1 metre per group)
• Tape-measure (or a piece of string at least 1.5 metres long) to measure student’s towers

This lesson is designed to build students’ competencies in the following skills:

• Communication
• Creativity
• Critical thinking
• Social skills

This lesson supports La Trobe University’s Aspire Generation initiative, which empowers students to drive change through community engagement, volunteerism and leadership opportunities.