This challenge explores what it means to have a Spirit of Democracy through a balance of rights and responsibilities. We consider how to make a difference by lending our voices to causes that campaign for positive change and listen carefully and selectively to those voices we hear and share – through the news, in our communities, on social media. We explore how people-power can create a movement, and the ways in which we can each become a force for good through well-informed, responsible and active citizenship. We reflect on what it means to be authentically true to our beliefs and values, in our actions, communications, and the ways in which we present ourselves to the world. Finally we ask ourselves: Whilst freedom of speech can have the power to promote equality, justice and fairness, is it always wholly positive during times of adversity and is it always used for the ‘greater good’ of everyone in our communities? The ultimate challenge is to determine your debating position on the big question and prepare an opening statement to support your point of view.
This station discusses some of the language we use in discovering our Spirit of Democracy. We consider rights and responsibilities as two sides of a scale and look for the connections between the two. Finally, we explore some of the skills, competencies, attitudes and virtues that shape our Spirit of Democracy, and the session ends with a moment to consider what change we might want to see in the world.
At this station we talk about how to bring about change, and the role of people-power. We explore our circle of influence and what it means to be a citizen of the world. At the same time we consider how to find and use our voice as a force for good in the world - the right kind of "influencer” - and how to be discerning about the voices that we allow into our own world. The session ends with an activity to create a personal filter for fake news.
What makes a good speech? This session explores techniques for writing and delivering a great speech, and the ways in which great speakers have used these tips and tactics to maximise their influence and bring about change. We take a closer look at the techniques used in persuasive speechwriting and consider how to begin, structure and end a speech before beginning to apply these methods in thinking about a speech of our own.
This station considers the role of peaceful protest, boycott, withdrawal of consent and civil disobedience in raising awareness, sharing concerns and building a movement for change. We consider the power inherent in what we don’t do, as opposed to what we do, and explore how structured, organised and focused non-violent protest can widen access to freedom of speech, promote agency through inclusivity and create collective impact.
Here we explore the many ways in which freedom of expression can be used to transmit powerful messages through creative arts and in popular culture. We consider how street art, music, craft, theatre and poetry can be used to influence the way in which we see the world and change our perspectives on social, environmental and political issues. The session ends with a creative challenge to design a work of “Street Art with a Message” and/or compose and perform a “Song for Change”.
At this station we consider what it means to be authentically true to our beliefs and values, in our actions, communications, and the ways in which we present ourselves to the world. We consider whether the story that our social media footprint tells about us is authentic and appropriate, and how we can ensure that our digital voice is a positive force for good both in our own life and the lives of others, by developing some personal think-before-click rules.
For the Spirit of Democracy Challenge we would like you to write an opening statement for a debate responding to the question: “In times of adversity, is freedom of speech a help or a hindrance?”
You might be invited by your teacher to write your statement from one perspective, or to prepare a statement for each side of the argument. You might submit a written statement or be asked to record yourself making your speech. Please refer to your teacher for guidance as to which they would like you to do.
