1st Station – Exploring Language
Setup:
Find yourself a quiet space to work. You will need a dictionary (hard copy or online) a pen and paper and access to both the Discovering a Spirit of Service resource sheet and A Spirit of Service in me worksheet.
Discovering a Spirit of Service: Download resource here>
A Spirit of Service in me worksheet: Download resource here>
Introduction:
Community service is a commonly used term but what does it actually mean? And does it always mean the same thing in different contexts and when different cultures interact. Before we get into the discussion let’s work out a definition by considering some of the terms we might be about to use.
Task:
Take a look at the list of terms below and think about what they might mean to you? Do you think we all understand these terms in the same way or are they open to personal interpretation? Capture your thoughts in note form. You might want to create a word cloud around each:
- Community
- Service
- Wellbeing
- Partnership
- Voluntary
- Respectful
- Sustainable
- Support
Now look up a formal definition for each, using a dictionary (printed or online). If you have internet access try searching them and have a look at the different contexts in which they are used. Think about the different ways in which each term is open to interpretation and discuss them with those around you to find out how they define the meaning of each. If you are working in an online group discuss them with your classmates.
Record a formal definition next to your own thoughts and see how they compare. Do you agree with the definitions you found in the sources you used? Are they current and relevant?
Whilst the primary objective of Service is to be of use and support to others, this doesn’t mean that Service has to be a one-sided activity. Service Learning is a term used to describe the process by which as students we involve ourselves in service for the betterment of others but in the process we improve ourselves as well in terms of our wellbeing, our skills, understanding, character development, outlook and approach to life. (You can explore the topic of Service Learning further at station 2).
With this balance of mutual benefit in mind, we are now going to look at the way in which Round Square discusses some of the skills, attributes and values associated with, and developed through, being of Service to others. Take out your Discovering a Spirit of Service resource sheet, put yourself in the position of a Round Square Explorer and read through the definitions.
Circle any words or terms that you want to look up and use your dictionary or online sources to do this.
Now ask yourself these questions:
Do these Discoveries together make up a complete definition of what it means to have a Spirit of Service? Which of these do you consider to be the most important? Which are the least? If you could add one what would it be? How would you define it? Note down some of your thoughts (there are no right or wrong answers).
Next go to your A Spirit of Service in Me worksheet.
If you came up with a Discovery of your own, write it at the end of the list on your Worksheet.
Now consider:
Who do you know in your friendship group, at your school, amongst your family and friends or out there in the wider world that exemplifies each of these Discoveries? What actions do they take that make you see this Discovery in them?
See if you can think of a person for each and fill in your responses in the first column.
You might leave one or two boxes blank if you can’t think of anyone – you can always return to it later.
Now think about things that YOU do in everyday life that are of support and service to others. Think about your acts of kindness, large and small, that have contributed, or regularly contribute, to the wellness and wellbeing of your friends, family and wider communities.
Try to think of a different example for each Discovery and fill them in on the second column.
You might leave one or two boxes blank if you can’t think of anyone – you can always return to it later.
Save your worksheet – you will need it again at Station 6