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Best TED Talks for Teachers of High School Seniors

As the school year draws to a close, it's an opportune time to celebrate the achievements of graduating seniors and equip them with the tools they need to thrive in their next chapter of life. TED Talks, with their diverse range of topics and powerful storytelling, offer a wealth of inspiration and wisdom. In this blog post, I'd like to share a selection of five thought-provoking TED Talks that are perfect for sharing with graduating seniors. These talks delve into themes such as finding purpose, embracing vulnerability, cultivating resilience, and pursuing personal growth. 

1. "The Power of Vulnerability" by Brené Brown:

This talk explores the importance of vulnerability and authentic connections with others. It can inspire graduating seniors to embrace vulnerability as they navigate new relationships and experiences in college or the workforce.

2. "How to Make Stress Your Friend" by Kelly McGonigal:

Kelly McGonigal challenges the perception of stress as always negative and explores its potential benefits. This talk equips graduating seniors with strategies to embrace and manage stress effectively in their future endeavors.

3. "How to Speak So That People Want to Listen" by Julian Treasure:

Julian Treasure's talk explores the art of effective communication. It provides valuable tips for graduating seniors as they navigate college interviews, job applications, and professional interactions.

4. "The Puzzle of Motivation" by Dan Pink:

This talk explores intrinsic motivation and challenges traditional views on what drives individuals. It can be incorporated into a high school class by sparking discussions on motivation, setting goals, and finding purpose in post-graduation endeavors.


5. "Why Some of Us Don't Have One True Calling" by Emilie Wapnick:

Emilie Wapnick's talk empowers graduating seniors who may be uncertain about their future paths by highlighting the value of having diverse interests and talents. It can be incorporated into a high school class by encouraging students to explore their multiple passions, embrace their uniqueness, and consider non-linear career paths.

Now that we have our list of potential TED Talks to share with students, you might be wondering what's the best way to incorporate these talks into your classroom. 

Creative Ways to Incorporate TED Talks into the Classroom:

1. Reflective Journaling: After watching "The Power of Vulnerability," have students write journal entries reflecting on times they have embraced vulnerability and the impact it had on their connections with others. Encourage them to share their experiences in small group discussions.

2. Passion Projects: After viewing "How to Live Passionately—No Matter Your Age," initiate a passion project assignment where students explore and pursue a personal interest. Allow them to present their projects to the class, discussing their motivations and the impact of living passionately.

3. Public Speaking Practice: Utilize Julian Treasure's talk, "How to Speak So That People Want to Listen," to introduce public speaking skills. Assign students topics to research and present to the class, incorporating the techniques shared in the talk. Provide constructive feedback and encourage active listening among peers.

4. Career Exploration and Alternative Paths: Use Emilie Wapnick's talk, "Why Some of Us Don't Have One True Calling," as a springboard for career exploration activities. Have students research and present on non-linear career paths and the benefits of pursuing diverse interests. Facilitate discussions on the advantages of embracing multiple passions in personal and professional growth.

5. TED Talk Discussion Circles: Create small discussion circles where students rotate and engage in focused discussions about various TED Talks. Assign different talks, including the ones listed, and provide guiding questions to deepen understanding, critical thinking, and promote meaningful dialogue.

6. TED Talk-Inspired Projects: Encourage students to create their own TED Talk-style presentations inspired by the talks they find most impactful. Provide guidance on crafting engaging narratives, incorporating visuals, and delivering persuasive speeches. Host a classroom TED Talk event where students can present their talks to their peers.

Interested in more TED Talks to share with your graduating seniors? Check these out!


TED Talk Lesson: How To Stay Calm When You Know You Will Be Stressed


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