Life Orientation - Term 3 - Week 5

Decision making is a crucial skill that affects our daily lives. It involves choosing between different options and considering the consequences of each choice. Effective decision making requires critical thinking, evaluating information, and understanding the impact of our choices on ourselves and others. In this lesson, we will explore how to make informed decisions by discussing real-life scenarios and reflecting on our values and goals.

Consider the scenario where a student is offered a chance to attend a party where they know alcohol will be present. The student must decide whether to go or stay home. To analyze this decision, we can list the pros and cons: Pros might include socializing and having fun, while cons could involve peer pressure and potential consequences of underage drinking. By weighing these factors, the student can make a more informed choice that aligns with their values.

In small groups, discuss the following scenario: A friend is pressuring you to skip school to go to a concert. What factors should you consider in making your decision? As a group, list the possible outcomes of both going and not going. After discussing, each group will share their insights with the class, highlighting the importance of considering both short-term and long-term consequences.

Reflect on a recent decision you made that had a significant impact on your life. Write a short paragraph describing the decision, the factors you considered, and the outcome. Then, set a small goal for yourself related to decision making. This could be to seek advice from a trusted adult before making a big decision or to take more time to think through choices before acting.

• Identifying the problem
• Evaluating options
• Making a choice
• Reflecting on the decision

Answer: Identifying the problem

The first step in decision making is to clearly identify the problem or decision that needs to be made.

• Improved relationships
• Better academic performance
• Health issues
• Increased self-esteem

Answer: Health issues

Unhealthy choices can lead to various health issues, affecting both physical and mental well-being.

• What your friends think
• Your own values and beliefs
• The latest trends
• How to impress others

Answer: Your own values and beliefs

It's important to consider your own values and beliefs when faced with peer pressure to make decisions that are right for you.

Answer: Answers will vary; students should reflect on personal experiences.

This question encourages students to think critically about their own decision-making processes.

• Gathering information
• Making a choice
• Ignoring consequences
• Evaluating options

Answer: Ignoring consequences

Ignoring consequences is not a step in the decision-making process; rather, evaluating consequences is crucial.

Answer: Answers will vary; students should provide personal goals.

This question encourages students to think about actionable steps they can take to enhance their decision-making.