The following social extensions are connected to the Search Institute's 40 Developmental Assets which are described as "concrete, common sense, positive experiences and qualities essential to raising successful young people."

We encourage you to explore more about the Search Institute, the 40 developmental assets and the supporting research here .

Social Extension: Speed
Although many of the 40 developmental assets are addressed in this activity, certain assets make a stronger connection to the material than others. Below you will find our top picks for opening solid, valuable conversations with your students.
 

Key Assets

1. Support: Caring School Climate
2. Support: Community Values Youth
3. Positive Values: Equality and Social Justice
    

Example Lesson

1. Support: Community Values Youth

The "Community Values Youth" asset is described as when a child "feels valued and appreciated by adults in the community." Remember that a community could be a neighborhood, a classroom or simply a circle of friends. In "Speed," The community is the circle of students all working towards the same goal.

To take this activity further, ask the group to play again, perhaps this time using one of the variations to keep the task fresh, and shower the group with praise and support the entire time they are making the attempt. Be a real cheerleader and make them feel like they are the best group you have ever seen. Afterward, ask the group if they noticed and enjoyed your attention.

Next, ask where (or if) they get that kind of attention now, or perhaps to remember a time where they have felt completely valued by another person. What were you doing to warrant the praise? What can you do on a day-to-day basis to deserve that kind of attention? How does that type of praise make you feel, and how can we do that within our group or within our larger community? What can you do to help others feel this way?

Open the conversation and explore how support, praise and feeling valued can influence and positively affect their group. You may wish to take it even further and plan some sort of community event where your group "gives back" earning that value and attention. A community values selflessness and a doing good for others so go pick up some trash, or volunteer for something as a group and fully ingrain this asset into your students!