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: Dead Ants
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. Positive Identity: Positive view of personal future
2. Positive Identity: Self-esteem
3. Social Competencies: Planning and decision making

Example Lesson

1. Positive Identity: Positive view of personal future

View of personal future is defined as, "child is optimistic about her or his personal future." Through trial and error, the participants of Magic Maze must work together to discover the "correct" or "safe path." Unlike in real life, we are all working our way towards the "correct path" to get us towards our lifelong dreams.

In this follow-up activity, everyone is invited to celebrate his or her ten-year high school reunion. There will be music refreshments and conversation (you could REALLY have them to kick up the excitement a few notches. Everyone loves refreshments!). At this high school reunion every participant has reached their personal American dream and has fulfilled their personal future. Each student is to make up his/her persona for their ten-year high school reunion complete with milestones such as college graduation, work experience, family, etc. You may wish to have them write this information down.

At this high school reunion students will have the opportunity to share their personal future successes with each other, and in front of the group if you wish. Key questions to consider asking at the ten-year reunion include:

1. What college did you attend and Why?
2. What led you to choose your profession?
3. What critical choices in life did you make to get you where you are at now?
4. Most importantly: how did you stay optimistic about your personal future? What event or persons affected your life?

Like in the Magic Maze, we are confronted with many decisions. Some lead us towards the right path some not. It is up to us to be able to identify those paths and people that will assist us towards our desired destination. This Ten-year reunion is not only a time to celebrate our future accomplishments, but to rejoice the hard work we have put in, and the people that have helped us on the way.