The Power of Stories – Aristotle
Learning Sequence
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Introduction
This week, we’re diving into Aristotle’s philosophy by sparking imagination in your students. They’ll explore the hidden stories in nature, just as Aristotle taught, by creating a comic strip and writing a story. Encourage them to see beyond the surface, finding deeper meanings in everyday objects and scenes.
This week, we’re going to learn about the philosopher Aristotle. We’ll start by watching a video set on Grimsay Island in Iceland, where nature has its own amazing stories—just like Aristotle taught us to find meaning in everything around us.
As you watch, think about how Aristotle asked his students to really look at the world, not just seeing trees, animals, or rocks, but also thinking about the stories and purposes they have. Aristotle believed that understanding both what things are made of and the stories behind them helps us live better lives.
Next, you’ll bring Aristotle’s ideas to life by creating your own comic strip. In this comic, show how Aristotle might take his students on a walk through nature, helping them discover the hidden stories in everyday things. You’ll use Canva to design your comic, making it fun and filled with curiosity—just like Aristotle would have wanted.
Finally, you’ll create a one-page story about an object that matters to you. You’ll use your imagination to bring an ordinary object to life and create a hidden meaning to this object to give the world a new perspective on an object that seems to many to be so simple.
Weekly Keywords
In this activity, students will delve into key concepts from Aristotle’s teachings on discovering stories in nature. They’ll be encouraged to simplify these ideas into clear, easy-to-understand terms, aiding their comprehension of Aristotle’s philosophy.
This exercise will enhance their critical thinking and ability to communicate complex concepts effectively, deepening their understanding of the material.
On the task card provided, you’ll find a list of keywords related to Aristotle and his teachings about finding stories in nature. Your challenge is to explore these words and explain their meanings in the simplest terms possible.
This activity will help you grasp Aristotle’s ideas more clearly by breaking them down into easy-to-understand parts. Mastering this skill will be valuable in all your future learning and discussions.
Quote of the Week - Aristotle
This week, we’ll draw inspiration from Aristotle and his profound teachings on finding stories in the natural world. Students will explore one of his key quotes, interpreting its significance from their own perspectives, perhaps through art or a multimedia presentation.
The heart of this activity is deep reflection and meaningful conversation. It encourages students to connect with Aristotle’s wisdom, considering how it influences their understanding of the world and the hidden stories in everyday objects.
This approach fosters critical thinking and open discussion, helping students appreciate how powerful ideas can shape their perspectives and actions. It promotes a commitment to thoughtful observation and curiosity, aligning with Aristotle’s enduring legacy of philosophical exploration.
Each week, we’ll share an inspirational quote from a great philosopher. This week, we’ll focus on Aristotle, who taught us to find meaning in the world around us and to see the stories hidden in everyday objects.
We encourage you to write down the quote, print it, or even create a drawing inspired by his words.
Afterward, take some time to reflect on and discuss the meaning of the quote. Think about what it teaches us about understanding the world more deeply and how we can use Aristotle’s wisdom to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.
Design Your Information Card - Aristotle
In this activity, students will research the life of Aristotle, focusing on key facts like when he lived, where he was from, and what he is known for. They will then use AI tools to create an image of Aristotle, combining their research with creative design.
In this activity, your task is to do some basic research on the life of Aristotle. You’ll need to record key facts like when he lived, where he was from, and what he is famous for. Keep the information simple and clear, but make sure to include the most important details.
After you’ve gathered the information, find or create an image of Aristotle. Since Aristotle lived a very long time ago, before cameras existed, you might want to use AI to help you design this image.
Design Your Comic Strip - Aristotle
In this activity, students will design a comic strip using Canva, focusing on conveying Aristotle’s message through both visual design and dialogue. The task encourages students to think critically about how speech and context can effectively deliver meaning.
By selecting the right words and images, they will create a simple yet impactful depiction of Aristotle’s teachings on observing the world and finding meaning in everyday things. This activity develops their skills in storytelling, visual design, and understanding the power of language in communicating ideas.
In this activity, your task is to use the story of Aristotle that you’ve learned to create your very own comic strip. The goal is to illustrate Aristotle’s message in a simple yet powerful image. You’ll be using Canva to design your comic, bringing Aristotle’s ideas to life through art.
Think about how Aristotle taught about observing the world and finding meaning in everyday things. Try to capture the essence of his message in your comic strip. Use Canva’s tools to select colours, shapes, and layouts that best convey the story and message.
Bring Your Object to Life
In this imaginative activity, students will select an object that sparks their creativity and bring it to life through storytelling. Inspired by Aristotle’s teachings, they will explore the object’s physical characteristics and deeper significance, weaving together a narrative that highlights both.
This process encourages students to use their imagination and develop storytelling skills, while also deepening their understanding of how everyday objects can hold special meanings and stories. The activity promotes creativity, reflection, and a connection to the world around them.
This week, your task is to choose an object that you often have creative thoughts about and bring it to life using the power of storytelling. Just like Aristotle encouraged his students to see the deeper meaning in everyday things, you’ll be doing the same with an object that’s special to you.
To get started, think about an object that sparks your imagination—maybe it’s a favourite toy, a special book, or something from nature like a leaf or a rock. Your job is to tell its story. What is it made of? What memories or emotions does it hold? What adventures or journeys might it have been on?
Before you begin, take a look at the example I’ve created. This will give you an idea of how to weave both the physical and the imaginative aspects of your object into a story.
You’ll write and illustrate the story of your object, making it as creative and meaningful as possible. Think about how you present your ideas—both in words and pictures. Your goal is to bring your object to life in a way that others can see and feel the special meaning it has for you.
Once you’ve finished, you’ll share your story with the class, helping everyone see the world through your eyes, just like Aristotle’s students did when they explored the world around them.
Spin the What if….? Wheel - Our Weekly Discussion
Spin the wheel and let it come to a stop. When the wheel lands, ask yourself the question it points to and discuss it with the people around you.
When we think about big questions like these, we gain a deeper understanding of the world and can appreciate how fortunate we are to live in it today.
You only need to spin the wheel once. If you land on a question you’ve already discussed, simply spin again until you’ve explored all 7 questions.
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Poetry in Action - Cinquain
This week, students will explore the structure and creativity of cinquain poetry. A cinquain is a five-line poem that encourages students to describe a subject using concise and meaningful language.
The activity helps students thoughtfully choose words to express actions, feelings, and ideas. By writing their own cinquain and adding an illustration, students will build both their creative writing and artistic skills. Sharing their poems promotes class engagement and builds confidence in expressing personal creativity.
This week, we’re going to explore the structure and beauty of a cinquain! A cinquain is a five-line poem that helps you describe a topic in a creative way.
What is a Cinquain? A cinquain has five lines, each with a specific purpose:
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The first line is one word that is the title or subject.
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The second line has two words that describe the subject.
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The third line has three words that show action related to the subject.
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The fourth line has four words that express a feeling about the subject.
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The fifth line is one word that refers back to the subject.
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Take a look at the example on the opposite page. Then, using your creativity, try to write your own cinquain. Make sure to think carefully about each word you use! Add a drawing to go along with your poem, and share it with your class or display it at home for everyone to enjoy.
Completing Your Mission
Students will take a weekly quiz on a philosopher’s life, focusing on Immanuel Kant this week. After rewatching the video, they’ll answer ten questions to reinforce their understanding. Scoring 80% or higher earns them a certificate. With 8 certificates to collect, this activity encourages ongoing engagement, motivates learning, and provides a tangible reward for their efforts while deepening their understanding of Kant’s ideas about fairness and community.
Each week, you’ll be invited to take a quiz focused on the life of a philosopher. This week, it’s all about Immanuel Kant. After rewatching the video, your task is to correctly answer ten questions about his life and teachings. Achieving a score of 80% or more will earn you a certificate, which will be sent directly to your email.
There are 8 certificates in total for you to collect. Best of luck!