My Special Word Summary
OBJECTIVES & DECSRIPTION: To introduce the concept of “My Special Word”. Their Special Word should represent their
values/what is most important to them.
Grade Level
Source
All Grades
Dwight Smith, previous board chair/
A. White
Component Area
Growth Mindset
Supplies Needed
Handout, pencils/pens, beads, string, key rings & My Special Word wrist bands
Introduce the ‘My Special Word ‘activity to the group.
Activity Instructions
o Share the My Special Word handout with matches
o Ask matches to complete the backside of the handout
 Brainstorm special words (students will be choosing a word that is
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Best Practices
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important to them (represents their values and what inspires them)
Choose a special word
Discuss why they chose that word for their special word
Matches can use the materials to create a bracelet or keychain to help
remind them of their special word or they can choose the wristband that
says: My Special Word
Matches should keep their handout in their folder to refer back to.
Keep their values close.
Ideas to help students choose a word:
o A word using an acronym (ex. SOLD – Silent, Obedient, Leverage,
Discipline)
o A word that describes themselves or what kind of person they aspire to be
If a mentee is having trouble creating their own special word, matches can choose
to create a “team word” and share the same special word
Encourage matches to use a thesaurus to come up with a new word (vs. a
“generic” word such as “Nice” or “Smart”.
SAMPLE EMAIL TO MENTOR
Dear [school name] Mentors,
Next week, our activity is ‘My Special Word’! Matches will brainstorm words that are important to them and describe their
values and how their values influence their daily life. Once your mentee and you have a rich discussion, your mentee can
decide on their “Special Word”. They will create a way to visualize their word through making a bracelet or keychain. This
will help your mentee keep their ‘Special Word’ top of mind throughout the year as they make decisions.
Have a great week,
[PC contact info.]
My Special Word
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How did you come up with Your Special Word?
What does your special Word say about you?
Was it easy or hard to think about your special word? Why?
How do you think you can use your special word to help you?
Do you think others would come up with the same word for you? Why? Why Not?
Other….