Pinterest Pick thursday

Welcome back to Pinteret Pick Thursdays.

Let me ask you, have you ever had one of those, 'Aha' moments?  Has there ever been a topic, subject, or game that multiple people have tried to explain to you, but you have never really been able to grasp?  Then, someone else comes along and explains it in such a way that it all suddenly makes sense to you?

Stock photo: A boy looks surprised.  The thought
bubble above his head exclaims 'Oh, I get it now!'

I LOVE those moments.  In my student teaching days, I lived for those moments with my students.  But, let me tell you, I love having one of these moments as much as I love giving one of these moments.  And, today, I had one that I just must share with all of you...

Pinterest Pick of the Week
Parable of the Polygons

Faith Formation Component
Context

Time for Activity
0.5 Hours

Recommended Age
4th Grade and Up

Materials
A computer with internet access

Activity
This activity is pretty easy.  But, you'll need some mental bandwith to process what is going on.  It is a thought experiment on bias - what it is, how it affects our world, and what can be done to combat it.  So, I suggest you don't do this when you or your family is too tired or worn out.  Here is what you should do...

• Gather your family around a computer.
• Visit 'Parable of the Polygons.' Read and play through the post (make sure you allow your children to play as well).
• As you do, stop after every simulation and deconstruct together.  Ask yourselves:
• What is happening here?
• What does this simulation teach us about the world in which we live?
• Once you have finished with the post, wonder about these questions:
• The post makes it clear that history influences the present.  How has our nation's history shaped our present when it comes to race relations / immigration / disability / class / gay pride?
• What bias's do you possess?
• At the end of the post, the two shapes had to work side by side to get to the 'box of friendship.'  What can we do in the real world to get ourselves into the 'box of friendship'? (Make a list, make a plan, and execute).
• Is all bias bad? (ex. Bias against strangers).

If you are an adult doing this activity alone.  Or, if you are doing this activity with your youth, you may also wish to explore what role you play in combating bias as an ally.  Visit Anne Bishop's website, Becoming An Ally, to learn more.

Original Sources
All original sources cited above.

Now, if only someone could teach me how to play Euchre this easily.

Wishing you well,

- Ms. Meredith