This week’s primary school assembly and classroom discussion help us focus on recent news, bold activism, and the importance of every voice in our community. Let’s explore recent events, reflect on inspiring young campaigners, and consider how we can share our own opinions respectfully and confidently. News Spotlight: Greta Thunberg and Climate Activism 21-year-old Swedish climate change activist, Greta Thunberg, has recently been found guilty by a Swedish court for disobeying police orders. The incident took place in March, when Greta joined other activists in a peaceful sit-in that blocked an entrance to Sweden’s parliament as part of an environmental protest. Their action disrupted politicians as they tried to enter and exit the building. After refusing police requests to move, Greta and others were removed by local officers, resulting in a fine of around £450 (6,000 Swedish crowns). Greta’s actions and her subsequent verdict have sparked discussions about activism, the role of peaceful protest, and how young people are using their voices to bring about change. Who is Greta Thunberg? Greta was born in Sweden and became aware of climate change at the age of eight. Deeply troubled by the lack of action on this global challenge, Greta was moved to silence by her distress at age eleven. She sees her autism as a ‘superpower’ that helps her think differently and see issues more clearly. In 2018, Greta began her now famous #FridaysforFuture campaign by missing school to protest outside the Swedish parliament. Her goal was to make politicians pay attention to climate change and inspire action. Her campaign quickly gained international attention, and many other young people joined her in striking from school on Fridays to campaign for climate action. How Do Activists Make Their Voices Heard? An activist is someone who strongly believes in a cause and takes action – such as joining protests or writing to politicians – to encourage social or political change. Greta Thunberg is a leading example, but many young people around the world are finding ways to speak up for causes they believe in. There are many effective ways to have your voice heard, including: Delivering talks to educate others Signing petitions or writing letters to leaders Asking questions and challenging others’ views Attending peaceful protests Starting conversations with friends and family It can feel scary to speak out, but starting with small steps can lead to greater confidence over time. More Inspiring Young Activists Activism isn’t limited by age. Across the world, young people are leading positive change: Thandiwe Abdullah – Became involved with the Black Lives Matter movement at age nine. She has helped create changes in schools and campaigns actively for community support and justice. Ken Amante – Spent his spare time caring for stray animals in the Philippines and used donations to create the Happy Animals Club shelter. Bana Alabed – As a child, she documented her experience of the siege of Aleppo in Syria via social media, sharing messages to highlight suffering and call for action for Syrian children. Each young activist’s story shows that determination and compassion can make a difference, no matter how young you are. Discussion Points for Primary Schools Classroom and assembly discussions on activism and voice can include the following reflections and questions: What issues in the world are important to you? Have you ever spoken up about something you care about? What does it mean to be an activist? Why might it be harder for young people to be activists? Do you think children’s voices are listened to as much as adults'? Should they be? How can you use your voice effectively without shouting? Have you ever felt unheard? How did you feel? Why is it important to listen to others as well as speak out? What is democracy and how does it make sure everyone has a say? Vocabulary for the Week To help with discussions and writing, here are key vocabulary terms: Activist: A person who believes in a cause and takes action to bring about change. Climate Change: The long-term change of global temperatures and weather patterns. Disobey: To refuse or fail to do something you are told to do. Parliament: The group of people who make the laws for a country. Repression: The use of force to control a group of people. Verdict: An official decision made in court after hearing evidence. Practical Activities for the Classroom Here are some ideas for follow-up activities that help students learn more about activism, democracy, and making their voices heard: Measure and record temperature and rainfall over time to learn about climate patterns. Research a historical figure who brought about social or political change and create a poster, fact file, or short biography. Organise a classroom vote on a topic of interest to introduce the concept of democracy. Set up a mini polling station with ballot papers and a ballot box. Create an informative poster about an issue the student cares about and present it to the class. Reflection: The Power of Every Voice It’s important for young people to recognise that their opinions and ideas are valuable. Speaking out can bring about changes, and listening to others is just as crucial to a healthy community. Everyone deserves to be heard, no matter their age. Further Resources and Engagement * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
