Instructions
- Start with Part 1 to understand what "values" are and to think about your own.
- In Part 2, you will practice identifying values in two short, contrasting story extracts. Read each extract carefully and answer the questions that follow.
- Part 3 challenges you to analyze extracts inspired by different cultural contexts. Use the table to organize your thoughts and look for deeper meaning.
- Complete Part 4 to connect these skills to the books, movies, and songs you already know and enjoy.
- If you're ready for a challenge, try the optional Challenge Question at the end!
Part 1: What Are Values?
In English, "values" are the ideas, beliefs, and principles that are important to a person or a group. They are the things we believe are good, right, and worthwhile. Authors use characters, conflicts, and settings in their stories to show us what different people and cultures value.
For example, a story about a hero who risks everything to protect their village shows the value of courage and community.
Activity: Your Values
From the list below, circle the three values that are most important to you personally.
Part 2: Finding Values in a Text
Read the two short extracts below. They present very different points of view and values.
Old Elara shared the last of the bread, breaking it into four pieces, though her own stomach rumbled. "A shared hunger is half a hunger," she whispered to the children huddled close. "But a shared meal warms the heart twice over." The group ate together, their spirits lifted by the simple act of communion.
- What is one key value being shown in Extract A? __________________________________________________
- Which words or actions from the text support your answer? __________________________________________________
Marcus stared at the finish line, ignoring the runner who had stumbled beside him. Only one person could get the trophy, and he had trained for this his entire life. He pushed harder, his lungs burning, his focus a laser beam on the prize. Second place was the first loser.
- What is one key value being shown in Extract B? __________________________________________________
- How are the values in Extract A different from the values in Extract B? __________________________________________________________________________________
Part 3: Exploring Diverse Voices & Contexts
Authors from different times, places, and cultures often explore unique values in their work. The historical, cultural, and social context of an author deeply influences their stories. Analyze the two extracts below, which are inspired by different cultural storytelling traditions.
The Elder pointed not to a map, but to a gnarled tree. "This is not just wood," he said to the boy. "This is the place our ancestors rested. The river beside it carries their songs. You do not own this land; you belong to it. Listen, and it will tell you its story."
Rina watched her grandfather arrange the flowers. Each stem was placed with care, not for a grand display, but to create a single, perfect moment of peace. "The empty space is as important as the flower," he explained softly. "In harmony, there is beauty. In quiet, there is strength."
Complete the table below to analyze the values in each extract.
| Question | Extract 1 Analysis | Extract 2 Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| What are two key values represented? (e.g., family, courage) |
||
| Find a short quote from the text that shows one of these values. | ||
| How might the author's cultural context influence these values? (Think about what might be important to that society). |
Part 4: Real-World Connection
Think about a book you've read, a movie you've seen, or a song you love. Answer the questions below.
Title of Book/Movie/Song: __________________________________________________
- What are one or two key values the main character(s) or artist shows? Explain your answer with an example.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________ - How are the values in this text similar to or different from your own personal values?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Challenge Question (Optional)
Sometimes, a text shows a conflict of values, where two characters or groups believe in completely different things. Think of a story where a character who values tradition clashes with a character who values change and progress. Describe the story and explain how the author uses this conflict to explore an important issue.
Answer Key
Part 1: What Are Values?
Answers are personal. Any three circled values are correct.
Part 2: Finding Values in a Text
- Extract A Value: Community, sharing, generosity, compassion, looking after others. (Any one of these is a good answer).
- Supporting Words/Actions: "shared the last of the bread," "breaking it into four pieces," "'A shared meal warms the heart twice over.'"
- Extract B Value: Individual achievement, competition, ambition, winning, self-interest. (Any one of these is a good answer).
- Difference in Values: Extract A values the group and collective well-being (community), while Extract B values personal success above all else (individualism). Elara helps others, while Marcus ignores someone in need to win.
Part 3: Exploring Diverse Voices & Contexts
(Note: Student answers may vary slightly but should reflect the main ideas.)
| Question | Extract 1 Analysis (Sample Answers) | Extract 2 Analysis (Sample Answers) |
|---|---|---|
| What are two key values represented? | 1. Connection to Country/Nature 2. Ancestral wisdom / Respect for elders |
1. Harmony / Balance 2. Simplicity / Mindfulness |
| Find a short quote from the text that shows one of these values. | "You do not own this land; you belong to it." OR "The river beside it carries their songs." | "In harmony, there is beauty." OR "The empty space is as important as the flower." |
| How might the author's cultural context influence these values? | This reflects a cultural view where land is sacred and living, and knowledge is passed down through generations via stories and connection to place. | This reflects cultural ideas (like those in Japanese arts such as Ikebana) that value balance, peace, and finding beauty in simplicity and careful process, not just the final result. |
Part 4: Real-World Connection & Challenge Question
Answers will be based on the student's personal choice of text. Look for a clear identification of a value and a reasonable explanation/example from their chosen text.