Instructor directions are listed below:
- Explain to students that the second column, "I", is for interests. Interests are things that you enjoy doing. This might be your favorite subject in school, or hobbies and activities you do in your free time.
- Share some examples of your interests and how that relates to what you do for work.
- Have students write their interests in the "I" column on their boards or in the "Interests" section of the "Unique Talents" page in the notebook. Allow ample time for students to think and write.
- Ask if anyone would like to share one of their interests with the class.
- Explain to students that identifying your interests allows you to look for opportunities to engage in those in interests as possible future careers. Gaining insights into your interests helps you to express your unique talents effortlessly, especially when conversing with others.
As with strengths, try not to give too many examples as students are identifying their interests, but rather leave it open-ended to allow time for students to self-reflect. You can use our interests examples, provided in the Thinkabit Lab Starter Kit. They are also listed below.
The O*NET uses the RIASEC (Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional) to help students classify their interests and help them discover potential future careers linked to those interests. For more information on linking the RIASEC to careers, visit www.onetonline.org/find/descriptor/browse/Interests/.
Some examples of interests you can share with your students include:
- Procedures & Routines
- Art
- Solving Problems
- Thinking of Ideas
- Hands-on Activities
- Working Outside
- Service to Others
- Starting New Projects
- Organizing
- Risk Taking
If you are using the Thinkabit Lab Notebook:
Have students write their interests on page 6.