Image 1 of 1
Let Curiosity Lead TED Talk Reflection | Middle & High School
This resource uses Yara Shahidi’s TED Talk, Let Curiosity Lead, as a launchpad for identity-centered reflection and critical thinking.
Rather than passively watching a video, students are guided to explore:
What curiosity looks like in their own lives
How curiosity connects to identity, purpose, and voice
Why asking questions matters, especially when navigating the world as themselves
This lesson is meaningful any time students need space to think, reflect, and be heard.
What Makes This Different
This isn’t a generic “watch and respond” assignment.
The prompts are intentionally layered to help students:
Start with personal reflection
Move into deeper, critical thinking
Revisit and revise their ideas as their thinking grows
The structure supports thoughtful responses without forcing vulnerability.
What’s Included
Teacher directions
2 pages of reflection prompts:
1 quick write
6 higher-level reflection questions
1 final synthesis question
Sketch notes template for visual thinkers
Why Teachers Use This Resource
✔ Encourages student voice
✔ Supports critical thinking & discussion
✔ Easy to assign digitally or in print
✔ Works for ELA, advisory, SEL, or humanities
✔ Pairs beautifully with identity-focused units or projects
This lesson helps students slow down, ask better questions, and see curiosity as a strength rather than just a trait.
This resource uses Yara Shahidi’s TED Talk, Let Curiosity Lead, as a launchpad for identity-centered reflection and critical thinking.
Rather than passively watching a video, students are guided to explore:
What curiosity looks like in their own lives
How curiosity connects to identity, purpose, and voice
Why asking questions matters, especially when navigating the world as themselves
This lesson is meaningful any time students need space to think, reflect, and be heard.
What Makes This Different
This isn’t a generic “watch and respond” assignment.
The prompts are intentionally layered to help students:
Start with personal reflection
Move into deeper, critical thinking
Revisit and revise their ideas as their thinking grows
The structure supports thoughtful responses without forcing vulnerability.
What’s Included
Teacher directions
2 pages of reflection prompts:
1 quick write
6 higher-level reflection questions
1 final synthesis question
Sketch notes template for visual thinkers
Why Teachers Use This Resource
✔ Encourages student voice
✔ Supports critical thinking & discussion
✔ Easy to assign digitally or in print
✔ Works for ELA, advisory, SEL, or humanities
✔ Pairs beautifully with identity-focused units or projects
This lesson helps students slow down, ask better questions, and see curiosity as a strength rather than just a trait.