Transition with Purpose: Pathways from English Language to Academic Study

143 ACTIVITY 21: SELF-FULFILLING PROPHECIES OBJECTIVE: REVIEW ATTITUDE AND ITS EFFECTS ON SUCCESS AND TIME-MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES. TASK: READ AN ARTICLE ON SELF-FULFILLING PROPHECIES. Early in the term, perhaps just after attending only the first class, some college students may think they are not ready for the class. They might feel overwhelmed and resistant to new teaching methods, new classmates, and new learning activities. It is not uncommon for international students to experience a new wave of homesickness or culture shock when they enter into university courses, even if a course is in their major or is an eagerly anticipated elective. PRE-READING DISCUSSION: With a partner, discuss the following questions: 1. What is a “ self-fulfilling prophecy ” in your own words? 2. Do you think you have any? 3. How do you know if you do or not? INSTRUCTIONS: Read the articl e Students’ Self-Fulfilling Prophecies: Five Ways to Break the Cycle POST-READING DISCUSSION: With a partner or small group, discuss the following questions: 1. Is a self-fulfilling prophecy usually a negative or positive thought? Can it be switched? 2. Who is the audience for this article? Who else could benefit from this information? 3. What is the purpose of the article? 4. If a friend was using negative self-fulfilling prophecies, which of these strategies might you suggest to help them break their cycle? 5. Do you have any other strategies that you use to help you accomplish tasks that you don’t think you might be capable of, but that you must do?