This framework is a broad conceptual guide developed by Treely® to provide prompts for educators to discuss and explain common elements found in Resilience Theory. Using the basic parts of tree makes the framework memorable. Using the tree as an analogy to explain what happens when a tree experiences forces of nature, makes a useful point that can be easily recalled and applied to one’s personal circumstances.
VISION
Treely has a big vision for children to graduate school with a clear sense of who they are. Because we want every child to feel confident, supported, loved, and they have a valuable place in the world.
EASY RECALL
This simple framework is designed to be told repeatedly so students know who they are, so as they journey through life and experience stress, these elements can be easily recalled. It is widely recognised in the field of psychology that stress can have an influence on memory processes.
TEACHING NOTES
The following elements show a simple framework that can be adapted to the age or aptitude of the student. The point is to realise the value is to:
- understand who they are.
- believe in who they can become.
- learn to undertint themselves rather than listen to the narrative of others.
- make is easy to recall in times of stress, anxiety, or depression.
- make it easy to recall helping others experiencing lifetime challenges.
Using The Storyteller Tree to build resilience in students.
Imagine the great forest of life, where we can envision ourselves as a magnificent tree. Just as a tree's strong roots symbolise our character and personality, our trunk represents our core values, morals, and beliefs. As we encounter the gusts of challenges, we rely on the resilient strength of our trunk to remain steadfast. However, our existence is not complete without the flourishing canopy above, which embodies the people we can rely on and the unique skills and abilities that make us fascinating. The diagram below was the very first infographic Treely® created to demonstrate resilience using The Storyteller Tree.
TREE ROOTS
It is the promise of what can grow if nurtured.
IT STARTS WITH A SEED
A seed is like your own unique DNA. You are designed uniquely. A seed is a design used by trees for to ensure the next generation of trees exists.
Different species of trees exist all over our planet. just like different races and cultures exist all over our planet. Different tree species are still Trees, just like different groups of people are still people.
UNIQUE PERSONALITY
The root of a tree is like our personality. It is with us through life.
Personality is influenced by genetic factors, meaning that certain aspects of our personality can be inherited through our DNA. Research in the field of behavioural genetics suggests that genetic factors play a role in shaping individual differences in personality traits.
Personality traits include dimensions such as extraversion, introversion, openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and emotional stability. Personality traits influence how a person interacts with their environment and how they approach tasks, relationships, and challenges.
For example, conscientiousness is a personality trait that reflects how organized, responsible, and diligent a person tends to be in their actions and commitments. A conscientious student is likely to be focused, detail-oriented, and motivated to complete tasks to the best of their abilities.
WHAT IS CHARACTER?
Tree roots grow and they anchor the tree, just like our character anchors us.
Character refers to the moral and ethical qualities, values, and behaviours that an individual possesses. It is often seen as the inner moral compass that guides a person's actions and decisions. Character traits are shaped by factors such as upbringing, culture, personal experiences, and individual choices.
Some common character traits include honesty, integrity, empathy, compassion, resilience, and responsibility. Character is often associated with how a person interacts with others and the principles they uphold.
TREE TRUNK
The tree roots grow out of the ground and become the tree trunk. A tree trunk grows, just like our values, morals and beliefs which are developed over our lifetime. Education and experience influence our growth.
WHAT ARE VALUES?
Values are guiding principles or beliefs that shape how we think, behave, and make choices in life. They help us make decisions that align with what we believe is important and right.
For example, honesty is a value that many people have. It means telling the truth, being sincere, and not cheating or stealing. When we value honesty, it guides us to be truthful even when it’s challenging or tempting to do otherwise.
WHAT ARE MORALS
Morals are principles or rules that determine what is right or wrong, good, or bad, or ethical or unethical. They are deeply ingrained beliefs often influenced by cultural or religion.
Honesty is a moral value that emphasises telling the truth and being sincere. In the context of school, practicing honesty means not cheating on tests or assignments, giving credit to others for their work, and owning up to mistakes or wrongdoings.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VALUES AND MORALS?
Honesty can be understood both as a value and a moral, but the distinction lies in their scope and application.
Values are personal and can be applied to all areas of life, where this moral are a requirement of the school community.
WHAT ARE BELIEFS?
"Beliefs are ideas or thoughts that we hold to be true or real. They shape our understanding of the world, guide our behaviours, and influence our attitudes and choices.
For example, you might have a belief that hard work leads to success, or that being kind to others is important. These beliefs influence how you approach your studies, treat your friends, and interact with others.
RIGHT CANOPY
Just like a family tree, we use the right side of the canopy to list the good people we can count on through good times and bad. These may be family members, friends, teachers, neighbours.
Just like the branches that stretch far and wide, our lives are intertwined with those who provide support, love, and guidance. Family members, friends, mentors, and teachers form the lush foliage of our personal tree canopy. They offer shelter during storms, offer a listening ear when we need to be heard, and offer their wisdom to guide us along our path.
Within this flourishing canopy, we find strength and encouragement. We lean on our loved ones for emotional support, seek advice from trusted mentors, and find comfort in the friendships that blossom. They celebrate our victories and share our sorrows, standing tall beside us as we navigate life's ever-changing seasons.
It is important to remember we may not see some of these people all the time, so when you reach out you need to communicate that you need some support. You are a leaf on your family and friends’ tree too. All that you receive, you can give.
LEFT CANOPY
The left side of the canopy represents all the amazing things that interests them, skills and abilities, talents, and interests. These are the things that make them an interesting person.
SKILLS
Skills can be defined as a learned ability or expertise in performing specific tasks or activities effectively and with proficiency. It involves the application of knowledge, practice, and experience to accomplish a particular objective.
An example of a skill is effective communication which is a valuable skill that involves expressing thoughts, ideas, and feelings clearly and efficiently, while also being attentive and receptive to others. It encompasses verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and the ability to convey messages in a respectful and coherent manner.
ABILITIES
ability can be defined as a natural or acquired talent or aptitude in performing a specific task or activity. It refers to a student's inherent or developed capacity to excel in a particular area.
An example could be critical thinking, which is the ability to analyse information, evaluate evidence, and make reasoned judgments and decisions. It involves employing logical reasoning, considering multiple perspectives, and questioning assumptions. Critical thinking enables students to go beyond surface-level understanding and develop a deeper comprehension of concepts.
INTERESTS
An interest can be defined as something that captures their attention, curiosity, and enthusiasm. It refers to activities, subjects, or hobbies that they find enjoyable, engaging, and worth pursuing in their free time.
An example of an Interest, photography which is a creative and engaging interest that involves capturing images using a camera. It allows students to explore their artistic expression, develop a unique visual perspective, and tell stories through images.
Students can have a wide range of interests based on their individual preferences, hobbies, and curiosities. It's important for students to explore different interests and discover what brings them joy, fulfilment, and a sense of engagement.
WORKSHOP
Infographics make learning more memorable. Use a blank tree to workshop resilience with your students. Use posit it notes to brainstorm each of the four segments of the resilience tree.
CONTACT US
This framework was developed by Sherryn Deetlefs, Founder of Treely® while designing The Storyteller Tree. For further information, please contact Sherryn at hello@treelyworld.com. The Storyteller Tree is patented in Australia.