Learning Objectives

Students will realize and understand that all the Millennium Development Goals are interconnected. This activity is a good bridge from introduction to investigation because students will understand the need for a holistic approach to problem solving.

Teaching Process

1. Evenly divide the class into eight small groups. Assign each group one of the Millennium Development Goals.

2. Ask each group to work together for the next 10 to 15 minutes to create a list of everything they can think of that is related to this Goal. Explain that the list does not have to include complete sentences or even phrases, it can include just words if that’s what the group prefers. Each group should write their list on a piece of poster board or large paper. Explain that this is a brainstorming activity and all ideas should be listed and respected, with the group focusing on generating as many ideas as possible, not deciding the relevance of each at this time.

3. After the designated time and the groups have completed their mind maps, ask students to put their large sheets at the front of the classroom where everyone can see them. Allow students a few moments to read through the sheets.

4. Now, ask students to point out any answers for each Goal that are similar to responses for other Goals. Ask for a student volunteer to circle these similarities.

5. Discussion Questions:
- Why are there so many overlapping parts to the Goals?
- Could one Goal be achieved without the others?
- Is it possible to work toward so many things simultaneously?

Teachers Notes

This activity was developed as part of the Educator's Guide to the Millennium Development Goals, created by TakingITGlobal and One World Youth Project