Overview
Maya loves drawing and wants to become a famous artist one day. Her friend Jamie notices and says, 'Why not draw something fun instead?' Now, Maya has to choose whether to draw what she truly feels or pick something safe and lighthearted.
The Choice
Should Maya express her true self in her artwork?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 3-5
- Reading Level
- Level 7.405001805054152
- Word Count
- 277 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Maya loves drawing and wants to become a famous artist one day. Her teacher gives an assignment to draw something from their life, but Maya feels shy about sharing her personal experiences. Her friend Jamie notices and says, 'Why not draw something fun instead?' Now, Maya has to choose whether to draw what she truly feels or pick something safe and lighthearted.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Draw something fun and avoid personal feelings.
Share her personal experience through the drawing.
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers ā the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
Why might Maya feel shy about her drawings?
- 2
How does expressing personal experiences help artists?
- 3
What might Maya gain by choosing to draw from her life?
- 4
What could be the benefit of playing it safe with her art?
- 5
How can sharing art impact the way others see Maya?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Frederick Douglass
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
