Overview
A student feels lonely at school and decides to reach out to classmates to join a group project, realizing that collaboration can bring joy and connection.
The Choice
Should Elina join Omar's group or work alone?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.2
- Word Count
- 284 words
- Published
- Jun 6, 2025
The Dilemma
Elina, a 12-year-old student, often feels isolated at school. She spends her breaks reading alone, watching other students like Omar engage in group activities. One day, Elina learns about a group project in science class. The teacher encourages students to form teams, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. Elina notices Omar and his friends forming a group, and they seem to be having fun planning their project. Elina wants to join them but worries about being rejected or feeling out of place. She also considers working alone, which feels safer but might lead to continued loneliness.
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
Ask to join Omar's group.
Work on the project alone.
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How might Elina feel if she joins the group?
- 3
What could happen if Elina works alone?
- 4
How might Marcus Aurelius advise Elina in this situation?
- 5
Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Marcus Aurelius
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
