Overview
Consider a young person who is hesitant to try out for a sports team because they fear failure. If they are encouraged to participate despite the risk, they might learn valuable lessons about teamwork and resilience, which can help them grow.
The Choice
Should Rohan try out for the soccer team or not?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.4
- Word Count
- 327 words
- Published
- Jun 7, 2025
The Dilemma
Rohan and Isabella bonded over a school project two years ago and haven't stopped talking since. Their school is hosting tryouts for the soccer team, and Isabella is excited to try out. However, Rohan is hesitant because he fears he might not make the team and worries about the embarrassment of failing in front of his peers. Isabella encourages him, saying that trying out is a valuable experience regardless of the outcome. She reminds him that even if he doesn't make the team, he'll learn more about his strengths and weaknesses and improve his skills for next time. Rohan is torn between his fear of failure and the potential growth he could gain from the experience. He knows that trying out could teach him important lessons about resilience and teamwork, but the fear of not succeeding is strong.
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
Try out for the soccer team.
Avoid trying out for safety.
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 trying out help Rohan grow?
- 3
What are the risks of not trying out?
- 4
How might Mary Wollstonecraft advise Rohan 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 Mary Wollstonecraft
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
