Overview
Samantha, a 13-year-old, loves to build projects on her own. Her school is offering a group STEM project competition with a prestigious prize.
The Choice
Should Samantha join the group or work alone?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 10.59209523809524
- Word Count
- 300 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Samantha, a 13-year-old, loves to build projects on her own. Her school is offering a group STEM project competition with a prestigious prize. Samantha prefers to work solo, valuing her independence, but her best friend, Alex, wants her to join their group, believing they have a better chance together. Alex says, "We could win this if you join us! But alone, it might be tough." Samantha wonders if joining the group means sacrificing her independence or if working alone means missing a big opportunity.
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
Join Alex's group and work collaboratively.
Work on her own and maintain independence.
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
Why might independence be important to Samantha?
- 2
How could working in a group benefit or challenge Samantha?
- 3
What does it mean to sacrifice independence?
- 4
How might Samantha's decision affect her friendship with Alex?
- 5
What values are important when making decisions like this?
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.
