The Arc Maryland Personal Space Program Curriculum Guide | Page 21

other being Yes/No and Unhealthy Relationships. By the end of the program, the women
should be able to independently place the pictures on the correct area of the Violence
Continuum.
Finally, each class has a Continuing Learning Project that the participant is expected to
complete before the next class. The project depends upon each woman identifying a Trusted
Friend to assist her with continuing learning projects. For example, each participant is asked
to practice saying “no” or to refuse things throughout her daily activities. The Trusted
Friend will assist the participant by offering her a drink she doesn’t like or placing a demand
on her that is unfair.
Materials and Supplies
This curriculum is purposefully low-tech so that it can be used almost anywhere. There is no
need for TV/VCRs or overhead projectors, although trainers may wish to transfer lessons to
these formats. Generally, trainers need to bring the following items to each class:
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Name tags and marking pens
Curriculum
Handouts for participants’ binders/manuals
Visual aides and props
Refreshments
Handouts for Trusted Friends

Class Routine
As the program progresses, you will find that a standard class routine establishes. The first
few classes establish class rules and the groundwork for this schedule and then a typical
class will include the following activities:
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Welcome and Introductions
Warm Up Activity/Review Continuing Learning Activity
Review Class Schedule
Class Activities
Discussion
Refreshment Break
Class Activities
Discussion
Continuing Learning Activity
Adjourn

While this routine may be typical, trainers should be prepared to adapt based on the needs of
participants and issues that are raised during classes. While you may be prepared to discuss
a new topic, new experiences or insight might take the discussion back to a subject covered
in a previous class. Be prepared to change your lesson plan if need be.

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