Module 2. How to check your democracy level

Guide to Democratic Empowerment M2 Page 8/12 July 2025 The pupils' questioning should be prepared in advance so that they can answer adequately. Some terms or questions may be new or unclear to them when they read them for the first time. The class teacher can prepare the survey as follows: à Familiarise yourself with the questionnaire for pupils. à Tick all the words and phrases that should probably be explained. à Incorporate these words and explanations into the lesson when opportunities arise. For example, help them to understand the difference between facts and opinions: • Fact: It is raining. Opinion: Noah is in a bad mood because it's raining. • Fact: Wednesday and Friday we have gym class. Opinion: we should have gym class every day • Fact: Emily has a new hairstyle. Opinion: The new hairstyle suits her very well. à Explain the terms “respect” (basic acknowledgement of every person, their needs and their rights) and “recognition” (being seen; appreciation of what a person contributes) so that the children understand the difference. à Encourage the children to ask questions if they have not understood something. à Look out for examples of situations that arise in everyday school life and talk to the children about them. For example: Kathi helped Max clear away - she realised that he could use some help. Or: That's a good idea, Stephan, we can think about what to do with it! à If necessary, familiarise the children with the smiley system: let them give an evaluation with smileys in class. (How am I doing today? How did I like the excursion?) Dealing with the online questionnaire can also be unfamiliar, especially for younger pupils. Therefore, think about how you can best support the children when they complete the questionnaire. It can be useful to have a colleague with you who is available if there are any questions or technical difficulties. If there are not enough laptops or computers available, split the class in smaller groups for the answering-session. Emphasise that the sensor is not a test of knowledge or school assignment, but that it is about the school also wanting to improve. Their answers will help to recognise what is already working well and where the school can still improve. It is therefore