Premier Leadership · Personal Growth · Career Success

Ryan Williamson – Hidden Pieces

This National FFA lesson plan, “Hidden Pieces,” centers on a retiring address by 2022-23 National FFA Western Region Vice President Ryan Williamson, in which he shares the story of his hidden pieces and the power of self-acceptance and vulnerability. Students watch the video, complete an accompanying worksheet, and create a personal bulletin board reflecting on meaningful memories and items that make them who they are. The lesson teaches the value of being oneself and embracing one’s hidden pieces.

At a glance

Learning objectives
  • Identify their hidden pieces.
  • Understand the value of being themselves.
  • Describe the importance of hidden pieces.
Time required
60 minutes (*Time requirements may vary based upon student understanding and class schedule.)
Grade level
Grades 9 and 10
Materials
  • A copy of the "Hidden Pieces" worksheet for each student
  • Internet access to play the video in real-time or embed it in a PowerPoint ahead of time
Description of Lesson
Every individual is unique with their own story, hidden pieces and the strength to overcome shame and self-doubt. In his retiring address, 2022-23 National FFA Western Region Vice President Ryan Williamson shares the story of his hidden pieces.
Vocabulary
Self-acceptance; Vulnerable
Cross-Curricular Connections
English/Language Arts – Write about favorite memories and reflect on why those are important.
Virtual Instruction Ideas
Have students download and watch the video on a device of their choice and complete the worksheet.
Resources/References
Video: "Hidden Pieces" | Ryan Williamson 2023 Retiring Adress, https://vimeo.com/883625132
Related Resources
Retiring Addresses and Keynote Speeches, FFA.org/ffa-video-center/convention-keynotes-and-retiring-addresses/
Partnership for 21st Century Skills
Communicate Clearly; Initiative and Self-direction; Productivity and Accountability; Think Creativity

Hidden Pieces – Ryan Williamson

Ryan details his journey at the National FFA Convention. He shares personal anecdotes and reflects on the importance of authenticity. Discover how embracing your unique identity can lead to true success and self-acceptance.

Downloads & Links

Lesson plan

Worksheet

Other

Aligned Standards

AFNR Career Ready Practices

  • CRP.02Apply appropriate academic and technical skills. Career-ready individuals readily access and use the knowledge and skills acquired through experience and education to be more productive.
  • CRP.04Communicate clearly, effectively, and with reason. Career-ready individuals communicate thoughts, ideas and action plans with clarity, whether using written, verbal and/or visual methods.

Common Core – Writing

  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.4Produce clear and coherent writing the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

FFA Precept

  • FFA.PG-JMental Growth: Embrace cognitive and intellectual development relative to reasoning, thinking and coping.
  • FFA.PL-AAction: Assume responsibility and take the necessary steps to achieve the desired results, no matter what the goal or task at hand.
  • FFA.PL-DCharacter: Conduct oneself appropriately in relation to others regardless of the situation.

National FFA organization uses Accessibility Checker to monitor our website's accessibility.