Exercise name:
SNIP
Theoretical background:
The closest analogy to this activity is the
SWOT analysis developed for use in
business, which is related to decisionmaking theory.
Target group:
Students aged 14 – 19
Exercise description:
Students are asked to define Strengths,
Needs, Interests and Preferences and then
list their own. As an extension to this
activity students can try to identify which
jobs are most suitable for them.
Pedagogical aim:
To provide students with a clearer selfconcept and a more informed basis for their
decision-making about careers.
Time:
45-60 minutes
Resources needed:
Photocopier
S.N.I.P. Activity – Teacher Notes
Explain to the group that this activity is about
considering your strengths, needs, interests and
preferences.
We are all different – different looks, hopes, dreams,
wants, needs, likes and dislikes and skills and
qualities. It is this combination that makes us unique
individuals.
Ask the group to brainstorm what they think is meant
by each of the following words – and to give
examples.
Strengths
Needs
Interests
Preferences
Answers:
Strengths – the things you are good at.
Examples of strengths include: hard working, honest,
determined, computer skills, able to get on with other
people or good at drawing.
Needs – the things you need to improve or have help
or support with.
Examples of needs include: learn to control your
temper, help with spelling or maths or improve your
punctuality or attendance.
Interests – these are the things you enjoy doing in
your spare time (your hobbies). Examples may
include skateboarding, playing a musical instrument or
being a member of a Youth Club or the Territorial
Army.
Preferences – the things you like or prefer doing.
In this session we are looking at preferences that
relate to jobs.
Examples of preferences include: work indoors or
outdoors, work on your own or with others or work in a
factory or an office.
Once students feel confident about what is meant by
strengths, needs, interests and preferences, ask them
to complete the SNIP worksheet.
The information on the completed worksheet will be
useful for when students are required to write a career
plan or a personal development plan.
Remind pupils that the information will also be useful
to refer to when they research possible job ideas.
Different jobs have different working conditions and
also require different strengths and interests.
My Strengths, Needs, Interests and Preferences
(S.N.I.P.)
My strengths are:
My needs are:
My interests are:
My preferences are: