21st Century Skills

Learn all about the learning, life, and literacy skills that anyone can use to improve their professional and personal lives.

Age Range
6th Grade - 12th Grade
Subject
Career Exploration, Skills and Routines

Preparing for the Job Market

This series is part of the Future of Work Collections.

What are the skills that everyone needs to make it in the 21st century? Learn about the learning, life, and literacy skills that anyone can use to improve their professional and personal lives.

Series Viewing Guide

Download our viewing guide activities for students to apply 21st Century Skills in small group exercises.

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21st Century Skills Lessons

  • Introduction to 21st Century Skills
    Lesson 1

    Introduction to 21st Century Skills

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    What are the skills that everyone needs to make it in the 21st century? Learn all about the Learning, Life, and Literacy skills that anyone can use to improve …

  • Flexibility
    Lesson 2

    Flexibility

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Keep your brain limber and ready for complex challenges by learning all about Cognitive Flexibility, a 21st century Life Skill.

  • Productivity
    Lesson 3

    Productivity

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Learn how to get it done and how to keep your cool. Explore productivity, a 21st century Life Skill.

  • Communication
    Lesson 4

    Communication

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Communication is about so much more than what we say. Learn about how communication can help with your life and career.

  • Technology Literacy
    Lesson 5

    Technology Literacy

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Smartphones, AI, electric cars, and beyond. Learn why technology literacy is an essential skill for the 21st century.

  • Social Skills
    Lesson 6

    Social Skills

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Learn how good social skills can set you apart and why they are an essential skill for the 21st century.

  • Collaboration
    Lesson 7

    Collaboration

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Learning how to work well with others is one of the most important skills for the 21st century. Learn how you can practice your collaboration skills and become…

  • Critical Thinking
    Lesson 8

    Critical Thinking

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    In the 21st century there is one skill that is absolutely essential, critical thinking. Learn how to practice and master your critical thinking skills.

  • Initiative
    Lesson 9

    Initiative

    Career Exploration6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th - 12th Grade

    Taking initiative is sometimes the only difference between success and failure. Learn about how initiative can help you achieve your goals in the 21st century.