What's Your Conflict Reaction?

Think about a time you had a disagreement with someone (a friend, a sibling, a classmate). How did you usually react? Choose the option below that best describes your first instinct.

Instructions: Read the scenarios and choose the response that feels most natural to you. There are no right or wrong answers!

Scenario 1: Your friend borrowed your favorite pen and lost it.
A. You loudly tell them how careless they are and demand they replace it immediately.
B. You feel upset but don't say anything, hoping they'll realize and apologize.
C. You calmly explain that you're upset about your pen and ask what happened.
D. You avoid them for a while, hoping the issue will just go away.

Scenario 2: You and a group member disagree on how to complete a project.
A. You insist that your idea is the best and refuse to consider alternatives.
B. You go along with their idea, even though you think yours is better.
C. You suggest discussing both ideas to find a solution that incorporates the best parts of each.
D. You try to change the subject or let someone else decide.

Reflect: Based on your choices, what do you notice about your usual way of handling disagreements?

Conflict Crossroads Script

Warm-Up: What's Your Conflict Reaction? (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Good morning, everyone! Today, we're going to dive into a topic that affects all of us: conflict. We all experience disagreements, big or small, and how we handle them can really change the outcome. To start, I've handed out a quick warm-up called What's Your Conflict Reaction? Warm Up. Please take a few minutes to read the scenarios and choose the option that best describes how you would typically react. Don't worry, there are no right or wrong answers here – we're just getting a sense of our natural instincts. "

(Allow students 2-3 minutes to complete the warm-up.)

Teacher: "Alright, who'd like to share generally what they noticed about their choices? Did you tend to confront, avoid, or try to find a middle ground? You don't have to share your specific answers, just what patterns you observed in your own reactions."

(Facilitate a brief discussion, ensuring a safe and open environment. Use Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slide 1-2.)

Introduction to Conflict Resolution (10 minutes)

Teacher: "Excellent. As we can see, we all have different ways of approaching disagreements. Today, our goal is to explore these different approaches and learn how to navigate conflicts in a way that leads to positive outcomes. Our lesson is called 'Conflict Crossroads: Choose Your Path' because every conflict presents us with choices about how to respond."

(Transition to Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slide 3: How Do We Respond to Conflict?)

Teacher: "So, what exactly is 'conflict'? Take a moment to think about it. It's often seen as a negative thing, like an argument or a fight, right? But really, conflict is simply a disagreement or a clash of different ideas or opinions. It doesn't have to be a 'fight.' In fact, it can be an opportunity for growth and understanding if we handle it well. Why do you think having good conflict resolution skills is important in our daily lives, both in school and outside of school?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

Teacher: "Exactly! It helps us maintain friendships, work better in groups, and even feel less stressed. Today, we're going to watch a short video that introduces us to different ways people typically respond to conflict. As you watch, think about which style seems most familiar to you or people you know."

(Play the video lecture from Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slide 3.)

Understanding Conflict Styles (10 minutes)

Teacher: "That video gave us a great overview! Now, let's break down these five main conflict styles in more detail. You can also follow along with the Understanding Conflict Reading I've provided."

(Use Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slides 4-8. Go through each style, using the notes below and referring to the slides.)

Style 1: Avoiding (Slide 4)

Teacher: "First up is Avoiding. This is like saying, 'I'll deal with it later... or maybe not at all.' When someone is avoiding, they might withdraw, postpone the discussion, or simply ignore the issue. Think about it: when might avoiding actually be a useful strategy?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., when emotions are really high and you need to cool down, or if the issue is truly minor and not worth the effort.)

Teacher: "Right. But what are the drawbacks of always avoiding conflict?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., the problem doesn't get solved, feelings can fester, relationships might suffer.)

Style 2: Accommodating (Slide 5)

Teacher: "Next, we have Accommodating. This sounds like, 'Whatever you want is fine.' Here, you give in to the other person's wishes, often at the expense of your own needs or desires. When might accommodating be a good idea?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., when the relationship is much more important than the issue, or if you realize you were wrong.)

Teacher: "And what are the potential downsides?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., your own needs are not met, which can lead to resentment over time.)

Style 3: Competing (Slide 6)

Teacher: "Then there's Competing. This is the 'My way or the highway!' approach. You try to win the argument, often aggressively, without really considering the other person's perspective. Can you think of any situations where competing might be useful?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., in an emergency when quick, decisive action is needed, or when standing up for something you deeply believe is right, and there's no room for compromise on a core value.)

Teacher: "What are the clear drawbacks of this style, especially in personal relationships?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., it can really damage relationships, doesn't foster collaboration, creates a 'winner' and 'loser'.)

Style 4: Compromising (Slide 7)

Teacher: "Moving on to Compromising. This is the 'Let's meet in the middle' approach. Both parties give up something to find a solution. It's about finding a middle ground. When do you think compromising works best?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., when time is limited, both sides have equally important goals, or a quick solution is needed.)

Teacher: "What's a potential drawback of compromising?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., no one fully gets what they want, and sometimes the 'middle' isn't the best solution for either party.)

Style 5: Collaborating (Slide 8)

Teacher: "Finally, we have Collaborating. This is often seen as the ideal approach: 'Let's work together to find a solution that works for everyone.' Here, you actively work with the other person to find a solution that satisfies both needs, often creating something even better than either original idea. Why is collaboration often the best approach?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., it builds stronger relationships, finds creative solutions, ensures everyone's needs are considered.)

Teacher: "Are there any drawbacks to collaborating?"

(Allow student responses: e.g., it can be time-consuming and requires effort and openness from both sides.)

Teacher: "Now, let's have a quick Conflict Scenarios Discussion Guide. I'll present a few scenarios, and in your small groups, discuss which conflict style seems to be at play and why. Be ready to share your thoughts."

*(Facilitate the discussion using the Conflict Scenarios Discussion Guide.)

Practicing Resolution Strategies (15 minutes)

Teacher: "Great discussions! Now that we understand the different styles, let's talk about how we can effectively resolve conflicts, especially when aiming for collaboration. Two incredibly powerful tools are active listening and 'I' statements."

(Use Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slide 9: Effective Communication for Resolution.)

Teacher: "First, Active Listening. This means truly hearing what the other person is saying, not just waiting for your turn to speak. It involves making eye contact, not interrupting, and paraphrasing what they said to confirm you understood them correctly. It shows respect and helps avoid misunderstandings."

Teacher: "Second, 'I' Statements. These are crucial because they help you express your feelings and needs without blaming the other person. Instead of saying, 'You always ignore me!', which sounds like an attack, you could say, 'I feel unheard when I'm trying to explain something, because I want to be understood.' See the difference? It focuses on your experience, not their perceived fault."

Teacher: "Now, it's time to put these skills into practice! I'm going to divide you into small groups for a Role-Play Resolution Activity. Each group will receive a conflict scenario. Your task is to role-play the scenario, using active listening and 'I' statements to work towards a collaborative solution. Remember, empathy, understanding, and respect are key!"

(Divide students into groups, distribute scenarios from the Role-Play Resolution Activity, and monitor their progress, providing guidance as needed.)

Application and Reinforcement (10 minutes)

Teacher: "Fantastic job with the role-plays, everyone! It takes courage and practice to use these skills. What did you notice about using 'I' statements and active listening? Was it easy or challenging?"

(Briefly discuss observations from the role-plays.)

Teacher: "To reinforce what we've learned, I'd like you to complete the Conflict Resolution Worksheet. You can work individually or with a partner. This will help solidify your understanding of the styles and strategies."

(Distribute the Conflict Resolution Worksheet. Allow 5-7 minutes for students to work.)

Teacher: "To wrap up this section, let's play a quick Conflict Styles Game! It's a fun way to review the different approaches we've discussed. We'll go through scenarios, and you'll quickly identify the best conflict style to use."

(Play the Conflict Styles Game for 3-5 minutes.)

Assessment and Wrap-Up (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Great energy, everyone! To see how much you've absorbed today, please take a few minutes to complete the Conflict Resolution Quiz. This is a quick check for understanding, not a big test."

(Distribute and administer the Conflict Resolution Quiz. Briefly mention that the Conflict Resolution Answer Key will be used for grading.)

Teacher: "For those who want to continue exploring this topic, I'm providing a Peaceful Problem Solvers Project Guide. This is an optional project or could be a homework assignment. It includes a Conflict Resolution Rubric so you know exactly what's expected."

Teacher: "Finally, let's end with our Resolution Reflection Cool Down. Take a moment to think about one new thing you learned today about conflict resolution and how you might apply this skill in your own life this week. You can write it down or just think about it quietly."

(Display Conflict Crossroads Slide Deck Slide 12. Allow 1-2 minutes for reflection.)

Teacher: "Thank you all for your active participation today. Remember, being good at conflict resolution is a skill that will serve you well in all aspects of your life!"

Understanding Conflict: Your Guide to Different Styles

Conflict is a natural part of life. It happens whenever people have different ideas, needs, or desires. It's not necessarily a bad thing; in fact, how we handle conflict can lead to stronger relationships and better solutions. But to handle conflict well, it helps to understand the different ways people typically respond.

Think about it: have you ever seen two people react completely differently to the same problem? One person might get angry, while another might walk away, and a third tries to find a compromise. These are all different conflict styles.

There are five main conflict styles, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Most people tend to lean towards one or two styles, but we can learn to use any of them depending on the situation.

The Five Conflict Styles

1. Avoiding

Description: People who use the avoiding style tend to withdraw from conflict. They might physically leave the situation, change the subject, or simply ignore the problem in hopes it will go away on its own. They might feel uncomfortable with confrontation or believe the issue isn't worth addressing.

When it can be useful:

• When emotions are very high, and you need time to cool down before discussing.
• When the issue is truly trivial and not important in the long run.
• When you lack the power to make a difference and confrontation would be risky.

Potential drawbacks:

• The problem often remains unresolved and can even get worse.
• Resentment can build up if needs are consistently ignored.
• It can damage relationships by making others feel unimportant or unheard.

2. Accommodating

Description: The accommodating style means you give in to the other person's wishes or concerns, often at the expense of your own. You prioritize the relationship and maintaining harmony over asserting your own needs. You might say, "Whatever you want is fine."

When it can be useful:

• When the issue is more important to the other person than it is to you.
• When you realize you are wrong and the other person is right.
• To build goodwill or preserve a valuable relationship.

Potential drawbacks:

• Your own needs are frequently unmet, leading to frustration or feelings of being taken advantage of.
• It can lead to a power imbalance in relationships.
• Good solutions might be missed if your perspective is never shared.

3. Competing

Description: The competing style is all about winning. People using this style are assertive and uncooperative. They pursue their own concerns at the other person's expense, often using power, arguing, or even aggression. Their motto is "My way or the highway!"

When it can be useful:

• In emergencies when quick, decisive action is critical.
• When important, unpopular decisions need to be made.
• To protect yourself or others from being taken advantage of.

Potential drawbacks:

• Can severely damage relationships and trust.
• Often creates a "winner" and a "loser" situation, leaving one person feeling defeated.
• Doesn't allow for creative, mutually beneficial solutions.

4. Compromising

Description: The compromising style involves finding a middle ground. Both parties give up something to gain something else. It's about "meeting halfway" so that everyone gets at least some of what they want, but no one gets everything. It's often a quick and practical solution.

When it can be useful:

• When goals are moderately important, but not worth more assertive styles.
• When two opponents with equal power are committed to mutually exclusive goals.
• To achieve a temporary settlement to complex issues.

Potential drawbacks:

• Neither party is fully satisfied, which can lead to lingering frustration.
• It might not always lead to the best or most creative solution.
• It can be seen as a lazy way out if deeper issues aren't addressed.

5. Collaborating

Description: The collaborating style is about working together to find a solution that fully satisfies the needs and concerns of both parties. It's highly assertive and cooperative. People using this style see conflict as an opportunity to find creative solutions and strengthen relationships. They aim for a "win-win" outcome.

When it can be useful:

• When both sets of concerns are too important to compromise.
• To gain commitment by incorporating different perspectives.
• To work through feelings that have interfered with a relationship.
• To find creative, new solutions to complex problems.

Potential drawbacks:

• It can be very time-consuming and requires a high level of trust and open communication.
• Both parties need to be willing to engage and explore options thoroughly.

Which Style Is Best?

There's no single

Conflict Scenarios Discussion Guide

Instructions for Teacher: Divide students into small groups (3-4 students). Present one scenario at a time, either verbally or on the board/screen. Give each group 2-3 minutes to discuss the questions, then bring the class back together to share their thoughts before moving to the next scenario.

Scenario 1: The Group Project Deadline

Scenario: You and your partner have a big group project due tomorrow. You've been working hard, but your partner hasn't done their share. They spent all weekend playing video games instead of contributing. Now they're asking you to cover for them and do their part so you both don't fail.

Discussion Questions:

1. If you avoided this conflict, what might that look like? What would be the outcome?
2. If you accommodated your partner, what would you do? What would be the consequences for you and the project?
3. If you took a competing approach, how might you react? What impact could this have on your friendship and the project?
4. What would a compromising solution look like in this situation? What would each of you give up?
5. How could you try to collaborate to solve this problem? What would be the ideal "win-win" for both of you?

Scenario 2: The Borrowed Item

Scenario: You lent your favorite hoodie to a friend a week ago. They promised to return it quickly. You saw them wearing it yesterday, and it looked like it had a small stain. You need it back for an event this weekend.

Discussion Questions:

1. Describe an avoiding response. What might happen if you avoid the issue?
2. What would an accommodating response be? How might you feel if you chose this?
3. How would a competing approach play out? What could be the fallout?
4. Suggest a compromising way to handle this. What might be fair to both?
5. How can you approach this using a collaborating style to ensure your hoodie is returned and your friendship remains intact?

Scenario 3: Different Plans for the Weekend

Scenario: You and your best friend always hang out on Saturdays. This Saturday, you want to go to the new science museum, but your friend really wants to go to the mall to see a movie and shop. Both of you feel strongly about your plans.

Discussion Questions:

1. How might you avoid this conflict? What could be the effect on your Saturday?
2. If you accommodated your friend, what would happen? How would you feel?
3. What would a competing approach look like here? What might be the result?
4. Propose a compromising plan for your Saturday. How would it work?
5. Using a collaborating approach, how could you and your friend come up with a plan that makes both of you excited for the weekend?

Role-Play Resolution Activity

Instructions for Teacher: Divide students into pairs or small groups (3 students if one wants to be an observer/mediator). Distribute one scenario to each group. Instruct students to role-play the conflict using active listening and "I" statements to work towards a collaborative solution. Encourage them to not jump straight to compromise, but to genuinely try to understand each other's needs and find a win-win. Circulate and provide guidance as needed.

Time: 15 minutes (10 minutes for role-play, 5 minutes for group debrief).

Role-Play Scenarios

Scenario 1: The Misunderstood Message

Characters:

• Student A: You sent a text to a group chat proposing a time to meet for a study group. Student B replied in the chat with just "lol." You feel dismissed and annoyed because you put effort into organizing.
• Student B: You saw Student A's text and thought the suggested time was really early for a study group, almost like a joke. Your "lol" was meant to convey that you found the time humorous, not that you were dismissing Student A's effort. You didn't realize it would be taken offensively.

Conflict: Student A feels disrespected and ignored. Student B is confused why Student A seems upset.

Task: Role-play a conversation where Student A expresses their feelings using an "I" statement, and Student B actively listens and explains their perspective. Work together to clarify the misunderstanding and find a good time for the study group.

Scenario 2: Shared Locker, Different Habits

Characters:

• Student X: You share a locker with Student Y. You like to keep your side very organized, with books neatly stacked and supplies in their designated spots. Lately, Student Y's side has been overflowing, and their items are creeping onto your side, making it hard to find your things.
• Student Y: You share a locker with Student X. You tend to be a bit messy and are often in a rush between classes, so you just toss your things in. You don't really think about how it affects Student X because you're focused on getting to class on time.

Conflict: Student X is frustrated by the mess and lack of space. Student Y is unaware of the impact or doesn't see it as a big deal.

Task: Role-play a conversation where Student X expresses their feelings and needs using "I" statements, and Student Y actively listens and tries to understand. Together, find a collaborative solution for sharing the locker space more effectively.

Scenario 3: The Borrowed Project Supplies

Characters:

• Student P: You brought in special art supplies for a class project, including a unique set of colored pencils. You explicitly told everyone not to use them without asking. Now you notice some of your colored pencils are dull or missing.
• Student Q: You were really struggling with a part of the art project and saw Student P's colored pencils. You thought they looked perfect for what you needed, and since Student P wasn't around, you just quickly borrowed a few without asking, intending to sharpen and return them later. You didn't think it would be a big deal.

Conflict: Student P feels their trust has been violated and their property disrespected. Student Q didn't mean any harm but overlooked the boundaries.

Task: Role-play a conversation where Student P expresses their frustration using "I" statements, and Student Q actively listens and explains their actions (without making excuses). Work together to find a solution regarding the pencils and how to prevent similar issues in the future.

Conflict Resolution Worksheet: Choose Your Path Wisely!

Name: _________________________ Date: _____________

Instructions: Read each scenario carefully. For each one, identify the dominant conflict style being used by the main character and explain why you think that. Then, suggest a better approach using effective communication skills (like "I" statements and active listening) to aim for a collaborative solution.

Part 1: Identifying Conflict Styles

Scenario 1:
Maria and Alex are working on a science project. Maria thinks they should build a volcano model, while Alex wants to create a detailed poster. Maria shrugs and says, "Fine, whatever. Let's just do the poster then," even though she really wanted to build the volcano.

Conflict Style Used by Maria: _________________________

Why?

Scenario 2:
David and Sarah are arguing about which movie to watch. David insists, "We're watching my movie! I picked last time, and it's my turn." He doesn't listen to Sarah's reasons for wanting to see her choice.

Conflict Style Used by David: _________________________

Why?

Scenario 3:
Two classmates, Emily and Ben, both want to use the same art supplies for their project at the same time. Instead of talking, they both just glare at each other and try to grab the supplies first, without saying a word.

Conflict Style Used by Emily and Ben: _________________________

Why?

Scenario 4:
Liam and Chloe are trying to decide on a topic for their history presentation. Liam wants to research ancient Egypt, and Chloe wants to research the Roman Empire. After some discussion, they agree to focus on how ancient Egypt influenced the Roman Empire, combining elements of both their interests.

Conflict Style Used by Liam and Chloe: _________________________

Why?

Part 2: Applying Resolution Strategies

Scenario 5:
You and your sibling planned to clean your room together, but your sibling spent the entire time on their phone, leaving you to do most of the work. You feel frustrated and taken advantage of.

How would you approach this conflict using effective communication (e.g., "I" statements and active listening) to find a collaborative solution? Write out what you might say and do.

Scenario 6:
A friend borrowed your favorite book and returned it with a torn cover. You're upset because it was a special edition. You want your friend to understand how you feel and help fix the situation.

How would you approach this conflict using effective communication (e.g., "I" statements and active listening) to find a collaborative solution? Write out what you might say and do.

Conflict Styles Game: "What's Your Move?"

Instructions for Teacher: Read out each scenario. Students (individually or in small teams) should quickly identify which conflict style they think is most appropriate or being demonstrated, and why. You can have them hold up cards (A for Avoiding, Ac for Accommodating, C for Competing, Cm for Compromising, Col for Collaborating), or simply call out answers. Encourage quick thinking and discussion.

Scenarios:

1. Scenario: Your little sibling accidentally breaks your favorite toy. You're really angry, but you decide to wait an hour before talking to them so you can calm down and think clearly.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Waiting to talk when emotions are high)
     
     
     
     

2. Scenario: You and a friend both want to be the lead in the school play. You both have good arguments. Eventually, you decide to audition for different roles so you can both still be in the play together, even if neither of you gets the lead.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Both giving up something to achieve a shared goal)
     
     
     
     

3. Scenario: Your team is losing a sports game, and the coach needs to make a quick decision about strategy. The coach immediately tells everyone exactly what to do, without asking for opinions, because there's no time to discuss.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Quick, decisive action in an emergency)
     
     
     
     

4. Scenario: You're planning a class picnic with a group. One person wants to have it at the park, another wants it at the beach. After a long discussion, you come up with a plan to have it at the park for the games and then all drive to the beach for a bonfire later, making sure everyone gets what they wanted.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Finding a creative solution that satisfies everyone's needs)
     
     
     
     

5. Scenario: You and a friend disagree about which restaurant to go to for lunch. Your friend really wants pizza, and you're fine with almost anything. You say, "Okay, pizza it is!" even though you were secretly hoping for tacos.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Prioritizing the other person's preference to keep peace)
     
     
     
     

6. Scenario: You notice a classmate being unfairly bullied. You immediately step in and loudly tell the bully to stop, even if it means confronting them directly.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Assertively standing up for what is right)
     
     
     
     

7. Scenario: Your parents ask you to help with chores, but you have a lot of homework. Instead of saying anything, you just go to your room and pretend to be asleep when they call you.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Avoiding the issue directly)
     
     
     
     

8. Scenario: You and your friend are planning a trip, and you both have different ideas about the budget. You decide to sit down, list all your priorities, and figure out a new itinerary that works for both your financial comfort zones, even if it means researching new options.

   • What's Your Move? (Hint: Working together for a mutually beneficial solution)
     
     
     
     

Conflict Resolution Answer Key

Conflict Resolution Quiz Answer Key

1. Which conflict style involves giving in to the other person's wishes, often at the expense of your own needs?

   • Correct Answer: B. Accommodating
   • Reasoning: Accommodating is characterized by a low concern for self and a high concern for others, leading one to yield to the other party.

2. What is the main goal of the 'Collaborating' conflict style?

   • Correct Answer: C. To find a solution that satisfies both parties' needs
   • Reasoning: Collaborating aims for a win-win outcome where both parties' concerns are fully addressed through creative problem-solving.

3. Which of the following is an example of an 'I' statement?

   • Correct Answer: B. 'I feel unheard when I'm interrupted, because I want to finish my thoughts.'
   • Reasoning: An 'I' statement focuses on the speaker's feelings and needs without blaming or accusing the other person, promoting constructive communication.

4. What is 'Active Listening' in conflict resolution?

   • Correct Answer: C. Truly hearing and understanding what the other person is saying, often by paraphrasing
   • Reasoning: Active listening involves fully engaging with the speaker to comprehend their message, often by reflecting back what was heard to confirm understanding.

5. Describe a situation where the 'Avoiding' conflict style might be appropriate. Provide one advantage and one disadvantage of this style.

   • Sample Answer:
     • Appropriate Situation: When emotions are very high after an argument with a friend, and you need time to cool down before discussing the issue, or if the conflict is over a truly trivial matter that will pass quickly.
     • Advantage: It can prevent immediate escalation of the conflict and allows individuals to cool down and think more clearly.
     • Disadvantage: The underlying problem may not get resolved and can lead to festering resentment or a repeat of the conflict later.

Conflict Resolution Test Answer Key

1. Which conflict style is characterized by a high concern for one's own goals and a low concern for others' goals?

   • Correct Answer: C. Competing
   • Reasoning: The competing style is assertive and uncooperative, prioritizing one's own needs over the other party's.

2. When is the 'Compromising' style most often used?

   • Correct Answer: C. When time is limited and a quick, mutually acceptable solution is needed
   • Reasoning: Compromising is often used for quick solutions where both parties give up something to reach a middle ground, especially when time is a factor.

3. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of active listening?

   • Correct Answer: B. Interrupting to ask clarifying questions immediately
   • Reasoning: Active listening involves allowing the speaker to finish without interruption; clarifying questions should typically come after the speaker has concluded their thoughts.

4. The 'Collaborating' conflict style is also known as a:

   • Correct Answer: C. Win-win approach
   • Reasoning: Collaborating aims for a solution where both parties' needs are fully met, resulting in a positive outcome for everyone involved.

5. Explain the difference between 'Compromising' and 'Collaborating' conflict styles. Provide an example for each.

   • Sample Answer:
     • Compromising: Involves both parties giving up something to reach a middle ground. It's often a practical, quick solution, but no one fully gets what they want. Example: Two siblings want to watch different TV shows. They compromise by watching half of one show and then half of the other, or agreeing to watch one today and the other tomorrow.
     • Collaborating: Involves working together to find a creative solution that fully satisfies the needs and concerns of both parties (a

Peaceful Problem Solvers: Conflict Resolution Project Guide

Project Goal: To demonstrate your understanding of conflict resolution styles and strategies by analyzing a real-life or fictional conflict and proposing a collaborative solution.

Due Date: [Insert Date Here]

Value: [Insert Percentage/Points Here]

Part 1: Choose Your Conflict (Individual or Pair Work)

Select one conflict to analyze. This conflict can be:

1. A Real-Life Conflict (Anonymized): A conflict you have personally experienced or witnessed (e.g., with a friend, sibling, classmate, in a movie or TV show). Do NOT use real names or identifying details. Focus on the situation and the reactions.
2. A Fictional Conflict: A conflict from a book, movie, TV show, or create your own realistic scenario.

Once you have your conflict, briefly describe it:

Chosen Conflict Description:

Part 2: Conflict Analysis (Written Report or Presentation)

Prepare a written report (minimum 250 words) or a short presentation (3-5 minutes) that addresses the following points about your chosen conflict:

1. Identify the Parties Involved: Who are the main people or groups in this conflict?
   
   
   
   

2. Describe the Core Disagreement: What exactly is the conflict about? What are the different points of view or needs?
   
   
   
   

3. Identify Initial Conflict Styles: Based on how the parties initially reacted, which of the five conflict styles (Avoiding, Accommodating, Competing, Compromising, Collaborating) do you think they were using? Explain your reasoning for each party.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Analyze the Outcome of Initial Styles: What were the results of these initial approaches? Did the conflict get resolved? Were relationships damaged or improved?
   
   
   
   

5. Propose a Collaborative Solution: Imagine you are a conflict resolution expert. How would you guide the parties to use collaborative communication to resolve this conflict? Include:

   • Specific examples of "I" statements that could be used by each party.
   • How active listening would be encouraged and demonstrated.
   • Steps they would take to move towards a "win-win" solution that addresses everyone's key needs.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

Part 3: Reflection

Answer the following question:

• What was the most challenging part of analyzing this conflict and finding a collaborative solution? What did you learn about your own approach to conflict from this project?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Submission Options:

• Written Report: Submit a typed report (minimum 250 words, 12pt font, double-spaced).
• Presentation: Prepare a 3-5 minute presentation (e.g., using slides, a poster board, or a verbal presentation) to share your analysis and proposed solution with the class or a small group. You may include visuals if helpful.

Remember to consult the Conflict Resolution Rubric to understand how your project will be graded!

Conflict Resolution Project Rubric

Project Title: Peaceful Problem Solvers: Conflict Resolution Project

Student Name(s): _________________________

Date: _____________

Resolution Reflection Cool Down

Instructions: Take a moment to reflect on today's lesson. Answer the following questions silently to yourself or jot down your thoughts in your notebook.

1. What is one key idea or strategy about conflict resolution that you learned or understood better today?





2. Think about a situation you might face in the next week where you could apply a conflict resolution skill. What specific skill would you try to use, and why?





3. How might using this skill change the outcome compared to how you might have handled it before today?