Conflict Resolution Script

Slide 1: Conflict: Deal or No Deal?

Teacher: "Good morning/afternoon everyone! Take a look at our title slide: 'Conflict: Deal or No Deal?' What comes to mind when you see that? Any guesses about what we'll be talking about today?"
(Allow for student responses, connect to the game show idea of making a choice.)
"Today, we're going to learn how to deal with disagreements in a way that helps us reach a 'deal' - a positive solution - instead of a 'no deal' where things just get worse."

Slide 2: What IS Conflict?

Teacher: "So, let's start with the basics. What exactly is 'conflict'? In your own words, what does it mean to you?"
(Listen to student responses, guide them towards a simple definition.)
"That's right! Conflict is a disagreement or argument, often caused when people have different opinions, needs, or desires. It's important to remember that conflict is a natural part of life. We all experience it, whether it's with a friend, a family member, or even ourselves. The important thing isn't to avoid conflict entirely, because that's impossible. The important thing is how we handle it."

Slide 3: Types of Conflict

Teacher: "Conflict isn't just one thing; it shows up in different ways. Our slide lists a few types. Can anyone give me an example of 'interpersonal conflict'? That's conflict between people."
(Elicit examples like arguing with a sibling over a toy, disagreeing with a friend about game rules.)
"What about 'intrapersonal conflict'? That's conflict within yourself."
(Guide towards examples like deciding between two things you want to do, feeling torn about making a choice.)
"We also have group conflict, like when a team can't agree on a project, and external conflict, which is a struggle against an outside force. Think about how these might show up in your life."

Slide 4: Conflict Outcomes: Win, Lose, or Learn?

Teacher: "When a conflict happens, it can end in different ways. Sometimes, one person gets what they want, and the other doesn't. We call that 'Win-Lose'. Can you think of a time that happened?"
(Students might share examples of someone getting their way while another feels upset.)
"Then there's 'Lose-Lose'. In this situation, no one really gets what they want, and often, both people end up unhappy. What might that look like?"
(Example: two siblings fighting over a toy until a parent takes it away from both.)
"But the best outcome, the one we're aiming for today, is 'Win-Win' - or sometimes 'Win-Learn'. This is when both sides work together to find a solution that benefits everyone, or at least they learn something valuable from the situation. How do you think reaching a 'Win-Win' feels compared to 'Win-Lose' or 'Lose-Lose'?"

Slide 5: Why Learn Conflict Resolution?

Teacher: "Why do you think it's important to learn how to deal with conflict effectively? What are the benefits for you?"
(Encourage student sharing. Connect their answers to the points on the slide.)
"Exactly! Learning these skills helps us build stronger friendships, understand why others think differently, solve problems without getting angry, and ultimately, it helps us be more successful in school, with our friends, and in whatever we do in the future. It's a superpower for life!"

Slide 6: 5 Steps to Conflict Resolution

Teacher: "So, how do we get to that 'Win-Win' outcome? Here are five simple steps that can guide us. Let's look at the first one: 'Stay Calm'. Why is it so important to try and stay calm when you're in a conflict?"
(Discuss how emotions can make things worse.)
"Next, 'Listen Actively'. What does it mean to actively listen?"
(Emphasize listening to understand, not just to respond.)
"Then, 'Use

What's the Fuss? Warm-Up

Instructions: Take a moment to think about a time you either experienced a disagreement or saw one happen (it could be with friends, family, or even characters in a book or movie!).

Quickly jot down a few words or a short sentence about what the disagreement was about and how it made you or others feel.

Share: What made that disagreement difficult? What emotions were involved?

Understanding Conflict

Conflict is a natural part of life. It happens when two or more people have different ideas, needs, or desires that seem to clash. Think about it – we're all unique individuals with our own thoughts and feelings, so it's impossible to agree on everything all the time! Conflict isn't necessarily bad; in fact, how we handle it can lead to stronger relationships and new solutions.

Different Kinds of Conflict

Just like there are different kinds of weather, there are different kinds of conflict:

• Interpersonal Conflict: This is the most common type we think of. It's a disagreement between two or more people. Maybe you and your friend both want to play with the same toy, or your parents disagree on what movie to watch.
• Intrapersonal Conflict: This is conflict within yourself. It's when you're struggling to make a decision, like whether to study for a test or go out with friends, or when you feel torn between two different feelings.
• Group Conflict: This happens within a team or group, like when a sports team can't agree on a strategy, or a school club has different ideas for an event.
• External Conflict: This is a struggle against an outside force, like trying to meet a challenging deadline, dealing with a difficult situation at school, or even facing a challenge in nature.

Why Does Conflict Happen?

Conflict usually happens because of a few main reasons:

• Different Needs: You might need quiet time to study, while your sibling needs to play loud music.
• Different Values: People have different beliefs about what's important.
• Different Perspectives: Two people can look at the same situation and see it completely differently.
• Misunderstandings: Sometimes, conflict is just a simple miscommunication where someone misunderstood what another person meant.

Moving Towards Resolution

The good news is that conflicts can almost always be resolved! The key is to approach them with a desire to understand and find a solution that works for as many people as possible. Instead of letting disagreements cause anger or broken friendships, we can learn strategies to turn conflicts into opportunities for understanding and growth. This means staying calm, listening carefully, and working together to find a "win-win" outcome where everyone feels heard and respected.

Discussion on Conflict

After reading "Understanding Conflict" and reviewing the slides, let's discuss some of these ideas. Remember to be respectful of everyone's opinions and experiences.

Discussion Questions:

1. What was one new thing you learned about conflict from the reading or slides?
   
   
   
2. Can you think of an example of an interpersonal conflict you've observed or experienced? (Remember, you don't have to share personal details if you're uncomfortable, but you can talk about a general situation).
   
   
   
3. How about an intrapersonal conflict? A time you had a disagreement with yourself or were torn between two choices?
   
   
   
4. Based on what we've discussed, why is it important to try and understand the other person's perspective during a conflict?
   
   
   
5. What are some feelings that often come up during a conflict? How do these feelings sometimes make it harder to find a solution?
   
   
   
6. The reading mentioned that conflict isn't necessarily bad. Can you think of a time when a conflict actually led to something positive or helped someone learn something new?
   
   
   

Conflict Resolution Role-Play

Objective: To practice applying conflict resolution steps in realistic scenarios.

Instructions:

1. Divide into Small Groups: Your teacher will divide you into small groups of 3-4 students.
2. Pick a Scenario: Each group will receive a "Conflict Scenario Card." Read the scenario together.
3. Brainstorm: As a group, discuss the conflict. Who are the people involved? What are their different needs or perspectives? What emotions might be involved?
4. Role-Play Ineffective Resolution (Optional - 3 minutes): First, try to role-play how this conflict might go wrong. How might people react if they don't use good conflict resolution skills? This is just to see what not to do!
5. Brainstorm Effective Resolution (5 minutes): Now, using the 5 steps of conflict resolution we discussed (Stay Calm, Listen Actively, Use "I" Statements, Brainstorm Solutions, Agree on a Solution), brainstorm how to resolve this conflict effectively. Think about what each person could say and do.
6. Role-Play Effective Resolution (5 minutes): Role-play the scenario again, but this time, demonstrate an effective resolution using the strategies you brainstormed.
7. Be Ready to Share: Each group will be asked to share their effective role-play with the class.

Conflict Scenario Cards (Cut these out for groups)

Scenario 1: The Group Project Disaster

You are working on a group project for science class. The project is due tomorrow, and one member of your group, Alex, hasn't done any of their assigned work. The other two members, Maya and Ben, are getting very frustrated because they've done all the work and Alex seems not to care. Now they have to rush to finish Alex's part.

• Roles: Alex, Maya, Ben
• Conflict: Unfair workload, frustration, potential for a bad grade.

Scenario 2: The Borrowed Item

You lent your favorite hoodie to your friend, Sam, a week ago. You asked for it back yesterday, but Sam said they couldn't find it and weren't sure where it was. You really liked that hoodie, and now you're worried it's lost. You see Sam wearing a different hoodie today.

• Roles: You, Sam
• Conflict: Lost item, broken trust, frustration.

Scenario 3: Lunch Table Drama

You always sit at the same lunch table with your friends. Today, you arrived a little late, and when you got there, a new student, Jamie, was sitting in your usual spot, and your friends didn't seem to mind. You feel annoyed and a little left out.

• Roles: You, Jamie, Friend 1, Friend 2
• Conflict: Feeling excluded, territory, new friendships.

Scenario 4: The Game Controller

You and your sibling both want to play video games, but there's only one controller working right now. You had it first, but your sibling insists it's their turn because they let you play longer yesterday. You both start arguing loudly.

• Roles: You, Sibling
• Conflict: Sharing, fairness, turn-taking.

Conflict Resolution Challenge Game

Objective: To practice identifying and applying conflict resolution steps in various situations.

Players: 2-4 players per game board.

Materials:

• Conflict Resolution Challenge Game Board (visual representation below)
• Game pieces (buttons, erasers, small rocks, etc. - one per player)
• One die
• "Conflict Card" deck (cut out cards below)
• "Resolution Card" deck (cut out cards below)

Game Board Concept:
Imagine a simple board game path from "START" to "FINISH." Along the path, there are different types of spaces:

• Regular Space: Land here, do nothing.
• Conflict! Space: Draw a Conflict Card.
• Resolution! Space: Draw a Resolution Card.
• Challenge! Space: Answer a question about conflict resolution (e.g., "Name one of the 5 steps").

How to Play:

1. All players start at the "START" space.
2. Players take turns rolling the die and moving their game piece along the path.
3. Follow the instructions on the space you land on:
   • Conflict! Space: Draw a Conflict Card. Read the scenario aloud. The player must explain which of the 5 conflict resolution steps would be most important in that situation and why. If they answer correctly (teacher or group consensus), they stay on the space. If not, they move back 1 space.
   • Resolution! Space: Draw a Resolution Card. Read the card aloud. The player must identify which conflict resolution step the card describes or exemplifies. If correct, they move forward 1 space. If not, they stay.
   • Challenge! Space: The player must answer a verbal question posed by another player or the teacher (e.g., "What does it mean to use an 'I' statement?"). If correct, they stay. If not, they move back 1 space.
   • Regular Space: Nothing happens, next player's turn.
4. The first player to reach the "FINISH" space wins!

Conflict Cards (Cut these out)

Conflict Card 1

• Your classmate always talks during silent reading, distracting you. You need to focus to understand the text.

Conflict Card 2

• You promised to help a family member with chores, but your friend invited you to play right then. You feel pulled in two directions.

Conflict Card 3

• A friend borrowed your favorite pen and lost it. They don't seem to think it's a big deal, but you're upset.

Conflict Card 4

• You and your teammates disagree on the best strategy for an upcoming game. Everyone thinks their idea is best.

Conflict Card 5

• Someone spread a rumor about you that isn't true. You feel angry and embarrassed.

Resolution Cards (Cut these out)

Resolution Card 1

• Taking a few deep breaths before responding when someone upsets you.
  • Which step? (Stay Calm)

Resolution Card 2

• Saying, "I feel frustrated when my ideas are ignored, because I want to contribute to the group."
  • Which step? (Use "I" Statements)

Resolution Card 3

• Hearing out your friend's entire explanation without interrupting, even if you disagree.
  • Which step? (Listen Actively)

Resolution Card 4

• Coming up with five different ways you and your friend could share a video game console, even unusual ones.
  • Which step? (Brainstorm Solutions)

Resolution Card 5

• You and your group decide to try one person's idea for part of the project and another person's idea for another part.
  • Which step? (Agree on a Solution)

Conflict Resolution Challenge Game Board (Visual Concept)

+-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-------+
|START| --> |     | --> |Confl| --> |     | --> |Resol| --> |     | --> |Chall| --> |     | --> |Confl| --> | FINISH|
+-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-----+     +-------+
  ^ |           ^           |           ^           |           ^           |           ^           |           ^
  | +-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+
  +------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------+

Conflict Catcher Worksheet

Instructions: Think about a minor conflict you have observed, experienced, or even one from a movie or book. It doesn't have to be a big argument, just a disagreement. Use the steps we discussed to break it down and think about how it could be resolved effectively.

My Conflict Scenario

1. What was the conflict about? (Who was involved? What was the disagreement?)

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. What were the different perspectives or needs of the people involved? (Try to see it from both sides!)

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Step 1: Stay Calm. What strategies could you or the people involved use to stay calm in this situation?

   
   
   
   

4. Step 2: Listen Actively. What might each person need to listen for? What questions could they ask to understand better?

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. Step 3: Use "I" Statements. Write an example of an "I" statement someone could use in this conflict to express their feelings or needs without blaming.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

6. Step 4: Brainstorm Solutions. List at least three possible solutions to this conflict. Think creatively!

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7. Step 5: Agree on a Solution. Which of your brainstormed solutions (or a new one!) do you think would be the most fair and effective for everyone involved? Explain why.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Conflict Quiz Answer Key

1. Which of the following best defines conflict?

• Correct Answer: B) A disagreement or argument caused by differing opinions or needs.
• Thought Process: Conflict arises when there's a clash between individuals' ideas, wants, or perspectives, not when everyone agrees or in a friendly conversation.

2. What is the FIRST step in effective conflict resolution?

• Correct Answer: C) Stay Calm.
• Thought Process: Before you can effectively listen, express yourself, or brainstorm, managing your emotions and staying calm is crucial to prevent the conflict from escalating and to think clearly.

3. When you use an "I" statement, like "I feel frustrated when...", what are you primarily doing?

• Correct Answer: B) Expressing your feelings and needs without blaming.
• Thought Process: "I" statements focus on your own experience and emotions, allowing you to communicate your perspective without making the other person feel attacked or accused, which can lead to defensiveness.

4. What does it mean to "listen actively" during a conflict?

• Correct Answer: C) Paying full attention to understand the other person's perspective.
• Thought Process: Active listening involves truly trying to comprehend what the other person is saying and feeling, rather than just waiting for your turn to speak or formulating your rebuttal.

5. Name two benefits of learning good conflict resolution skills.

• Correct Answer: Answers may vary but could include any two of the following:
  • Building stronger relationships
  • Understanding different perspectives
  • Solving problems effectively
  • Reducing stress and anger
  • Succeeding in school and future careers
• Thought Process: Effective conflict resolution leads to positive outcomes like improved communication, mutual respect, and healthier environments, both personally and professionally.

My Conflict Resolution Project: Become a Peace Ambassador!

Objective: To demonstrate your understanding of conflict resolution strategies by creating an informative and engaging presentation or public service announcement (PSA) for your peers.

Introduction: You've learned about different types of conflict and powerful strategies to resolve them effectively. Now, it's your turn to become a peace ambassador! Your task is to share your knowledge with other students, helping them understand how to turn disagreements into opportunities for growth and positive outcomes.

Project Options (Choose ONE):

Option 1: Conflict Resolution Presentation (Individual or Pair)

Create a 3-5 minute presentation using slides (e.g., Google Slides, PowerPoint) or a poster board. Your presentation should:

• Define Conflict: Briefly explain what conflict is and why it's a natural part of life.
• Types of Conflict: Mention at least two different types of conflict (e.g., interpersonal, intrapersonal) and provide a simple example for each.
• The 5 Steps to Resolution: Clearly explain each of the five steps of conflict resolution.
  • Stay Calm
  • Listen Actively
  • Use "I" Statements
  • Brainstorm Solutions
  • Agree on a Solution
• Real-Life Application: Describe a hypothetical conflict scenario (similar to our role-play cards) and walk through how the 5 steps could be used to resolve it effectively.
• Visual Appeal: Use clear text, relevant images, and an organized layout.
• Engagement: Plan how you will engage your audience (e.g., ask questions, include a mini-activity).

Option 2: Conflict Resolution Public Service Announcement (PSA) (Individual or Pair)

Create a 1-2 minute video PSA (using a phone, tablet, or camera) or an audio-only PSA (like a radio advertisement). Your PSA should:

• Grab Attention: Start with a hook that highlights a common conflict scenario or the negative impact of unresolved conflict.
• Key Message: Deliver a clear message about the importance of conflict resolution.
• Introduce 2-3 Key Strategies: Briefly explain and demonstrate 2-3 of the conflict resolution steps (e.g., showing someone using an "I" statement, or actively listening).
• Call to Action: Encourage viewers/listeners to use these skills in their own lives.
• Creativity: Use music, sound effects, visual aids (for video), and clear narration to make your PSA impactful.
• Clarity: Ensure your message is easy to understand and remember.

Project Deliverables:

• Project Plan: (Due: [Date]) A short outline of your chosen project, including your topic/scenario, main points, and how you plan to present it.
• Draft/Practice Session: (Due: [Date]) Be ready to share a draft or practice your presentation/PSA with a small group or the teacher.
• Final Project: (Due: [Date]) Present your project to the class or submit your video/audio file.

Assessment:

Your project will be graded using the Conflict Resolution Project Rubric. Make sure to review the rubric carefully as you work on your project! This project is an opportunity to show what you know and help others learn valuable life skills. Good luck!

Conflict Resolution Project Rubric

Project Title: My Conflict Resolution Project: Become a Peace Ambassador!

Student Name(s): _________________________

One Word Cool Down

Instructions: Think about everything we discussed today regarding conflict and conflict resolution. In one single word, what is your biggest takeaway or what resonated with you the most from today's lesson?

Bonus: Briefly explain why you chose that word.