Script: Navigating Disagreements

Warm-Up: What is Conflict? (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Good morning/afternoon, everyone! To kick us off today, I want you to think about this question: What comes to mind when you hear the word 'conflict'?"

Teacher: "Take a moment to jot down a word or two, or just think about it. Now, who would like to share their initial thoughts? Don't worry, there are no wrong answers here."

(Allow 2-3 students to share. Guide them to see conflict as more than just fighting.)

Teacher: "Excellent! Many of us often associate conflict with arguments or negativity, and sometimes it can be. But today, we're going to explore how conflict is actually a very normal part of life, and more importantly, how we can learn to navigate it in a way that can even lead to positive outcomes. Let's look at our first slide to get started." (Transition to Conflict Resolution Slide Deck - Slide 1)

Introduction to Conflict Resolution (10 minutes)

Teacher: (Displaying Slide 2: What is Conflict, Anyway?) "So, as we just discussed, conflict is essentially a disagreement or an argument. It happens when people have different ideas, different needs, or even just different feelings about a situation. Think about it: have you ever wanted to watch a different movie than a friend? Or maybe you had a different idea for a group project? That's a small conflict!"

"The key takeaway here is that conflict is normal. It's a natural part of interacting with others. The really important part is how we choose to respond to it. Sometimes, a small disagreement can even lead to something positive, like a clearer understanding or a better solution."

Teacher: (Displaying Slide 3: Common Causes of Conflict) "Now, let's talk about why conflicts happen. Our slide lists some common reasons: misunderstandings, different needs or wants, strong emotions, and sometimes even limited resources. Can anyone give me a quick example of a misunderstanding that might lead to a conflict?"

(Listen to a few examples, guiding them if needed. Emphasize that often, conflicts start because we simply don't understand the other person's perspective.)

Teacher: (Displaying Slide 4: Strategies for Peaceful Resolution) "Good examples! Knowing the causes helps us prevent some conflicts, but for those that arise, we need tools. Here are four powerful strategies we can use to resolve conflicts peacefully: Active Listening, 'I' Statements, Compromise, and Taking a Break."

"Let's break them down quickly:

• Active Listening: This means really paying attention when someone is talking, not just waiting for your turn to speak. It means trying to understand their point of view, even if you don't agree. You might nod, make eye contact, and even repeat back what you hear to make sure you got it right."
• 'I' Statements: Instead of saying, 'You always make me mad,' which can sound blaming, an 'I' statement focuses on your own feelings and how something affects you. For example: 'I feel frustrated when I don't get a chance to share my ideas.' It helps express your feelings without making the other person defensive."
• Compromise: This is about finding a middle ground. It means both sides give a little to find a solution that works for everyone, even if it's not exactly what either person originally wanted. It's about 'we' instead of 'me.'"
• Taking a Break: Sometimes, when emotions are high, it's best to step away for a few minutes to cool down. It allows everyone to think more clearly before coming back to discuss the issue. It's not avoiding the problem; it's preparing to solve it better."

Teacher: "Which of these strategies do you think might be the most challenging to use when you're feeling really upset or frustrated? Why?"

(Facilitate a short discussion, acknowledging that these skills take practice.)

Activity: Scenario Skits (10 minutes)

Teacher: (Displaying Slide 5: Activity: Scenario Skits) "Alright, it's time to put these strategies into practice! I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will receive a scenario card with a common conflict. Your task is to read the scenario, discuss it, and then decide which conflict resolution strategy or strategies would work best to solve it."

"Then, I want you to create a very short skit, just 1-2 minutes long, demonstrating the conflict AND its peaceful resolution using the strategies we just discussed. Remember to keep it appropriate for school."

"I'll be walking around to help if you get stuck. You have about 7 minutes to prepare, and then we'll share." (Distribute Activity: Scenario Cards. Monitor groups, offer support, and manage time.)

Cool-Down: My Conflict Toolkit (5 minutes)

Teacher: (Displaying Slide 6: Your Conflict Toolkit) "Fantastic work with those skits, everyone! It's clear you're thinking about how to handle conflicts constructively. For our cool-down, I'm handing out a quick reflection sheet called Cool-Down: My Conflict Toolkit."

"On this sheet, I want you to write down one conflict resolution strategy you learned or revisited today that you feel confident you can use in your own life. Briefly explain how you think this strategy will help you."

(Distribute handouts. Give students about 3 minutes to complete. Collect as an exit ticket.)

Teacher: "Thank you all for your thoughtful participation today. Remember, conflict is a part of life, but we have the power to choose how we respond. By using strategies like active listening, 'I' statements, and compromise, you're building skills that will help you in all your relationships, both now and in the future!"

Warm-Up: Conflict Brainstorm

What comes to mind when you hear the word "conflict"?

Write down 3-5 words or short phrases that describe your immediate thoughts or feelings about conflict.

Be prepared to share one of your ideas with the class!

Activity: Conflict Resolution Scenario Cards

Instructions:

1. Read your group's scenario carefully.
2. Discuss how the conflict started and what feelings might be involved.
3. Brainstorm which conflict resolution strategies (Active Listening, "I" Statements, Compromise, Taking a Break) would be most effective.
4. Work together to create a short skit (1-2 minutes) demonstrating the conflict and its peaceful resolution.

Scenario Card 1: Group Project Clash

Sarah and Ben are working on a history project together. Sarah wants to do a poster board, while Ben thinks a digital presentation would be more creative and get a better grade. They both feel strongly about their ideas and are starting to get frustrated with each other.

How can Sarah and Ben resolve this conflict?

Scenario Card 2: Lunch Table Trouble

During lunch, Maria usually sits at a specific table with her friends. Today, she arrives to find a new group of students has taken their spot. Maria feels annoyed and thinks they should move, but she doesn't want to cause a scene.

What should Maria do to address this situation peacefully?

Scenario Card 3: Borrowed Without Asking

Liam notices that his favorite hoodie, which he left on his chair yesterday, is now being worn by his classmate, Chloe. He's pretty sure she didn't ask to borrow it and he feels disrespected. Chloe doesn't seem to realize anything is wrong.

How can Liam approach Chloe about his hoodie without escalating the situation?

Scenario Card 4: Game Controller Dispute

After school, Alex and Sam are playing a video game at Alex's house. It's Sam's turn, but Alex keeps grabbing the controller and making suggestions, which is bothering Sam. Sam feels Alex isn't letting him play fairly.

What can Sam say or do to address Alex's behavior and enjoy the game?

Cool-Down: My Conflict Toolkit

Name: ____________________________

1. What is one conflict resolution strategy you learned or revisited today that you feel confident you can use in your own life?

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. How will this strategy help you in a future disagreement?