Teacher Script: Conflict Resolution

Introduction: What is a Conflict? (5 minutes)

"Good morning, 3rd graders! Today, we're going to dive into a super important topic: how we handle disagreements and tricky situations with our friends. Has anyone ever been in a situation where you and a friend had different ideas about how to play a game, or maybe you had a misunderstanding during a group project?"

"That feeling, when people have different ideas, needs, or desires, is what we call a conflict. It's not necessarily a bad thing! Conflicts are a normal part of life, and they're actually opportunities for us to learn and grow. Even grown-ups have conflicts all the time!"

Understanding Constructive Resolution (10 minutes)

"So, when conflicts happen, how can we solve them in a way that is fair and respectful to everyone involved? Let's explore some powerful strategies to be a conflict solver!"

Transition to slide: 'Use Your Words & 'I' Statements!'

"First, and this is a game-changer: Use Your Words and 'I' Statements! Instead of getting upset or blaming, we can use our calm, clear voices to explain how we feel and what we need. For example, instead of saying 'You always take my stuff!', you could say, 'I feel frustrated when my things are taken without asking, because then I can't find them.' Using 'I' statements helps others understand your perspective without feeling attacked. Can everyone practice saying 'I can use 'I' statements!'?"

Allow students to practice.

Transition to slide: 'Share, Take Turns, Compromise'

"Another fantastic way to solve conflicts is to Share, Take Turns, or Compromise. If two friends both want to use the same art supplies, maybe they can share them, or decide who uses what first. Or, if you both want to play different games, perhaps you can compromise by playing one game for a bit and then the other. Who can tell me what a compromise means?"

"That's right! A compromise is when everyone gives a little to find a solution that works for everyone. It makes everyone feel heard and respected!"

Transition to slide: 'Ask a Grown-Up for Help'

"Sometimes, even after trying to use our words, share, or compromise, a conflict can still feel too big to solve alone. And that's absolutely okay! When that happens, the best thing to do is to Ask a Grown-Up for Help. You can ask me, another teacher, or a parent. We're here to help you talk through the problem and guide you to a fair solution. It's not 'tattling' to ask for help when you've tried to solve it yourself; it's being responsible. Can you all point to a grown-up you would ask for help in our school?"

Allow students to point.

"Excellent! Knowing when and how to ask for help is a sign of a great conflict solver!"

Role-Playing Conflict Scenarios (10 minutes)

Transition to slide: 'Practice Time!'

"Alright, my brilliant conflict solvers! It's time to put these strategies into action. I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will get a realistic conflict scenario that 3rd graders might face. Your job is to act out the problem and then show me how you would solve it using our conflict-solving tools: 'I' statements, sharing, taking turns, compromising, or knowing when to ask for help. Remember to be respectful of each other's ideas! I'll be walking around to see all your fantastic problem-solving skills!"

Divide students into groups and distribute scenarios. Circulate, observe, and use the Conflict Resolution Rubric for assessment.

Share and Reflect (5 minutes)

"Bring it back together, everyone! I saw some truly amazing conflict-solving and teamwork happening. Can a few groups share their scenario and explain which strategies they used to solve it? What did you learn about listening to others, or finding a fair compromise?"

"Wonderful sharing! Remember, using our words, trying to find common ground, and asking for help are all essential tools for being a good friend and navigating disagreements. You are all becoming incredible conflict solvers! Now, for our cool-down, let's think about how we can use these skills every day."

Transition to Cool Down: How Did You Solve It?.

Conflict Resolution Rubric: 3rd Grade

Student Name: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________
Observer: ____________________________

This rubric assesses a 3rd-grade student's ability to prevent, manage, and resolve interpersonal conflicts constructively, aligning with the Illinois SEL standard 1A.KK.3a. Observations should be made during structured activities, such as the role-playing exercise.

Criteria and Descriptors

Total Score: ______ / 20

Notes/Observations: