Lesson Plan
Detective Dilemma Plan
Students will analyze mystery scenarios by gathering and sorting clues, discuss responsible solutions, and record their decision-making process to build critical thinking, empathy, and self-regulation.
Engaging in collaborative problem-solving supports CASEL social-emotional goals: students practice perspective-taking, evaluate choices, and reflect on consequences in a fun, structured context.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials and Stations
15 minutes
Step 1
Session 1: Mystery Introduction and Clue Gathering
40 minutes
Step 2
Session 2: Clue Sorting and Discussion
40 minutes
Step 3
Session 3: Solution Decision and Reflection
40 minutes
Slide Deck
Decision Detectives Workshop
Case #1: Sam’s Missing Lunch
Case #2: The Broken Window
Case #3: The Spill in the Hall
Session 2: Clue Sorting Activity
Solution Strategy Talk
Session 3: Reflect & Decide
Activity
Discussion
Worksheet
