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Problem Size-Up!

Lesson Plan

Problem Size-Up!

Students will be able to identify and categorize problems as small, medium, or large, and understand that different problem sizes require different approaches to resolution.

Understanding the 'size' of a problem helps students develop self-regulation skills, choose appropriate coping strategies, and communicate their needs more effectively. It's a crucial life skill for managing everyday challenges.

Audience

7th Grade Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Interactive discussion, visual aids, and a sorting activity.

Materials

Prep

Review Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction (5 minutes)

5 minutes

  • Greet students and introduce the lesson: "Today, we're going to become problem-solving detectives! We'll learn how to 'size up' a problem, just like we size up a situation to decide how to react."
    - Use the Problem Size-Up Slide Deck to introduce the concept of small, medium, and large problems. Discuss initial thoughts and experiences.

Step 2

Defining Problem Sizes (10 minutes)

10 minutes

  • Go through the examples on the Problem Size-Up Slide Deck for small, medium, and large problems.
    - Facilitate a group discussion about the characteristics of each problem size.
    - Small problems: What are some examples? How do they make you feel? How can you solve them quickly?
    - Medium problems: What makes a problem medium? How might you feel? What kind of steps do you take?
    - Large problems: What are truly big problems? How do they impact you? Who can help with these?
    - Emphasize that responses and strategies depend on the problem's size and individual feelings.

Step 3

Problem Sorting Activity (10 minutes)

10 minutes

  • Distribute the Problem Sorting Activity cards to the group.
    - Explain the instructions: "Work together to sort these problem cards into three categories: Small, Medium, and Large. Be ready to explain your reasoning!"
    - Circulate and provide support, prompting students to articulate their reasoning and discuss disagreements.

Step 4

Wrap-up & Reflection (5 minutes)

5 minutes

  • Bring the group back together.
    - Review the sorted problems as a whole group, discussing any discrepancies or interesting insights.
    - Ask students: "Why is it helpful to know the size of a problem? How can this skill help you in your daily life?"
    - Conclude by reinforcing the idea that recognizing problem size helps us choose the best way to handle challenges.
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Slide Deck

Problem Size-Up!

How do you know if a problem is BIG or small?

Welcome students and introduce the lesson's goal: understanding problem sizes to better manage reactions and solutions.

Not All Problems Are Equal

Just like shoes, problems come in different sizes!

We'll learn to categorize problems as:

  • Small
  • Medium
  • Large

Explain that not all problems are created equal. Some are easy to fix, some take more effort, and some need help. Introduce the three categories.

Small Problems: Quick Fixes!

What are Small Problems?

  • Usually easy to solve by yourself.
  • Don't make you feel too upset or anxious.
  • You can usually fix them in a few minutes.

Examples:

  • Forgetting a pencil
  • Spilling a tiny bit of water
  • Someone accidentally bumps into you

Give examples of small problems. Emphasize that these are often quick fixes and don't cause major distress.

Medium Problems: More Thought Needed

What are Medium Problems?

  • Might take a bit more time or effort to solve.
  • You might need to ask a friend for help or think through a few steps.
  • Can make you feel a little frustrated or annoyed.

Examples:

  • Forgetting your homework at home
  • A small disagreement with a friend
  • Not understanding a concept in class

Discuss medium problems. These require a bit more thought and effort, and might involve others but usually don't require adult intervention.

Large Problems: Call for Backup!

What are Large Problems?

  • Very serious and can make you feel really upset, scared, or angry.
  • You usually CANNOT solve these by yourself.
  • You NEED to ask a trusted adult (teacher, parent, counselor) for help right away.

Examples:

  • Someone is bullying you
  • You feel unsafe at school or home
  • A major accident or injury

Explain large problems. These are serious, can cause significant distress, and almost always require adult help.

Why Does Problem Size Matter?

  • Helps you choose the right way to react.
  • Helps you know when to ask for help.
  • Helps you feel more in control!

Think: How would you handle each size of problem?

Encourage students to discuss why it's important to know the difference and how it can help them in real life. Prompt them to think about strategies for each size.

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Activity

Problem Sorting Activity

Instructions: Read each problem scenario below. Cut out the cards (or write them down) and then, as a group, sort them into three categories: Small Problem, Medium Problem, or Large Problem. Be ready to explain why you placed each problem in its chosen category.

Problem Cards

Card 1: You forgot your lunch money at home.



Card 2: You accidentally spilled juice on your shirt during snack time.



Card 3: A classmate is repeatedly saying mean things to you and your friends, making you feel unsafe and unhappy.



Card 4: You have a big test tomorrow and realize you don't understand the main concepts, even after reviewing your notes.



Card 5: Your pen runs out of ink right before you need to sign your name on an important paper.



Card 6: You had a minor disagreement with your best friend about what game to play, and you both feel a little annoyed.



Card 7: You heard a fire alarm, but it turns out to be a drill.



Card 8: You are walking home and see someone fall and hurt themselves badly on the sidewalk.



Card 9: You accidentally bumped into someone in the hallway and they dropped their books, but didn't get hurt.



Card 10: You lost your favorite hoodie, and you can't find it anywhere after checking your locker and classroom.



Card 11: You were supposed to meet a friend after school, but you both forgot to decide on a meeting spot.



Card 12: You witness a student vandalizing school property, causing significant damage.



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Problem Size-Up! • Lenny Learning