SEL: Essential Life Skills - Discussion Script

Introduction to SEL (10 minutes)

Teacher: "Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Today, we're going to talk about something really important that will help you not just in school, but in all parts of your life. We're going to explore what we call Social-Emotional Learning, or SEL for short. Think of these as your personal 'superpowers' for navigating the world!"

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 1: 'SEL: Your Superpowers!')**

This lesson is all about equipping you with essential life skills. Has anyone heard the term 'SEL' before, or have an idea what 'social' or 'emotional' learning might involve? Don't worry if you haven't, we're going to learn all about it together."

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 2: 'What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?')**

As the slide says, 'Social-Emotional Learning' is about understanding yourself, understanding others, and making good decisions. Let's break that down: 'Social' is how we interact with others – our friends, family, teachers. 'Emotional' is how we understand and manage our own feelings, whether we're happy, frustrated, or excited. And 'Learning' is about how we develop and improve these important skills over time."

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 3: 'The 5 Core SEL Competencies')**

There are five main areas, or 'superpowers,' that make up SEL. These are often called the '5 Core Competencies.' Let's go through them one by one:

1. Self-Awareness: This is about knowing yourself – your feelings, your strengths, what you're good at, and even things you find challenging.

   • Quick check: Can someone give an example of being self-aware?

2. Self-Management: Once you know your feelings, this is about managing them and your behaviors to achieve your goals. It's about staying calm when you're frustrated, or staying focused on homework even when you'd rather play.

   • Quick check: How might someone show good self-management in a tricky situation?

3. Social Awareness: This is about understanding and empathizing with others. It's about putting yourself in someone else's shoes and understanding their feelings or perspectives.

   • Quick check: Why is it important to be socially aware?

4. Relationship Skills: This is about building and maintaining healthy relationships. It involves clear communication, listening, and knowing how to resolve conflicts peacefully.

   • Quick check: What's one way you can show good relationship skills with a friend or classmate?

5. Responsible Decision-Making: This is about making thoughtful choices about your behavior and interactions, considering the consequences for yourself and others.

   • Quick check: What's a step you can take to make a responsible decision?

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 4: 'Why Does SEL Matter to YOU?')**

So, why do these 'superpowers' matter? They help you in so many ways! They help you handle stress, make smart choices, improve your friendships, and prepare you for success in school and beyond. These aren't just 'nice-to-have' skills; they are essential life skills."

Real-World Connection Activity (15 minutes)

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 5: 'SEL in Action: Your Daily Life!')**

Now, let's make this real. I want us to brainstorm some examples of where you use these SEL 'superpowers' in your everyday life. Think about:

• At school: How do you use SEL in class, during group projects, or at lunch?
• With your friends: How do you use SEL when you're playing, talking, or dealing with disagreements?
• At home: How do you use SEL with your family members?

I'll write your ideas on the board. Don't be shy! Every example is a good example."

(Allow students to brainstorm and share, guiding them to connect their examples to the 5 core competencies. Encourage participation from all students. Facilitate discussion as needed.)

Teacher: "Those are fantastic examples! It's clear you're already using these skills more than you might realize."

Wrap-up and Reflection (5 minutes)

Teacher: "(Display SEL Introduction Slide Deck - Slide 6: 'Wrap-Up: Your SEL Journey Begins!')**

To wrap up, remember that Social-Emotional Learning is all about understanding yourself, managing your feelings, understanding others, building good relationships, and making responsible choices. These skills will continue to grow and develop throughout your life."

Teacher: "For a quick reflection, I'd like each of you to silently think about this question: 'Which SEL skill do you think is most important for you right now, and why?' You don't need to share it aloud, but really think about it. It could be something you want to improve, or a skill you rely on a lot."

Teacher: "Thank you all for an engaging discussion today. Keep practicing your SEL superpowers, and I'll see you next time!"