SEL Self-Check: How Are You Really Doing?

Take a moment to reflect on your current emotional state and how you interact with others.

Instructions:
1. Read each statement below.
2. Rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 means "Not at all true for me" and 5 means "Very true for me."
3. Be honest with yourself – there are no right or wrong answers.

Statements:
1. I can usually identify what I'm feeling (e.g., happy, sad, frustrated, calm).
Rating:


2. I can manage my impulses and stay focused on tasks even when I'm stressed.
Rating:


3. I try to understand how others are feeling, even if I don't agree with them.
Rating:


4. I can communicate effectively and work well with others in a group.
Rating:


5. I think about the consequences before making important decisions.
Rating:


Reflection Question:
Based on your ratings, what is one area you feel strong in, and one area you'd like to improve? Why?

Teacher Script: Navigating SEL

Warm-Up: SEL Self-Check (10 minutes)

(Teacher says while distributing the SEL Self-Check Warm Up)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone. Before we dive into today's topic, let's take a quick moment to check in with ourselves. I'm handing out a short activity called 'SEL Self-Check.' Please take about 5 minutes to complete it individually. There are no right or wrong answers here; it’s just for your personal reflection."

(After 5 minutes)

"Alright, let's bring it back together. You've had a chance to reflect on your current emotional state and how you interact with others. Would anyone like to briefly share one area they feel strong in, or one area they'd like to improve? Remember, this is a safe space for reflection, and there’s no pressure to share if you're not comfortable."

(Facilitate a brief discussion, encouraging 2-3 students to share. Transition to the main lesson.)

"Thank you for those insights. What you just did – reflecting on your emotions and how you engage with the world – is actually a perfect lead-in to our topic today: Social Emotional Learning, or SEL."

Introduction to SEL (15 minutes)

(Teacher says, advancing to Slide 1: Welcome to Your Emotional GPS!)

"Welcome to 'Your Emotional GPS!' Think of today's lesson as setting up your personal navigation system for life. Just like a GPS helps you find your way to a destination, Social Emotional Learning helps you navigate the ups and downs of life, understand yourself, and connect with others."

(Advance to Slide 2: What is SEL, Anyway?)

"So, what is SEL, anyway? When you hear 'social emotional learning,' what comes to mind? Shout out some words or phrases."

(Allow 30 seconds for responses, write key terms on the board if helpful.)

"Great ideas! Many of you hit on key aspects. SEL is more than just about 'feelings.' It's about developing a set of skills that are essential for not just school, but for your entire life."

(Advance to Slide 3: Defining SEL)

"The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, or CASEL, defines SEL as: 'The process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.'"

"That's a mouthful, right? But the key takeaway is that SEL is a process – it's something we continuously learn and improve upon. It's about gaining knowledge, skills, and positive attitudes that help us in many aspects of our lives.

(Distribute What is SEL? Reading if not already done.)

"You can follow along with this reading if you'd like, or use it for reference later. It elaborates on what we're discussing."

(Advance to Slide 4: The 5 Core Competencies of SEL)

"To make this easier to understand, CASEL breaks SEL down into five core competencies. Think of these as the five main 'GPS coordinates' that guide your emotional navigation. They are: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making."

(Advance to Slide 5: 1. Self-Awareness: Knowing Yourself)

"First up is Self-Awareness. This is about truly understanding you. It's recognizing your own emotions, knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and understanding what drives your thoughts and actions. For example, being able to say, 'I'm feeling really stressed about this upcoming test,' is a sign of self-awareness. Or knowing that you work best in the morning rather than late at night."

"Can anyone share a moment recently when they were really self-aware about something, maybe about an emotion they felt or a strength they used?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

(Advance to Slide 6: 2. Self-Management: Handling Your GPS)

"Next, we have Self-Management. Once you're aware of your emotions, this is about what you do with them. It's effectively managing your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. It's about impulse control, stress management, and setting goals. So, if you're feeling stressed about that test, self-management is taking a deep breath, creating a study plan, and sticking to it. It's about not letting your emotions completely take over."

"What are some ways you currently manage stress or stay focused on a goal?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

(Advance to Slide 7: 3. Social Awareness: Reading Other GPS Signals)

"Our third competency is Social Awareness. This is about understanding others. It's the ability to empathize with people from different backgrounds, understanding social cues, and recognizing group dynamics. It's like being able to read the 'GPS signals' from others – understanding why someone might be acting a certain way, even if you don't agree with them. It's about putting yourself in someone else's shoes."

"Why do you think it's important to understand other people's feelings and perspectives?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

(Advance to Slide 8: 4. Relationship Skills: Sharing the Road)

"Then we have Relationship Skills. This is about how you interact with others and build healthy connections. It involves communicating clearly, working effectively in a team, resolving conflicts constructively, and asking for help when you need it. Think of it as 'sharing the road' with others – knowing how to navigate interactions smoothly."

"What makes a good team player or a good friend?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

(Advance to Slide 9: 5. Responsible Decision-Making: Choosing Your Route Wisely)

"Finally, Responsible Decision-Making. This ties everything together. It's about making constructive choices based on ethics, safety, and the well-being of yourself and others. It means thinking about the consequences of your actions before you take them. For example, choosing to speak up against injustice or deciding to prioritize your studies over a distraction. It's about 'choosing your route wisely' in life."

"Can you think of a time when you had to make a difficult decision and how you approached it?"

(Allow 1-2 student responses.)

(Advance to Slide 10: Why Does Your Emotional GPS Matter?)

"So, why does developing this emotional GPS matter to you? It leads to better academic performance, improved relationships, increased well-being and happiness, and ultimately, success in your future careers and life. These aren't just 'soft skills'; they are fundamental to navigating our complex world."

Activity: SEL in Action (15 minutes)

(Advance to Slide 11: Activity: SEL in Action and distribute SEL in Action Worksheet)

"Now, let's put these competencies into action. I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will receive a SEL in Action Worksheet with different scenarios. Your task is to read each scenario and identify which of the five SEL competencies are being demonstrated or are most needed in that situation. Be prepared to explain your reasoning to the class. You'll have about 10 minutes for this."

(Divide students into groups, monitor progress, and provide guidance.)

(After 10-12 minutes, bring the class back together.)

"Alright, let's hear from each group. Who would like to share their analysis of one of the scenarios? Which competencies did you identify and why?"

(Facilitate a brief class discussion, ensuring all groups have a chance to share at least one scenario.)

Discussion & Consolidation (10 minutes)

"Excellent discussion, everyone! It’s clear you’re starting to recognize these skills in real-life situations. Let's take a few minutes to think about how this applies to your own lives."

(Pose discussion questions, drawing from Discussion Prompts: SEL Impact if available, or using the following prompts):

"How do you see these SEL skills playing a role in your high school experience, both academically and socially?"

"Looking ahead to college or careers, why do you think employers or universities would value people with strong SEL skills?"

"What's one thing you learned today about SEL that surprised you or made you think differently?"

(Facilitate a brief discussion for about 5-7 minutes.)

"To continue exploring SEL, we'll be working on a project soon called the My SEL Journey Project. This will be an opportunity for you to dive deeper into one of the competencies and apply it to your personal growth. I'll be sharing the SEL Project Rubric with you then."

Cool-Down: Emotional Check-Out (10 minutes)

(Advance to Slide 12: Your Journey Continues... and distribute Emotional Check-Out Cool Down)

"We're almost at the end of our lesson. To wrap up, I'm handing out an 'Emotional Check-Out.' Please take a few minutes to reflect on what you learned today and how you're feeling right now. This helps me understand your takeaways and where you are emotionally after our discussion. Please complete it individually."

(Collect the cool-downs as students finish.)

"Thank you, everyone. I hope today's introduction to SEL gives you a new lens through which to view your emotions, your relationships, and your decision-making. These are skills you'll use for the rest of your lives. Have a great rest of your day!"

What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Your Inner Compass for Life

Imagine having a built-in GPS for your feelings, relationships, and decisions. That's essentially what Social Emotional Learning, or SEL, helps you develop! It's not just about being "nice" or "polite"; it's about acquiring vital skills that help you understand yourself, connect with others, and navigate the complexities of life successfully.

The Official Definition

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) defines SEL as:

"Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions."

In simpler terms, SEL is how we learn to:

• Understand and manage our emotions.
• Set and achieve positive goals.
• Feel and show empathy for others.
• Build and maintain healthy relationships.
• Make responsible decisions.

The 5 Core Competencies of SEL

CASEL has identified five interconnected competencies that form the foundation of SEL. Think of these as the main components of your emotional GPS:

1. Self-Awareness: Knowing Your Inner Landscape

   • This is the ability to accurately recognize your own emotions, thoughts, and values and understand how they influence your behavior. It involves assessing your strengths and limitations with a well-grounded sense of confidence, optimism, and a "growth mindset."
   • Examples: Knowing what makes you angry, understanding your talents, recognizing when you need a break, or identifying your core values.

2. Self-Management: Steering Your Ship

   • This is the ability to successfully regulate your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations. It involves managing stress, controlling impulses, motivating yourself, and working toward personal and academic goals.
   • Examples: Taking deep breaths when frustrated, finishing homework on time, setting a personal fitness goal, or staying calm during a debate.

3. Social Awareness: Reading the Room (and the World)

   • This is the ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It involves understanding social and ethical norms for behavior and recognizing family, school, and community resources and supports.
   • Examples: Understanding why a friend is upset, recognizing the feelings of a new student, appreciating different cultural traditions, or identifying a community need.

4. Relationship Skills: Building Bridges

   • This is the ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups. It involves communicating clearly, listening actively, cooperating, resisting inappropriate social pressure, negotiating conflict constructively, and seeking and offering help when needed.
   • Examples: Resolving an argument with a sibling, collaborating effectively on a group project, offering support to a struggling classmate, or knowing when to ask a teacher for help.

5. Responsible Decision-Making: Plotting Your Course

   • This is the ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions across a variety of situations. It involves considering ethical standards, safety concerns, the well-being of self and others, and the realistic consequences of various actions. It also involves evaluating personal, interpersonal, and collective well-being.
   • Examples: Choosing to avoid peer pressure, making a thoughtful career choice, considering the environmental impact of your actions, or helping a classmate make a good choice.

Why is SEL Important for You?

Developing strong SEL skills can lead to a host of benefits:

• Academic Success: Students with strong SEL skills often perform better in school.
• Improved Relationships: You'll build stronger, more meaningful connections with family, friends, and peers.
• Enhanced Well-being: You'll be better equipped to handle stress, cope with challenges, and maintain a positive outlook.
• Future Readiness: These are critical skills highly valued by colleges and employers, preparing you for success in any path you choose.

In essence, SEL helps you become a more resilient, empathetic, and successful individual, capable of navigating life with greater confidence and purpose.

Discussion Prompts: The Impact of Your Emotional GPS

Use these prompts to facilitate a meaningful conversation about Social Emotional Learning and its relevance to students' lives.

Opening the Discussion

1. Reflecting on the Introduction: What was one new idea you learned about SEL today, or something that resonated with you?
2. Personal Relevance: How do you see the five SEL competencies (Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, Responsible Decision-Making) showing up in your daily life, both inside and outside of school?

Deeper Dive into Competencies

3. Self-Awareness & Self-Management: Can you recall a specific situation where being more self-aware or having stronger self-management skills would have changed the outcome? Describe what happened and what you might do differently now.
4. Social Awareness & Relationship Skills: In our increasingly connected world (social media, diverse communities), why are social awareness and strong relationship skills more important than ever? How can we practice these skills online and offline?
5. Responsible Decision-Making: We often face difficult decisions. How can using the principles of responsible decision-making (considering ethics, safety, consequences) help you navigate complex choices you might face in high school or beyond?

SEL in the Broader Context

6. Academic & Career Success: Beyond personal well-being, how do you think SEL skills contribute to success in academics, future college applications, or career opportunities?
7. Community Impact: How might a community or society that values and practices SEL differ from one that doesn't? What positive changes could you envision?
8. Lifelong Journey: We talked about SEL as a lifelong process. What's one specific SEL skill you are interested in developing further, and what's a small step you could take this week to start working on it?

Closing Reflection

9. One Word/Phrase: If you had to describe the overall importance of SEL in one word or a short phrase, what would it be? Why?

Role-Play Scenario Cards: SEL in Action

Instructions:

1. Work in your assigned groups (3-4 students per group).
2. Each group will receive a set of scenario cards.
3. Read each scenario carefully. Discuss within your group:
   • Which of the five SEL competencies are most relevant to this situation?
   • How could the characters in the scenario demonstrate strong SEL skills?
   • What would be a positive outcome if SEL skills were applied?
4. Choose one scenario to role-play for the class (if time allows). Create a short skit (2-3 minutes) demonstrating both the initial problem and a positive resolution using SEL skills.

Scenario Card 1: Group Project Gone Wrong

You are working on a major presentation for history class with two other students. One group member, Alex, is not pulling their weight, frequently misses meetings, and hasn't completed their assigned research. Another group member, Ben, is becoming visibly frustrated and keeps making passive-aggressive comments about Alex in the group chat. The deadline is next week, and the project is falling behind.

• Relevant SEL Competencies:
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
• How could SEL skills be applied for a positive outcome?
  • 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario Card 2: The College Application Stress

You and your best friend, Chloe, are both applying to the same competitive university. Chloe just received an early acceptance, and she's ecstatic. You, however, are still waiting to hear back and are feeling incredibly anxious and a little jealous. Chloe keeps talking about her excitement, and you find yourself struggling to genuinely congratulate her without feeling a pang of resentment.

• Relevant SEL Competencies:
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
• How could SEL skills be applied for a positive outcome?
  • 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario Card 3: Social Media Fallout

Someone in your grade posted a mean and untrue rumor about your friend, Sam, on a popular social media platform. Many students are seeing it, and Sam is visibly upset and embarrassed. You know the rumor isn't true, and you feel torn between staying out of it and defending your friend.

• Relevant SEL Competencies:
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
• How could SEL skills be applied for a positive outcome?
  • 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario Card 4: Conflicting Commitments

You promised to help your younger sibling with their science fair project this weekend, but then you get an invitation to a party that all your friends are going to. You really want to go to the party, but you know your sibling is counting on your help, and their project is due Monday. You feel guilty about potentially letting them down, but also don't want to miss out.

• Relevant SEL Competencies:
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    
• How could SEL skills be applied for a positive outcome?
  • 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

SEL in Action: What Would You Do?

Instructions:

Work in your small groups. For each scenario below, discuss and identify which of the five SEL competencies are most relevant. Then, explain how applying those competencies could lead to a positive outcome.

The 5 SEL Competencies:

1. Self-Awareness
2. Self-Management
3. Social Awareness
4. Relationship Skills
5. Responsible Decision-Making

Scenario 1: The Group Project Dilemma

You are part of a four-person team for a major English literature project. One member, Liam, has been consistently quiet during meetings and hasn't contributed much to the shared document. The deadline is approaching rapidly, and you're worried about the group's grade.

Which SEL competencies are most relevant here?

How could you apply SEL skills to achieve a positive outcome?

Scenario 2: Dealing with Disappointment

You studied incredibly hard for a challenging math test, putting in many hours of extra work. When you get your grade back, it's much lower than you expected, and you feel a wave of frustration and discouragement. You want to just give up on the subject.

Which SEL competencies are most relevant here?

How could you apply SEL skills to achieve a positive outcome?

Scenario 3: A Friend's Secret

Your close friend, Sarah, tells you a secret about another friend, Mark, and asks you not to tell anyone. Later, you hear a group of students gossiping about Mark, and they are spreading rumors similar to what Sarah told you. You feel uncomfortable and don't know whether to tell Mark, confront the gossips, or keep Sarah's secret.

Which SEL competencies are most relevant here?

How could you apply SEL skills to achieve a positive outcome?

Scenario 4: The Heated Debate

During a class discussion about a current events topic, a classmate expresses an opinion that you strongly disagree with and find offensive. You feel your heart racing and want to immediately challenge them aggressively. However, you also want to contribute to a productive conversation.

Which SEL competencies are most relevant here?

How could you apply SEL skills to achieve a positive outcome?

SEL Jeopardy: Navigate Your Way!

Instructions:

1. Divide the class into 2-4 teams.
2. Draw a grid on the board with categories and point values (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500).
3. Categories:
   • Self-Awareness Spot
   • Self-Management Maneuvers
   • Social Awareness Scenarios
   • Relationship Roadmaps
   • Decision-Making Drives
4. Teams take turns choosing a category and point value.
5. Read the question. The first team to raise their hand and correctly answer the question (identifying the correct SEL competency or explaining its application) earns the points.
6. If incorrect, other teams can try to steal. The teacher acts as the judge.
7. Keep score on the board. The team with the most points at the end wins!

Jeopardy Questions (Teacher Copy):

Self-Awareness Spot

• 100 Points: What is the definition of Self-Awareness in SEL?
  • Answer: The ability to accurately recognize your own emotions, thoughts, values, and strengths.
• 200 Points: You realize you get really nervous before public speaking. Which SEL competency are you demonstrating?
  • Answer: Self-Awareness.
• 300 Points: Name one way understanding your values helps with self-awareness.
  • Answer: Helps you understand what motivates you, why you react certain ways, and what is important to you.
• 400 Points: How does having a "growth mindset" relate to Self-Awareness?
  • Answer: It means you recognize your limitations but believe you can improve, which is part of understanding your strengths and weaknesses.
• 500 Points: Give an example of how self-awareness can prevent you from making a bad decision.
  • Answer: Recognizing you are feeling angry, so you pause before responding impulsively.

Self-Management Maneuvers

• 100 Points: What is Self-Management?
  • Answer: The ability to successfully regulate your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.
• 200 Points: You feel stressed about an upcoming exam, so you create a study schedule. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Self-Management.
• 300 Points: Name a strategy for managing impulses.
  • Answer: Counting to ten, taking a deep breath, walking away, thinking about consequences.
• 400 Points: How does setting achievable goals demonstrate Self-Management?
  • Answer: It shows the ability to motivate oneself and work towards personal and academic goals.
• 500 Points: Describe a situation where effective Self-Management led to a positive academic outcome.
  • Answer: Staying focused on a challenging assignment, overcoming procrastination, managing test anxiety.

Social Awareness Scenarios

• 100 Points: What does Social Awareness mean?
  • Answer: The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• 200 Points: Your friend looks sad, even though they say they are fine. You ask if they want to talk. Which SEL competency are you using?
  • Answer: Social Awareness.
• 300 Points: Why is it important to understand different cultural backgrounds for social awareness?
  • Answer: It helps you empathize with others and understand different perspectives, preventing misunderstandings.
• 400 Points: How can you demonstrate empathy in a classroom setting?
  • Answer: Listening actively, offering support, understanding a classmate's struggles, acknowledging different viewpoints respectfully.
• 500 Points: Give an example of how a lack of social awareness could lead to a negative social interaction.
  • Answer: Making an insensitive joke, not recognizing someone is uncomfortable, interrupting constantly.

Relationship Roadmaps

• 100 Points: What are Relationship Skills?
  • Answer: The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups.
• 200 Points: You and a classmate disagree on how to approach a group project, but you both find a compromise. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Relationship Skills (specifically, conflict resolution/negotiation).
• 300 Points: Name two key components of effective communication.
  • Answer: Listening actively, speaking clearly, expressing needs respectfully, non-verbal cues.
• 400 Points: How can you resist inappropriate social pressure using relationship skills?
  • Answer: By communicating your boundaries, asserting yourself, and seeking support from trusted friends or adults.
• 500 Points: Describe a scenario where strong relationship skills helped resolve a significant conflict between friends.
  • Answer: Friends having a disagreement, using active listening, expressing feelings calmly, and finding a solution together.

Decision-Making Drives

• 100 Points: What is Responsible Decision-Making?
  • Answer: The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and societal norms.
• 200 Points: You are offered to cheat on a test, but you decline because you know it's wrong. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Responsible Decision-Making.
• 300 Points: What are two factors you should consider when making a responsible decision?
  • Answer: Ethical standards, safety concerns, well-being of self/others, consequences, societal norms.
• 400 Points: How does evaluating the potential consequences of an action relate to responsible decision-making?
  • Answer: It allows you to foresee potential negative outcomes and choose a path that is more beneficial or less harmful.
• 500 Points: Give an example of a responsible decision you made recently and explain how it impacted you or others positively.
  • Answer: Choosing to help a classmate, deciding to prioritize studying, making a healthy lifestyle choice, speaking up for what's right.

SEL Quiz and Test Answer Key

This answer key provides the correct responses and explanations for the SEL Introduction Quiz and the SEL Introduction Test.

SEL Introduction Quiz Answer Key

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Question: Which of the following is NOT one of the five core competencies of Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

   • Correct Answer: Financial Literacy
   • Explanation: The five core SEL competencies are Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making. Financial literacy is an important life skill but not considered one of the core SEL competencies by CASEL.

2. Question: When you are able to recognize your own emotions and understand what triggers them, you are demonstrating:

   • Correct Answer: Self-Awareness
   • Explanation: Self-Awareness is the foundational ability to accurately recognize one's own emotions, thoughts, values, and strengths.

3. Question: Taking a deep breath when you feel frustrated and then calmly explaining your feelings to someone is an example of:

   • Correct Answer: Self-Management
   • Explanation: Self-Management involves successfully regulating one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, including managing stress and impulses.

4. Question: Understanding and empathizing with someone who comes from a different background than you relates to which SEL competency?

   • Correct Answer: Social Awareness
   • Explanation: Social Awareness is about taking the perspective of and empathizing with others, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

5. Question: Collaborating effectively on a group project and resolving disagreements constructively falls under which SEL competency?

   • Correct Answer: Relationship Skills
   • Explanation: Relationship Skills encompass the ability to establish and maintain healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and negotiate conflict constructively.

6. Question: Before making a significant decision, you consider the ethical implications and potential impact on others. This is an example of:

   • Correct Answer: Responsible Decision-Making
   • Explanation: Responsible Decision-Making involves making constructive choices based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and the well-being of self and others.

Open-Response Questions

7. Question: In your own words, explain why Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is important for high school students.

   • Expected Answer: SEL is important because it equips students with essential life skills beyond academics. It helps them understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, make responsible decisions, and navigate challenges effectively, leading to greater well-being and success in all aspects of life (personal, academic, and professional). Look for mention of emotional regulation, relationships, decision-making, and overall well-being/success.

8. Question: Describe a situation where you used one of the five SEL competencies, and explain which competency it was.

   • Expected Answer: Answers will vary but should clearly describe a situation and correctly identify one of the five SEL competencies (Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, Responsible Decision-Making) in action. For example: 'I felt really angry when my friend cancelled plans last minute (Self-Awareness). Instead of yelling, I took a walk to cool down before texting them to ask what happened (Self-Management).'

SEL Introduction Test Answer Key

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Question: Which of the following describes the ability to accurately recognize your own emotions, thoughts, and values?

   • Correct Answer: Self-Awareness
   • Explanation: Self-Awareness is the foundational ability to accurately recognize one's own emotions, thoughts, values, and strengths.

2. Question: When you successfully regulate your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations, you are demonstrating:

   • Correct Answer: Self-Management
   • Explanation: Self-Management involves successfully regulating one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, including managing stress and impulses.

3. Question: Empathizing with others and understanding perspectives from diverse backgrounds is a key aspect of:

   • Correct Answer: Social Awareness
   • Explanation: Social Awareness is about taking the perspective of and empathizing with others, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

4. Question: Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships and resolving conflicts constructively are examples of:

   • Correct Answer: Relationship Skills
   • Explanation: Relationship Skills encompass the ability to establish and maintain healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and negotiate conflict constructively.

5. Question: Making constructive choices about personal and social interactions, considering ethical standards and consequences, is known as:

   • Correct Answer: Responsible Decision-Making
   • Explanation: Responsible Decision-Making involves making constructive choices based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and the well-being of self and others.

Open-Response Questions

6. Question: Explain the difference between Self-Awareness and Self-Management, providing a concrete example for each.

   • Expected Answer: Self-Awareness is the ability to recognize your own emotions, thoughts, and values (e.g., I realize I get anxious before presentations). Self-Management is the ability to regulate those emotions, thoughts, and behaviors (e.g., I practice deep breathing exercises before a presentation to calm my nerves). Answers should clearly distinguish between recognizing emotions (awareness) and actively controlling/responding to them (management) with relevant examples.

7. Question: Why is 'Social Awareness' crucial for navigating diverse school and community environments?

   • Expected Answer: Social Awareness is crucial because it allows individuals to understand and empathize with others from different backgrounds, interpret social cues, and adapt their behavior appropriately. This fosters respect, reduces misunderstandings, and promotes inclusive environments within diverse school and community settings. Answers should highlight empathy, understanding diverse perspectives, and promoting positive interactions/inclusivity.

8. Question: Consider a challenging situation you might face in the next year (e.g., applying to college, navigating a new friendship, managing academic pressure). Choose two SEL competencies and explain how you could apply them to effectively handle that situation.

   • Expected Answer: Answers will vary but should demonstrate a clear understanding of at least two SEL competencies and their practical application to a relevant, challenging scenario. For example: Situation: Applying to college. Competencies: Self-Management (setting realistic application goals, managing stress through study breaks) and Responsible Decision-Making (researching different colleges, considering financial implications, seeking advice from counselors). Look for a clear situation, correct identification of two competencies, and a logical explanation of their application.

My SEL Journey Project: Mapping Your Emotional GPS

Project Overview

This project invites you to deeply explore one or more of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies and reflect on how they apply to your personal growth, academic life, and future aspirations. You will choose a format to express your learning and demonstrate your understanding of SEL in action.

Goal: To deepen your understanding of SEL and its relevance, and to reflect on your own development of these crucial life skills.

Timeline: 2-3 weeks (adjust as needed by teacher)

Project Options (Choose ONE):

Option 1: SEL Personal Reflection Portfolio

Create a digital or physical portfolio that showcases your understanding and application of SEL. Your portfolio must include:

• Introduction: Briefly define SEL and its five competencies. Explain why you chose the particular competencies to focus on in your portfolio.
• Competency Spotlights (Choose at least 3 SEL Competencies): For each chosen competency:
  • Define the competency in your own words.
  • Describe a specific, real-life experience where you demonstrated this competency. What happened? How did you use the skill? What was the outcome? (Provide at least 2 examples per competency).
  • Identify a specific goal for improving this competency. What steps will you take to achieve this goal?
• Creative Expression: Include at least one creative element that represents your SEL journey (e.g., a short poem, a piece of art, a song lyric, a digital collage of images, a short story, etc.).
• Conclusion: Summarize your key learnings and reflect on how this project has influenced your understanding of yourself and others.

Option 2: SEL in Action Case Study & Presentation

Choose a real-world scenario (from current events, literature, a movie/TV show, or a historical event) where SEL competencies played a significant role (or were significantly lacking). You will analyze this scenario and present your findings.

• Case Study Report (Written Component - 750-1000 words):
  • Introduction: Briefly introduce SEL and its five competencies. Describe the chosen scenario.
  • Scenario Summary: Provide a concise overview of the chosen event/situation.
  • SEL Analysis: Identify and analyze at least three SEL competencies that are most evident (or conspicuously absent) in the scenario. Explain how these competencies are demonstrated or why their absence impacted the situation. Use specific details from the scenario to support your analysis.
  • Recommendations: Propose how the situation could have been handled differently if the individuals involved had stronger SEL skills. What specific actions could have been taken?
  • Personal Connection: Reflect on what you learned from this case study and how it connects to your own life or understanding of SEL.
• Presentation (5-7 minutes): Create a visual presentation (e.g., Google Slides, PowerPoint, Prezi) summarizing your case study and key findings. You will present this to the class.

Option 3: Design an SEL Intervention/Workshop

Identify a specific SEL challenge relevant to high school students (e.g., stress management, conflict resolution among peers, understanding diverse perspectives). Design a short (20-30 minute) intervention or workshop activity that aims to address this challenge using specific SEL competencies.

• Written Proposal (500-750 words):
  • Introduction: Briefly define SEL and the specific challenge your intervention addresses.
  • Target Competency(ies): Clearly state which SEL competency(ies) your intervention focuses on and why.
  • Intervention Description: Outline your activity step-by-step, including materials needed, time allocation for each part, and specific instructions for participants.
  • Rationale: Explain how your activity will help students develop the targeted SEL competency(ies). Reference research or established SEL principles if possible.
  • Expected Outcomes: What do you hope participants will learn or be able to do after your intervention?
• Activity Prototype/Demonstration (Optional but Encouraged): If feasible, create a prototype of any materials for your activity or be prepared to demonstrate a key part of your workshop to the class.

Submission Requirements:

• All written components should be typed, double-spaced, and use a clear, readable font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, 12pt).
• Cite any external sources used (e.g., for definitions, research) in a consistent format (e.g., MLA, APA).
• Review the SEL Project Rubric carefully to understand grading criteria.

SEL Project Rubric: My SEL Journey

Project Name: My SEL Journey Project: Mapping Your Emotional GPS

Student Name: _____________________________

Date: _____________________________

Evaluation Criteria

Total Score: __________ / 28

Comments:

Emotional Check-Out: Reflecting on Your SEL Journey

Instructions: Take a few minutes to reflect on today's lesson and your current emotional state. Your honest responses help me understand your learning and well-being.

1. What is one key takeaway or a new insight you gained about Social Emotional Learning (SEL) today?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Which of the five SEL competencies (Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, Responsible Decision-Making) do you feel is most important for you to focus on right now? Why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. On a scale of 1 to 5, how are you feeling emotionally right now? (1 = Very Low Energy/Negative, 5 = Very High Energy/Positive)
   
   
   1      2      3      4      5

4. Is there anything else you'd like to share or ask about today's topic or your general well-being? (Optional)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

SEL Jeopardy: Navigate Your Way!

Instructions:

1. Divide the class into 2-4 teams.
2. Draw a grid on the board with categories and point values (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500).
3. Categories:
   • Self-Awareness Spot
   • Self-Management Maneuvers
   • Social Awareness Scenarios
   • Relationship Roadmaps
   • Decision-Making Drives
4. Teams take turns choosing a category and point value.
5. Read the question. The first team to raise their hand and correctly answer the question (identifying the correct SEL competency or explaining its application) earns the points.
6. If incorrect, other teams can try to steal. The teacher acts as the judge.
7. Keep score on the board. The team with the most points at the end wins!

Jeopardy Questions (Teacher Copy):

Self-Awareness Spot

• 100 Points: What is the definition of Self-Awareness in SEL?
  • Answer: The ability to accurately recognize your own emotions, thoughts, values, and strengths.
• 200 Points: You realize you get really nervous before public speaking. Which SEL competency are you demonstrating?
  • Answer: Self-Awareness.
• 300 Points: Name one way understanding your values helps with self-awareness.
  • Answer: Helps you understand what motivates you, why you react certain ways, and what is important to you.
• 400 Points: How does having a "growth mindset" relate to Self-Awareness?
  • Answer: It means you recognize your limitations but believe you can improve, which is part of understanding your strengths and weaknesses.
• 500 Points: Give an example of how self-awareness can prevent you from making a bad decision.
  • Answer: Recognizing you are feeling angry, so you pause before responding impulsively.

Self-Management Maneuvers

• 100 Points: What is Self-Management?
  • Answer: The ability to successfully regulate your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.
• 200 Points: You feel stressed about an upcoming exam, so you create a study schedule. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Self-Management.
• 300 Points: Name a strategy for managing impulses.
  • Answer: Counting to ten, taking a deep breath, walking away, thinking about consequences.
• 400 Points: How does setting achievable goals demonstrate Self-Management?
  • Answer: It shows the ability to motivate oneself and work towards personal and academic goals.
• 500 Points: Describe a situation where effective Self-Management led to a positive academic outcome.
  • Answer: Staying focused on a challenging assignment, overcoming procrastination, managing test anxiety.

Social Awareness Scenarios

• 100 Points: What does Social Awareness mean?
  • Answer: The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• 200 Points: Your friend looks sad, even though they say they are fine. You ask if they want to talk. Which SEL competency are you using?
  • Answer: Social Awareness.
• 300 Points: Why is it important to understand different cultural backgrounds for social awareness?
  • Answer: It helps you empathize with others and understand different perspectives, preventing misunderstandings.
• 400 Points: How can you demonstrate empathy in a classroom setting?
  • Answer: Listening actively, offering support, understanding a classmate's struggles, acknowledging different viewpoints respectfully.
• 500 Points: Give an example of how a lack of social awareness could lead to a negative social interaction.
  • Answer: Making an insensitive joke, not recognizing someone is uncomfortable, interrupting constantly.

Relationship Roadmaps

• 100 Points: What are Relationship Skills?
  • Answer: The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups.
• 200 Points: You and a classmate disagree on how to approach a group project, but you both find a compromise. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Relationship Skills (specifically, conflict resolution/negotiation).
• 300 Points: Name two key components of effective communication.
  • Answer: Listening actively, speaking clearly, expressing needs respectfully, non-verbal cues.
• 400 Points: How can you resist inappropriate social pressure using relationship skills?
  • Answer: By communicating your boundaries, asserting yourself, and seeking support from trusted friends or adults.
• 500 Points: Describe a scenario where strong relationship skills helped resolve a significant conflict between friends.
  • Answer: Friends having a disagreement, using active listening, expressing feelings calmly, and finding a solution together.

Decision-Making Drives

• 100 Points: What is Responsible Decision-Making?
  • Answer: The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and societal norms.
• 200 Points: You are offered to cheat on a test, but you decline because you know it's wrong. Which SEL competency is this?
  • Answer: Responsible Decision-Making.
• 300 Points: What are two factors you should consider when making a responsible decision?
  • Answer: Ethical standards, safety concerns, well-being of self/others, consequences, societal norms.
• 400 Points: How does evaluating the potential consequences of an action relate to responsible decision-making?
  • Answer: It allows you to foresee potential negative outcomes and choose a path that is more beneficial or less harmful.
• 500 Points: Give an example of a responsible decision you made recently and explain how it impacted you or others positively.
  • Answer: Choosing to help a classmate, deciding to prioritize studying, making a healthy lifestyle choice, speaking up for what's right.