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CASELRelationship Skills
Communication Skills

Communication Skills

Discover a curated collection of free resources designed to enhance communication skills within the CASEL Relationship Skills framework. Perfect for educators, students, and parents, these materials offer engaging activities, practical lessons, and real-world scenarios to foster effective listening, clear expression, and empathy. Empower learners to build stronger, healthier relationships through interactive and accessible learning experiences.

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Let's Talk and Play!

This lesson helps 1st graders learn how to start conversations and get along with their peers through interactive activities. By using a video, collaborative games, and discussions, students will develop essential social skills that are crucial for building friendships and creating a positive classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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DANELLE LOCKLEAR

a

NC Social Worker

Chat & Connect

A fun, student-centered 15-minute activity to help 1st graders practice basic interpersonal communication skills like greeting, taking turns, and asking questions. This Tier 1 lesson encourages cooperation and confidence in everyday conversations.

Tier 1
5/23
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Michael Aboulafia

S

MA Psychologist

Ready, Set, Connect!

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson for 7th graders, students will learn essential relationship skills—empathy, active listening, and healthy communication—through engaging activities. By the end, they’ll be better equipped to build positive connections with peers and navigate social interactions with confidence.

Tier 1
8/26
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Michele Burgess

p

TN Special Education Teacher

Communication Champions

This lesson engages 4th-grade students in activities designed to enhance their verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Through interactive exercises, students will learn the importance of effective expression and active listening, which are crucial for their academic and social development. By participating in these activities, students will build confidence in their ability to communicate clearly and understand others, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25

Carla Eliezer

h

NY Social Worker, Counselor

Express Yourself!

This lesson introduces first graders to the concept of 'I messages,' a communication tool that helps express feelings and needs in a positive way. Through a fun and interactive game, students will learn how to articulate their emotions and communicate effectively with their peers. This lesson is important as it fosters emotional intelligence and helps students develop essential social skills that will benefit them in their interactions both inside and outside the classroom.

Tier 1
2/25
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Kristie Deyoe

S

MA Counselor

Friendship and Communication Fun

This lesson focuses on enhancing communication skills among 1st graders through engaging activities and discussions. Using 'The Boundaries Song' video, students will explore the importance of setting and respecting personal boundaries. This lesson is crucial for developing social skills that are foundational for building friendships and effective communication.

Tier 1
2/25
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Valerie Davenport

a

NC Social Worker

Lunchtime Chat Skills

This lesson focuses on developing conversation skills for 1st-grade students in a lunchtime setting. Students will learn how to start and maintain conversations, listen actively, and use polite language. These skills are essential for building friendships and effective communication. The small group setting allows for personalized practice and feedback.

Tier 2
2/25
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Michael Aboulafia

S

MA Psychologist

Communicate & Collaborate!

This lesson focuses on teaching communication skills, including internet safety, to 9-10 year olds through engaging activities. Communication is a crucial skill that helps students express themselves, understand others, and work collaboratively. Developing these skills at an early age lays the foundation for successful interpersonal interactions and academic achievement.

Tier 1
2/25

Bri’Anca Jordan

p

TN Instructor

Chat & Play: Conversation Skills

This lesson focuses on developing basic conversation skills through interactive and engaging activities. Students will participate in a simple game and group activities to practice initiating and responding in conversations. This lesson is important as it helps students build essential communication skills, fostering social interaction and confidence in expressing themselves.

Tier 1
2/25
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Erin Harackiewicz

S

MA Special Education Teacher

Communicate with Care

This lesson focuses on teaching 3rd graders the importance of appropriate communication through engaging activities. By using project-based learning, students will actively participate in scenarios that require them to practice effective communication skills. This lesson is crucial as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, fostering a supportive and understanding classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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DANELLE LOCKLEAR

a

NC Social Worker

Communicate with Confidence

In this lesson, students will explore the importance of healthy communication through interactive games and peer activities. They will learn about active listening, expressing thoughts clearly, and the value of non-verbal communication. This lesson is crucial as it helps students develop essential life skills that foster better relationships and understanding among peers.

Tier 1
2/25

Mercedes Flores Nava

E

CA Social Worker, Counselor

Kindness and Communication Fun

This lesson focuses on teaching young children the importance of kindness and effective communication. Through engaging videos and interactive activities, students will learn how small acts of kindness can have a big impact and how to respect others in school settings. This lesson is crucial for developing social-emotional skills that will help students build positive relationships and express their needs appropriately.

Tier 1
2/25
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Sophia Perlmutter

h

NY Social Worker

Friendship Helpers

In this quick, engaging 15-minute lesson, 1st graders explore three superpowers for getting along—kindness, cooperation, and clear communication—to build a supportive classroom community. Through a lively warm-up, role-play scenarios, and reflective sharing, students practice real-life social skills that foster empathy and teamwork.

Tier 1
5/27
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Jordyn Dowd

O

IN General Education Teacher

Communication Skills Challenge

In this lesson, students will engage in activities designed to improve both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Through exercises such as charades and storytelling, students will practice clear and effective communication. This lesson is important as it helps students develop essential life skills that are crucial for collaboration and understanding in both academic and social settings.

Tier 1
2/25

Mercedes Flores Nava

E

CA Social Worker, Counselor

Communicate with Confidence

This lesson focuses on teaching 7th-grade students effective communication skills through engaging activities such as role-playing and group discussions. These skills are crucial for building and maintaining healthy relationships, both in personal and academic settings. By participating in this lesson, students will learn to express themselves clearly, listen actively, and understand the importance of non-verbal cues in communication.

Tier 1
2/25
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Rocio Vigil

q

TX Counselor

The Heart of Healthy Relationships

This lesson teaches middle school students essential conflict resolution and communication skills to foster healthy peer interactions and understanding. Through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and clear assessment criteria, students will develop empathy and practical strategies for resolving conflicts peacefully.

Tier 1
5/21
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Patty Allen

E

CA Social Worker

Super Social Skills: Building Friendships in First Grade

This lesson is designed to help first graders develop essential social skills, focusing on building friendships. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn how to communicate effectively, share, and cooperate with peers. This lesson is crucial as it lays the foundation for positive social interactions and emotional development, tailored for a small group needing extra support in social skills, lasting 20 minutes.

Tier 2
3/24
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Daniella Morganelli

S

MA Counselor

Express Yourself!

This lesson helps 1st-grade students learn how to effectively communicate their needs through engaging activities. By using a video and a worksheet, students will explore different ways to express themselves and understand the importance of clear communication. This lesson is crucial for developing social-emotional skills, enabling students to articulate their needs and feelings in a constructive manner.

Tier 1
2/25

Nadine Cenord

h

NY Social Worker

Friendship and Communication

This lesson aims to teach 3rd-grade students about the importance of friendship and effective communication. Through restorative practices and collaborative learning, students will explore how to talk to one another in a supportive and understanding manner. This lesson is crucial for developing social-emotional skills that will help students build and maintain healthy relationships.

Tier 1
2/25
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Rachel Sullivan

a

NC Counselor

Mastering the Art of Communication

This SEL lesson for 8th graders focuses on effective communication, a crucial life skill that enhances relationships and collaboration. In a single 30-minute session, students will engage in activities and discussions to understand and practice key communication techniques.

Tier 1
4/17
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Stephanie Cordero

q

TX Counselor

Express Yourself: Communication Skills

This lesson introduces students to the different forms of communication, emphasizing the importance of both verbal and non-verbal cues. Through interactive activities, students will practice expressing themselves clearly and interpreting others’ messages accurately. This lesson is crucial as it helps students develop essential communication skills that are vital for effective interaction in both personal and academic settings.

Tier 1
2/25
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Judith Ross

S

MA Counselor

Can You Decode Me?

In this interactive lesson, 8th graders unravel hidden messages and practice clear verbal and nonverbal cues to strengthen their communication skills. This Tier 1, 50-minute session builds students' relationship skills aligned to CASEL standards through puzzles, role-play, and discussion.

Tier 1
8/6
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CHRISTI EVANS

P

KS General Education Teacher

Can You Read the Room?

This 45-minute lesson teaches 4th graders to interpret social cues and adapt their communication by detecting emotions in context. Foundational pragmatic skills support everyday interactions, improving students' social awareness and relationships.

Tier 1
5/28
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Paul Tentindo

S

MA Psychologist

Communicate with Confidence

This lesson is designed to teach 2nd grade students the basics of effective communication through fun and interactive activities. By watching a video and participating in simple discussions and activities, students will learn how to express themselves clearly and listen to others. This lesson is important as it helps young students develop foundational communication skills that are essential for their social and academic growth.

Tier 1
2/25

Nadine Cenord

h

NY Social Worker

Express Yourself: Building Communication Skills

This lesson helps 3rd-grade students develop their ability to express thoughts and feelings clearly and effectively. Through interactive activities, students will learn how to use words, tone, and body language to communicate purposefully. This lesson is important as it fosters essential communication skills that are crucial for personal and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25
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Amy Kucha

S

MA Instructor

Can You Read Cues?

In this 25-minute Tier 1 lesson for 3rd graders, students will sharpen their social communication by interpreting facial expressions and body language through engaging warm-ups, activities, and reflections. This fun, whole-class sequence builds empathy and nonverbal literacy—essential skills for everyday interactions.

Tier 1
6/29

Laura

q

TX Special Education Teacher

Building Respectful Social Skills

This lesson aims to teach 1st graders the importance of social skills, focusing on respect for others. The students will watch a video, engage in a respect-based activity, and complete a worksheet. This is important for fostering a positive, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25

Delilah Murray

h

NY Counselor

Express Yourself: The Power of Communication

This lesson focuses on helping students express their thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully through verbal and non-verbal communication. By engaging in various activities, students will learn the importance of effective communication in building relationships and understanding others. This lesson is crucial for developing social-emotional skills that are essential for personal and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25
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Joanne Camann

S

MA Instructor

Hello, I Am!

This lesson plan is designed to help Grade 1 and 2 students with limited language ability learn how to introduce themselves. Through a combination of video, discussion, reading, and interactive activities, students will gain confidence in expressing their emotions and personal information. This lesson is important as it builds foundational communication skills and encourages self-awareness and emotional expression.

Tier 1
2/25
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Chandler Creedon

S

MA Counselor, Psychologist

Can We Solve It Together?

This is a one-session, 50-minute collaborative problem-solving lesson for 5th graders focused on CASEL Relationship Skills. Students will practice communication, teamwork roles, and conflict resolution through hands-on puzzle activities and reflective discussions, helping them build stronger peer relationships and prepare for group challenges in real life.

Tier 1
5/7

Nicole

u

WA Counselor

Silent Signals

In this 30-minute lesson, 3rd graders will learn how to use nonverbal cues—like gestures, facial expressions, and body language—to communicate with peers who don’t speak English. This lesson builds empathy, boosts collaboration, and equips students with real-life social skills for diverse classrooms.

Tier 1
6/16
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Kimberlee Nutter

S

MA Counselor

Silent Signals

In this 30-minute lesson, 3rd graders will learn how to use nonverbal cues—like gestures, facial expressions, and body language—to communicate with peers who don’t speak English. This lesson builds empathy, boosts collaboration, and equips students with real-life social skills for diverse classrooms.

Tier 1
6/16
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Kimberlee Nutter

S

MA Counselor

Communicate and Collaborate

This lesson aims to teach students the importance of communication through a combination of video content and interactive activities. By engaging in experiential and game-based learning, students will develop their communication skills in a fun and active environment. This lesson is crucial as it helps students understand the value of clear communication and teamwork, which are essential skills for their personal and academic growth.

Tier 1
2/25

Bri’Anca Jordan

p

TN Instructor

Connect & Communicate

In this engaging 30-minute lesson, 9th graders will explore effective communication skills through interactive activities and discussions. Students will learn about active listening, nonverbal cues, and clear expression, essential for academic success and personal relationships.

Tier 1
6/4
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oguerrero

S

MA Social Worker

Social Skills Superstars

This lesson aims to help 2nd-grade students develop essential social skills through interactive activities. By engaging in a discussion, role-playing, game-based learning, and completing a worksheet, students will learn how to communicate effectively, cooperate with peers, and understand the importance of empathy. These skills are crucial for their personal development and success in collaborative environments.

Tier 1
2/25

Gabriela Gonzalez

q

TX Counselor

Counselor's Toolbox: Skills for Success

This lesson introduces 5th-grade students to essential skills and tools used by school counselors, focusing on problem-solving and effective communication. These skills are crucial for students' personal and academic success, helping them navigate challenges and build strong relationships.

Tier 1
2/25

Glenda Glenn

a

NC Counselor

Communicate & Collaborate

This lesson focuses on enhancing students' communication skills through interactive and experiential activities. By engaging in a game-based learning activity, students will practice active listening, clear expression, and collaborative problem-solving. This lesson is important as it helps students develop essential life skills that are crucial for personal and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25
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Patricia Wood

S

MA Counselor

Communicate Like a Pro!

This lesson focuses on teaching 7th graders the essentials of effective communication through engaging activities and a video. Students will learn the importance of listening, empathy, and clear expression. This lesson is crucial as it equips students with skills that are vital for building strong relationships and succeeding in collaborative environments.

Tier 1
2/25

Charles Douglas

a

NC Behavior Interventionist

Express Yourself: The Power of Communication

This lesson focuses on helping students express their thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully through verbal and non-verbal communication activities. It is important as it equips students with essential skills for effective interaction and understanding in various social settings, enhancing their ability to participate meaningfully in group activities and discussions.

Tier 1
2/25
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Joanne Camann

S

MA Instructor

How Do We Connect?

A collaborative lesson that introduces students to key relationship skills like active listening and empathy through guided discussions and partner activities. This lesson helps students build supportive classroom communities by practicing active listening and empathy. Audience: 4th Grade, Tier: 1 (Classroom), 1 session of 40 minutes.

Tier 1
8/26
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Jenny Nguyen

R

LA Social Worker

The Art of Conversation

In this lesson, students will learn the basics of having face-to-face conversations, including making eye contact, listening actively, and responding appropriately. They'll engage in role-playing activities to practice their skills in a supportive environment. This lesson is important as it helps students build essential communication skills that are crucial for social interactions and future success.

Tier 1
2/25

Brian Millea

S

MA Health & Fitness

Courageous Conversations: Sharing and Listening

This lesson helps young students practice sharing their thoughts and listening to others. Through simple activities, students will learn to express themselves and pay attention to their classmates. This lesson is important as it builds foundational communication skills and fosters a sense of community in the classroom.

Tier 1
2/25
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Jennifer MacCord

S

MA Counselor

Social Skills Celebration Game

This lesson is designed to be a fun and engaging way for first graders to review and apply the social skills they have learned throughout their group sessions. By participating in a game-based activity, students will have the opportunity to practice skills such as sharing, taking turns, and communicating effectively in a supportive and interactive environment. This lesson is important as it reinforces positive social behaviors and helps students understand the practical application of these skills in everyday situations.

Tier 1
2/25
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Kiley Horn

D

AZ Counselor

The Power of Words: Communicating Without Hitting

This lesson teaches 1st-grade students effective communication skills to express their feelings without resorting to hitting. Through interactive activities and guided discussions, students learn to use words to resolve conflicts. This lesson is important as it helps students develop essential social-emotional skills, fostering a more harmonious classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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Minhee Chang

h

NY General Education Teacher

Let's Chat Together

In this 20-minute Tier 1 lesson for kindergarten students, learners will explore basic conversation skills such as greetings, taking turns, and asking simple questions. This lesson builds social-emotional skills, fosters listening and speaking in a supportive environment, and prepares students for positive peer interactions.

Tier 1
5/29

DGAUTHIER

S

MA Social Worker

Buddy Up!

In this fun 15-minute 1st grade lesson, students will learn positive ways to interact with peers by practicing greetings, sharing, and taking turns. Building these social skills helps create a friendly classroom community and supports students’ emotional growth.

Tier 1
6/26
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Dyshawnna Martin

q

TX Special Education Teacher, Behavior Interventionist

Assertive Communication Fun

This lesson introduces 3rd graders to assertive communication through engaging activities and a video. Students will learn the importance of expressing themselves clearly and respectfully, which is crucial for building healthy relationships and self-confidence. By practicing assertive communication, students will develop better social skills and learn to advocate for themselves in various situations.

Tier 1
2/25
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Shannon McCormack

t

VT Instructor

Friendship Builders

This lesson focuses on enhancing healthy communication skills among 5th graders to foster stronger friendships. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn the importance of effective communication and teamwork. This lesson is crucial as it helps students develop social skills that are essential for their personal and academic growth.

Tier 1
3/13
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Natessa Storm

S

MA Counselor

Colorful Conversations

Facilitate a lesson where students explore the power of communication through color-coded conversations. This activity helps young students articulate their feelings and thoughts effectively while nurturing empathy and listening skills. Audience: Grades 2-4; 1 session about 45 minutes.

Tier 1
5/19
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Sarah Peters

S

MA Psychologist

Communicate to Connect

This lesson focuses on developing effective communication skills to build and maintain healthy relationships. Students will practice active listening and assertive communication through role-playing exercises. This lesson is important as it equips students with essential skills for personal and professional interactions, fostering better understanding and collaboration.

Tier 1
2/25
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Billy Cline

a

NC School Administrator

Communication Is Key

Enhance students' communication skills to improve their relationships. This small group lesson focuses on effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques for 8th graders, lasting 45 minutes. This lesson is important as it equips students with essential skills for building healthy relationships and understanding others better.

Tier 2
3/5

Veronica Doe

D

AZ English, History, Earth Science

Friendship Circle

In this 15-minute Tier 1 lesson, 1st Grade students will explore the qualities of a good friend and practice friendship skills through discussion and a cooperative activity. Building these social-emotional skills helps students create a positive classroom community and develop lifelong relationship habits.

Tier 1
7/30
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Tatianna Davis

N

IL General Education Teacher

What Would You Do?

In this 15-minute lesson, kindergarten students will explore 26 fun, relatable social skill scenarios and discuss how to respond with kindness and empathy. These prompts help build communication, cooperation, and problem-solving, crucial for positive interactions at school and beyond.

Tier 1
8/4

Cathryn

l

PA Counselor

The Art of Conversation

This lesson focuses on teaching 4th grade students the nuances of active listening in conversations through paired activities, group discussions, a listening game, and role-playing exercises. Students will learn how to respond thoughtfully and build better communication skills. This lesson is important as it helps students develop essential communication skills that are crucial for effective interpersonal interactions and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25

Rebecca Roge

S

MA Counselor

Mastering Communication Skills: Game On!

In this lesson, students will develop and enhance their communication skills through a blend of interactive activities, discussions, and multimedia content. By engaging in these diverse methods, students will learn key communication strategies, such as breaking the ice, active listening, and building confidence, to improve their practical conversational abilities.

Tier 1
2/25
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Nancy Love

T

MD Instructor

What Would You Say?

Students practice kind responses in challenging social scenarios, strengthening their social awareness and communication. Ideal for 3rd graders, this 25-minute Tier 1 lesson builds students’ social awareness through interactive activities and reflection.

Tier 1
7/28
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Dan Wagner

T

MD Instructor

Who’s Who?

This 30-minute Tier 1 get-to-know-you lesson helps 3rd–5th graders introduce themselves, build classroom community, and practice communication skills through interactive activities. It sets a positive tone for the year and helps students feel valued and connected.

Tier 1
8/25

Lisa Moses

a

NC Counselor

Buddy Troubles

In this 30-minute 1st grade lesson, students will explore the ups and downs of friendship, learn to identify common conflicts, and practice simple strategies to solve disagreements peacefully. This fun, interactive session builds social skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities—essential tools for happy classroom communities.

Tier 1
5/13
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Cynthia Cook

q

TX Counselor

Circle of Support

This lesson introduces 3rd grade students to SEL responsive circles, a tool for fostering emotional intelligence and community in the classroom. Through experiential and collaborative activities, students will learn how to express their feelings and listen to others in a supportive environment. This lesson is important as it helps students develop empathy, communication skills, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for their social and emotional development.

Tier 1
2/25
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Hallie Boviard

S

MA Counselor

Can You Relate?

A whole-class interactive discussion using multimedia stories to identify emotions in others and practice verbal empathy responses. This Tier 1 lesson for 4th graders features a 40-minute session combining media analysis, group discussions, and reflection to build social awareness and empathy.

Tier 1
7/14

Michelle Phillips

a

NC Social Worker

Understanding and Communicating with Dave

This series of lessons introduces first graders to the concept of autism and communication skills through videos and interactive activities. It aims to foster understanding, empathy, and effective communication, promoting a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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DANELLE LOCKLEAR

a

NC Social Worker

Communicate with Kindness

This lesson focuses on teaching middle school students the importance of positive communication with their peers. Through a quick activity and a worksheet, students will learn how to express themselves in a respectful and constructive manner. This lesson is crucial as it helps students develop essential social-emotional skills that foster a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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Tonya Desjardin

t

VT Instructor

Chat & Play: Conversation Starters

This lesson is designed to encourage 2nd grade students to engage in conversation through a fun and interactive game. By participating in this lesson, students will develop their communication skills, learn to listen actively, and collaborate with their peers. This lesson is important as it fosters social interaction and helps students build confidence in expressing their thoughts and ideas.

Tier 1
2/25
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Madeline Perry

S

MA Counselor

Social Savvy

In this single 30-minute Tier 1 lesson, 7th graders will build key social skills—active listening, empathy, and clear communication—through engaging activities. Strengthening their ability to connect with peers, this lesson fosters a positive classroom community and equips students with tools for real-life interactions.

Tier 1
5/6
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Erica Denzau

q

TX Special Education Teacher

Conversation Champions

In this 15-minute, individual support session, 3rd graders will learn and practice taking turns in conversations, enhancing their communication and social skills. This crucial lesson helps students build respectful dialogue habits, boosting confidence and peer interaction.

Tier 3
5/15
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tbobbitt

S

MA Counselor