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CASELSelf-Awareness
Self-Reflection

Self-Reflection

Explore a curated collection of free resources designed to strengthen self-reflection skills—an essential part of self-awareness. This page empowers educators, students, and parents with practical activities, lesson plans, and real-world examples that foster deeper insight and personal growth. Discover tools to encourage honest self-assessment and meaningful goal setting, nurturing confidence and emotional intelligence in everyday life.

Suggested Resources

Community Resources

Community Resources

The Mirror of Introspection

Empower students to reflect on their actions and understand the importance of self-awareness.

Tier 1
2/25

Lianne deBettencourt

S

MA Counselor

Mirror Moments

One-on-one reflective script sessions guiding an 8th grade student to see themselves and articulate their emotional states with clarity. This Tier 3 individual support session takes 25 minutes and uses targeted self-awareness strategies based on CASEL competencies to foster emotional identification.

Tier 3
Yesterday
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Hannah Eldridge

d

NH Special Education Teacher

Reflect, Regulate, and Rise: Mastering Self-Reflection and Self-Regulation Skills

This lesson is designed for a mixed group of students across grades and levels, focusing on self-reflection and the identification of self-regulation skills. In a 30-minute session, students will engage in activities that help them understand and apply self-regulation techniques, which are crucial for personal growth and academic success. The lesson includes differentiated options and Spanish translations to accommodate diverse learning needs.

Tier 1
3/21
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Jami Dion

S

MA School Administrator

How Would You Feel?

An individualized reflection session guiding a student through personal journaling and scenario-based prompts to build deeper social awareness. This Tier 3 one-on-one session for an 8th grade student runs for 20 minutes and aligns with CASEL's Social Awareness competency.

Tier 3
8/30
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Humair tbs

z

US Principal

Mirror Minds

This is an individual 25-minute intervention for a 12th-grade student focused on increasing self-awareness and empathy through journaling and mirror exercises. The session draws on CASEL Social Awareness standards, boosting empathy development by reflecting on personal experiences and connecting with others.

Tier 3
8/27
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Ashley Perez

e

NJ Social Worker

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

In this lesson, students will learn about self-awareness through a short video and a reflective activity. They will identify their strengths and areas for growth and share their reflections in a group discussion.

Tier 1
2/25
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Samantha Petroski

l

PA Instructor

The Inner Dialogue

Students engage in introspective dialogue to understand their internal thought processes and biases. This lesson is critical for self-awareness and personal growth, fostering introspection and mindfulness.

Tier 1
3/10
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David Patterson

a

NC Behavior Interventionist

Introspection Challenge

This lesson encourages students to engage in deep reflection about their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to understand their inner self better. It aids in developing emotional intelligence and self-regulation.

Tier 1
2/27
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Kristen Federico

D

AZ Special Education Teacher

Unraveling the Conflict Knot: Building Self-Awareness

This 10-session lesson is designed for a third-grade special education student to enhance self-awareness by identifying and reflecting on personal behaviors that lead to conflict. The student will learn to recognize and name behaviors such as yelling, speaking out of turn, or not listening, which contribute to conflicts. This lesson is crucial for developing emotional intelligence and improving interpersonal relationships.

Tier 3
8/14

Kimberly Clark

E

CA Psychologist

Mirror, Mirror: Discovering Me!

This engaging lesson is designed for kindergarten students and a second-grade student to develop self-awareness. Through fun activities and discussions, students will explore their unique qualities and emotions, fostering a positive self-image. The lesson includes a 30-minute session with a lesson plan, slide deck, activity, discussion, worksheet, and script to guide the process.

Tier 1
3/18
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Shaina Thomas

a

NC Counselor

Self-Reflection Toolkit

In this single 45-minute Tier 2 small-group lesson for 8th graders, students will explore and identify their personal values and reflect on their reactions to challenges. By increasing self-awareness through mapping and ranking their core beliefs, students build emotional intelligence and make more mindful decisions.

Tier 2
5/18
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Malarie Lorenzen

j

OK Special Education Teacher

Pause. Reflect. Act.

A small group lesson focusing on the 'Pause, Reflect, Act' strategy for emotional regulation. This structured approach helps students develop a methodical way to handle their emotions.

Tier 2
3/16

Crystal Sullivan

h

NY Social Worker

Unlocking Self-Awareness

This 5-session lesson series aims to enhance students' self-awareness, crucial for managing emotions and improving mental health. Designed for a class with students needing support in anxiety, depression, self-regulation, and complex family backgrounds, each 30-minute session will engage students through interactive activities, discussions, and games to foster a deeper understanding of themselves.

Tier 2
5/5
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bbeldenscott

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Mirror, Mirror: Reflecting on My Day

In this lesson, students will engage in a guided self-reflection activity to examine their actions and emotions from the past day. They will learn to identify positive and negative behaviors and understand their consequences. This lesson is important as it helps students develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for personal growth and responsible decision-making.

Tier 1
2/25
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Kayle Jordan

a

NC Counselor

Mirror Within

This 30-session, 45-minute-per-day Grade 9 Self-Awareness unit guides students through exploring identity, emotions, strengths, and personal growth strategies. By engaging in discussions, reflections, activities, and assessments, learners deepen self-understanding and prepare for lifelong social-emotional success.

Tier 1
9/2
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Chocho San

E

CA Counselor, Psychologist, General Education Teacher

Who Am I?

In this 50-minute lesson, 8th grade students will explore the Johari Window model to build self-awareness by identifying known and unknown aspects of themselves. Through a mix of brainstorming, collaborative activities, and reflection, students will gain insight into how they view themselves and how others perceive them, supporting CASEL’s Self-Awareness competency.

Tier 1
8/27
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Joanne Strong

Z

MT General Education Teacher

Inner Coach

A multi-part 20-minute script and discussion tool that helps 7th grade students cultivate an internal supportive dialogue to manage stress and challenges. This Tier 3 individual lesson on CASEL Self-Management empowers students to become their own coaches through guided frameworks and reflective practices.

Tier 3
7/4
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K M

L

IA General Education Teacher

Me, Myself & I

In this small-group workshop, 7th graders will explore CASEL's Self-Awareness competency by crafting personal narratives that strengthen their identity and confidence. Through the Narrative Identity Framework, storytelling prompts, and group sharing, students will reflect on their life chapters and connect with peers. Duration: 1 session (55 minutes).

Tier 2
9/2
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Chocho San

E

CA Counselor, Psychologist, General Education Teacher

Intro to Self-Awareness

An introductory lesson helping students understand the concept of self-awareness and its significance in personal development.

Tier 1
2/25

Armani Fiato

S

MA Social Worker

Mirror, Mirror: Who Do You See?

Guide students through a reflective exercise to examine how they perceive themselves versus how they wish to be perceived. This lesson fosters self-awareness and encourages positive self-image. Designed for 11th-grade students, this 25-minute session provides individual support to enhance self-esteem and self-awareness.

Tier 3
3/12

Crystal Sullivan

h

NY Social Worker

Seeing Through Others' Eyes: A Journey to Understanding

This 6-session lesson is designed for a 5th-grade male student who is competitive and often finds himself in conflict with peers due to misunderstandings. The goal is to enhance his perspective-taking skills, increase personal awareness of his competitive nature, and reduce conflicts. Each session is 20 minutes long and focuses on building empathy and understanding through interactive activities and discussions.

Tier 3
5/9
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Kristen Hayden

S

MA Counselor

Unlocking Your Inner Superhero: A Journey to Self-Awareness

This two-session lesson for 6th to 8th graders focuses on developing self-awareness, a crucial life skill that empowers students to understand their emotions, strengths, and areas for growth. Through engaging activities, discussions, and games, students will learn to reflect on their personal experiences and recognize their unique qualities, setting the foundation for personal growth and improved interpersonal relationships.

Tier 1
2/27
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Emma Donaldson

q

TX Social Worker, Counselor

Mirror Moments

A focused small-group toolkit to foster recognition of strengths and areas for growth through peer feedback. Designed for 8th grade Tier 2 self-awareness sessions, this single 30-minute session equips students with structured peer-reflection practices to boost self-insight.

Tier 2
6/27
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Tatiane Oliveira

Instructor

Mirror Moments

In this one-hour professional development session, teachers, principals, and school leaders explore the power of self-reflection to improve teaching practice, boost engagement, and nurture personal growth. Through interactive activities, readings, video examples, discussions, and assessments, participants will learn strategies to embed reflective routines into daily work. Audience: K–12 educators and administrators, 1 session, 1 hour.

Tier 1
9/5
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ConceptX

C

AR General Education Teacher

A Day in the Life of a Problem Solver

Students will follow a detailed script simulating a day in a problem solver's job, understanding decision-making and prioritization. This immersive approach aids in grasping real-world job complexities.

Tier 1
4/1
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Paul Tentindo

S

MA Psychologist

Me, Myself, I

A small-group workshop that guides 7th graders through crafting personal narratives to strengthen self-identity and confidence using the CASEL Self-Awareness competency over one 55-minute session.

Tier 2
8/29

Sharon Brooks

X

MO Special Education Teacher

Who Am I Really?

This lesson guides 6th graders through self-questioning and reflective exercises to deepen their self-awareness. It’s a Tier 1, single 50-minute session focusing on CASEL’s Self-Awareness competencies, complete with icebreakers, activities, and assessment.

Tier 1
6/12
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Jesse Weaver

F

CO Parent

Why Did I Do That?

This lesson encourages students to reflect on their actions, understand the motivations behind them, and contemplate the consequences. It's essential for helping students develop self-awareness and improve decision-making skills, specifically tailored for 9th-grade students. The lesson is designed for a 40-minute session and falls under Tier 3: Individual supports, focusing on personalized reflection and growth.

Tier 3
3/11
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ANGELA FRANK

V

MI Social Worker

Mirror Check

In this interactive 30-minute lesson, 7th & 8th graders will explore personal identity by distinguishing internal and external self-concepts. Students will articulate two aspects of their identity and reflect on how self-perception shapes daily choices. This lesson builds self-awareness and lays the foundation for trustworthy behavior in the classroom.

Tier 1
8/28
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Darren Duplessis

q

TX General Education Teacher

Who Am I? Quiz

In this 30-minute, single-session lesson, 11th graders explore CASEL’s Self-Awareness competency through a fun personality quiz, guided discussion, and reflection. This Tier 1 classroom activity helps students recognize personal strengths, traits, and self-concept, fostering emotional intelligence and peer connection.

Tier 1
6/12

Kerry Robinson

Instructor

Mirror, Mirror

Students engage in a reflective session to analyze their perceptions vs. reality. This lesson helps students understand how they are viewed by others and reconcile it with their self-image, enhancing social awareness and empathy. This is particularly important for 9th graders as they navigate social dynamics and develop their identities. The lesson is designed for a single 60-minute session, ideal for a small group setting.

Tier 2
2/28
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Tondra Dillard-Cobb

a

NC Special Education Teacher

Metacognition Masterclass: Thinking About Thinking

This lesson introduces students to the concept of metacognition, encouraging them to become aware of their own thinking processes. Through reflective activities and strategy development, students will learn to evaluate and enhance their learning techniques, boosting their independence and academic success.

Tier 1
3/27
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Alison Andrus

h

NY General Education Teacher

Understanding Academic Settings

This lesson aims to help middle school students understand the dynamics of an academic setting by exploring the concept of emotional intelligence and its impact on learning and interactions. Through a combination of video, discussion, and collaborative activities, students will gain insights into how emotions influence their academic experiences. This lesson is important as it equips students with the skills to navigate their emotions and interactions in a school environment, fostering a positive and productive academic atmosphere.

Tier 1
2/25

Cynthia Whitten

h

NY School Administrator

Mirror, Mirror

In this one-on-one session, an 8th grade student will recognize personal biases and foster self-awareness through guided activities. This lesson supports social awareness and respect for diversity by helping the student identify and reflect on their own assumptions and commit to respectful actions.

Tier 3
6/25

Breanna Davis

E

CA Paraprofessional

? How Do You Feel?

A vibrant whole-class exploration of self-awareness where students identify and articulate emotions. Builds foundational SEL skills for empathy and communication. Audience: 4th Grade Class. Sessions: 1, Duration: 45 minutes.

Tier 1
5/19
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Karen Sullivan

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker, Behavior Interventionist

Mirror Moments

A quick 15-minute individual reflection session for 3rd graders, helping them think about their feelings, successes, and areas to improve after learning activities. This Tier 3 support builds self-awareness and goal-setting skills, guiding students to take ownership of their learning journey.

Tier 3
Monday
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avolis

S

MA Social Worker

The Mirror Within

This one-on-one counseling session equips an 11th-grade student with the Inner Mirror Strategy, helping them identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns through metaphorical mirroring. By guiding self-reflection and positive reframing, the session promotes healthier self-talk and emotional resilience. (Tier 3, 50 minutes)

Tier 3
6/5

C Canaan

B

AL Counselor

?What Makes Me Tick?

In this 50-minute, one-session lesson for 5th graders, students will explore CASEL’s Self-Awareness competency by identifying their strengths, motivations, and personal “why.” Through interactive polls, storytelling, and reflective activities, students gain self-knowledge and confidence to guide their choices.

Tier 1
9/5
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Keltie Heggie

CANADA Behavior Interventionist

Who Am I Right Now?

This Tier 3 individual lesson supports an 8th grader through a 15-minute daily reflection series. Students build self-awareness by journaling mood, tracking emotional triggers, and evaluating reflection quality using CASEL competencies.

Tier 3
5/20
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R Silva

S

MA Social Worker, Special Education Teacher

Mirror Moments

In this 45-minute 10th grade Tier 1 lesson, students will explore the power of self-reflection through engaging activities and a fun game. They’ll learn strategies to connect with their thoughts and emotions, fostering greater self-awareness and personal growth.

Tier 1
6/3
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Alison Nowicki

S

MA Counselor

Know Thyself Quest

In this 30-minute Tier 2 group session, 9th graders will explore facets of their identity, strengths, and values through interactive activities. Developing self-awareness helps students build confidence, navigate social situations, and set personal goals. This quick but impactful lesson engages students in reflection, discussion, and personal goal setting.

Tier 2
5/28
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Debra Lazaros

S

MA Psychologist

Know Thyself Quest

A 10-session self-awareness unit for Grade 10 students to explore personal strengths, values, and emotions through readings, discussions, activities, and reflections. This classroom-wide Tier 1 series builds essential life skills, culminating in a project and comprehensive assessment.

Tier 1
9/3

Myo Ko

h

NY Counselor, Psychologist, General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher

Mirror, Mirror

Students will engage in reflective activities that challenge them to look at themselves objectively and consider how their self-perception aligns with reality. This helps in building confidence and self-esteem. This lesson is designed for a 9th-grade group and is classified under Tier 2 (Group) of MTSS. Each session will last 30 minutes.

Tier 2
4/8
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Naomi Gabovitch

S

MA Counselor

Owning Your Actions: Becoming the Hero of Your Own Story

This two-session lesson is designed for a student on an IEP who struggles with accepting feedback and taking ownership of their actions. Over two 20-minute sessions, the student will learn strategies to recognize their role in situations and develop skills to take responsibility for their actions. This lesson is crucial as it empowers the student to become more self-aware and proactive in their personal growth.

Tier 3
3/13
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Ashleigh Shepard

t

VT Special Education Teacher

Mindful Metacognition: Thinking About Thinking

Guide students through activities that enhance their understanding of how they learn and think. This lesson includes self-assessment tools and group discussions to promote awareness of different learning styles and cognitive strategies.

Tier 1
3/11
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Jamie McGrath

S

MA Behavior Interventionist

Mirror Minds

This five-session professional development series helps educators build deeper self-awareness by exploring thoughts, emotions, strengths, and biases. Through readings, activities, discussions, games, and assessments, teachers and leaders will gain insights to enhance personal growth and improve classroom culture. Each 1-hour session is rich with print-ready materials and interactive resources.

Tier 1
9/3

youn shwe sinn

E

CA Counselor, Psychologist, General Education Teacher, Principal

Is My Attitude Showing?

Students learn to recognize how their attitudes are perceived by others and how to make conscious choices about their emotional displays. This lesson is important as it helps students develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for social interactions and personal growth. Designed for a 3rd grade class, this lesson will be conducted in a single 50-minute session.

Tier 1
3/12
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Jasmine Taylor

q

TX Counselor

Mirror, Mirror: Reflecting on Our Day

In this 10-minute lesson for 2nd graders, students will engage in a reflective activity to think about their day, fostering self-awareness and emotional intelligence. This lesson is important as it helps young students develop the habit of reflection, which can enhance their learning and personal growth.

Tier 1
4/1

Deidra Winn

q

TX Instructor

Who Am I Really?

Explore the concept of self-awareness by delving into personal identity, traits, and aspirations. This lesson will help students gain a deeper understanding of themselves, which is crucial for personal growth and emotional intelligence.

Tier 1
2/27
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Kristen Federico

D

AZ Special Education Teacher

The Power of Self-Awareness

This lesson focuses on developing self-awareness among 10th-grade students through engaging SEL activities. Over two 30-minute sessions, students will explore their emotions, strengths, and areas for growth, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and improving their emotional intelligence. This is crucial for personal development and building healthy relationships.

Tier 1
5/3
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kassandra smallwood

h

NY Social Worker

Reflective Journaling: Emotional Check-In

This lesson guides students through a reflective journaling session focused on checking in with their emotions. Students will explore what triggers their emotions and how they can express these feelings constructively. This activity supports emotional literacy and self-reflection, helping students develop a deeper understanding of their emotional responses and how to manage them effectively.

Tier 1
2/25
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Joleen Shillingford

h

NY Counselor

How Do I Feel?

In this two-part, 40-minute session, 3rd graders will learn to identify, articulate, and track their emotions, building robust self-awareness skills that support healthy decision-making. This lesson aligns with CASEL’s Self-Awareness competency and uses engaging tools like mood meters and charades to make emotional vocabulary relatable in everyday life.

Tier 1
5/15
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jon

B

AL General Education Teacher

Mindful Me: Self-Awareness and Reflection

Encourage students to explore their emotions and thoughts through mindfulness practices that foster emotional self-awareness. This lesson is important because it builds emotional literacy, self-regulation, and reflective skills that support social-emotional growth. Designed for K-12 in a single 60-minute session.

Tier 1
5/12
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egorton

S

MA Social Worker

Mind Mirror

In this two-session mini-unit, 5th graders complete a self-awareness pre-test and post-test to reflect on their personal strengths, feelings, and goals. Students discover more about themselves and track growth in social-emotional skills, building self-confidence and readiness for new challenges. Each 15-minute session includes guided questions, reflection activities, and take-home prompts.

Tier 1
8/3

malane

Psychologist

Know Yourself, Own It

In this 30-minute, Tier 1 lesson for 4th graders, students will explore self-awareness and self-control in relation to school expectations. Through reflection, discussion, and an engaging activity, students learn to identify their emotions, manage impulses, and align behaviors with classroom rules—building the foundation for a positive learning environment.

Tier 1
7/18
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chambree.tosi

a

NC Counselor

Who Am I in the Group?

This self-reflective lesson guides individual students in understanding their role and contributions in group settings, helping them improve their collaborative skills. It's essential for students who often feel out of place in group activities.

Tier 3
3/17
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Jillian Wurster

S

MA Counselor

Why Do I Feel This Way?

Students will explore their emotions and triggers through guided activities. Understanding emotions can lead to better self-regulation and empathy towards others. This lesson is designed for a 7th grade class and will be completed in one 45-minute session, focusing on self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

Tier 1
3/4
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Kristen Federico

D

AZ Special Education Teacher

Mirror Moments

A concise, 20-minute individual reflection session designed for 4th graders to deepen self-awareness through guided self-reflection prompts and goal-setting. This Tier 3 packet helps students identify personal choices and behaviors, set realistic goals, and track their progress.

Tier 3
Monday
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Zachary Rodgers

Q

KY Instructor

Who Am I?

A journey into self-discovery where students reflect on their personalities, strengths, and areas for growth. This lesson encourages students to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, fostering confidence and self-acceptance. Designed for a 7th grade class, this 45-minute session is part of Tier 1 classroom-wide supports.

Tier 1
2/28
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Tondra Dillard-Cobb

a

NC Special Education Teacher

Mirror Moments

In this individual-focused 30-minute lesson, a third grader will explore self-awareness by identifying emotions, recognizing personal strengths, and reflecting on behavior. This lesson builds essential emotional intelligence skills to help the student make positive choices and improve self-regulation.

Tier 3
9/5

Esther

E

CA Social Worker, Counselor

Think, Then Do

A storytelling and puppet role-play group lesson that teaches kindergarteners to pause their impulses and plan their actions. Over 25 minutes, students will engage in guided story steps, puppetry, and reflection to build self-management skills under CASEL’s Impulse Control competency.

Tier 1
9/5
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Providence

s

VA Counselor

CASEL in Action

In this 30-minute Tier 1 session, clinical staff will learn strategies to facilitate small groups teaching the CASEL competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. This session equips staff with practical group activities and discussion guides to enhance social-emotional learning in their settings.

Tier 1
8/28

semielke

S

MA Counselor

Mirror Moments

In this 30-minute group lesson, 4th graders develop self-awareness by observing and reflecting on their emotions and behaviors in relatable scenarios. Through engaging activities, journaling, and role-play, students learn to identify personal triggers and responses, promoting emotional intelligence and social success.

Tier 2
6/18
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sgabriel

S

MA Social Worker

The Mirror of Self-Reflection

This lesson focuses on helping students develop self-awareness by reflecting on their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Through guided activities, students will create a self-reflection journal, which serves as a tool for personal growth. This lesson is important as it encourages introspection, helping students understand themselves better, which is crucial for personal development and decision-making.

Tier 1
2/25
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Micaela Flynn

S

MA Counselor

I Am, I Can, I Will

An empowering individual session for students to articulate their aspirations and set realistic goals. It helps in developing a positive mindset towards personal achievements. This lesson is designed for 9th-grade students and lasts 30 minutes, focusing on self-awareness and personal growth.

Tier 3
3/19

Crystal Sullivan

h

NY Social Worker

Mirror, Mirror

In this lesson, students will reflect on their strengths and areas for growth. This self-assessment exercise promotes self-awareness and confidence by helping students recognize their unique traits. Designed for a 4th-grade group, this 30-minute session is a Tier 2 support, focusing on small group interaction and personal development.

Tier 2
3/26
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Kristin Barnes

h

NY General Education Teacher

Unlocking Your Inner Superhero: A Journey to Self-Awareness

This two-session lesson is designed to help students explore and enhance their self-awareness, a crucial life skill that empowers them to understand their emotions, strengths, and areas for growth. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn to recognize their unique qualities and how these can be harnessed to overcome challenges and achieve personal goals. The lesson is suitable for a classroom setting and aims to foster a supportive environment where students feel confident in expressing themselves.

Tier 1
3/4
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Jamie Floyd

q

TX Counselor

Mirror Moments

A 15-minute Tier 3 one-on-one reflection session for a 7th grader to explore behavior triggers, emotions, and consequences. This session uses guided reflection questions to help the student develop self-awareness, responsibility, and an action plan for improved behavior.

Tier 3
7/29

meredith.cole

q

TX Counselor

Reflecting on Personal Actions

This lesson helps students understand how their personal actions can impact the perception of others. Through direct instruction, guided practice, and a reflective writing activity, students will explore the importance of self-awareness and empathy in their interactions. This lesson is crucial for developing social-emotional skills that foster positive relationships and responsible decision-making.

Tier 1
2/25

Deidra Winn

q

TX Instructor

Mastering Your Emotions: Building a Self-Regulation Toolbox

This 8-session individual lesson is designed to help students learn self-regulation techniques to manage their emotions when upset by peers or classroom situations. Each 20-minute session will focus on developing a toolbox of strategies, empowering students to handle challenges with confidence and resilience. This lesson is crucial for fostering emotional intelligence and improving classroom interactions.

Tier 3
3/24
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Eva Gonova

t

VT Special Education Teacher

How Do I Feel?

A guided 25-minute session for 2nd graders to identify and articulate their current emotions using visual cues and interactive play, boosting emotional literacy and self-awareness via CASEL Self-Awareness Tier 1 classroom strategies.

Tier 1
6/27
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Dan Wagner

T

MD Instructor

Discovering Self-Awareness

This lesson aims to enhance students' self-awareness through active learning. By engaging in activities and discussions, students will explore their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, leading to a better understanding of themselves. This lesson is crucial for personal development, helping students to recognize their strengths and areas for growth, which is essential for their academic and personal success.

Tier 1
2/25

Linda Richards

h

NY Counselor

Problem-Solving Superheroes: Mastering I-Messages During Unstructured Times

In this engaging 10-minute lesson for second graders, students will learn to navigate small problem-solving scenarios that often arise during unstructured times like lunch, recess, and free choice. By using 'I-messages,' students will gain a valuable communication tool to express their feelings and resolve conflicts effectively. This lesson empowers young learners to become confident problem-solvers in everyday situations.

Tier 1
4/8
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Kim Terwilliger

S

MA Counselor

Me and My Feelings

In this lesson, we will help children develop self-awareness through interactive activities, a short video, and a discussion on feelings. Learning about self-awareness at an early age helps children understand their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.

Tier 1
2/25

Heather Meldrum

j

OK Instructor

Think Before You Act

A one-hour individualized session for Deborah focused on improving decision-making, understanding consequences, and boosting self-awareness to achieve personal goals. This lesson uses engaging readings, discussions, activities, and a game to practice reflective thinking and challenge unhelpful comparisons.

Tier 3
Yesterday
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Taylor Rowe

e

NJ Special Education Teacher

Identity Labyrinth

In this collaborative board-game style lesson, 9th-grade students navigate an identity maze filled with self-reflection questions. Through gameplay and peer support, students strengthen self-awareness (CASEL Self-Awareness) and practice meaningful reflection in a small-group setting (Tier 2). One 40-minute session.

Tier 2
Monday

Jessi Johnston

E

CA Counselor

Inner Voice Reflection

This lesson enables students to explore their self-talk and its impact on their emotions and decisions through guided reflection and journaling. By encouraging positive self-awareness and constructive inner dialogues, this activity supports emotional growth and helps students develop a healthier mindset.

Tier 1
2/25
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Shannon Janovitz

S

MA Instructor

What's Your Inner Voice Saying?

Students will explore the concept of self-talk and how it influences their feelings and behaviors. Understanding this will help them to transform negative self-talk into positive affirmations, boosting their confidence and resilience.

Tier 1
4/3
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Paul Tentindo

S

MA Psychologist

Know Thyself

In this 45-minute small-group Tier 2 workshop, 8th graders will practice recognizing and naming their emotions through scenarios and guided reflection. Boosting emotional intelligence helps students manage stress, improve relationships, and succeed academically.

Tier 2
8/27

Rachel Niles

E

CA Counselor

Reflective Journaling: Feeling Check-Ins

This lesson guides students through a reflective journaling session focused on checking in with their emotions. Students will explore what triggers their emotions and how they can express these feelings constructively. This activity supports emotional literacy and self-reflection, helping students to better understand and manage their emotions.

Tier 1
2/25
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Joleen Shillingford

h

NY Counselor

Mirror, Mirror?

In this engaging 3-hour lesson, elementary students will explore self-awareness through interactive activities, readings, and discussions, helping them understand their emotions, strengths, and personal values. This foundational skill boosts emotional intelligence, empathy, and decision-making—crucial for lifelong well-being.

Tier 1
Today

Htet Khemar Hnin (Julia)

z

US School Administrator

Mirror Check

In this 30-minute lesson for 7th and 8th graders, students explore personal identity and self-concept through interactive activities. By the end, they will articulate at least two facets of their identity and understand how self-perception influences their choices and trustworthiness. Includes warm-up, mini-lesson, guided reflection, pair-share, and group debrief.

Tier 1
8/19
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Karen Oates-Jackson

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TX General Education Teacher

Emotional Awareness Tracker

A structured data collection form designed for social workers and teachers to systematically record 7th grade students’ emotional awareness and self-regulation skills during small group sessions. This single 30-minute session Tier 2 tool helps track progress on IEP goals by capturing identification of triggers, emotion expression methods, and interpretation of emotional cues across 5 opportunities.

Tier 2
5/27
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R Silva

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MA Social Worker, Special Education Teacher

Mirror Moments

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson, 9th grade students will learn to reflect critically on their actions, understand the impact of their choices, and develop strategies for responsible decision-making. This foundational SEL lesson fosters self-awareness and empathy to build a positive classroom culture.

Tier 1
5/13
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Emma Gebhard

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MA Social Worker, Counselor

Mirror, Mirror Identity

In this 30-minute session, 9th-grade students will explore self-identity and perception, understanding how we view ourselves and how others see us. This lesson is important for building self-awareness and empathy, fostering a positive classroom environment. Tier 1 classroom-wide.

Tier 1
5/15
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Tonia Jones

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CT Social Worker

Are You Your Worst Critic?

This lesson guides 10th graders to identify and challenge negative self-talk, replacing it with growth-oriented narratives to boost self-awareness and confidence. Engaging activities foster real-life application of self-awareness and a growth mindset through reflection and collaboration. Audience: Grade 10, Tier 1, 1 session (45 minutes).

Tier 1
6/18
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spoirier

S

MA Social Worker

Feedback Fun: Building Social Awareness

This lesson focuses on building social awareness and teaching students how to give uncomfortable feedback in a constructive manner. Through a combination of video content and a role-playing activity, students will learn the importance of empathy and effective communication. This lesson is crucial for developing interpersonal skills that are essential for positive social interactions and conflict resolution.

Tier 1
2/25
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Ali Shwartz

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MA Instructor

Moment of Clarity

A personalized, 20-minute journal-based program designed for an 11th grader to reflect on past choices, identify decision patterns, and set concrete goals for future responsible decisions. This Tier 3 individual support lesson fosters self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making through structured reflection and coaching.

Tier 3
5/21
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Idamis Reyes

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NY Counselor

Mindful Moments: Positive Self-Talk

This lesson introduces 12th-grade students to the concept of positive self-talk and its impact on mindfulness and emotional well-being. Students will learn how to create a personalized self-talk script for a real-life scenario, enhancing their ability to manage emotions and stress effectively. This lesson is crucial for developing resilience and promoting a positive mindset as students transition to adulthood.

Tier 1
2/25

Amanda Torres

E

CA Psychologist

Confidence in Action

In small groups, students will engage in role-playing exercises to practice assertive communication and build self-confidence. This helps students express themselves clearly and confidently.

Tier 2
3/5
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Paul Tentindo

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MA Psychologist

Understanding Emotional Triggers

Educate students on identifying personal triggers and how they affect emotional responses.

Tier 1
2/25
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Hannah Ryan

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NY Social Worker

What Would You Do?

This lesson empowers students to explore different perspectives by placing them in challenging scenarios where they must decide what they would do. It helps develop empathy and critical thinking skills. Designed for an 8th grade class, this 40-minute session encourages students to think deeply about their choices and the impact of those choices on others.

Tier 1
3/13
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Emma Gebhard

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MA Social Worker, Counselor

Mind Mirror

In this 15-minute Tier 1 lesson, 5th to 7th graders will explore self-awareness through a simple strategy handout that helps them identify thoughts, emotions, and triggers. This lesson boosts emotional literacy and empowers students to better understand themselves and others.

Tier 1
8/3
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Marissa Lane

S

MA Psychologist

Metacognition: Thinking About Thinking

Help students in grades 11 develop self-awareness of their own thought processes and learning techniques. This lesson encourages students to engage with metacognitive strategies to enhance input retention and apply insights to their study habits and problem-solving skills.

Tier 1
3/21

Crystal Sullivan

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NY Social Worker

?Ready to Grow Your EQ?

A whole-class interactive lesson exploring self-awareness and self-management through real-life scenarios and reflective exercises to foster emotional intelligence in 4th graders. This 45-minute Tier 1 lesson will guide students through CASEL competencies with engaging activities and personal reflection.

Tier 1
6/9
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Katie Wilkes

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US Counselor, Behavior Interventionist

Identity Puzzle

In this 45-minute small-group activity, 9th grade students collaborate to assemble a puzzle representing aspects of their identities, fostering self-awareness through discussion and reflection. Using CASEL’s Self-Awareness framework, students will explore personal strengths, values, and backgrounds while building group cohesion. This Tier 2 lesson supports students needing additional social-emotional learning in a supportive small-group setting.

Tier 2
Monday

Teacher

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UT General Education Teacher

The Self-Management Superhero

An individualized Tier 3 coaching session for a 7th grade student focusing on CASEL's Self-Management competency. In a 20-minute one-on-one format, this lesson plan, slide deck, conversational script, and journal prompts empower the student to identify strengths, set goals, and track progress, building accountability and resilience.

Tier 3
Yesterday
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Hannah Eldridge

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NH Special Education Teacher

Can You Say 'I'?

In this small group lesson, students practice using 'I' statements in various scenarios to better understand their own emotional responses and those of others. This exercise enhances their ability to communicate effectively and empathetically in group settings.

Tier 2
4/15
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Danielle Trump

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TX Counselor

Who Am I Really?

This 45-minute, one-session lesson for 7th graders fosters self-awareness by guiding students through reflective activities to explore their strengths, values, and emotions—crucial for personal growth and well-being.

Tier 1
8/29
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Hazal GÜNALTAY

CANADA Counselor, Psychologist

Who Am I When No One’s Watching?

A guided self-reflection journey helping 9th graders explore their core values and personal strengths through targeted prompts and activities. This 30-minute individual Tier 3 lesson supports deep self-awareness and personal growth.

Tier 3
7/7
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Sue Spafford

S

MA Counselor

Mirror, Mirror: Reflecting

In this 10-minute session for 2nd graders, students will explore the concept of reflecting on their thoughts and actions. This lesson is important as it helps young learners develop self-awareness and critical thinking skills, which are essential for personal growth and decision-making.

Tier 1
4/30

Deidra Winn

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TX Instructor

Who Am I Today?

A 20-minute Tier 1 self-awareness lesson for 2nd graders where students use a guided worksheet to draw and write about their feelings, strengths, and goals, fostering self-reflection and emotional growth.

Tier 1
6/4
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Matthew McStay

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NE General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Parent, Behavior Interventionist, Paraprofessional

Mirror Check

In this 30-minute lesson for 7th & 8th graders, students explore the concept of identity and self-concept by reflecting on personal traits and examining how their self-perception shapes choices at school. This foundational lesson helps students build self-awareness and understand that trustworthiness begins within, laying the groundwork for more authentic interactions and responsible decision-making.

Tier 1
8/26
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Cathleen Baker

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TX General Education Teacher

Mind Games: Unmasking Thoughts

In this engaging lesson, high school students in a therapeutic classroom will explore various cognitive distortions and learn techniques to challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts. This lesson is crucial for fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation, empowering students to make informed choices about their moods and behaviors. The session will last 35 minutes and is designed as a Tier 2 group lesson.

Tier 2
4/2
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Kimberly MacDonald

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Alert & Act

In this 15-minute solo role-play card game, individual teachers face real-life classroom challenges, choose proactive supervision responses, and log their decisions. This Tier 3 activity builds awareness and decision-making skills for managing classroom behavior effectively.

Tier 3
8/19
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Anastasija Iglendza

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IL General Education Teacher

Why Do We Feel This Way?

A focused session for students who have experienced trauma, helping them understand their emotions and reactions. This lesson is key to personal insight and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
3/27
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Brittney Bullard

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NC Social Worker

? How Do You Feel?

A vibrant whole-class exploration of self-awareness where students identify and articulate emotions. Builds foundational SEL skills for empathy and communication in a 4th grade classroom. One 45-minute session, Tier 1.

Tier 1
5/13
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Madeline Miller

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IA Counselor

Tune Into Your Emotions

In this engaging 30-minute SEL lesson aligned with CASEL, 7th graders will learn to identify and label their emotions, explore triggers, and practice simple strategies for self-regulation. Building self-awareness and self-management skills will empower students to handle daily challenges more effectively.

Tier 1
6/20
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Quamika Wright

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VA Counselor

Flip the Script

A one-on-one plan that helps students reframe negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations during challenging moments. This lesson is important because it empowers a 5th grader to manage emotional setbacks and build self-confidence through reframing techniques. Audience: 5th Grade Student; Sessions: 1; Duration: 15 minutes.

Tier 3
5/21

Tori Sauerbier

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WA Counselor

Mirror, Mirror: Reflecting on Our Day

In this engaging 10-minute lesson for kindergarteners, students will learn the importance of reflecting on their day. Through fun and interactive activities, they will develop the skill of self-reflection, which is crucial for personal growth and emotional awareness. This lesson is designed to be a quick yet impactful part of their daily routine.

Tier 1
3/13

Deidra Winn

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TX Instructor

Unmasking Self-Awareness

In this lesson, students will explore the concept of self-awareness and how it impacts their growth and development. They will engage in a discussion, complete a writing prompt, brainstorm ideas for their masks, and finish painting their masks. This lesson is important as it helps students reflect on their identities and express themselves creatively.

Tier 1
2/25
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Samantha Petroski

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PA Instructor

Identity Quest

Students embark on a cooperative game to explore self-awareness by completing challenges and collecting identity tokens that reflect their personal traits and values. This Tier 1 lesson for a 5th grade class spans one 45-minute session, promoting social-emotional learning through engaging gameplay and reflection.

Tier 1
5/15

MaryAnn

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CA General Education Teacher