# Emotion Wheel Answer Key This answer key offers sample responses and a grading rubric to guide teachers in evaluating students’ completed [Emotion Wheel Worksheet](#emotion-wheel-worksheet). Because emotion mapping is subjective, look for logical connections between the core emotion, its layers, and the student’s real‐life trigger and reactions. --- ## Grading Rubric Criteria | Meets Expectation | Notes for Teacher ----------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------- Core Emotion | One primary emotion from the emotion wheel (e.g., Sadness, Anger, Fear, Joy, Surprise, Disgust) | Check that the chosen core aligns with the trigger described. Secondary Emotions (2–3) | Related to the core emotion and drawn from middle ring | Accept any logical secondary emotions. Specific Emotions (3–5) | Nuanced feelings consistent with core and secondary | Encourage variety—look for accurate, precise vocabulary. Trigger Description | Clear, specific event described in 2–3 sentences | Should tie directly to the chosen emotions. Physical Reactions (2–3 sensations) | Bodily responses connected to the emotional experience | E.g., heart racing, sweaty palms, tight chest. Thoughts & Mental Sensations | At least one thought or image that accompanied the emotion | E.g., “I’m not good enough,” mental replay of scene. Award 1 point for each criterion sufficiently met (max 6 points). Partial credit if elements are incomplete or vague. --- ## Sample Response: "Unexpected Low Grade" Scenario **Core Emotion:** Sadness
**Secondary Emotions:** Disappointment, Discouragement
**Specific Emotions:** Let down, Discouraged, Hopeless, Self-doubt, Embarrassed
**Trigger Description:**
I studied for several days for my biology exam but scored a 65%, much lower than I expected. I felt like all my effort was wasted and worried about how my parents would react.

**Physical Reactions:**
- Heavy chest or lump in throat

- Teariness or watery eyes

- Slumped shoulders or low energy

**Thoughts & Mental Sensations:**
I kept thinking, “I’m not smart enough for this class,” and replayed the moment the teacher handed back the test.

_Teacher Note:_ This example would earn full credit (6/6). --- ## Additional Example: "Peer Pressure" Scenario **Core Emotion:** Fear
**Secondary Emotions:** Anxiety, Conflict
**Specific Emotions:** Worried, Torn, Nervous, Guilty
**Trigger Description:**
A close friend asked me to skip math class so we could hang out. I felt caught between wanting to fit in and knowing I’d fall behind on work.

**Physical Reactions:**
- Shallow breathing

- Sweaty palms

- Tense jaw or clenched fists

**Thoughts & Mental Sensations:**
“Will they still like me if I say no?” and images of my grades slipping flashed through my mind.

_Teacher Note:_ Accept other logical mappings (e.g., Core = Anger if student felt more frustrated than scared). --- ## Tips for Supporting Students - If a student’s trigger is vague, prompt: “Can you explain exactly what happened?” - For sparse physical or mental reactions, ask: “What did you notice in your body or mind when this happened?” - Celebrate precise emotional vocabulary to help expand students’ emotional literacy. Use this key alongside the rubric to provide clear, consistent feedback and encourage richer emotional awareness.

kenia.estevez

1 Lessons

Emotional GPS

kenia.estevez

1 Lessons

Emotional GPS