Introduction

High school students often face challenges in their relationships and daily lives. To help them navigate these situations more effectively, it’s important to teach them valuable problem-solving skills. In this blog post, we will introduce a game called “Solve It,” designed to enhance students’ ability to address problems step by step. This activity incorporates principles of Social-Emotional Learning, guiding students through a process that fosters better communication and understanding among their peers.

No-Prep Activity

“Solve It” is an engaging activity that requires no preparation or materials from the educator. To play the game, follow these steps:

1. Divide the students into small groups.
2. Present a common problem or scenario that high school students might encounter. For example, two friends have a disagreement over a missed birthday party.
3. Guide the students through the following problem-solving steps:
   1. Identify the problem – what’s wrong?
   2. Figure out how big the problem is.
   3. Think of possible solutions to the problem.
   4. Pick a solution.
   5. Try that solution and then reassess it.
   6. How did it work? If the solution works, the problem is solved! If not, try again.
4. Throughout the game, encourage students to stop and discuss their feelings when prompted by the educator.

By engaging in this activity, students will learn to approach problems systematically and consider the feelings and perspectives of others.

Discussion Questions

After completing the “Solve It” activity, use the following questions to facilitate further discussion among students:

1. What emotions did you experience during the problem-solving process? How did these emotions impact your decision-making?
2. How did your group work together to find a solution? What strategies were effective in reaching a consensus?
3. Can you think of a situation in your own life where you could apply the “Solve It” process? How might this approach help you resolve conflicts more effectively?
4. What challenges did you face during the activity, and how did you overcome them?
5. How can practicing problem-solving skills improve our relationships and overall well-being?

Related Skills

As students develop their problem-solving abilities through the “Solve It” game, they will also enhance other vital skills, such as:

• Communication: Students learn to express their thoughts and feelings clearly and listen to others’ perspectives.
• Empathy: The game encourages students to consider the emotions and experiences of their peers, fostering a deeper understanding of others.
• Decision-making: By analyzing problems and weighing potential solutions, students practice making informed choices.
• Conflict resolution: “Solve It” equips students with the tools to address and resolve disagreements in a constructive manner.
• Resilience: The game teaches students to persevere through challenges and adapt their strategies when necessary.

Next Steps

If you found the “Solve It” game helpful in teaching problem-solving skills and enhancing Social-Emotional Learning, consider exploring more resources and activities. Sign up for free samples of the discussed skill and others at Everyday Speech. These materials can further support your students’ growth and development, helping them navigate the challenges of high school and beyond.