Blurting can be a common issue in high school classrooms, as students often feel the urge to share their thoughts and opinions without waiting for their turn. In this blog post, we will explore how educators can help their students develop self-awareness and self-management skills to minimize blurting and create a more respectful and productive learning environment.

Introduction

Blurting is the act of speaking out loud when it’s not appropriate, such as during a class discussion or when a teacher is talking. It can be challenging for students to wait their turn, especially when they are excited or passionate about a topic. However, it’s essential for students to learn how to manage this behavior, as it can disrupt the learning process and affect their classmates and teachers. By incorporating principles of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), educators can help students develop the necessary skills to manage blurting in class.

No-Prep Activity

A simple, no-prep activity that educators can use to address blurting is called “Think Before You Speak.” To begin, the teacher will explain the concept of blurting and its consequences. Then, the teacher can engage the class in a brief discussion or ask a series of questions that students may find interesting or controversial. The students will be instructed to raise their hands and wait to be called on before sharing their thoughts. The teacher will remind students to think about their answers and consider whether it’s the right time to share them before speaking.

This activity encourages self-awareness and self-management, as students must practice patience and consider the impact of their actions on others. By participating in this activity regularly, students will become more mindful of their speaking habits and learn to manage blurting more effectively.

Discussion Questions

1. How does blurting affect the learning environment for you and your classmates?
2. What strategies can you use to control the urge to blurt out in class?
3. How can practicing patience and self-awareness help you become a better listener and contributor in class discussions?
4. What are some consequences of blurting out during class?
5. How can you support your classmates who struggle with blurting in class?

Related Skills

Managing blurting in class is just one aspect of SEL. Other related skills that can be beneficial for high school students include:

• Active listening: Developing the ability to pay attention, show empathy, and provide feedback during conversations.
• Respectful communication: Learning to express thoughts and ideas in a polite, considerate manner while respecting the opinions and feelings of others.
• Impulse control: Practicing self-discipline to resist the urge to act on impulses without considering the consequences.
• Conflict resolution: Developing the ability to address disagreements and find mutually acceptable solutions.

Next Steps

Teaching high school students to manage blurting in class is a valuable skill that can positively impact their learning experience and relationships with others. If you’re interested in exploring more activities and resources to support your students’ SEL development, we invite you to sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech. These resources can help you create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for your students.