Introduction

In the world of Social-Emotional Learning, it is crucial to teach students valuable communication skills that help them navigate social situations effectively. One such skill is using a filter, which involves deciding whether to think or say something based on its potential impact on others. Teaching students to use a filter can help them avoid hurting or offending others, while also promoting positive interactions. In this blog post, we will explore an engaging activity called Two Sides that demonstrates the concept of using a filter in communication.

No-Prep Activity: Two Sides Game

The Two Sides game is a simple yet effective activity that requires no preparation or materials from the educator. To play the game, students will be presented with different scenarios, and they will have to decide whether the characters in the scenario should think or say their thoughts. The game encourages students to analyze various social situations and determine the appropriateness of sharing their thoughts aloud.

Here’s how to play the Two Sides game:

1. Divide students into small groups or pairs.
2. Present students with a series of scenarios, either verbally or written on the board.
3. Ask students to decide whether the character in the scenario should think or say their thoughts in each situation.
4. Encourage students to discuss their reasoning for each decision and how their choices could impact others.

The Two Sides game can be easily adapted to different age groups and settings, making it a versatile tool for teaching the concept of using a filter in communication.

Discussion Questions

After playing the Two Sides game, facilitate a group discussion using the following questions:

1. Why is it important to use a filter when communicating with others?
2. How can using a filter help you build positive relationships with your peers?
3. What are some situations where using a filter might be especially important?
4. How do you feel when someone says something hurtful or offensive to you?
5. Can you think of a time when you used a filter in your own communication? How did it affect the situation?

Related Skills

Teaching students to use a filter in communication is just one aspect of Social-Emotional Learning. Here are some other related skills that can help students develop effective communication and social skills:

• Active listening
• Empathy
• Conflict resolution
• Assertiveness
• Nonverbal communication

Next Steps

Now that you’ve learned about the Two Sides game and the importance of using a filter in communication, why not explore more Social-Emotional Learning resources? Sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech, where you’ll find engaging activities, videos, and lesson plans to help your students develop essential communication and social skills.