Introduction
Engaging in productive conversations is a cornerstone of social-emotional learning, especially in the context of education. Students learn to develop critical conversational skills, such as making connected comments and asking questions that relate to the topic at hand. These interactions are like a puzzle, with each comment fitting into the discussion, and everyone’s thoughts connecting to create a meaningful exchange. When students can link their thoughts and engage fully in a conversation, they not only demonstrate attentiveness but also foster a sense of belonging and understanding.
No-Prep Activity
An impromptu activity to enhance students’ conversational skills involves holding a group conversation. Begin a topic and allow the discussion to unfold naturally. Remind the students to pay close attention to what others are saying and make sure their comments connect to the topic of conversation. The goal here is to cultivate a sense of understanding and attentiveness, encouraging students to put their thoughts on pause and focus on the conversation’s subject. This real-time practice provides a practical application of the concept, giving students an immediate opportunity to exercise their newfound skills.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to make comments that connect to the conversation?
- How can we ensure that our comments are relevant to the topic of conversation?
- How can making connected comments improve our conversations and relationships?
- What happens if we don’t make connected comments during a conversation?
Related Skills
While making connected comments is an integral part of conversation skills, several related skills tie into social-emotional learning. These include active listening, empathy, understanding different perspectives, and conflict resolution. These competencies contribute to a more cohesive and comprehensive understanding of conversation dynamics, reinforcing the relevance and applicability of making connected comments in discussions.
Next Steps
Making connected comments is just one aspect of social-emotional learning. It’s a skill that improves with practice and further exploration. To ensure your students continue to build their conversational skills and explore other crucial facets of social-emotional learning, consider integrating more interactive and dynamic educational resources into your curriculum. Sign up for free samples of our materials that cover a wide array of social-emotional learning competencies, from conversation skills to empathy and beyond. The world of engaging, effective, and accessible social-emotional learning awaits!
