In this blog post, we will explore the Solve It game, a step-by-step approach to problem-solving designed for educators working with special education students. This game helps students develop their ability to identify problems, evaluate their size, brainstorm solutions, and reassess their chosen solution. By incorporating principles of Social-Emotional Learning, the Solve It game promotes emotional well-being and empowers students to tackle challenges in a healthy and constructive manner.
No-Prep Activity: The Solve It Game
This activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. To play the Solve It game, follow these steps:
- Identify the problem: Ask students to describe the problem they are facing. In our example, Matt’s problem is that he hasn’t heard back from Josh about hanging out after school.
- Figure out how big the problem is: Encourage students to assess the size of the problem and whether they need help to solve it. In this case, it’s a small problem that Matt can solve by himself.
- Think of possible solutions: Have students brainstorm different ways to address the problem. For example, Matt could wait for Josh to respond, ask someone else to hang out, or make other plans.
- Pick a solution: Guide students in choosing the best solution to their problem. Matt decides to wait a bit longer for Josh’s response before considering other options.
- Try the solution and reassess: After trying their chosen solution, ask students to evaluate the outcome. Was the problem resolved? If not, encourage them to try another solution. In Matt’s situation, he eventually hears back from Josh, and they make plans to hang out.
Throughout the activity, remind students that problem-solving is a process and that it’s okay to adjust their approach along the way. Use the provided icon as a visual cue for students to pause and discuss their feelings at any time.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to identify the problem before trying to solve it?
- How can assessing the size of a problem help us choose the best solution?
- Why is it important to reassess our chosen solution and adjust our approach if necessary?
- How can problem-solving skills help us in our everyday lives?
- How does practicing problem-solving skills contribute to our emotional well-being?
Related Skills
Teaching students problem-solving skills through the Solve It game also helps them develop other valuable skills, such as:
- Decision-making
- Emotional regulation
- Communication
- Self-awareness
- Empathy
Next Steps
Ready to incorporate the Solve It game and other problem-solving activities into your special education curriculum? Sign up for free samples of this skill and others at Everyday Speech. By teaching students these essential skills, you’ll empower them to face challenges with confidence and resilience, fostering their emotional well-being and setting them up for success in all aspects of life.
