Introduction
When students find themselves in new situations or facing unfamiliar tasks, they may experience fear or uncertainty. However, these moments also present valuable opportunities for students to develop and practice their social-emotional learning skills. By observing others and reflecting on their own experiences, students can learn how to navigate new situations more effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss an easy, no-prep activity that educators can use to help high school students practice observation and learn from others.
No-Prep Activity
In this activity, students will practice their observation skills by participating in a game called “Heads Up.” This game requires no preparation or materials from the educator, making it a simple and engaging option for any classroom setting.
- The teacher selects two students to be “it.”
- All other students put their heads down and hold one thumb up.
- The students who are “it” walk around the room, gently pressing on the thumbs of a few other students.
- After the students who are “it” have returned to their seats, the teacher instructs everyone to raise their heads.
- The students whose thumbs were pressed must guess which of their classmates were “it.”
Throughout the game, students who are unfamiliar with the rules can observe their classmates and learn how to play by watching their actions. This activity encourages students to think critically, communicate effectively, and develop their social awareness.
Discussion Questions
- How did you feel when you were unsure of the rules or how to play the game? How did observing others help you?
- What other situations in life might require you to observe and learn from others? How can this skill help you in those situations?
- How can you support your classmates when they are unsure or nervous about a new situation or task?
- Why is it important to communicate effectively when working with others? How can you improve your communication skills?
- What strategies can you use to develop your social awareness and better understand the feelings and perspectives of others?
Related Skills
Along with observation, there are several other skills that contribute to a student’s social-emotional learning and overall development. Some related skills include:
- Active listening
- Empathy
- Self-awareness
- Adaptability
- Collaboration
Next Steps
Helping students develop their social-emotional learning skills is crucial for their success both in and out of the classroom. If you’re interested in learning more about activities and resources for teaching these skills, we encourage you to sign up for free samples of skill-based materials at Everyday Speech. By incorporating activities like “Heads Up” and other engaging exercises into your curriculum, you can empower your students to navigate new situations with confidence and ease.
