Some conversations are easy and enjoyable, while others are horrific! To begin a lesson on communicating constructively, class members list examples of conversations that are easy, average, and those that are difficult and identify what makes them so. Participants then practice techniques, including I-Messages, to communicate their feelings and encourage open dialogue. Finally, class members practice what they have learned by engaging in a controlled debate about a controversial topic they have chosen.

Concepts

communication, interpersonal communication, oral communication, body language, social-emotional learning, debate

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Instructional Ideas

• Post the rules for the debate in a prominent place in the classroom
• Have participants keep the "Vocabulary of Feelings" list in their binders for easy reference

Classroom Considerations

• The final lesson in a five-part Overcoming Obstacles series
• Requires individual copies of three activity sheets

Pros

• Includes suggestions for how instructors can facilitate the debate
• It also includes an assessment, lesson extension suggestions, and a homework assignment

Cons

• None