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6th Grade  Project 1 week

"Emotion Commotion: Mastering Positive Coping Skills!"

Aimee S
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6.1
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.5
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.5
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to equip 6th-grade students with the skills to understand and manage their emotions effectively, enhancing their interactions with peers and adults. Through engaging, hands-on activities, students will explore emotional intelligence, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful projects that reflect their growth. This project fosters self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a strong academic mindset, empowering students to apply these skills in real-world contexts and contribute positively to their school community.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of emotional intelligence by identifying and articulating their emotions and those of others, enhancing their ability to engage in empathetic and effective communication. They will strengthen their writing and presentation skills through collaborative discussions and multimedia projects, applying feedback to refine their work. By creating a 'Coping Skills Handbook' and participating in role-playing exercises, students will practice and demonstrate positive coping strategies, fostering self-directed learning and critical thinking. These activities will cultivate a sense of identity and belonging, encouraging students to reflect on their emotional growth and its impact on their interactions within the school community.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6.1 - Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.5 - With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.5 - With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a 'Coping Skills Handbook,' each contributing a page that details a specific coping skill, its benefits, and a personal narrative of its effectiveness. Additionally, they will produce a short video or skit that demonstrates a before-and-after scenario of managing a difficult emotion, showcasing their growth in emotional intelligence. These products will be shared with the school community, offering practical tools and insights into emotional resilience.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Story Share Circle' where students gather to share personal stories or fictional narratives about times they faced emotional challenges. Encourage students to listen actively and ask questions, fostering a supportive environment that promotes empathy and understanding. This activity sets the stage for exploring emotional intelligence by highlighting real-world experiences and creating a sense of community as students embark on their learning journey.

Exhibition

At the conclusion of the project, organize a 'Coping Skills Fair' where students present their multimedia presentations and 'Coping Skills Handbook' pages to peers, teachers, and community members. Set up interactive booths where students can demonstrate their role-playing exercises and video skits, engaging visitors in discussions about emotional intelligence. Invite the local mental health professional to provide feedback and insights, enriching the experience with expert perspectives. This exhibition will not only showcase students' learning but also foster a school-wide dialogue on emotional well-being.