Some types of verbal communication are just more difficult that others. High schoolers engage in a series of activities that are designed to help teens make difficult conversations easier and more effective.

Concepts

emotions, anger management, fears, sadness, conversation skills, debate

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Post the rules for the controlled debate
• Add to the rules a requirement that class members wait until a speaker has finished before changing sides

Classroom Considerations

• Requires copies of multiple activity sheets
• Establish a protocol for safe, respectful conversations of sensitive issues

Pros

• The 11-page packet includes activities that have class members practicing I-messages and engaging in controlled debates

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.1.a SL.11-12.1.a