Teach the Decision Making Model
A. State the problem. Sometimes verbalizing the issue helps kids see solutions more clearly. See examples of clearly stated problems in the examples below.
B. What are all of my possible choices? Have students generate answers to a selected problem and write them at the board. Don’t evaluate answers at this time. The object of this step is to come up with as many potential solutions as possible. There will be time to analyze them in the next two steps.
C. For each suggestion, ask: What are the possible positive consequences? Have students come up with all of the good things that could result from choosing that particular option. List these on the board and discuss.
D. For each suggestion, ask: What are the possible negative consequences? Sometimes the choices we make can make a bad problem even worse. List these on the board and discuss.
E. What solution should I try? For many situations, the best solution will be obvious. But for kids, many decisions are not so easy. Remind them that when they have tough decisions to make, they may want to consult with a parent, teacher, counselor or other trusted adult.
F. What is my plan for using this solution? What has to happen? Do I need any special resources or help?
G. How will I check to see how things worked out? All decision making models should have a step for evaluating and tweaking the decision, if necessary.
Practice the Model
As a class, in small groups, on individually, practice using these examples or ones kids generate themselves:
- The teacher leaves the room and someone begins pushing you.
- You borrow a CD from a friend and accidentally break it.
- Your friend asks you if they can copy off of you during a test.
Assessment
A fun way to assess learning is to have students respond to a “Dear Abby” type letter. Their responses must clearly indicate:
- A restatement of the problem
- Possible choices, including positive and negative consequences of each
- A rationale for the final choice
- A plan of action
- A plan for evaluation.
See below for a sample letter for this type of assessment.
Help!
I have been having a problem that maybe you can help me with. I have two good friends, Jesse and Chris. They don’t really like each other. In fact, Jesse threatened not to be my friend anymore if I keep hanging around Chris. Chris is really OK with me being friends with both of them, but Jesse is putting a lot of pressure on me. Jesse makes fun of Chris all the time and I feel really bad. Chris doesn’t know about that part. I really wish they could get along. I’m not really sure why they don’t. They both went to a different school that me last year and I think there was some kind of problem between them. This has really been bothering me. Help!!
Signed,
Stressed in Sixth Grade
You may also be interested in Positive Thinking Lesson Plan or Identifying Feelings Lesson Plan.
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