MJ Jones Portfolio - Social Emotional Learning

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Curriculum Design and Examples

"MJ is respectful, kind, and accepting to everyone. She is understanding and knows how to connect with people in positive ways." - Ivy Abbott, family friend, Letter, 2022

Image: CASEL video

My recent studies in SEL, Trauma-Informed Care, and SPHR have given names to educational philosophies I have long-since embraced, such as equity, integrity, and excellence.

Image: CASEL video

Example

Example: Sneaking cat photos into Earth Science

Intro

I created Puzzle Time, where students research content, and then present that information to the class
To model my expectations, I provided vocabulary and some basic information on wind turbines, so that I could share a cool video

Image: facebook

Exploration

During my short lecture, I asked: “Do you think it was ok for me to include pictures of cats in this presentation?” The answers from students closely aligned with my intention:

Cats are fun to look at and watch, as long as they are happy.
They were silly, but they weren’t distracting, and they didn’t take away from our learning, which is one of our classroom expectations.
They provided a structured amount of fun, which made it easier to concentrate on the task at hand

Reasoning

I confirmed the points they brought up and added:

Data shows that pictures of cats are one of the most enjoyable forms of entertainment on social media
Data shows that happy cat images sell commonly in art
We had been working diligently on ACT questions for the last few weeks, and I thought it would be nice to lighten our spirits by incorporating some silliness.

Discussion

At the end of the lesson, we discussed the social and emotional components of our experience.

I verified that my students were okay if part of the expectations of the assignment were that fun cat photos were the only distractions allowed in their Puzzle Time presentations, and the response was unanimously positive
Providing that humor in the classroom was an opportunity for us to experience something as a community of people who enjoyed something together.

SEL Research on Student Success

50% more likely to graduate from high school and have a full-time job by the age of 25
2x as likely to earn a college degree
Have more friends, feel connected to school, and want to do well

From BCCHP

Image: CASEL video

"When we build our own understanding of SEL, and work together to be more intentional about modeling it for the young people in our lives, it can be a powerful lever to strengthen relationships in supportive environments." CASEL training

Image: CASEL training

Focal Points

Image: CASEL

Explicit Instruction and Praise Behavior

Image: TanELL

Examples of when to praise students (TanELL)

Choose to sit away from their friends who might distract them
Use “I feel ___, when you ___” statements during a conflict
Take deep breaths to calm themselves when they’re upset
Consider the perspective of others in a conflict
Allow others to speak during a dispute

Image: CASEL video

"When we focus on social awareness, young people learn how to recognize what others are feeling and to show compassion." - CASEL training

Image: CASEL video

Other Resources

Social and emotional learning: Resources for parents, Singapore Ministry of Education

Image: CASEL

"In spaces where young people and adults are more attentive and involved, they are stronger critical thinkers, and are quicker to seek out new knowledge and perspective" - CASEL training

Image: CASEL video

Google Sites

Report abuse